11 Black Creators and Businesses

Yesterday I did not post on here and on my social. Instead, I took the day to reflect and learn and listen. As a white woman, I know I have more to do to help amplify Black people, voices, and businesses, but I also think it’s important that it doesn’t become a “performance” or just a moment of time. On Saturday, I posted on Instagram that I hadn’t done a good enough job being anti-racist and speaking out. I promise to do better without also pretending like I’m some expert on the matter. (I am not.) It’s my commitment to you that I am listening and I am learning to be and do better. Thought I wanted to share some Black women to follow/read/buy from.

CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE

Chimamanda is a Nigerian author. I read and loved Americanah last year. The story is about two Nigerian teenagers who end up going down to completely paths. Ifemelu goes to the United States for college and Obinze ends up in London as an undocumented immigrant. The story was so powerful and highlight different issues Black people face in the United States and abroad. I also went down a rabbit hole of watching Chimimanda speak at different events and Ted Talks; I’ll personally be adding more of her books into my reading lists.

CHLOE DIGITAL

This business is specific to bloggers and influencers, but I’ve been working with Chloe Digital since 2016 and I have known Chloe Watts (the Chloe of Chloe Digital) even longer. If you’re already a blogger or want to create a blog, I can’t recommend CD’s services more. They can do everything for you… from setting up the website, to migrating your website between different platforms, and even monitoring it for tech issues. (The best is that if your site goes down, you have guaranteed support 24/7!!!) They also are just a great resource for learning more about the digital space for influencers.

CIERRA from AMBITIOUSLY CIERRA

I say this all the time but one of the best parts about blogging is how many people I have been able to meet. I met Cierra while I was in DC! She did the 1 Girl: 5 Outfits takeover on my blog. She has been such a champion of my blog and I want to do the same for hers. One thing that I admire the most about Cierra is how dedicated she is to personal development– she isn’t afraid to push herself and share her journey authentically. (A great example is that she had been training for a 5k and even though it was canceled, she still went out there and did the race herself!)

ESTELLE COLORED GLASS

These are HANDBLOWN pastel colored glasswares. I bought these mint green champagne coupes. After seeing how beautiful the glasses look lined up, I know it won’t be my last purchase…

DANIELLE PRESCOD

I started following Danielle this week on Instagram. She has been posting a lot of really helpful things and I liked learning from her perspective. She have some great articles (and resources) saved to her highlights that are worth going through if you missed her stories. Danielle posts about body positivity, fashion, and fitness. (And she loves to read and meditate too!!)

KAMIE CRAWFORD

Wow. Kamie… I met her on a trip with Elizabeth Arden two falls ago. She has a big personality and a big heart, not to mention she is strikingly beautiful. Oh and she recently got named the co-host of MTV’s Catfish!!! I have learned a lot from Kamie from her stories and I’m really grateful she’s been sharing them. She also shares some amazing beauty recommendations (you should see her beauty closet, it’s unreal).

MADAME DE LA MAISON

Last fall, I discovered Madame de la Maison (founded by Ajiri Aki) at a creative camp. She is an American living in France and oh my word her finds are drool-worthy. She sells linens and vintage pieces to create gorgeous tablescapes. And if you live in Paris, you can rent collections of dishes for events and parties too.

PAULA from HILL HOUSE VINTAGE

Paula from Hill House Vintage is a breath of fresh air on my feed. I look forward to her posts and stories… always curious to know what she’s up to. I’m obsessed with her style. Vintage and classic, ultra feminine! And her home is truly something else. It looks like something out of a story book.

TABITHA SEWER

If you’re into sewing, you have to follow Tabitha Sewer (she has a Youtube, a website, and an Instagram). She’s definitely on the more advanced side of things (like check out this Hei Hei costume she made…. holy cow it’s amazing) but I think she has a ton of work that can serve as inspiration. And she shares helpful beginner tips too.

THE TINY TASSEL

The Tiny Tassel, founded by Mimi Striplin, is filled with colorful goodies. I placed a big order this week. I couldn’t narrow down what I wanted so I was like, whatever I’ll get it all!! These little earrings, a rainbow check headband (handmade by her mom!), and this beaded tassel charm. Oh and she also sells colorful and cute face masks.

VENITA ASPEN

Venita is the real deal. You may have seen her working with various brands because she is a stunning model. She’s a great follow for petite fashion and Venita is also the creative director of her own creative agency– I love seeing the behind the scenes content of the shoots she produces.