This Christmas, ESSENCE wants you to #BuyBlack! According to a ESSENCE/Nielsen Report, Black buying power is close to an impressive $1.3 trillion! So, why not use your hard-earned money to make an impact in the community? While checking off your list of loved ones on your gift list, spread the holiday cheer and support these Black-owned businesses that need your help to grow! It’s a win-win all around. #BuyBlack
Created by Brandy Brown, Marabou Design is made with with the modern family & their extraordinary friends in mind. Specializing in creative styling, editorial and graphic design, she describes her aesthetic as both smart & playful.
Marabou, Brandy Brown
Celia Smith created lifestlye brand needle + thræd to affect change through fashion. Her ultra stylish home accessories are the perfect gift for the chic girl in your life.
needle + thraed (Shopspring.com), New York, NY, Celia Smith
Wow your man with a Bevel shaving kit with a brass, single-blade razor, hydrating shave cream, oil and balm.
Bevel by Walker and Company Brands, Palo Alto, CA, Tristan Walker, 844.442.3835
Hana Getachew, founder of Bole Road, meshes a chic aesthetic with a home-based philosophy. Brooklyn designed and handmade in Ethiopia, this home line exudes cool.
Bole Road, Brooklyn, NY, Hana Getachew, 646.820.3794
Give your loved ones something sweet this holiday season with a batch of Tonya’s delicious, gluten-free cookies.
Tonya’s Cookies, Chapel Hill, NC, 919-423-3392, Tonya Council
In 2014, Nadia Shash went on a journey to create products such as t-shirts and umbrellas that ultimately improve the quality of life for orphaned and poverty stricken children.
Made in Tee, Washingon, DC, Nadia Shash
Tracey Reese is a staple in the fashion world. Your style-obsessed family member will love a timeless piece from her line.
Tracy Reese, New York, NY, (212) 807-0505
Nana’s Bearz are the perfect gift for the little one in your life.
Nana’s Bearz, Pennsylvania, PA, nanasbearz@gmail.com
Bring fun and laughter to your family’s home and start a new tradition with Black Card Revoked by Cards for all People.
Cards for All People, Washington, DC
Alex Elle’s Balm & Co came to life in 2014. Their skin products are created naturally and in small batches with the intention of bringing holistic, planet + people friendly skincare to those near and far.
Balm & Co., Washington, DC, Alex Elle
GLOSSRAGS’ ‘And Counting’ collection is the answer to the brutality Black men and women have faced recently and historically. Created by Randi Gloss, the line will help your loved ones make a statement this season.
GLOSSRAGS, Washington, DC, Randi Gloss
Located in trendy Park Slope, Brooklyn, Tabeel Aromatherapy merges nature and convenience, offering apparel, aromatherapy, candles, decor and more!
Tabeel Aromatherapy Gifts and Salon, 718-398-4959
LA-based actresses Ashley Blaine Featherson and Christina Elmore started Blaine Lorenn making their own bath, body and hair care necessities, perfect for the busy lady that needs quality products.
Blaine Lorenn, Los Angeles, CA, Ashley Blaine Featherson and Christina Elmore
Created by Melissa Butler, the Lip Bar’s mission is to challenge the current standard of beauty by creating a lipstick experience that is unsurpassed in craftsmanship, quality and color.
Lip Bar, Detroit, MI, Melissa Butler
Nubian Skin is a nude bra and skin tone hosiery and lingerie line for women of color based in the United Kingdom.
Nubian Skin, United Kingdom, Ade Hassan
Lifestyle Pillows is a company devoted to creating new concepts in pillows for every aspect of life. It’s the perfect answer when trying to perserve a hairstyle.
Lifestyle Pillows, New York City, Dr. Dawn Jones
caribBEING, created by Shelley V. Worrell, is a boutique lifestyle and event brand whose goal is to create unique and unconventional collections for those who crave authenticity and cultural relevance.
caribBEING, Brooklyn, NY, Shelley V. Worrell.
Founded by Grace Eleyae, SLAPS is a line of satin-lined caps designed to combine style, comfort and functionality.
SLAPS, Grace Eleyae
All-inclusive, lips, eyes, faceware, applicators and skincare round out the radiant products of this elegant line.
Couture Maquillage™, Round Rock, TX, Vivianne Pearson
Arsha Jones created Tees in the Trap as a way for Black girls to express themselves and highlight pop culture from our perspective. Her t-shirts will be at the top of your sassy family member’s list.
