The Holidays are fast approaching (Hanukkah starts tomorrow!) and this is the time of year that we’re all rushing out to the big box stores to grab the gifts to finish off our to-do list. This year, I teamed up with my lovely friend AnnaMarijka to create this gift guide because we wanted to look to the artists and the experts and the makers to find unique gifts that meant more than just ticking off the box on the ole’ Amazon wishlist (and let’s be honest, Jeff Bezos needs our money LESS than ever this year, ick).
It’s no secret that small and independent businesses are feeling the impact of COVID-19 this year, with many at risk of closing down. Big corporations like Walmart or Amazon will survive with or without our money, so why not make a point to support the businesses run by real people?
Small businesses are the heart of our neighborhoods, the spine of our local economies, and the spirits of our towns. There are many ways to make a difference (like leaving a positive review or sharing their page); however, using our money to buy from minority-owned shops is a great way to support the businesses that bring so much to our communities. Since we are all staying at home and shopping online this season, it’s easier than ever to support indie brands. We hope you can use this list as a guide to discovering some great Black-owned businesses, and we would love for you to share your favorites with us as well!
In this guide, you’ll find something for absolutely everyone on your shopping list. Keep reading to find some of our favorite picks!
Beauty/Skincare/Hair
Scotch Porter has super cool, sleek care items for your loved ones with beards. They also have skin and hair care products that aren’t too complicated (for ahem, those low-maintenance dads and boyfriends)
Black Girl Sunscreen, because sun protection is for everyone with skin.
Briogeo‘s hair products are such a hit, a gift set would wow even the most hardened hair-care skeptic.
Hair masks and conditioners from Adwoa Beauty would be a great choice for your curly haired friends and loved ones.
Liha Beauty has beautiful luxury oils, butters, and perfumes for a relaxing and sensual experience in and out of the bath.
Beneath Your Mask has skin and body care items created with sensitive skin in mind.
Wellness
Selfish Box is a self-care subscription box that gets dropped off at your door every 3 months, filled with beauty and relaxing essentials all made by small businesses and minority-lead brands.
Delicious ceremonial grade Matcha, latte blends, and other wellness goodies from Golde.
The Honey Pot Company has plant-based feminine care that has rave reviews. I’d love some organic tampons in my stocking this year!
Crystals and jewelry from Johari & Lou are perfect gifts for your zen-loving friends.
The body scrubs and butters from AmaninCo are perfect to combat winter dryness!
HealApothecary‘s bath soaks look so dreamy. Sign me up!
Krystals and Kards has handmade candles, beautiful gem specimens, and Tarot card readings.
Decor / Home
For the person who needs both a peptalk and a socially distanced hug, check out Glo Through It‘s selection of candles!
Carlynne Ceramics has beautiful earthy pieces, including mugs, incense holders, and jewelry.
House Dogge has eco conscious and non-toxic goodies for your pup.
Predominantly Black has candles that not only have the most lovely scent descriptions, but also come in beautiful vessels!
Yowie stocks some of the coolest home items, and even has a shop you can visit (post-COVID and/or when they resume in-store hours) in Philly!
Grayson White Ceramics has gorgeous minimalist pottery. The bowls and plates are my favorite!
The Zen Succulent has a variety of plants (and other goodies) that can be shipped right to your door. Perfect for seasoned or budding plant parents
Cavo‘s candles not only have adorable labels, the owner curates playlists to go with them! What’s not to love?
Take a peek at Brave and Kind Bookshop to grab gifts for the bookworm in family.
Rayo & Honey has lovely goods to wear & to decorate with, perfect for your friend who just moved. Pick up a reusable tote for your grocery trips!
Art
CreateTheCulture sells gorgeous hand-stitched items and DIY embroidery kits – so yes, you really can embroider Beyoncé yourself!
The art prints and stickers from AlijhaeArts are so cool! Cafe girl is one of my favorites.
Clothing and Etc.
MochaDesignStudio has tees and sweatshirts with messages that pack a punch.
The knitwear from YarnTh3ory is so beautiful, I especially love their beanies and ear warmers!
If you’re looking for cool clothes for 90s babies or those who live for nostalgia, look no further than NAZTALGIA.
Grab gear for the budding activist to wear their heart on their sleeve (in style) at The Outrage.
madebyraehana has the COOLEST tie dye sweats. THE perfect quarantine outfit!
Food & Beverage
Cookie Society has sweet treats that your sweet friends and family will definitely love to munch on this holiday!
Bring some zest to your cooking with Capital City Mumbo Sauce.
What are some of your favorite Black-owned businesses?
Please link them in the comments below!
*note, this post does not contain affiliate links or ads.