Show Love To These Black Business Finds This Valentine’s Day and Beyond

Black-Owned is a love language. Take a look at these amazing gifts found around the greater Seattle area. This Valentine’s Day, skip the ordinary and show love in a way that pours back into the community.

1. Cracked Polish – Sweeter the Juice

2. Black Marth Crafts – Hearts on Deck Earrings

3. Fortunate Orchard – Small Seasonal Arrangement

4. Pinckney Cookies – Personalized Cookie Gift

5. Kreative Candle Co – Agape Love Valentine Bundle

6. Hot Chocolat – Happy Valentine’s Assorted Chocolates

2024 Black Santa Guide

Black Santa is one of our favorite family traditions. Check out this guide to see where you can visit Santa around the Greater Seattle Area. Have insights on where Santa is popping up? Email me at amandawilliams@seattlegreenbook.com to add it to the list.

NAAM Black Santa Holiday Photo Op

December 7th | 11:00AM -3:00PM | NAAM, Seattle | $40 non-members | Registration Required

December 8th | 12:00-3:00PM | NAAM, Seattle | $40 non-members | Registration Required

Black Santa and Lady Santa at Empowering Youth and Families Outreach Winter Market

December 7th | 12:00PM-4:00PM | 8172 Rainier Ave S, Seattle | Free | Registration Required

Black Birth Matters: Lunch N’ Learn: Photos with Santa

December 7th | 12:00PM-2:30PM | Rainier Beach Community Center, Seattle | Free | Registration Required

Free Santa Photos at the Filling Station

December 7th | 11:00AM-3:00PM | Filling Station, Renton | Free | Registration Required

Santa Raynard at Kent Station

December 7th | 4:00PM-7:00PM | Kent Station| $30 | Registration Required

December 11th | 3:00PM-7:00PM | Kent Station| $30 | Registration Required

December 21st | 4:00PM-7:00PM | Kent Station| $30 | Registration Required

Last Forever Images Presents 5th Annual Photos with Black Santa

December 15th | 11:00AM-4:00PM | Project Girl Mentoring, Lynnwood | $60 | *Registration Required

Black Santa at Intentions Juice and Smoothie Bar

December 15th | 10:00AM-1:00PM | Intentions Juice & Smoothie Bar, Tacoma | Free | Registration Required

Black Santa at RVLA Open House

December 21st | 10:00AM-3:00PM | Rainier Valley Leadership Academy | Free | Registration Recommended

Holidaze at Tacoma Armory

December 21st | 2:00PM-8:00PM | Tacoma Armory| Free | RSVP for Updates

Your 2024 Mother’s Day Black Owned Gift Guide

Mother’s Day will be here before we know it! We’ve put together a list of our favorite gifts from Local Black-owned businesses in the Greater Seattle Area.

Candles from Kreative Candle Co

We love the packaging’s design and the double wick. It’s the perfect gift for mom to take a moment of rest. Skip the basic candles and order a clean, hand-poured candle from KC. Order by May 3rd to get yours by Mother’s Day.

kreativecandleco.com

Mother’s Day Mug By Fluffy Girl Creations

The perfect mug for mom to sip her tea! We love the cleverness of the mom nutrition label! Sure to put a smile on her face every time she pours another cup of caffeine. Comes in 3 limited edition styles. Customizable for $5 extra!

fluffygirlcreations.com

Mama Eternity Chain By Valerie Madison

Plan a special mommy and me date to get mom this exclusive eternity chain. Valerie Madison’s Mother’s Day event is Wednesday, May 8th, through Saturday, May 11th at the Seattle showroom. Visit the website for a special Mother’s Day gift jewelry gift guide.

valeriemadison.com

Mother’s Day Sweatshirts By Royal Teez

Royal Teez got those designs that will make someone stop and ask you “where you get your sweatshirt”. They have so many cute Mother’s Day themed items on the website right now. Order soon, because Royal Teez products are known to go viral!

royalteezrt.com

Bucket Hat by Moody Mommy

It’s okay to be moody! We love our kids but we know they can work our nerves! That’s why we love Moody Mommy’s brand and her mission to be real about motherhood while building a community. If you’re a mom make sure to hop on over to her event page and show interest in the Moody Mommy Mixer!

moodymommy.me

Flower Arangement By April Showers Gift Baskets and Flowers

April Showers has beautiful large flower arrangements that are a work of art! “The Mother” is the perfect centerpiece for Mother’s Day. Give mom her flowers and order today.

