Local businesses to support for black history month
February is Black History Month, and we’re making it easier to support Black-owned businesses in your community by sharing local businesses from British Columbia to Manitoba. Explore the list below, give these businesses a follow on their social media channels and don’t forget to support them in store or online.
You may notice the presence of a Sankofa bird within our graphics for Black History Month this year. Feet forward, head turned backward, the Sankofa bird reflects on the past to build a successful future. Together we must lead through courage to honour the history that has made us who we are today, so that we can build a brighter future for us all tomorrow.
SUPPORT LOCAL IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
If you’re needing some new home décor, Batiqua is a fair trade social enterprise with the mission to empower marginalized artisans into sustainable employment opportunities. Add some greenery to your home or next event with beautiful floral bouquets from FleuRich Creations. Spice up your closet with sustainable bags and accessories from White Rhino Bags, or visit Grey Hearts Denim in Kelowna and add take home some vintage pieces or extend the life of your clothing with their alterations. If you’re looking to support local for your next event, check out Lulu’s Apron, a catering company that will help you make beautiful memories with their bold flavours. If you have a sweet tooth, Petit Gâteau in Victoria creates vegan gourmet desserts and custom cakes for all occasions, or if you’re in the mood for a taste of the tropics, Taps & Tacos offers street and fusion tacos in a variety of global flavours. Known for its flavourful jerk chicken, The Lion’s Den Café offers Jamaican comfort food and American breakfast in Vancouver. Practice mindfulness with Dora Kamau, a meditation teacher and wellness artist who also helps women living with substance dependence and mental illness. Finally, if you’re looking to train your four legged family member, Q&A Dog Training is here to empower you and your dog through force-free training.
SHOP SMALL IN ALBERTA
If you’re a foodie in the mood for new cuisine, Ahinke’s Kitchen offers Nigerian delicacy while sourcing ingredients locally from farmers. If you’re in Edmonton, check out Flava Café for authentic Jamaican food in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Bring global flavours and more to your home from Genesis Exotic Market, a retail store in Lethbridge that offers exotic food, clothing, skincare and more. Planning your big day? MoEvents is a certified wedding planner that will bring memorable events to life, including weddings and birthday parties. Capture those important moments with TL Photography, led by a duo who specializes in weddings, maternity and family portraits. Taylor Made Studios is a full-service marketing agency and business and life coach, and has helped musicians, small businesses and corporations reach their goals and dominate their industries. Treat yourself and your skin with The Melanin Studio, which offers facials, peels, body treatments and more. If you’re looking for a new counselling service, Vibrance Psychological Services in Edmonton provides services including individual, couples and family therapy. Make a statement in your workout wear with Veer Active, a cutting-edge apparel company creating premium, unique and fashionable activewear. Plan your next date night at Tiramisu Bistro in Edmonton, a restaurant that has a modern take on traditional Italian fare.
SUPPORT YOUR ECONOMY IN SASKATCHEWAN
Add some new items to your closet from Kendi Boutique, a local woman’s fashion that will give anyone confidence. Or if you’re looking for more casual apparel, City&Love has comfortable clothing that delivers on quality and celebrates love. Make an event out of every occasion with Cradle by Jade and their event planning services. If you’re a business owner, check out Verolingo Communications for all your translation, writing, editing and communications needs. Okiki Consulting empowers small and medium businesses through storytelling and videography services. Stop by Lucky Hair & Beauty Studio for a new look, a salon specializing in cutting and styling Black people’s hair. You can also visit Kuza Hair & Beauty, which specializes in hair extensions, wigs, braids and more and helps customers experience beauty and confidence. And if you’re looking to capture your new look, check out SkyLevel Images for birthday, maternity, family and business portraits. Stop by Global Pot Fusion Cuisine for a delicious experience in African and Afro-Caribbean cuisine. Finally, if you’re looking to support your local community, Truly Alive Foundation is a Black-led charity provides support services for youth and families, especially those in minority and vulnerable populations in Saskatoon and area.
MADE LOCAL IN MANITOBA
If you’re hunting for a new dentist, check out Selkirk Crossing Dental Centre. This new, modern dental clinic will improve your health and transform your smile. Another professional service is Level Up Therapy Practice, a virtual practice where you’ll find compassionate and committed therapy without leaving your couch. Take a drive down nostalgia lane with Bridge Drive-In, home of the happiest shakes in town for over 60 years. Relax in some new loungewear with Together Loungewear, sustainable apparel for everyday life. Macrame is the latest home trend, so add some to your space from Up In Knots. Give yourself or someone else a curated gift box from Chesco Box, which supports local, BIPOC and Canadian businesses. Or if you’re in need of some new accessories, check our BounceBack Botanical Boutique for handmade botanical earrings, necklaces and more. Achieve natural and wholesome beauty with Lilycee Beauty, a skincare company with nature as their inspiration. Rent out the kayak you’re not using or your downtown apartment when you’re away with Renterii, a peer-to-peer rental platform for locals and visitors.