Tees in the Trap, Washington, DC, Arsha Jones
This fashion and lifestyle brand, offers one-of-a-kind home décor, clothing and accessories with essence of Africa.
Llulo, Missouri City, TX, Michelle T. Olomojobi, www.llulo.com, 713.364.817
Mae B is a lifestyle brand dedicated to creating positive imagery and well made products for women of color. They specialize in stationery, travel accessories and home goods.
MaeBOnline.com, Bianca Lambert
This premier, full service modeling and talent agency provides exceptional male and female models for trade shows, print advertising, television, runway and film.
Ultimate Model Management, Inc., Atlanta, GA, Rose Battle, www.umodelinc.com, 770.322.8528
Vera Moore Cosmetics is a family owned cosmetics and skincare line from Actress turned Entrepreneur Vera Moore.
Vera Moore Cosmetics, Vera Moore, Woodbury, NY, (516) 367-6538
Naughty Girl Greetings are Erotic & Sexy greeting cards made to allow the everyday woman to express their “Naughty” thoughts in a Unique and Sexy way.
The Richardsons offer an all-encompassing line of African American books, DVDs, wall calendars and collectibles.
Cushcity.com, Houston, TX, Willie and Gwen Richardson, 800.340.5454
Terina’s one-of-a-kind eco-friendly line of home goods, handbags and jewelry are inspired by world cultures.
Jypsea Leathergoods, Oakland, CA, Terina Nicole, 201.737.0171
Candra’s glitzy, fashionable shoes with unique embellishments are an ideal addition to your gift list.
Artyce, Los Angeles, CA and Houston, TX, Candra McGowen, 888.768.8060
This project management firm offers innovative client solutions in healthcare, information technology, interior design, logistics and more.
The ELOCEN Group LLC, Washington, DC, Necole Parker, 202.644.8500
These high quality, leather wallets, totes, satchels and hobos are perfect for the professional woman of the go.
Gregory Sylvia, LLC, Charlotte, NC, Gregory and Terri “Sylvia” Pope, 980.272.8770
Fiction, non-fiction and cultural books in paperback and hardcover are an ideal gifts for youth, men and women.
Mahogany Books, Woodbridge, VA, Derrick and Ramunda Young, www.mahoganybooks.com, 703.730.3873
Anika’s ethnic fashion apparel, accessories, art from around the globe and beauty brands are alluring gifts.
Nubian Hueman, Washington, DC, Anika Hobbs, 202.394.3386
Kalyn’s modern, artistic pencil sets, notepads, notebooks and travel mugs make great Secret Santa gifts.
Effie’s Paper:: Stationery & Whatnot, New York, NY, Kalyn Johnson Chandler, 917.749.8794
These “red carpet” moment shoes are specially designed for the fashionable woman wearing larger sizes.
Samanta Shoes, Bronx, NY, Samanta Joseph, 717.231.2008
Unwrap presents of history, knowledge, royalty and power with Deshret crown hats, hoodies, belts and boots.
Negash Apparel & Footwear, Livonia, MI, Rocklin Hotep Negash, 313.355.4647
Delivers solutions that assist global corporations reduce cost of procuring hardware, software, cloud and other IT assets.
Technology Concepts Group International, Somerset, NJ, Avis Yates Rivers, 732.659.6035
Peruse this cultural store for Kwanzaa, black Christmas items, 2016 calendars, collectibles, CDs, DVDs and more.
AfricanAmericanDollarStore.com, Durham, NC, 919.638.0050
Inspired by ethnic hair of all types, these extraordinary dolls have a crown of curls, dreads, locs, braids or waves.
Natural Girls United!, Oakland, CA, Karen Byrd
Imported accents from around the world include art, jewelry, textiles, home interior, candles and incense.
Cultural Interiors, Los Angeles, CA, Gail Hawkins, 323.930.9900
April’s heartfelt, personalized notecards, folders, journals, notepads and merchandise make excellent gifts.
April Olivia, San Leandro, CA, April Spikener, 510.473.5882
For friends liking various products, order these unisex, bath and body gels, fragrances and color cosmetics.
Aularale Skin Care and Cosmetics Inc, Atlanta, GA, Alton and Joanne Trawick, 404.349.7145
Onsite artists have designed exquisite holiday ornaments, wine glasses, cutting boards, designer soaps and more.
Creations of Color, Oakland, CA, Nadine L. Grundy, 510.569.3388
Select gifts from 3500 African American products and holiday card sets, nativity scenes and Kwanzaa kinaras.
