Companies who give back are my jam.  But the entire reason I started featuring companies who give back was to shed light on others who inspire me, and who I hope will inspire you!

I could not imagine doing anything OTHER than this “pivot” for August and September.  Featuring black-owned businesses.  Because THEY inspire me!  The more I learn about black history, and racism, the deeper understanding I have for what it takes to make real changes in this country.  I am not doing okay if my neighbor is not.  That’s the only kind of love I want to know.

If we want to make real change, we must be intentional.  It starts in our hearts and our homes.  What kinds of movies am I watching?  Books am I reading?  When I spend money, time, donate, or seek community, what are my priorities?  I cannot make every change I want to make overnight, but I can start with baby steps.  Each little step takes me down a better path.  Soon enough, I’ll look back and have come miles from where I started.  I invite you on this journey with me.  One that I am certain I will screw up on.  I’ll say the wrong thing, and maybe even do the wrong thing.  I will have to learn by failing.  But the point?  I will not give up.  So here we go.  One step in the right direction.

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Let’s start with Black-Owned Businesses in the Phoenix Area!

My source for these businesses was:  https://www.visitphoenix.com/blog/post/black-owned-businesses/

Bear and the Honey Bakery:  https://bearandthehoney.com/

This bakery creates decadent sweets that will not only greatly satisfy that sweet tooth, but they strive to accommodate any of your lifestyle or dietary restrictions!  Based on treats that will make you feel nostalgic, these desserts can also make you feel

good knowing you are consuming organic, local ingredients.  Reach out on their website for these amazing desserts for your birthdays, wedding, graduations, or “just because!”

Photo credit:  https://bearandthehoney.com/order/bh-original-pies

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Bicycle Nomad Cafe:  http://www.thevelo.com/cafe.html

This cafe is a part of the Urban Bike Shop in downtown Phoenix.  They have a menu of made-to-order beverages, take-and-go drinks, and healthy snacks.  They support Arizona-based brands of coffee and tea:  Press Coffee Roasters and Maya Tea Company.  Live locally?  Check out the bike shop and cafe next time you are downtown!

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LoLos Chicken and Waffles:  https://loloschickenandwaffles.com/

Founded by “Lo-Lo” Larry White, I can vouch firsthand that this place is DELISH!  I live in the east valley, and a trip to Lo-Los in downtown Gilbert is a favorite of mine.  In addition to their famous chicken and waffles, their soul-food-filled menu truly offers anything for anyone!

I have had an incredible breakfast meal, or traditional, delicious lunch or dinner.  Check them out in person, or order on door dash!

Photo credit:  https://loloschickenandwaffles.com/about-lo-los/

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Doc’s Gelato:  https://docsgelato.com

This gelato stop (need I say more?!) was founded by a former police officer and geologist!  How cool is that?  This gelato contains NO refined sugars, GMOs, artificial flavors, dyes, colorings, preservatives or gluten!  This leaves all of the room for natural, yummy gelato goodness.

If you are in the Mesa/East Valley area, be sure to check out their main location!  Live too far?  Check out these other locations that also serve Doc’s Gelato!

Online Kid/Baby Black-Owned Businesses

My source for these businesses was:  https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/black-owned-businesses-selling-baby-maternity/

STINA & MAE:  https://www.stinaandmae.com/

The founder, Mishell, is a fashion journalist-turned-entrepreneur after she found it difficult to find the perfect changing mat for her first child.  She created a mat that was water resistant on both sides, antimicrobial, and big enough to contain her adventurous child on the mat.  All products are organic, handmade, and adorable!  Bonus?  2% of the revenue each year is donated to fight childhood hunger, or work with maternal organizations.

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Kido Chicago:  https://www.kidochicago.com/  

I love the story of these founders!  They are a couple with a blended family in my beloved Chicago, comprised of a graffiti and mural artist, and a jazz singer and character performer!  They wanted to combine their artistic backgrounds and creative ideas to help share the affirmations and positivity they share with their kids every day!

Photo Credit:  https://www.kidochicago.com/meettheparents

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Puzzle Huddle:  https://puzzlehuddle.com/

Love puzzles?!  I’ll be honest, my in-laws got me hooked on them too late in life!  But I cannot wait to do them with our daughter.  This company was created by a young couple with three kiddos of their own.  They have created puzzles that inspire diversity for all children to enjoy!

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Darlying & Co:  https://www.darlyngandco.com/

Like many entrepreneurs, Carl and Tara Darnley found themselves needing something that they just could not find.  This need led to the creation of their signature product, the “Yummy Mitt Teething Mitten.”  From that point on, this brand has challenged itself to maintain the highest safety and quality standards that are toxin-free.   You can find baby products for all ages and stages, including teethers, bowls, cups, toothbrushes, diaper bags, and more!

Photo Credit:  https://www.darlyngandco.com/products/unscented-skincare-line-large-gift-bundle?variant=31457597915270

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Online – Black-owned [Miscellaneous]

Aya Paper Co.: https://ayapaper.co/

Journals, candles, greeting cards, and more!  These products are created by an advocate for environmental justice.  When you make a purchase, you can know that you are not only supporting a company who cares about climate change and reducing pollution, but understands that in turn, that reduces the negative impacts on communities of color who are the most greatly impacted

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The Honey Pot Co.:  https://thehoneypot.co/

I remember the commercials when this black-owned company landed a partnership with TARGET!  I was so stoked for them, I started following them immediately.  Us ladies need to take care of each other, and ourselves!  So this is a line of natural feminine care, FREE from chemicals, toxins, artificial fragrance or synthetic products.  Made by women, for women!  Check them out at your local Target today! 

Photo credit:  https://thehoneypot.co/

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Amalfii Clothing: https://www.amalfii.com/

Your perfect, “staple,” clothing products from a minimalist who wants to keep you fashionable!   The founder wanted to provide products that are sustainable, organic and manufactured ethically.  Look no further than to Amalfii clothing for all of your year-round closet staples, but get this, they even have headbands that can double as masks!  Thank you for pivots in 2020!

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Shop Small – Black-Owned Etsy Shops

My source for these businesses was:  www.etsy.com/black-owned

Aromaology: Handmade Bath Body and Home Fragrance Products

https://www.etsy.com/shop/Aromaology?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=801123632

Photo Credit:  https://www.etsy.com/shop/Aromaology?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=801123632

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Brown Butter Beauty:  Natural Hair Care & Luxury Skincare & Beauty Products

https://www.etsy.com/shop/BrownButterBeauty?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=264895702

Photo credit:  https://www.etsy.com/shop/BrownButterBeauty?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=264895702

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The Heart Department Co.: Handcrafted Wooden Display for Your Home Office + Event

https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheHeartDepartmentCo?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=618316833

Photo Credit: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheHeartDepartmentCo?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=618316833