It’s June! Which means that Pride month is officially upon us! But Pride is about so much more than slapping a logo on a rainbow colored product and having a party (although many parties will be had, and we still want the swag.) It’s about uplifting queer voices and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community by doing things like supporting small businesses. So, this month, instead of showing you our favorite products, we are instead going to highlight some of the amazing LGBTQIA+ businesses that we have had the pleasure of working with over the years.
Be kind to each other and happy Pride!
And, because we are still a swag company, yes, we can source all of these brands for your next project!
01. Lightning Bolt Ink
Based out of Asheville, NC, Lightning Bolt Ink is a locally owned, living wage certified business that provides outstanding screen printing and embroidery services. With a focus on social justice and working with other local businesses and artists, we are proud to partner with such an exceptional team of human beings.
Learn More2. Bianca Designs
Bianca is a Queer, Gender-fluid Latine artist, based out of NYC. Her fun, colorful and creative designs allow anyone and everyone within the LGBTQIA+ community, to proudly represent who they are and what they believe in (don’t worry, allies, there’s something for you too). In her own words, “I hope my art helps people feel confident and empowered, opens up meaningful conversations, shows allyship to the LGBTQIA+ community, and creates visibility.”
Learn More03. Stealth Bros & Co.
After noticing a gap in the market for accessories that are specifically tailored towards numerous corners of the medical community, Braxton Fleming curated an entire line of high-quality, stylish dopp kits and duffel bags that provide the functionality that is vital to folks of all identities and abilities. You may recognize Braxton as the first Black Trans Man represented on Shark Tank; he is no stranger to breaking boundaries and helping to make the world a more inclusive place.
Learn More04. Boy Smells
With the desire to create truly genderless products, friends Matthew Herman and David Kien, began experimenting with scents and making candles in their kitchen. By blending “traditionally masculine scents in a prettier bouquet” the duo developed a product line that can be enjoyed by everyone. Beginning with the humble support of family and friends, it wasn’t long until their brand launched into major retailers like Nordstrom and Sephora.
Learn More05. Equator Coffee
Helen Russell and Brooke McDonnell founded Equator Coffee after they began roasting coffee in a garage in 1995. Soon after, they became an early partner of Fair Trade USA, founded their very own coffee farm in Panama, become a certified B Corp, became the first Certified LGBTQ-owned business to win National Small Business of the Year, is SHEowns™ Certified, all on top of opening 11 cafes on the West Coast. Leading with a steadfast passion for social responsibility and sustainability, Equator Coffee is absolutely making a difference in making this world a better place and a safer space for everyone. And yes, the coffee is just as awesome as they are.
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