Buying a gift from a Black-owned business will help those minority-owned businesses, which were among the hardest hit by the pandemic, keep their lights on.
Why not spread a little Christmas cheer and buy from a Black-owned business when you do your gift-shopping this year?
From masks and doggie hoodies to brew boxes and special spices, Black-owned businesses across the state have something for everyone.
Take a look at this list for inspiration:
Brew Box from First Sip Brew Box
Pittsburgh-based First Sip Brew Box is a great gift for the beer lover in your life. Each month, the box features a different brewery. Although beer isn’t included, the box does come filled with beer gear, branded glasses, stickers, and other swag. It also includes a delicious treat that’s hand-picked to pair with beer or a lifestyle item that’s made with malts and hops. The boxes come in three different price points and you can sign up for a monthly subscription or make a one-time purchase. $25-$60.
Buddha Blankie from Buddha Babe
Keep your loved one warm—and in style—with a Buddha Blankie. The handmade blankets from Philadelphia-based Buddha Babe have a fuzzy side and a soft fabric side, and come in a variety of patterns and whimsical prints so they fit with any decor. They come in three sizes: Mini (25 inches by 30 inches), Crib (32 inches by 48 inches), and Mama (54 inches by 72 inches). $65-$75.
Canvas Crossbody Traveler from Amma Jo
Take a walk on the wild side with this canvas crossbody traveler bag from Harrisburg boutique Amma Jo. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. $99.
Diamond Earrings from Nicole Taylor Boutique
Nicole Taylor Boutique in Lancaster has lots of unique and beautiful jewelry you could buy for the magpie in your life. These open brass diamond earrings caught our eyes; they take a classic design and give it a little modern edge. $44.
Luxurious Body Bars from Above the Bar
Help your loved one lather up in luxury with hand-crafted soaps from Above the Bar in Pocono Lake. The body bars come in a wide variety of scents, including complex, layered scents like Lolita Kiss (a blend of anise, violet, and sweet vanilla), Pink Cashmere (a blend of sandalwood, amber, jasmine, and lily white musk, bergamot), and Chelsea Flower (peony, tulip, hyacinth, magnolia, rose, musk, sandalwood, vetiver, and moss). The soaps are made from all-natural materials. $13.75 for an 8.5-ounce bar.
Mask Gift Set from Trunc
Help give your loved one a refreshing and depuffing wake up call with a vegan facial mask gift set from Trunc in Philadelphia. The small shop is owned by a Black female veteran. $26.
Matching Sweatshirts for People and Their Pets from Kin of Duncan
The pet parents and furbabies on your list will love a set of matching sweatshirts from Kin of Duncan. Teenage entrepreneur and Pittsburgh native Jazmiere Bates created the line because she loved dressing up in matching outfits with her dog, Kindrick. Tell your favorite furball what you really think of them with a “Life is Good” jacket ($45) or a gold fur kid jacket ($42).
Melanin Lace Hearts from Emmanuelle Ceramics
Send ceramic hearts from Emanuelle Ceramics to someone you care about to remind them of your love during these tough times. Thread a ribbon through a hole at the top, so your loved one can use the hearts as a Christmas tree ornament or year-round decoration. Check out the Melanin Lace Hearts, which are glazed in the shades of skin tones. The hearts were created as a tribute to the Black, People of Color, and allies who are fighting for justice. The hearts come in three different sizes, and three different lace patterns. $7-$12.
Sauces from The Spice Rack
If you’re having trouble figuring out what to get your favorite home chef, check out The Spice Rack in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia. The shop offers a wide variety of spices, herbs, sauces, and cooking accessories. Its line of sauces, which includes a mushroom red wine simmering sauce, a brown sugar balsamic mustard, and a homestyle chili starter, will have even the most novice cook coming out like a four-star chef. $8 to $13.
Jamyra Perry Jamyra Perry is a multimedia journalist based in Philadelphia. Working in media for almost 20 years, she has held positions in radio, television, print, and digital media. When not working, you can find her checking out Philly's hidden gems or binging true crime documentaries.
Ashley Adams In her 16 years in the communications industry, Ashley Adams has worn many hats, including news reporter, public relations writer, marketing specialist, copy editor and technical writer. Ashley grew up in Berks County and has since returned to her roots to raise her three children.
