8 Women-Owned Small Businesses to Support Today

The older I get, the more nit-picky I am about having physical space to remind myself of the mental clarity I’m feeling at any given moment. Part of that growth means learning to be conscientious and sustainable in the products and services I end up supporting. Our dollars and voices speak volumes, and nothing talks louder than where we invest. I want to ensure that where my paycheck goes, in turn, backs the diverse values and ethics I uphold for myself.

For Women-Owned Small Business Month in October, I chose to further my dedication by consciously buying away from large conglomerates and more from female-founded independent services. Below, is a round-up of several companies you should purchase from if you yourself have the means to. If not, a social media follow/share of their products/content can equally go a long way. 

Studio Shayne

If you ever want artistically striking yet elegantly classic everyday pieces, look no further than Studio Shayne. The Brooklyn-based jewelry company is a gorgeous example of what happens when creative and smart young women are in charge. Founded by Shayne Meyer, each piece is made to order, with options for customization. I personally love the quintessentially popular intricately floral Nimbus ring and the gorgeously architectural Eyes of Horus ring, but the business has recently expanded into stunning necklaces and earrings as well. 

Sunday Candle Co

Like all good products, Sunday Candle Co started in the kitchen of founder Michelle Johnson in 2019. Pioneering the way in affordable, non-toxic, and most importantly, elevated candles, Sunday Candle Co heightens the cozy factor to bring you back to a specific time and place. Great for the holidays for your home or someone you’re gifting, Nordic Cabin will immediately transport you to the wilderness by the fire with its top notes of mountain air and white pine, layered with hints of cedarwood and wildflowers. 

Mented Cosmetics

Black and Female-Owned Mented Cosmetics was founded in 2017 by the dynamic duo, KJ Miller and Amanda E. Johnson. Their philosophy is all about inclusivity via hues and shades that most brands don’t have. All their beautiful products are vegan and non-toxic, so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your face as well as what you’re spending from your wallet. 

Cocokind

If you’ve been perusing the clean beauty aisles of Target, you’ll come across AAPI-Founded skincare Cocokind. Priscilla Tsai is all about transparent beauty, whether that comes in the form of sharing their ingredients in their clean, vegan, and sustainable or bringing forth price visibility. Coconut oil is a key ingredient for most of their products for hydration and glow. If you’re looking for a new holy grail ceramide, their Cocokind Ceramide Barrier Serum is one to check out. Meanwhile, their Turmeric Tonic is a lifesaver for any surprise pesky breakouts.

Luhv

Silvia Lucci grew up in Argentina eating tons of meat, per their culture. When she went vegan, she was stumped on how to adapt. However, Lucci quickly got her and her family in on innovative new recipes that still maintained the flavors of nostalgia that she grew up with. Soon, Luhv Food was born, where all the food is vegan yet delicious. They believe that “health should not be the privilege of wealth nor an unsatisfying compromise”. Food lovers rave on the Black Bean Plantain Poblano Burgers for a quick satisfying meal that’s both savory and nutritious. 

Coral Story Beauty

Indigenous and female-owned Coral Story Beauty is a labor of love from the founder, Morning Dove Barranger, who created the brand after coping with her own postpartum skin and health problems. She desired all the functional green and clean beauty products in one place. With a large selection of makeup, skincare, and even accessories, Coral Story Beauty has all the non-harsh and built-free goods you’ll need in the heart of Portland, Oregon, and online. 

Coco and Breezy

Afro-Latina and LGBTQAI-Owned Coco and Breezy is a chic and trendy eyewear brand that’s been around since 2009. Growing up in Minnesota, DJ and artist twins Corianna and Brianna Dotson found a lack of representation in the fashion/entertainment space and decided to do something about it. The New York City-based brand has been featured in huge publications like Vogue and they’ve collaborated with other major companies like Teva. If you’re looking for funky and bold statement-making sunnies, look no further than the Veronica and Admire styles. 

ALALA

AAPI-Founded ALALA is a trendy and luxurious activewear line that’s been around since 2014. The founder, Denise Lee, was in search of high-low wear that could take her all over the city, from workout classes to happy hour drinks after the office. Their innovative, sexy, and comfortable takes on athleisure can now be found on Bandier and Revolve. The All Day Tight is both form-fitting and versatile, while their multitude of sports bra styles is flirtatious yet supportive.