Six of my favorite women owned businesses to patron during Women’s History Month and always

March 3, 2021.Reading time 9 minutes.

Helllllllllllo March! This month always reminds me that spring is just around the corner even if the current weather doesn’t feel like it. It’s a positive reminder that after months of being cooped up in the house, we’re finally going to be able to spend more time outdoors! Well… you know…. After we get this pandemic under control.

But there’s something else special about this month. It’s the time we spend honoring and encouraging the study, observance, and celebration of the vital role of women in American history – better known as, Women’s History Month! This year, I’m choosing to celebrate Women’s History Month by highlighting Black women entrepreneurs, and what better way to do this than to feature six of my favorite black girl magic businesses! Spoiler alert, all six are represented in the image above!

First up is, Oh My Nails, a boutique nail salon located in Owings Mills, Maryland. The services are provided by licensed master pedicurist, Melanie Eggleston who specializes in nail health, not just aesthetics. The salon is private so you’re able to receive 1:1 attention without distractions from other patrons or technicians. Melanie offers several specialized pedicures but during my recent visit, I chose the diamonds and pearls pedicure. This service included a glass of rosé, a gold plated foot soaking basin filled with faux gems and pearls, and various scrubs and lotions speckled with gold flakes. I’m going, to be honest – It was the hints of gold everywhere for me! I legit walked out of there with new feet. So if you’re in the DMV, be sure to book an appointment at The OMN Shop

Next up we have The Garden Jewelry Store. If you’re looking for statement earrings, you’ve come to the right place. I have a growing collection of yarn earrings from several different small businesses, however, the first pair I’ve ever bought was from here. Their yarn earrings range in length so whether you’re looking for a show stopper or something a bit more discreet, I’m sure they’ll have what you’re looking for. In addition to yarn earrings, they do offer other earrings designed to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Check them out!

Ok, so this feature is going to be a two-for-one special…hahaha. It’s where coffee and creativity collide. If you follow me on Instagram, then you’re well aware of my subtle coffee addiction and how much I enjoy supporting one of my favorite brands, Boss Blend Coffee Co. I pass these single-serve pour-over packets out like stocking stuffers to my friends and family I swear! Well, I wanted a cute insulated coffee container to carry around when I’m running errands and sipping on the go but I wanted it to be something that supported this brand as well. I reached out to Made with magic crafts and provided the lead designer, Jessica, with my idea, and viola! This dope on brand insulated coffee cup was birth. I’m going to carry this with me everywhere, so if you see me extra caffeinated, walking fast, or doing laps around a thrift store somewhere…just mind ya business.

Now over to clothing. As someone who thrifts 75% of her clothing, it’s not often that I purchase apparel online. However, when I do, I make sure it’s from a small business like Hug Life’s Esty shop which is owned and operated by Justa_MDgirl. T-shirts and hoodies are staples in my closet so when she released the ‘To Do’ list hoodie, I quickly snagged one for myself. I also purchased the ‘Bad vibes don’t go with my outfit’ T-shirt which I plan to pair with a blazer, jeans, and heels at an upcoming photoshoot. Check out the other items she offers and let me know which is your favorite.

Last but certainly not least is my barber / natural hairstylist, Natalyn Obey, owner and operator of Natural Curl Junkie. My hair has always been a challenge for me. My thick tight coils and sensitive scalp have always required extra attention. For me, wash day felt more like wash days and no matter how much conditioner I used I could always bet on seeing a clump of balled up hair in my wide tooth comb afterward. I knew I needed to see a professional because my DIY protective pandemic hairstyles were likely hurting my hair more than it was supposed to help it. I was too excited when Natalyn squeezed me in with a last-minute appointment to not only provide consultation on my scalp issues but to take the reins and give my hair the attention it desperately needed.

When I tell you she is the natural hair whisperer, I tell you no lie. She had my hair well behaved like a child in church during benediction! I was almost sad to see 25% of it fall to the floor when she began shaving but I quickly got over that once she began to install my butterfly locs. What I love about Natalyn is that she’s a one-stop-shop for natural hair care. She’s dedicated to the care and growth of your hair and provides you with a natural hair profile & analysis during your consultation. My analysis included a regiment, a style guide, and suggested products to use tailored to my condition. If your hairstylist isn’t doing this, you need a new one – Period! Do yourself a favor and check her out. She’s mobile so if you’re unable to travel to her, she’ll travel to you.

There are so many more women-owned businesses that I support frequently, I wished I could list them all! Maybe I’ll do part two in an upcoming blog post. In the meantime, gives these ladies a follow and tell them I sent you…they just might hook you up with a discount *wink*.

~ With Love, Meek