+the scene

5 Women-Owned Businesses To Check Out Right Now!

Written by Emma Cohen. Published: March 14 2023
(Yu & Me Books/Instagram/@yuandmebooks)

 

March is Women's History Month, which means there is no better time to check out these women-owned businesses that are perfect to support year-round. By promoting women-owned businesses, we are encouraging equal economic opportunities and closing the gender gap for entrepreneurship and leadership positions. From beauty to books to activewear, these brands are making their mark on the business world! 

 

1. Lula’s Garden 

Founder and CEO Liraz Birnbaum’s company is a plant lover’s dream. They offer sustainable succulent gifts in a variety of beautiful planter boxes, and every option is ideal if you would like to welcome a bit of greenery and joy into your or a loved one’s home. All of their succulents are brought in from local, family-run plant nurseries, and every time you buy a garden box, 6 months of clean water is supplied to an individual in a developing country. As soon as you click on their website, you will see a plant box collection that honors Women’s History Month, and as you peruse the website, there are adorable succulent gifts that are lovely for any occasion or holiday.

 

2. BLK + GRN

From haircare and home decor to makeup, BLK + GRN is your one-stop shop for all things beauty and wellness. Founder and CEO Kristian Edwards, DrPH, formed this online marketplace to increase accessibility of natural products for Black women. With more than 136 brands by Black artisans, this marketplace removes barriers Black women face when searching for products that are nontoxic, eco-conscious, or cruelty-free. You will find brands such as Black Girl Sunscreen, Chloe & Chad, Luv + Co., Golde, and so much more!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by BLK+GRN (@blkandgrn)

 

3. Catbird

What do Taylor Swift, Meghan Markle, Emma Watson, and Liv Tyler all have in common? They’ve all worn jewelry by Catbird. About 19 years ago, founder Rony Vardi opened a small shop in Brooklyn, New York, and it has since grown into a thriving jewelry brand. Products range from affordable, everyday pieces to engagement rings you will immediately want to put on your Pinterest board. With a commitment to minimizing their environmental impact, you can accessorize and feel good doing so. 

 

 

4. Yu and Me Books

Calling all book lovers! In Manhattan’s Chinatown, Lucy Yu founded New York City’s first woman-owned Asian-American bookstore. With an emphasis on stories of immigrants and people of color, Yu and Me Books shines a light on the inspiring, compelling voices from a diverse mixture of authors. In its warm and inviting atmosphere, this bookstore-cafe nurtures connection and inclusivity, whether it's through a drink and chat or at community events. If you’re not located in New York City, don’t worry, you can visit their online store to find books that will become your new favorites.

 

5. Girlfriend Collective

Founded by Ellie and Quang Dinh, Girlfriend Collective was born when Ellie was struggling to find ethical activewear that was still high-quality. Along with an inclusive size range, this eco-friendly brand is dedicated to recycling materials and using sustainable manufacturing; that way, you and the Earth can both look good. Perfect for taking a hike or chilling on the couch with your new read from Yu and Me Books, Girlfriend Collective has all your athleisure needs covered.