This Black History Month, let’s do a little more than posting about Black Lives Matter or sharing a cute, little infographic on your Instagram story. The best way to support Black people in these strenuous times is by opening your wallet.
Behold—a compilation of my favorite Black-owned businesses in the Richmond, Virginia (RVA) area. Broken down by food, art and household goods, there’s absolutely something on this list you need. If you’re in need of a good dopamine rush, break out your favorite purse, grab your credit card and mask and get to shopping!
- Mama J’s
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There’s a reason why every time I go to Mama J’s, there’s always a small wait. Delicious, southern cuisine and for extremely affordable prices—ask for the red velvet cake!
- The Nutty Buttery
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Caribbean food with an incredible atmosphere. Post-covid, this will be the place to be for spoken word, live music and two for $5 Taco Tuesdays.
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Brewer’s Cafe
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Calling all juice enthusiasts! Brewers Cafe has the best snacks, sandwiches and drinks, and is a great place to take cute, aesthetically pleasing photos.
- Brewer’s Waffles
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Look at this waffle. LOOK AT IT! You can choose a classic waffle or make your own: bacon, eggs, strawberries, Nutella, peanut butter, cheese. The possibilities are endless!
- Urban Hang Suite
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First, don’t you dare sit here and tell me this photo doesn’t have you drooling. You know it does. Urban Hang Suite is that b*tch. From bagels to sandwiches to donuts to coffee, you genuinely can’t go wrong. Oh, did I mention that it’s the perfect place to take some quality Instagram photos? ‘Nuff said.
- Soul Taco
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Look at the photo. I rest my case, your honor.
- Ipanema Cafe
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How many times have you walked past this cute little vegan cafe on West Grace Street? And how many times did you try it? Black-owned. Vegan. Easily accessible. Get off your butt and go try some Ipanema.
- Ms. Bee’s Juice Bar
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Do you like clean ingredients? Do you wanna save the bees? Come join the Stinger Family.
Disclaimer: Purchasing from Ms. Bee’s will not help save the bees in any possible way. You will be supporting a Black-owned business, though. They’re both endangered species if you think about it.
- Sugar’s Crab Shack
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Lemme get a snow crab bucket, please.
- Soul N Vinegar
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Try the pimento cheese. No, actually. I’m about to change your life.
- Tru’s Cultural Kitchen
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Can you believe this is vegan? Maybe you clean-eaters are actually on to something.
- FoodieFridaywithTaj
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You’re welcome.
- Tipsy Cupcakes RVA
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Read the caption. Nowhere but Tipsy’s baby!
- Kligg Co.
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If you’ve been inside my apartment, you know that Kligg Co. is my wall decor company of choice. Shop bookmarks, stickers, wall art, prints and more all through her Instagram page.
- ZKVisions
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You know you want one. There’s genuinely nothing that could spruce up your living space like a green plant and unique printed pot.
- Namiri Spirituals
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Since the moment I laid eyes on his work, I’ve been mesmerized. Namiri is owned by VCU Senior Jelani Crosby and has the most beautiful, handcrafted metaphysical wellness, tools and jewelry.
- TheGodisCollective
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Been meaning to get into the healing power of crystals? This collective has the prettiest stones to rejuvenate, focus, pray and manifest.
- I Love Me Coloring Book
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Coloring for stress relief is the new hot yoga.
- Art By Monay
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Sis, I can’t tell you how much money I’d spend to magically become a good artist. Until then, there are legends like Monay who take commissions.
- CreaTiff Expressions LLC
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I know you know you want a pair. Shop her expansive collection straight from her Instagram account.
- Lashes by Karizma
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Karizma is a Black lash artist based in Richmond, Virginia, with extremely affordable prices. She’s a VCU student and a good friend of mine. Plus, you can’t deny that those fluffy yet wispy, natural yet glamorous, innocent yet sexy lashes aren’t pure art. Did I mention she does my lashes and brows? Queen Sh*t.
- Tiara Nicole Candles
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I swear by these candles. At this current moment, there are four sitting on my desk in my room and I am looking at them while I write this. No one tell my RA!
- Best Life Beauti
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I want to eat it. 100% vegan, dye-free, fragrance oil-free, non-toxic and handmade with love. If you’re looking for a nourishing lotion because you’ve been washing your hands dry, look no further.
- Skye Bird’s Mindful corner
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I saved the best for last. Skye Bird is the most adorable 11-year-old entrepreneur who wants everyone to prioritize their mental health. I bought a hanging wind plant from Skye last November, and it hangs from my window to this day. Mission-driven, adorable and affordable, self-care. Best of all-you’re supporting a young Black girl and her budding business.
Disclaimer: This is nowhere near a comprehensive list of Black-owned businesses. Instead, these are companies that I love that I know you’ll love too. If you try one, be sure to let me know, and share a pic on your socials! Enjoy your post-splurge dopamine!