This post was originally published February 23, 2021.
In our military community, there are many female Veterans and Military Spouses that have started amazing businesses through ambition and creative thinking. During Black History Month (and all year round) we celebrate their small businesses, and all entrepreneurs from under-represented and underserved communities.
Here are 7 Black woman-owned businesses to support:
1. Aleena Johnson — The Kulture Kabinet
U.S. Army Spouse, Aleena Johnson, knows a thing or two about traveling and for her, it seemed difficult to find quality natural products that were affordable. So, after two years of studying under herbalists and testing her products, she founded The Kulture Kabinet.
In her online shop, you’ll find a treasure trove of herbs, syrups, gels, aromatherapy, tonics, oils, and so much more. The best part? There are so many items under $20, some as low as $6.
Follow her business on Facebook and Instagram for the latest product drops!
2. Jennifer Brantley — More Than a Mrs.
Attorney, entrepreneur, Air Force Wife and self-proclaimed purveyor of positivity; Jennifer Brantley is the founder of More Than a Mrs. Her goal? To touch & uplift other women, no matter their season, while simultaneously giving them permission to recharge.
You can shop directly on her website or Etsy shop for her best-selling Positive Affirmation Cards, planners, journals, home décor, mugs, stickers, and so much more.
3. Katrina Carrington — Unique Bee Boutique
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and MilSpouse, Katrina Carrington, owns not just one business, but two!
In addition to her CPA Firm, Katrina also owns and operates the Unique Bee Boutique, a modern clothing boutique located in Jacksonville, NC with a blend of chic casual, business, and evening attire for women of all ages, colors, shapes, and sizes!
Shop her designs online or follow along on Facebook or Instagram for inspiration.
4. Lianne Dobson — Gemini Naturals
Lianne Dobson is an Air Force wife and founder of Gemini Naturals, a plant-based temporary hair color company that delivers fun vibrant colors designed especially for black women and men with natural hair.
Her signature product line, Get Hued, is available in 11 different colors ranging from Espresso to Cobalt.
You can follow Gemini Naturals on Facebook and Instagram for before-and-after photos as well as new product announcements.
5. Serena Westhouse — Westhouse
Serena Westhouse is an Army wife and mom of two who became an entrepreneur as a way to earn an income while maintaining the flexibility we all know military life demands.
Her company, Westhouse, makes gifting easy with collections of stylish and unique goods packaged beautifully in the form of bundles, gift boxes, and more. The best news is that she’s able to ship in just 3 business days!
Shop for gifts online or follow along for updates on her Facebook and Instagram!
6. Tanika Brooks — Honey Bea Hive
Tanika Brooks, a U.S. Marine Corps spouse, is the founder of Honey Bea Hive.
Shop her Etsy Shop for the cutest African Ankara earrings, hoops, studs, and more! With over 160 different designs, you’re bound to find a style that matches any outfit or occasion.
Be sure to follow her on Facebook for new product announcements!
7. Tenisha Dotstry — Fair Winds Candle Company
Navy Veteran and MilSpouse, Tenisha Dotstry, created Fair Winds Candle Company to share her memories of life in the U.S. Navy.
She does this by creating high-quality candles made of coconut wax and unique fragrances that are familiar and comforting, helping to “ease the transitions from one home to the next” — and who couldn’t use a little of that?
Plus, with candle names like Fair Winds, Gig Line, and Goat Locker; these candles make the perfect gift for Navy families! Shop her website for candles, wax melts, warmers, and more!
You can also follow Fair Winds Candle Company on Facebook and Instagram.
Together, let’s lift these entrepreneurs up in celebration of Military Spouses who are changing the world.
