Black Creators + Businesses To Follow
The last week or so has been truly enlightening. I’m grateful for the chance to reflect, learn and listen. As mentioned on my Instagram post the other day, I’m proud to continually support and work with Black and POC owned businesses and brands who actively work towards inclusivity/diversity now, and going forward I pledge to you to use this platform to support and share the well spoken voices of others. If you have not already done so, I encourage you to diversify your feed and make a conscious effort to follow people from all backgrounds. We all have room for improvement and I’m committed to learning and improving alongside you for the long haul. We must band together to fight injustice, brutality and racism. While this isn’t the only way to do so, I am committed to finding creative ways to give back and support the Black community not just once, but always. This certainly won’t happen in a day, but it can happen.
Here are a few creators and brands who have greatly impacted me (in no particular order), I hope you’ll consider following and supporting their businesses:
Candace M. Read
I stumbled upon her page a few days ago and I cannot get enough of what she has to say. Her message titled “Everything With Love” is something I’ve been watching on repeat, please watch if you haven’t. Candace’s energy is contagious, there is a genuine kindness about her that you’ll truly love. She’s based in Columbus, Ohio and works as a senior stylist through Wardrobe Therapy. Her style is really on point and her feed is filled with inspiration that has a classic + Parisian vibe.
Kelly Augustine
I’m honored to call Kelly a "co-worker” even though there really is no such thing in this content creator/influencer space. She has been working in the fashion and content creation industry based in Brooklyn, NY for over a decade and I’m proud to know her personally. Her IG feed is a perfect dose of fashion inspiration and realness with a touch of humor. Kelly is never afraid to hide her feelings online and I’ve always really respected her for that. Her playlists are on point if you’re looking for some music inspiration. We also share a passion for properly fitting undergarments, I hope to collaborate with her on this topic very soon!
Tiffany Moon - The Northern Belle Of The South
I discovered Tiffany on a comment thread on @LikeToKnow.It’s profile. If you’re not familiar, LTK is the affiliate marketing platform that I use to make my IG and blog posts shoppable. Tiffany has been championing brands to speak up and influencers to speak out on the injustices within our industry. On behalf of her adorable daughter, Bella, Tiffany has committed to using her platform to continue to educate people, check out her highlight here. Whether you’re an influencer or not- I think it would be beneficial to follow her. Tiffany is constantly sharing resources and as a consumer, we can all make better informed decisions.
Essie Golden
As a plus size model, Essie was one of the first people I ever followed in the industry. I was in awe of her content and her viral hashtag #GoldenConfidence. She has been a pioneer in the plus size and body positive space and her feed is filled with fashion and humor. I’ve met her a handful of times at events and she’s always greeted me like a long lost friend. Essie is the real deal and if you take one look at her feed, you’ll get what I mean.
Cynthia Andrew - SimplyCyn
I met Cynthia a few months ago at an event after following her for a few months and was a little bit starstruck. Little did I know, she is pregnant - with twins! Cynthia is an attorney turned content creator based in NYC. Her feed is FILLED with colorful fashion, beauty and style inspiration and after meeting her in real life, I can assure you she is just as vibrant in person. I’m nowhere near having babies but I’ve really enjoyed following her pregnancy journey and her candidness about advocating for your health.
Jade Kendle - Lipstickncurls
I met Jade and her adorable family last year on a press trip and was immediately drawn to her energy. She had such a sophisticated confidence and elegance that I really loved being around. Her beauty content is on point, I specifically have always enjoyed her makeup tutorials and curly hair content. Even though our hair couldn’t be more different, I find her videos really fun to watch. Jade posts a lot on Youtube so be sure to follow here there as well.
Courtney quinn - colormecourtney
Whenever I’m feeling a little uninspired, I always look to Courtney’s page. I’ve been following her for a few years and am always in awe of her creativity. Each month, she dedicates her feed to a different color and manages to outdo herself month after month. Courtney also has a series called #ColorMeClassroom on tips + tricks on improving your Instagram account. She radiates positivity and kindness, I’m sure you will agree.
Kamie Crawford
I met Kamie briefly at a NYFW event a few years ago after knowing her through the modeling industry. She’s incredibly accomplished (model, Miss Teen USA 2010 and co-host of MTV’s Catfish) but her authenticity shines through everything she does. I particularly love her beauty content, stories and her dog, Biggie Smalls. She keeps me laughing and yet informed all in the same breath.
Jennifer Borget
I just started following her the other day but damn, her words are powerful and have stuck with me. In the past week, she has been open about her trying to find the words to discuss current events, especially being married to a white police officer. Jennifer’s TikToks are also filled with insight and knowledge. You’ll really enjoy the candid conversations she facilitates on her platforms and also her adventures through motherhood.
salone monet
I came across this image last night and thought it was so powerful. “Nude” comes in so many different shades, which is why they every want to represent every woman. The thoughtfully designed nude shoe that highlights every complexion. The founder, Salone Monet turned a lifelong passion for shoes turned into a business. After receiving a degree in Communications from American University in Washington, DC, she created digital content for the federal government and trade associations while working in shoes and accessories. Salone learned shoe making in Brooklyn NY, there she made her first pair of nude heels from scratch.