aprilshowers-flowers.com

Chocolates by Hot Chocolat

Sweets are a whole love language – and so is buying Black. Check off both with a gorgeous box of chocolates from Hot Chocolat. We suggest the 24 piece Mother’s Day assortment including sea salt caramel, lemon meringue, orange zest, pistachio, banana fosters, hazelnut latte, mango habanero caramel, chocolate ganache, roasted hazel nut, vegan coconut ganache, and matcha tea ganache.

hotchocolat.net

Seattle Green Book 2023 Gift Guide

Christmas is coming! With most small business calling this week the last week to order to get your gifts under the tree, now is the time to make moves to support the fantastic Black owned businesses that we have in the area. It’s go time! We’ve rounded up our favorite gifts for the season to show love and gratitude to everyone on your list this year.

1. Dr. Towolawi’s Wellness Rx Vitamin D3 Gummies 2000 IU

Commonly known as the “sunshine vitamin”, Vitamin D3 is essential for mood, muscle/bone health, healthy hair and skin and so much more! Did you know that Vitamin D3 is key for a strong immune system? It is also essential for helping to regulate your blood sugar and cholesterol. Gummies are an assortment of peach, mango and strawberry flavors. Low in sugar, only 3 grams of sugar per serving (2 gummies). 30 day supply per bottle.

2. Holistic Coalition Rejuvenating Relief Butter

Rejuvenating Relief Butter – shea butter, cocoa butter, olive oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil, arnica,  peppermint essential oil, lemongrass essential oil and other pain relief oils and natural powerhouse botanicals that have regenerative properties, relieve inflammation, relax hypertonic muscles and reduce pain. Holistic Coalition also offers gift cards for massage treatment services.

3. Fine Gang Drink Fine Water Bottle

Stay hydrated with the Fine Gang’s aluminum water bottle. Screw-on lid with clip attached, this is a perfect accessory to bring on walks, to the gym, or the office. 25 oz capacity, and BPA free. Pair with The Fine Gang’s fitness apparel, designed for active and health supportive lifestyles.

1. DistinctivelyU Cold Process Soap

Distinctively U Artisan Bath & Body is a small, woman veteran and minority-owned business that puts its heart into every product they make. They specialize in artisan created, small-batch bath and body products. The luxurious soaps, body butters and skincare products are created distinctively with you in mind! 

2. DIVINE Designer Eau De Parfum by Debrena Jackson Gandy

Debrena Jackson Gandy’s Custom luxury designer fragrance, developed by the House of Bukenya. Notes of Amber, Tuberose, Magnolia and Neroli provide fruity notes with a rich warmth, middle notes of black currant and citrus, and sweet bottom notes. Limited release. Get your bottle today!

3. Beyond the Curls XL Satin Scrunchies

Beyond the Curls offers a variety of 100% chemical free, natural, vegan hair care products formulated to allow hair to become healthier and beyond. Their satin scrunchies stop your hair from breaking off which will result in length retention. Not only does a wash day revolve around your shower routine, but it involves curl preservation as well! These XL scrunchies were chosen to avoid snagging and breakage – especially on longer hair!

1. Your Tea Queen Holiday Bliss

A special tea for the holidays. A premium black tea with roots from Sri Lanka with spicy cinnamon, pungent cloves, and tangy orange peels.

2. Avenue South Forever Green

Avenue South sells a variety of handmade culinary and body products. Forever green is a blend of sage, rosemary, oregano, parsley, onion and cinnamon.

3. SGT Hart’s BBQ Sauce Cutting Board

Pair a bottle of sauce with this beautiful 11×14 teak cutting board. The board is engraved with temperatures for the various cuts of meat, taking the guess work out of knowing when your food is good and ready.

1. Intuitively 4 Her I’m Healing Crewneck

This premium crewneck has the weight and construction you’d expect from a premium heavyweight sweatshirt. It’s crafted with exception attention to detail. This maybe the last sweatshirt you ever need to buy.

2. Treshas Treasures Protect Black Woman Handbag

Tresha’s Treasures was created by a woman that has a passion for all things fashion. Check out her boutique for unique pieces curated for woman to embrace their style and confidence.

3. Evolve Revolt Repeat Fringe Earrings

Denim stud style with added suede and leather fringe detail. Evolve Revolt Repeat creates bold unique jewelry for the anti casual baddie. Handcrafted with upcycled denim, and leather.

