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Greater Giving
By Catherine Risling
This year, Cyndi Prince is approaching gift giving in a conscious way. She wants to be mindful of her spending and the retailers she supports.
So this got her thinking: How can I directly support Black-owned businesses? Can I do all of my holiday shopping and create a guide for our community that features Black-owned businesses in the U.S.?
Lucky for us, she’s answered yes with a curated list that checks off both. While some artisans focus on organic and local sourcing, others have a deeper message intended to lift up those striving to break down barriers.
“Black business owners face disproportionately more challenges than other business owners,” says Cyndi, proprietress of LooHoo Wool Dryer Balls. “When we choose to shop at Black-owned businesses, we’re voting with our dollars and helping to close that wealth gap. I hope that especially during this holiday season, consumers will choose to be intentional and support Black businesses and know that it helps strengthen communities.”
Cyndi says she is proud to add LooHoo to the list.
“As a Black woman, the courage and resiliency that I inherited from my ancestors has helped me grow a successful business the last 10 years,” Cyndi says. “I’m inspired by the Black businesswomen who came before me and I hope this gift guide encourages the next generation of Black entrepreneurs.”
This season, consider buying from at least one Black-owned business for your holiday gifts though we suggest you consider purchasing the majority of gifts (if not all) from Black-owned businesses.
Gift Guide 2020
For the Self-Care Enthusiast
Brown & Coconut
Why Buy: Plant-based skincare line addresses acne and other sensitivities
Eu’Genia Shea
Why Buy: 15 percent of profits donated to educational fund for female workers in Ghana
Motherland Essentials
Why Buy: All-natural skincare line is dedicated to affordability
Organic Bath Co.
Why Buy: “Clean, not complicated” items made with ethically sourced, certified organic ingredients
Soap Distillery
Why Buy: Fun soaps, scrubs, oils and more scented like cocktails
For the Well-Read
“Farming While Black” by Leah Penniman
Why Buy: 100 percent of proceeds donated to Black farmers
“Going Home with Daddy” by Kelly Starling Lyons, illustrator Daniel Minter
Why Buy: This 2020 Caldecott winner explores the power of history, family traditions
indiebound.org/book/9781561459384
“Wild Interiors” by Hilton Carter
Why Buy: A pictorial feast for anyone interested in styling their home with plants
For the Foodie
Auntie Elsie’s
Why Buy: Ingredients for these oatmeal crisps are organic, locally sourced
Rwanda Bean Coffee
Why Buy: Beans that give back—half of all profits donated to coffee farmers
Sheer Ambrosia Bakery
Why Buy: Baklava of the Month Club—need we say more?
For the Accessorize
Akakpo & Co.
Why Buy: Symbolic jewelry, home goods with something to say
Black Pearl Creations
Why Buy: Unique scarves from a cancer survivor who dared to dream big
A Few Wood Men
Why Buy: Watchmaker provides sounding board for Black men striving to break down barriers
For the Organizer
Alter Planning Co.
Why Buy: Planners made with sustainably sourced paper, printed and bound in the USA
Under the Sunlight
Why Buy: Cards, notebooks, calendar and more remind us to live a purposeful life
For the Botanist
The Zen Succulent
Why Buy: Unique plants, stands get the creative juices stirring
Botany
Why Buy: Every order plants one tree through non-profit One Tree Planted
For the Pet Lover
House Dogge
Why Buy: Sustainable leashes, collars and more are nontoxic and easy to care for
Ava's Pet Palace
Why Buy: 100% organic pet treats started by an 8-year kidpreneur
Scotch and Tea
Why Buy: Handmade dog collars,bandanas and adorable matching face masks
For the Card Carrier
Brilliant or BS?
Why Buy: Card game delivers belly-aching laughs for the whole family
I Am & Co.
Why Buy: Artful deck of cards delivers daily affirmations with amazing energy
For the Home Decorator
All Very Goods
Why Buy: Vibrant prints, cards and bandanas serve as visual metaphors for the artist’s African American history
LouLou Art Studio
Why Buy: Even Oprah has taken notice of this painting shop with colorful handmade designs
For Everyone on Your List
BLK + GRN
Why Buy: Marketplace of all-natural products by all-Black artisans has everything from beauty and skincare products to items for pets and home
LooHoo Wool Dryer Balls
Why Buy: Natural way to soften clothes, save energy and support U.S. Farming Industry
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Lydia Hannibal WhiteSpunner
January 22, 2021
I’m looking forward to exploring these shops.