The Black Art Depot, Durham, NC, Kani Ayubu, 800.525.7249
Your present of a versatile, elegant head wrap made of satin or silk can crown her queen of the night – or day.
My Crowning Jewel, Hamden, CT, Veronica N. Chapman, 877.442.6689
This Spelman student’s paraben free, colorful and long wearing lipsticks and glosses are sure to dazzle.
Cultural Cosmetics, Inc., Miami, FL, Patricia Hedgemond, 786.556.7497
These exclusive tee-shirts and accessories are great gifts for men, women and kids desiring Greek items.
Define Me Greek, San Leandro, CA, Shauna Harper and Selena Young, 510.969.9609
Numa by Kiyomi holistic, organic blends of hair and skin care are ideal gifts for your most sensitive loved one.
The Good Hair Shop, Atlanta, GA, Kiyomi Rollins, 404.390.3590
Nothing says love like fresh holiday flower bouquets and centerpieces from Barbara’s “Lavish Collection.”
Dream’s Florist Design Inc., Decatur, GA, Barbara Victrum, 404.289.5300
The mother-daughter duo offers various textures of 100% virgin and Brazilian Peruvian hair in several lengths.
Hair by Don Janelle, Decatur, GA, Donna London and Stephanie Janelle Bryant, 404.534.9819
Add holiday cheer with the DynaSmiles collection including charming phone cases, coffee mugs and travel mugs.
DNT Dynamite Design, Franklin Park, NJ, Daveia Odoi
Satisfy the sweet tooth of everyone with this online cookie company’s fresh baked cookies made from scratch.
Favorable Treats, Minneapolis, MN, Junita Flowers, 651.329.0420
The African fashion and home décor gifts include antiques, collectibles and vintage-inspired clothing.
Royal Jelly Harlem, Inc., New York, NY, Maya Gorgoni, 212.473.6756
Amaze your loved ones with this distinctive, energy-saving, reusable and healthier alternative to dryer sheets.
LooHoo Wool Dryer Balls, Camden, ME, Cyndi Prince, 207.542.3833
Kimo’s all natural body salts, whipped body wash and shea gourmet creams are great stocking stuffers.
KimoBentley.com, LLC, New York, NY, Kimo Bentley, 917.992.2978
Call on the Insights innovative team to design your holiday corporate event, social media strategy or product launch.
Insights, Atlanta, GA, Keshia Nichole Walker, 404.872.9899
Surprise your loved one with a getaway to one of four picturesque locales in NYC, Poconos, Jersey Shore or DC.
Akwaaba, Brooklyn, NY, Monique Greenwood, 866.466.3855
Becky’s t-shirts, wristbands, journals and mini purse fans remind receivers that Jesus is the reason for the season.
Jesusheir™ LLC, Douglasville, GA, Becky A. Davis, , 855.639.5378
“The Pookalitas’” Buffin Muffin soaps and Island Mimosa body butter are fun, refreshing products to give.
Pooka Pure & Simple, Newark, NJ, Dawn Fitch, 973.954.2471
This all-encompassing line of beautiful costume and fine jewelry includes bracelets, rings, necklaces and earrings.
MELANIE MARiE, New York, NY, Melanie White, 917.524.6562
Kane’s 10,000 gift items include figurines, statues, neck ties, games, puzzles, fine art tapestries, jackets and plates.
It’saBlackThang.com, Valrico, FL, Kane Kinnebrew, 813.643.1140
Give the gift of inspiration in a cup with gorgeous tins of CREATIVITEA, CLARITEA and PRODUCTIVITEA.
Possibiliteas, Brooklyn, NY, Regina Brooks, 718. 230. 1432
Designed for the modern parent, Simone offers more than 50 brands of timeless and trendy pieces of kidswear.
Louis B Boutique, Hillside, NJ, Simone Gittens, www.louisbboutique.com, 973.573.3340
Zesa Raw provides sustainable Arabica Haitian coffee and costa titan cane sugar from small scale farmers of the highest quality.
ZesaRaw, Ithaca, NY, Michelle Jean, 1-855-4-zesa-raw
Give the tots you know novelty t-shirts emblazed Bruh, Bear or Bull to spotlight fun, culture and little boys likes.
Two Lil’ Bros, Laurel, MD, Brandon and Anita DeLoach, 410.253.7366
The Rucker sisters’ creation of unique, natural root hair care products is used by all genders and cultures.