1. Denkyem Entrepreneur Gift Box

The holiday season is not just about giving and receiving gifts; it’s a time to celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and collaboration demonstrated this year. The Denkyem Entrepreneur Gift Box – is a curated collection that goes beyond the ordinary, embracing the essence of local Black businesses. Unbox the magic of collective unity with this thoughtfully crafted box, designed to inspire and uplift.

Find Black Santa This Christmas in Seattle

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Black Santa spreads joy across Seattle this Christmas! We have your complete guide to where he’ll be making appreances creating memorable moments for famillies. Don’t see your event listed? Contact us and let us know and we will add your Santa location to the list!

Columbia City Holiday Celebration – Seattle

Saturday, December 9th | 4 PM – 6 PM | Free

Learn More at: Columbia City Business Association – Holiday Celebration (columbiacityseattle.com)

Black Night Market- Tacoma

Saturday, December 9th | 2 PM – 8 PM | Free

Learn more at: Black Night Market – Homepage

Black Santa at Intentions Juice Bar- Tacoma

Saturday, December 9th, 10 AM- 2 PM | $7

Learn more at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-santa-2023-tickets-713953142067

Professional Photos with Last Forever Images- Urban Yogis, Everett

Sunday, December 10th, 1 PM- 6 PM | $50

Learn more at: Last Forever Images Presents – Photos with Black Santa

Black Santa Pop Up at NAAM – Seattle

Saturday, December 16 | 9:00 AM  1:00 PM | $20

Learn more at : NAAM — Black Santa Photo Pop Up Experience (naamnw.org)

Santa Chukundi – Kent Station

Saturday, December 16th, 4 PM – 7 PM | $20 -$50

Learn more at: Santa Photos — Kent Station

Your Ultimate Mother’s Day List Supporting Local Black Owned Businesses

Mom’s play a vital role in the community. Celebrate the mamas in your life this Mother’s Day while supporting local Black Owned businesses in the greater Seattle region. From the momtrepreneur to the holistic mom, the new mom, or the community auntie, there’s something on this list to show your love and appreciation.

Woman’s Watches from R. Burnett Brand

Treat mom with a beautiful and luxurious watch from R. Burnett Brand. My personal favorite is the Rosa Wooden watch. This watch will keep mom punctual with nap times, activities, and mom’s-night-out while adding a pop of sophistication to her everyday outfits. Right now, R. Burnett Brand is running a 20% off deal for all woman’s watches. No code needed.

Safety Keychains from Tripple K Kollection

Named after founder Kierra, and her daughters, Kaliyah and Khloe, Tripple K Kollection believes that safety is always in style. Gift the independent mama in your life with a safety keychain. Our favorite is the Mama edition complete with a cute beaded bracelet, pepper spray and more.

triple_k_kollectionllc's profile picture

Mama Puff T from Royal Teez

This adorable T-shirt is also available in a hoodie and sweatshirt! You can choose from multiple colors to find the ones that’s just right. Order online by 5/10/23 to get it shipped on time for Mother’s Day. Check out the Royal Teez IG page for upcoming pop ups where you can purchase shirts as well.

Facial from Skin and More By Bree

Treat mom to luxury beauty and skin care services from Skin and More By Bree. Gift cards are available for an introductory facial, or other services if you’re an existing client. Pamper her with a day of self care. Mom will be glowing from the inside out.

Healthy Spirit and Body Postpartum Self Care Kit

I love Healthy Spirit and Body’s Postpartum self care kit for both new moms and moms of older children. Inside you’ll find nourishing bath products, body butters and oils. This kit was made to encourage rest and recovery to those who are in a season of caring for others.

Greeting Cards and Stationary Sets from Naomi Ruth Expressions

Words of Affirmation of a lovely gift. Express your love with a card from Naomi Ruth Expressions. Add on one of the beautiful stationary sets for the mom who loves to write notes journal., We love the Happiness Joy set!

H.E.R. by BLK Sunflower

When it comes to gifting candles, not all candles are created equal. When you shop with BLK Sunflower, your getting a high quality soy wax candle with Phthalate Free Fragrances. The H.E.R. candle is a blend of Jasmine + Blk Pepper and lavender Lavender, layered for a dynamic floral and sweet smell. The candle comes for seeds for planting so this gift is perfect for the candle and garden loving mom.

