Black History Month is a wonderful time to reflect on the past contributions of the Black community, but it is also a time to shine a spotlight on local Black-owned businesses so we can help support these businesses that continue to strengthen and inspire our community. I come to you with a list of local businesses you can support year-round to continue uplifting and investing in our community.
Ken Pilates
Located at 706 Grand St., the owner, Kennyth, is a skilled celebrity trainer and certified Pilates instructor. Ken Pilates is a great place to go because it offers programs designed for individualized training. Ken incorporates his “Afro-Latino heritage into all that he does, including running his business,” according to The Hoboken Girl. He focuses on representation in an environment that lacks diversity, and his studio is a welcoming space for all to come and work on themselves together.
Issyra Gallery
Issyra Gallery, located at 300 Observer Highway, is a curated space featuring traditional and contemporary artwork from Central and Western Africa. Issa Sow, the founder and curator, is a contemporary Senegalese painter and gallerist who is strongly involved in Hoboken’s education and arts community through relationships with schools, bringing African culture to the Hoboken community. Issyra Gallery has hosted drum classes and jazz shows in the past, and presents a broad collection of Sow’s own work, along with music, dance, and painting workshops.
The Biscuit Babe
The Biscuit Babe sells fresh-baked biscuit sandwiches, savory gravy, and sweet treats. They are highly rated, and each biscuit looks mouthwatering on their Instagram page. The founder, Carli Bruni, started serving her biscuits at a farmers’ market. They were so popular that she opened a store at 918 Willow Ave., where they continue to serve flaky, buttery biscuits with delicious fillings.
As U Wish Nail & Lash Spa
As U Wish Nail & Lash Spa is yet another highly rated Black-owned business. Reviews complement their community-like environment and their flawless services. They are also highly regarded for their amazing customer service. Check them out at 319 Willow Ave. #1. They offer manicures and pedicures, lashes and makeup, and body treatments.
Double Dough
Twin sisters Jordan and Joelle Hernandez, accomplished media moguls, book authors, and team members of The Hoboken Girl, are based in Hoboken and take custom orders throughout Hudson County for their delicious baked goods. Their custom cookies look incredibly detailed and beautiful, and each one is hand-decorated. You can check them out on their Instagram @double_dough.
Pholk Beauty
Pholk Beauty is a Black woman-owned beauty, cosmetic, and personal care online shop designed for people with melanin-rich and sensitive skin. On their website, they note that they are inspired by the nourishing folk remedies of the Southern US and the heirloom superfoods that farmers have grown for generations. The story and impact behind Pholk Beauty are wonderful. Founder Niambi Cacchioli draws from her background as a Southerner, vegan skincare expert, avid traveler, and former historian of the African Diaspora. Her extensive experience has allowed her to successfully launch Pholk Beauty.
