By Akosua Asare
Happy Black History Month! I’m mostly celebrating this month by relaxing. I plan to as stress-free of a month as possible. I think it’s the best way for me to celebrate this year, and I recommend it to any other Black person feeling burnout or overwhelmed (especially by the news cycle).
Fortunately, my way of stress-free pampering will still manage to support Black entrepreneurs. Part of my Black Care Month will be spent doing something so therapeutic, so natural and enjoyable to me– spending money.
Here are 4 Houston Black-owned businesses I’m supporting this month, and that I recommend to you!
Kindred Stories
Both Black and woman owned, Kindred Stories is probably the only bookstore that I frequent. The store is located in Third Ward, and have the perfect backyard space for events. As I speed through my 23 in 2023 reading challenge, a visit to Kindred Stories is a must.
Kindred Stories was born of a love for reading and a passion for community. Kindred Stories is here to give kids and adults alike a space to explore the wide open world of literary content and creative works fashioned by black and brown hands. We are a bookstore committed to amplifying Black voices and bringing diverse stories from throughout the African diaspora to our local community in Houston, TX.
– Kindred Stories website
Day 6 Coffee
Located in Downtown Houston, Day 6 is probably the coziest coffee shop I’ve been to. Not only can you purchase coffee, a beer (or glass of wine), sweets, and small bites like kolaches and sandwiches, but you can also purchase art pieces! Day 6 also has a library of books in its main sitting area and secret lounge room available for you to read and check out!
WonderLikeWander
While WonderLikeWander is widely known to be a studio and event space, it was originally a boutique. If you’re ever feeling artsy, or looking for events that center music, open mics, Black community, pop-ups, etc. I recommend checking out events they have going on in their space. If you’re looking to purchase a tote, plant, shirt, art piece, or Ethiopian coffee, check out their shop!
What started as a boutique has now expanded to so much more. Wonderlikewander is a black-owned multidimensional brand that focuses on quality, next-level clothing, coffee, visual arts, & communal experiences.
– WonderLikeWander website
ChòpnBlọk
ChòpnBlọk is one of the many cool eateries located at The Post. They’re self described as a “fast-casual restaurant concept that carefully unveils the West African culinary experience.” They take a contemporary approach to West African food. In short, it’s delicious. I highly recommend you add it to your list of food places to try.