Face, Body and Hair Products from SkinStatMD

Love on mom with face, body, and hair products from SkinStatMD. Use the code MAMALOVE for free shipping for the month of May and 25% off aesthetic services. Great for the mom that’s curious about Botox, microneedling and chemical peels that will have her melanin glowing.

Books and Stationary From LOVING ROOM: diaspora books + salon

Visit LOVING ROOM to browse the various genres of literature by Black and African writers for the book loving mom. This Black owned bookstore and cultural salon is curated with every reader in mind. Come through Wednesday-Saturday 12-7PM Sunday, 12-4PM.

The 2022 Holiday Guide is Here!

Gifting is more than just buying and consuming. It’s about curating gifts that show thought and intention. We’ve put together over 15 of our favorite gifts from the local Black-businesses in and around Seattle. These products were made with the love, dedication, and hustle of Black entrepreneurs, creatives, and visionaries.

Get your copy HERE today and show these Black businesses some appreciation as we close out another year.

4 No-Excuse Items to Buy Black

Buying Black is an act of conscious consumption. It slows you down and connects you to the makers, the creators, the business people, and the artisans that touch the items that you buy.

That being said, convenience gets the best of us. If you need something quick, and easily found options can draw you in. Especially when shopping is on an app or at the click of a button.

Here are 4 items that are easy to get in the habit of Buying Black. Start here on your journey- allowing yourself to slow down and redirect your spending in the direction of a Black-owned business

1. Candles

Whether you love candles for yourself or as a gift, there is a variety of local options to Buy Black. Candles are consumable, so they aren’t a wasted product that will get pushed back into a drawer or on a self. If you tend to let your candles collect dust – trust me when I say you’ll want to light these. Here are just a few of our favorite locally made, hand poured, hand crafted candles. Search “candle” on Seattle Green Book for more!

rscandles

Joie + Flora Candles

BLK Sunflower

2. Coffee Beans

Coffee is a well-loved staple in Seattle. The beverage is usually consumed daily, if not multiple times a day for a lot of us. It’s a great Black-owned product to purchase as a subscription. Local company, Noire Pack, has made coffee buying easy by choosing coffees from America’s best Black-Owned Coffee Artisans, delivered right to your door. Here are some of our favorites. Search “coffee” for more as well as a list of cafes to grab a cup to-go.

Boon Boona

Campfire Coffee

Noire Pack

3. House Plants

Buying house plants from a small business means that the plant has probably seen a good amount of care and attention. Local sellers are plant experts- willing to give advice as you embark on your plant care taking journey. Don’t forget to grab a one of the kind pot, and a few accessories for your plants. Below are some of our favorites.

Black Origin Plants

Seeds & Steeze

booSH Nursery

Build Your Own Community

Living in Seattle is strange. The city changes, depending on what angle you look at it- kind of like one of those trick 3D pictures that used to tug at your curiosity as a kid.

Look at it one way and it’s beautiful. The blue and green landscape is breathtaking and glistens in the warm 70 degree summers. Look at it another way and the grey clouds hang around for months, creating a heaviness that’s not easily shaken by full spectrum lights and vitamin D supplements.

At one angle the city is progressive. We kicked plastic bags and drink from paper straws in compostable cups. But look a little closer and the “clean” way of living has a sinister side as the community attempts to sweep out signs of housing insecurity without offering viable solutions for affordable housing.

Seattle has a similar dual-relationship with the Black community. “Black Lives Matter” hangs from the windows of overpriced homes while Black mothers hold tight to their children knowing that the public schools, police system, and their nosey neighbor don’t agree.

Being Black in Seattle is a specific type of gaslighting. The flicker of under-served schools, over policed neighborhoods, and gentrified communities will drive you mad while you’re simultaneously being told that the people around you are allies.

It’s an exhausting game. So rather than play, many Black people would prefer to build their own communities. One where they don’t have to worry about unsolicited comments or overt racism.

Seattle Green Book was built on the belief that when you buy from Black owned businesses, you’re making a conscious choice to put community over blind consumption.

Buying Black is a way to detach from the algorithms that push us to receptively put money into the pockets of the status quo. When we reroute our consumption, we’re making a statement that our communities have value.

Community isn’t built behind our screens through next-day shipping and smiling cardboard boxes.

It’s built grabbing coffee at Boon Boona. It’s built at paint and sips at The Liink Project, or volunteering at Yes Farm. Being in community is active – and that’s why we’re here. To connect you to the spaces where community happens.