A unique short-term retail concept centered on empowering Charlotte’s Black entrepreneurs is set to open soon in NoDa.
The Black-Owned Holiday Marketplace will showcase products from more than 30 Black-owned brands for one weekend in December.
It offers a vital platform for Black entrepreneurs to sell their products and “test drive” the retail experience. Since its inception, the marketplace has generated over $50,000 in sales, helping local businesses grow.
This concept was established by CLT Black Owned in December 2021 and has been supported by QCity Metro since 2023. The partnership has helped maximize the visibility of the three-day marketplace and the reach of the participating brands.
With the help of Wells Fargo, the market has been able to service more business owners and invite the community to shop locally ahead of the holiday.
This year, the shopping experience promises new brands among several returning businesses at a space in NoDa.
Guests visiting the marketplace can look forward to an impressive array of products curated from skincare and beauty items to art, clothing, jewelry and home décor, the one-stop shop caters to diverse tastes and needs and is a great place to get holiday shopping done.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the creative minds and products participating in this year’s Black-Owned Holiday Marketplace:
All Lynn Lifestyle
All Lynn Lifestyle is a mother-daughter duo that offers handmade hair and beauty accessories like scrunchies and headbands. Their products are designed for all ages.
RissaLaRue Co.
Founded by artist Larissa Miller in 2019, this home décor brand is focused on providing diversity in textiles and fine art, blending artistic expression with functionality.
Meritt Allure
Emphasizing the importance of skin health, Meritt Allure offers a range of moisturizing body care products. With a motto of “Healthy Skin Is A Lifestyle,” the brand promotes skin health through proper hydration.
Rocky’s Canine Cuisine
Founded by Alannah Covington, this premium dog food company specializes in all-natural, organic meals and toppers for dogs, committed to enhancing pet health with quality nutrition.
Pink Daisy Co.
Packaged as items from a “master candle curator,” Pink Daisy Co. focuses on promoting relaxation and self-care through a line of versatile soy-based candles and body products.
House of Chapeau
Catering specifically to the “big head” community, House of Chapeau offers a range of hats designed for larger sizes, ensuring comfort and a great fit for all.
Legacy Body
This wellness brand supplies natural body care items and sea moss products, promoting nourishment and rejuvenation inside and out.
Honeysuckle Design Company
Creator Makeshia Smoot crafts handmade creations that bring joy to life, focusing on unique and thoughtful products that provide everyday happiness.
Sun’s Jewelry
With over 15 years of craftsmanship, Sun’s Jewelry creates intricate designs that highlight individuality, offering custom work and repairs alongside ready-made pieces.
Arrae Accessories
Owner Tyler Barringer celebrates personal style through thoughtfully designed earrings, offering curated collections, handmade creations and vintage accessory finds.
Emish Company
CEO Melissa Parker melds fashion with a personal touch with her accessories, showcasing her talent and creativity in uniquely designed pieces.
Toushea Skincare
After a personal journey with a loved one’s eczema, the skincare brand was formed to offer clean and effective skincare products aimed at fostering healthy skin.
Cocoa’s Cookies
This organic vegan cookie boutique delights customers with unique flavors made in small batches, combining gourmet quality with health-conscious ingredients.
Griot Designs
Inspired by the African tradition of storytelling, this brand repurposes materials like inner tubes and fabrics into jewelry and accessories, raising awareness about environmental issues in marginalized communities.
Fairwicks Candles
Owner Bree Baldwin handcrafts a variety of scented candles and body products. Fairwicks focuses on creating unique fragrances that promote peace and relaxation.
This year, the Black-Owned Marketplace promises to be a shopping experience as well as a celebration of community and creativity in Charlotte.
By supporting these businesses, attendees have the opportunity to pour into a thriving ecosystem of Black entrepreneurs in Charlotte.
If you go:
3550 N. Davidson Street (Simply Vibes Apothecary)
Friday, Dec. 6 – 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 7 – 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 8 – 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.