Now is the best time to shop at small businesses. As gift-giving holidays are coming up, it is important for shoppers to know about small businesses that would give great gifts. Due to the pandemic, small businesses have been affected drastically. As COVID cases begin to rise, restrictions on businesses are being implemented in California again meaning economic hits towards several small businesses are expected. It is important to support these businesses now more than ever; shopping at small businesses makes a difference for artists and creators. Although small businesses make a large part of the American economy, only 50% have a long-term survival rate. Listed are a few of my favorite BIPOC owned small businesses that you’re bound to enjoy.
The gift that keeps on giving:
Look no further, this creator has all you could imagine. Located in Yolo County, this small business is run by a college student looking to sell scrunchies, masks, Christmas ornaments, coffee mugs, and more. Although they are located in Davis for local delivery, shipping is also available. Cositas by Nat also regularly holds raffles with some of the proceeds being donated to animal shelters affected by California fires as well as Hurricane Iota relief.
For the Empowered Fashionista:
With no introduction needed, this small-time business can be what you need if you find yourself or someone you love looking for fashion that will complement their fierce personality. This small business is run by three hardworking and talented sisters aiming to promote body positivity and self-love.
For the Sweet-Tooths in Your Life:
This Bay Area Based small business is perfect for those in your life who are craving sweets. They focus on selling hot cocoa pops, candy apples, hot cocoa bombs, and cake pops. You’ll be able to express your love just as well as the various items offered.
Similarly, this small business is based in the Bay Area and would be perfect for gifting that special someone in your life with a chocolate sweet tooth. You can make someone’s day by allowing them to ‘break a heart.’
For the One Who Wants to Add Pizazz to Their Everyday Beauty Routine:
➢ Cece Lash Bar – Bay Area Based Lashes
This San Jose based lash and brow artist is a certified technician that is available to book throughout the holiday season. Supporting this small business and booking for yourself or for those you love means giving the gift of beautiful lash extensions, lash lifts, eyebrow shaping and eyebrow lamination.
➢ Lashed by Mel – LA Based Lashes
For those who live in the LA area and are looking to give a similar gift that brings confidence towards those you love, look no further. This business can give off a fresh new look of confidence to look fierce to rock your mask throughout the day.
For the Plant Lovers
➢ Freehanded Acrylic Art and Plant Pots
Looking for a gift that’ll be easy on the eyes? This Petaluma based small business is known for their creative takes on potted plants! This gift will surely give a lil more pep in your step while you water your mom’s plants *laughs*
➢ Pretty Little Succulent Sales by Jonnhy’s Nursery
Are you looking to give a gift that’ll express growth that might have happened this year and need shipping throughout the United States? This Tulare based small business is bound to bloom profound admiration towards your loved one as well as spark inspiration for a New Year’s Resolution.
Honorable Mentions:
➢ Blank Tag Co.: Stickers for the expressive one in your life
➢ Shop Anas Masks: Latina-owned mother-daughter mask shop to keep those you love safe
➢ La Tiendita de Brendita: For the jewelry-lovers in your life
➢ Pawesome Treat: For the dog-lover in your family