Black History Month: Black-Owned Businesses to Support in GR
Grand Rapids is home to so many wonderful Black-owned businesses and we are proud to support them not only in February, but all year round! In this time of celebration and appreciation, it's important to honor the people and businesses that make up our local community.
The purpose of Black History Month is to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and the significance of their contributions to US History. In celebration of Black History Month, Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown supports Black-owned businesses.
Visit these Black-owned businesses while staying at Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown:
Basic Bee Boutique
Just a mile from Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown lies the Basic Bee Boutique where you can find some of the hottest fashion trends. This new business is Black and Woman-owned offering a flair for fashion and the perfect spot to find your next outfit. Before you go out for a night on the town, head to Basic Bee Boutique to find that perfect bit of spice!
Located at 325 Division Ave S.
GR Noir Wine and Jazz
At 35 Division Ave S, GR Noir Wine and Jazz is the perfect location for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Taste some quality wines while listening to music written by some of the greats. GR Noir Wine and Jazz should not be missed! On Saturday, February 12th GR Noir Wine and Jazz is Celebrating Black Artistry with musical guests Pamela Wise and Wendell Harrison for a live performance, plus a three-course meal and exclusive wine tasting. Learn more about the event on their website.
Forty Acres
Forty Acres is an Authentically American restaurant that celebrates Authentically American culture. The Soul Kitchen and Cognac Bar has a resilient, unapologetic style reflected in their modern and urban design. Grand Rapids local owners have created an inviting space for community members from every culture to learn and celebrate black culture and success. Their menu consists of soul food with highlights including a catfish po’boy, grits, Forty soul rolls, peach cobbler, and more.
Stop in and seat yourself at 1059 Wealthy St SE.
Malamiah Juice Bar and Eatery
If you’re looking for a healthy pick-me-up look no further than Malamiah Juice Bar and Eatery located centrally in downtown GR. Founded in 2013, Jermale Eddie and his wife Anissa Eddie started Malamiah (named from a combination of their three sons’ names). Now a staple for many locals, it is easy to stop in and grab smoothies, juices, or booster shots. Don’t miss this locally owned Black-business. Watch their story here.
Visit Malamiah at 122 Oakes St SW #110.
South East Market
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the South East Market as one of the top Black-owned businesses to visit. At 1220 Kalamazoo Ave SE, the South East Market carries food and a mission that you won’t want to miss. The grocery store carries food that has been sourced from Black or indigenous local farms. The food is incredible and the mission is out of this world when you visit South East Market. Stop in to grab snacks for your hotel room or join in on this month’s book club!
A Welcoming Place to Stay
If you’re staying at Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown, you won’t want to miss out on the many incredible Black-owned businesses that the community has to offer. In fact, make sure you’re frequenting some of your favorite Black-owned businesses year-round. Enjoy your explorations and don’t forget you’ll have a nice, warm hotel bed to fall into at the end of your day.
CONTACT HOLIDAY INN GRAND RAPIDS DOWNTOWN TODAY!
Want to spread the word about another local Black-owned business? Comment below!