Thanksgiving is just over a week away and, of course, immediately following will be Black Friday and Shop Small Saturday. Now, it may be easier to click that "buy now" button on Amazon but this year, especially this year, it may be vital to give our local businesses some love too.

That's why I've decided to highlight some local, women owned businesses right here in Kalamazoo. Because behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back...or whatever the quote actually is. Don't get me wrong - there are a ton of incredible local businesses that need our support. In fact, I hope to make this into a series highlighting not only women but entrepreneurs of color, young entrepreneurs and so on.

For now, here are 7 local businesses owned by women you should check out for your holiday shopping. Thanks to Discover Kalamazoo for this inspiration.

Adrianne's Boutique Google Street View
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If your goal is to find a variety of affordable clothing, Adrianne's Boutique has it. She offers clothes from size small to 3x with some prices starting at just $10. On her website, her goal is listed as providing unique, affordable clothing for all sizes. You can also find Adrianne's Boutique on Facebook.

 

If you have a coffee lover in your life I promise you they will not pass up the opportunity to try a new brand of coffee. Of course, I'm speaking from personal experience. *wink wink* Mamaleelu's is a little different. Instead of having her own store front she works with local retailers to sell her product. A single mother who has lived below the poverty line, her passion not only includes making delicious coffee but to, "to liberate as many women as possible from poverty." Find a list of retailers here.

Pink Lemonade Google Street View
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According to her website, Pink Lemonade is a boutique for children, for the home and for her, whoever the "her" is in your life. Pink Lemonade offers toys, books, baby clothes, clothing for children, jewelry, mugs...the list goes on. Plus, free domestic shipping is offered on orders over $100 so you don't even have to leave your couch. Browse the full collection here.

 

 

 

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If you're looking for a spicy gift, Luxe Boudoir may be the place to shop. As soon as you open their website you're greeted with the phrase, "Embrace your inner goddess" and I absolutely love that. Their mission, as stated on their website, is to assist every woman in discovering that inner goddess. She offers high quality, luxury lingerie as well as sleep wear. You can visit the store or shop online here.

Earthly Delights Amy Zane Google Street View
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Now, I've only been in Michigan for a couple of months and have been social distancing for that time so, I haven't had a chance to visit many local establishments. But, this is one that I have actually been to. So far. The eclectic vibe immediately drew me to this store. Earthly Delights offers everything from enamel pins and jewelry, to local art, art inspired socks and handmade soap. If your focus is 100% locally handmade items, they definitely have it. The store front is in downtown Kalamazoo but, you guessed it, you can also shop online. Find their items here.

 

If unique is what you seek, check out Terrapin Imports. This store has been around for over 20 years and focuses on supplying unique jewelry, artifacts and clothing from around the world. In my opinion, what sets Terrapin apart is the gift boxes that are offered where a variety of favorites and best sellers are packaged together as one gift. They include things like essential oils, incense, stickers and more. Terrapin Imports is also in downtown Kalamazoo but you can browse their collection here.

Bee Joyful is, as I understand it, Kalamazoo's only zero waste store. That's an incredible feat. The owner was also a single mother that started with her passion - creating products that are sustainable as well as good for the Earth. Bee Joyful offers shampoo bars, organic soaps, reusable bags, laundry products, and self care items too. Visit the store, which has limited hours right now due to Covid-19, or browse her selection on her website.

Once your belly is filled with turkey and your shopping carts are filled with Black Friday deals...don't forget to give your local businesses some love. Not just on Shop Small Saturday or holiday shopping but day to day shopping too.

And, as always, if you have any suggestions or notice businesses that I've missed please let me know!

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