Hi guys. After a few weeks of being offline, I’ve decided to come back and share what’s been going on in my heart. These past few weeks have been some of the most trying, yet hopeful times I’ve experienced, and I really feel that things will be changing for the better. Though hali honea. is a small brand, we still hold several important ideals. Starting with equity and equality, in all aspects of society. The hali honea. company stands in solidarity with those affected by racism. This brand is antiracist; as it and all companies should be. Black Lives Matter. Period.
I have been using the past few weeks to reassess my way of living. I have been researching, learning, talking, listening, and observing, and like many others, I plan to continue to incorporate this pattern into my daily life from here on out. I know it’s difficult to have those tough conversations, to read and listen to and watch pieces about systemic racism and inequality. But educating ourselves is important, and I am still learning that. I don’t mean to reiterate all of the things we are being exposed to on social media and in the news, but I want to confirm my promise to learn, listen, and support in any way that I can.
Thus, I have compiled a few black-owned businesses (both previously known and recently new to me) that I have been researching and following, and overall, feeling incredibly inspired by. I intend to support these companies (ESP Bloom & Plume because I am a HUGE cafe girl). I will be continuously adding to this list, as well as forming others regarding podcasts, books, movies, tv shows, etc., for I am still gathering information myself. Without further ado, enjoy brief introductions to the businesses: JADE swim, Estelle Colored Glass, Mary Louise Cosmetics, Lolly Lolly Ceramics, Jungalow, Soukie Modern, and Bloom & Plume Coffee.
*Note that none of these images are mine. Photo credits go to the websites of each company. : )
JADE swim
JADE swim was founded by fashion editor and stylist, Brittany Kozerski. More than just basic swimwear, JADE incorporates unique silhouettes and sleek details to complement every body type. I’m always looking for new bathing suit brands to test out, so I’m stoked to add JADE to my wish list!
Lolly Lolly Ceramics
Based in Columbus, Ohio, Lalese handcrafts her one-of-a-kind creations, each with their own fun, unique twists. Her latest collection features quirky mugs that she worked on for 100 days!! I’m patiently waiting for her to add more products to her site, so I can order one for myself (she recently sold out of her original mugs after getting some promos from influencers!).
Bloom & Plume Coffee
A black family-owned business located in Los Angeles, Bloom & Plume opened its doors in 2019 with the hopes of creating a bright, aesthetic atmosphere and serving the community in more ways than just providing (AMAZING) coffee. Co-founder, Maurice Harris utilized his artistic background to bring color and floral arrangements into the coffee game. Who knew purple and orange could look so COOL together!?
*Fun fact: this shop is close to my school, so I’m already SO stoked to visit ASAP!!!!*
Mary Louise Cosmetics
Founded by Akilah Mary-Louise Releford in 2017, Mary Louise Cosmetics aims to combine natural beauty products with homemade remedies. Mary Louise offers a wide range of goods that make taking care of your skin easy AND fun!
Jungalow
What started as a blog about plants and design turned into lifestyle brand and go-to source for “jungalicious” goods and inspiration. Founded by Justina Blakeney, the Jungalow shop includes various products for the home curated just for you! The intention of the brand is to be a company that offers shoppers the ability to connect to nature and “bring good vibes home”!! Jungalow also offers a unique, rotating collection of items from international female artists! Being interested in interior design (and plants) myself, Justina is a major source of my inspiration. She combines colors and patterns immaculately.
Estelle Colored Glass
Founded by Stephanie Summerson Hall, Estelle Colored Glass is a high-end brand of hand-blown glass. From cake stands to wine glasses, these products can brighten up any room, as they come in a variety of beautiful, eye-catching colors. I am already trying to convince my roommates to splurge on these gorgeous pieces, so we can spice up our house. ;)
Soukie Modern
Rug enthusiasts Kenya Knight and Taib Lotfi founded Soukie Modern to mesh their two favorite places on earth: Palm Springs and Marrakech with the art of interior design. Their products range from accent rugs and handbags to pillows and poufs, and are sourced from all over the world! Check out their site to get a taste of the colorful goods Soukie Modern offers!
