Hey GVL. 👋 Last week we asked you to share your feedback about how we could better use our platform to serve the community at this time. We are listening, learning, and working to create content that answers your questions, provides support, and facilitates positive conversations about our diverse + vibrant community. Please continue to share your thoughts on how we can best serve Greenville here.

Many of our readers asked us to highlight local Black business owners so folks could support them, so we turned the question over to you – our local experts. Here are some of the places you shared:

Note: Due to COVID-19, some businesses may currently be closed or offering limited services.

Boutique

Solo! West End | A specialty gift shop focused on Color. | “I never leave empty handed. I travel the world for a living and this is one of the few places to find amazing art.” - Rudy on Facebook

Gifted Hands Artisan Soap | A small batch soap boutique. | “Everything smells so good and the presentation is phenomenal, just like the products.” - Deon on Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvKBYTcnL2W/

The Sock Ministry | A men's clothing store “providing finishing touches for the well-dressed gentleman.” | “Best customer service and styling experience I have had in Greenville by far. If you are looking for an authentic and one of a kind look, please visit the Sock Ministry.” - Devon on Facebook

Food + Bev

Jenauri’s Vegan Bakery | Handcrafted vegan sweets made with love. | “Absolutely amazing vegan desserts and perfect service and attention to detail.” - Greg on Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0TZoo-hPyp/

MaraBette Teas | Quality ingredients + uniquely blended teas. | “Marla has expertly crafted tea blends that will enlighten you to the joy of bringing hearts together for the purpose of home and hospitality.” - DeAnna on Facebook

The Seafood Spot | Freshly cooked seafood with a taste of the Lowcountry. | “Place was amazing! You get well your money's worth of food and it's delicious!” - Brian on Google

Health + Wellness

Divine Healing Home Health Care Services | An in-home health care provider. | “The owner is a caring individual that only hires the top people.” - Judy on Google

Hart, Mind, Body, & Soul | Pop pilates + wellness motivation. | “Nice place. Kristan clearly puts her heart, mind, body and soul into what she believes in.” - Chris on Google

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9oc51Gj_8Y/

A Soothing + Comforting Touch Massage Therapy | Massage therapy + wellness. | “What an awesome experience! So relaxing and soothing, thanks so much!.” - Jake on Google

11:11 Training | Challenging physical fitness training. | “It is worth every second and every dime. The infused training combined with the passion and knowledge that these ladies bring have brought my daughter’s soccer to a new level.” - Caroline on Google

Media

Nika White Consulting | “Making diversity, inclusion, and equity practical.” | “Dr. Nika White conducted an AWESOME diversity and inclusion workshop at the University of South Carolina. I'm putting what I learned to use.” - Nessa on Facebook

Ben Robi Photography | An Upstate photographer specializing in landscape + architectural shots, model work, weddings, and more. | “He captured our special better than I thought possible! His work is absolutely incredible to say the least!” - Torrey on Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6OiBuFjbgh/

Activities

Upstate Nerf Wars | A Nerf gun activity for both kids + adults. | “It's a fresh and creative way for youth AND adults to have fun and let loose.” - Ciara on Facebook

Ballroom Alchemy | A dance business, specializing in Latin, Swing, Classic Ballroom, and more. | “Our dance lessons easily turned into the most fun part of the planning process, and the actual dance at our wedding was a blast.” - Laura on Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7W1izOjN6S/

The Cigar Experience | A luxury cigar experience. | “The owner and his son made me feel so welcome... They even took the time to educate me and show me the proper way to smoke a cigar.” - Carol on Facebook

Hair

Keon Washington | A master barber. | “If you’re looking for the best haircut and experience paired with knowledgeable and a creative approach, look no further.” - Ruby on Google

https://www.instagram.com/p/B_zr0VxDw1s/

B-Unique Beauty and Barber Academy | A barbering school, nationally accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts + Sciences. | “Great teachers and a fun learning environment.” - Eric on Google

Pure Allure Hair | Luxury lace frontals, Afro Kinky curly + straight hair, Brazilian hair, Mongolian hair, and more. | “I put this hair to work and it is still doing great. The hair is still in great shape. Worth every penny.” - HG on Google

ForKids

Little Learners Academy, LLC | Helping families created an environment where children can learn + grow. | “A great location for children. Friendly and accommodating staff. Always greeted with a smile.” - Ashley on Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8JWx6QFOMM/

Empow®ment Zone | After school child care + summer camps. | “I went there for Summer Camp 2 or 3 years ago, and I love it!! I learned so much there and I really love the Daniel Family!” - Bailey on Google

Looking for even more black-owned businesses to support? Check out this list from our friends at Off the Grid Greenville.

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of every black-owned business in the Upstate – these are just a handful of the ones y’all shared with us.