Rucker Roots, LLC, Lancaster, SC, Ione, Ellen and Ruby, 866.960.9613
Sandra introduces breathtaking tie dye dresses, funky bell bottom pants and rhinestone t-shirts for all sizes.
Sanjules Unique Art Creations, Brooklyn, NY, Sandra Second-Julien, 917.209.3403
Inspired by the Caribbean, body oils, scents, and gift sets such as sweetness bath, are unforgettable gifts.
Senica, LLC, New Orleans, LA, Benardett Jno-Finn, 504. 355.1346
Cocoa Babies was launched in 2005 and continues to set the trend for moms and babies of color. A cute t-shirt or onesie would be perfect for the new addition to the family.
Cocoa Babies, Charlotte, NC, Amina Tillett, 888-842-5513
Order exquisite tote bags, stationery and apparel specially designed for AKAs, The Links and other groups.
Zebra Lane Greek Stationery & Gifts, Philadelphia, PA, Holly Lane Mixon, 314.406.5483
Give them the gift of a lifetime in a high end, splendid upright, baby grand, semi-grand or concert grand piano.
SHADD Pianos, USA, Washington, DC, Warren Shadd, 202.826.1826
Loren’s monogrammed desk supplies, gift tags and personalized notes are fine gifts for clients and friends.
STATIAnery by Loren Statia, Marietta, GA, Loren Statia, 770.321.0251
Children can take joy in the multi-cultural, keepsake dolls in shades of cinnamon, coca and ginger.
Sugarfoots, Washington, DC, Barbara El Wilson, 800.354.2909
Iman’s iconic line is a favorite among women of color from all walks of life. Take care of the makeup junkie in your world with staple products from the line.
Your choice of 25 handcrafted, delectable flavors of popcorn are shipped in special holiday tins for loved ones.
Uncle Renz’s Popcorn, Lithonia, GA, Larenzo Reid, 770.322.7200
Adorable African American dolls, tote bags, tee shirts, puppets and aprons are cool gifts for boys and girls.
Uzuri Kid Kidz, Columbus, Ohio, Melissa and Blanche Perkins, (614) 440-4601
Surprise friends of faith with inspirational t-shirts, hats, mouse pads, winter scullies or drawstring backpacks.
Living In The F.O.G. (Favor of God), Covington, GA, Arlene Brooks, 877-8THEFOG
ön.us.tees is a clothing brand that aims to promote honest propaganda through walking billboards of positivity.
On Us Tees, Hyattsville, MD
Imarc & Co is a full-service creative agency specializing in lifestyle marketing, brand development, printing and product design.
The curly girl in your life will love Uncle Funky’s Daughter offered sustainable, chemical-free hair care products to a blossoming curly hair market
Uncle Funky Daughter, 1.844.65.FUNKY (3-8659)
A true family business, Shea Moisture now led by Richelieu Dennis was started using Grandma Sophie’s recipes. Now, Shea Moisture is every nautral girls hair and skin care line of choice.
Shea Moisture, Richelieu Dennis
Makeup artist Kristen Elise Brown started Gold Label Cosmetics as a fun venture with women from all walks of life in mind. The makeup enthusiast in your life will thank you for a few goodies from this line.
Gold Label Cosmetics, New York, NY, Kristen Elise Brown
Specializing in all-natural organic honey skin care, Bee Lux is the place to go for loved ones that love smell-good butters, elixers, fragrances and more.
Belle Butters was founded in 2009 by Tasha Burton of St. Louis, MO. Her goal is to make premium, high quality natural products for hair and body that are affordable and easy to use.
Belle Butters, St. Louis, MO, Tasha Burton
Soultanicals is a collection of “hand-crafted, soul-infused, melanin-inspired, body/hair love products made with a unique blend of organic, plant-based, herbal, and African botanical ingredients.”
Soultanicals, Ayo OgunMcCants
Nancy Twine created Brigeo based on natural hair care recipes passed down from her grandmother. Now Brigeo offers hair care for the eco-chic ladies.
Brigeo, New York, NY, Nancy Twine, (866) 203-7763
Pear Nova is Rachel James’ Chicago-based cruelty free, vegan friendly nail polish line.
Pear Nova, Chicago, Ill, Rachel James
Specializing in integrated services, this commercial real estate firm helps clients increase value by owning, occupying or investing in real estate.
Integrative Partners, New York, NY, Shawna O. Menifee, 212.812.5826
