The last few days have a been a big wake up call for not only me, but for the world. Black Lives Matter, and while I’ve always felt this way, I was not a good ally. As life moves forward I don’t want to change the subject, I want the subject to be a part of my every-day actions. I want to live more inclusively. And here on the blog I want to share more inclusively. In the past I didn’t do enough, and I want to do better for my family, my community surrounding me, and for my online community as well. This blog is not an “important site” by any means – it’s not curing cancer or saving lives and I am not an expert on anything. It’s a place for us to discover pretty things. But in purposefully sharing more black and minority owned brands, I hope to make it a more inclusive and supportive place for all of us.
One thing that I’m doing is diversifying my social media feed, diversifying what shows I’m watching, diversifying what I’m reading. Harder to do, I want to diversity my friendships. Sure I have black friends, but I live a pretty white Charleston life. It’s a stark difference to our much more diverse relationships (both social and professional) that we have on Harbour Island, Bahamas. It’s never felt intentional, but it’s messed up nonetheless. Since sharing is what we do around here, I just wanted to share the thoughts above (thank you for reading), and I want to highlight a few black owned brands/business/creators that I think you’ll love.
The Tiny Tassel – Mimi Striplin started out making hand-made tassel jewelry, and her website now also carries a whole assortment of fun pieces! Mimi is also part owner in the Cannonborough Collective, a popular shop downtown Charleston!
A Plus Tees – Angell Troxler is a teacher at my kid’s school (she’s the one that every kid hopes to get). Her t-shirt line is popular with the students and parents alike. I think this i am > i was tee is quite fitting.
Chloe Digital – Chloe Watts and her digital team have been my website experts for over 5 years now. They offer 24/7 support when you need it, and can do anything for your blog that you need. She’s supportive, uplifting, kind, talented, and inspiring all rolled into one.
Estelle Colored Glass – I discovered Stephanie Hall’s glassware line maybe two months and was immediately drawn in! The rainbow of colors and pretty photography make me want to start drinking wine so that I can have a good excuse to fill my shelves. She’s a Charleston business, too!
Pip Pip Hooray Shop – I just recently featured Jen Rogers in my Sohp Shop x Easter Basket Mom Picks blog post, she’s one of my favorite accounts to follow on instagram and has the most upbeat and beautiful feed. Her kid’s shop is pretty darn cute, too!
#blackAF – Josh and I binged this show a month or two ago and it was seriously so good. Add it to your list!
Such A Fun Age – I read this book by Kiley Reid last year and it’s the kind of book that really makes you think, while being really fun to read at the same time. Highly recommend it.
The Sweet Life of Bean – 8 year old Bean Ervin is one of my favorite accounts on instagram. We met her a couple of years ago when she came to Charleston and we all had lunch downtown. Lilly and I love keeping up with all the good things Bean and her family are doing in Charlotte.
Salt & Stem Flower Truck – A Wondering Flower Truck used in Charleston by Dani and her husband Mac. I mean how cute is that?! She comes us with the most beautiful bouquets! I was just introduced to her account this week and am so glad someone shared it.
Kenesha Sneed – Tactile Matter is one of my favorite artist accounts to follow. Kenesha’s artwork is beautiful, just like she is.
From Sir With Love – A Sirmantha Ellison founded this gift and stationary shop in Atlanta. Her shopping site is not only beautiful and stocked with really great finds, but she specializes in custom gift design – great for weddings, conferences, and guests!
Venita Aspen – Last but not least, my hard working and adorable friend Venita. She basically does it all – modeling, producing, traveling. After seeing her on instagram I messaged her in July of 2016 (I just searched my email to confirm, I don’t normally know dates like this ha) to meet up for dinner or drinks to connect. She was as infectious in person as she was over instagram. Reaching out for blind friend-dates is something that I will make happen more often in the future.
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