Countdown to Juneteenth: Your Favorite Local BOB (Black Owned Businesses)

In observance of Juneteenth, the most popular annual celebration of emancipation from slavery in the United States according to PBS, we will be hosting a Black Business Expo at Stillman College.

With financial freedom being one of the most important components of emancipation, the entire event is dedicated to not only making the community aware of numerous programs and services available to assist in budgeting your current income, but those who own and operate local businesses are encouraged to purchase vendor spaces, which will give the community the chance to know who you are and what you do.

With this in mind, here is my list of my favorite local vendors:

1.  Myself-  Yes, I have to toot my own horn! I wholeheartedly believe in using what you have to generate the income you want.  For me, it was my voice and personality. So, I do voice overs for radio, television commercials, I do church announcements, phone recordings, and more. I also dabble in Mary Kay from time to time.  I love the company's skincare products.

2.  The T-shirt Bar- The T-shirt Bar took the concept similar to that of a frozen yogurt bar and applied it to a t-shirt shop.  There are a variety of shirts in numerous colors available for purchase, and you can bring in your own design or design your shirt on location and have it printed the same day.

3.  Nu Look Paint and Body Shop-  When another vehicle hit mine, I was told to get three repair quotes for the insurance company.  Nu Look came in slightly less than the others but then did the work for less than the check amount.  You know what that means? More money in my pocket!

4.  Coley Allstate Insurance-  Aside from being owned by former WTUG personality Michele "Miller" Coley, this agency works to find the best policies to fit your needs from vehicle, homeowners. renters, and life insurance.

5.  Alabama Affordable Mattress- With mattress sets starting at just under $139, AAM has something to fit every need and the smallest of budgets.

Though all BOBs are worth a mention, I chose to highlight these because they are in fields which may not be considered when thinking of ways to support.

Can you name five of your favorite Black Owned Businesses?