Celebrating Black History Month in Baltimore
Black History Month occurs every February and celebrates the history and culture of African Americans all across the United States. First celebrated in 1976, this month started out as a week, but was expanded as it grew in popularity. This month, you can honor Black History Month by visiting the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum right here in Baltimore and by supporting local, black-owned businesses. We’ve curated a list of some of our favorites:
Black-owned Food & Beverage
Coming from a family of cooks, the concept of Midnite Confections came from something as simple as a sweet tooth craving in the middle of the night. Owners Sandra and Aaron are a mother and son duo that started up the shop after a night of cupcake experimentation.
If you like both sweet and savory pastries, Crust by Mack, which has taken Baltimore by storm in the past six years, is The Mack family has collaborated with several small businesses in the area and has been donating to charities since their first year. This bakery is the perfect place to grab some delicious baked goods for friends, family, and of course, yourself!
The Ivy Hotel and Magdalena Restaurant are committed to diversity in all their levels of hotel management and keep equity in their workspace. This Black-owned hotel is a golden spot in Baltimore and its luxurious restaurant, Magdalena, is a great date night spot that you won’t forget.
For some delectable Valentine’s classics, grab some chocolate covered strawberries from Berries by Quicha! Her berries are the freshest and made with quality ingredients to make truly amazing chocolate covered strawberries.
Cane Collective is a spirits mixologist company that works to educate their patrons on the world of drink mixing. The business grew during the pandemic when people were making cocktails in their homes, and business has been booming ever since. Grab some of their syrups or punches and try your hand at mixology!
Koba Cafe is the spot to be for the perfect environment and an energizing cup of coffee. Owner Adama realized while working as a part-time barista that he loved to work with people for people, so he started the shop to create a welcoming space meant to foster communication.
Black-owned Retail
In 2004, Natalie Karyl opened up her Dollhouse Boutique to the public, sharing her own brand, Ragdolls Couture, with the people of Baltimore. Since then, she has had her works appear in several fashion magazines and has expanded her Mt. Vernon shop to showcase other brands.
The Drama Mama Bookshop is the perfect place to check out if you are a fan of journaling. The shop was created by Alisa Brock, who grew up writing down her thoughts and growing a love for the written word. One cool feature about her business is the Journal Club, where subscribers will receive a new journal every month.
Whether you like candles, incense, diffusers, or room sprays, KSM Candle Co is bound to have a scent that will be perfect for you! The shop’s owner, Letta, set out to create the business when she decided to develop skills to create an enterprise. In her online shop, you can choose to shop by scent or by how you prefer to freshen up your living space.
Another great fashion store is Pandora’s Box, owned and operated for twenty one years by Monesha. Everything she stocks in her store has a meaning or message, and she makes it a point to stock her store with items that are whimsical and charming. If you’re looking for something to lighten up your life, be sure to check out Pandora’s Box!
Honor Black History this Month and Every Month
At Union Wharf, we hope that you’re able to support these Black-owned Baltimore businesses during Black History Month and beyond!
