Five Local LGBTQ Vendors To Shop Any Time of the Year
Between the twinkling lights, the lively holiday music playing, and the festively decorated cookies in every bakery window, the holidays are a magical time in RVA. But let’s be honest, a little retail therapy is always in season.
Richmond is home to many talented LGBTQ vendors and shop owners. No matter what you are shopping for— snacks, housewares, handmade jewelry for that certain someone, or a little something for yourself— you are sure to find what you’re searching for locally.
To kick off your next shopping spree, here are five LGBTQ vendors and shops to support right here in RVA.
1. Karmalita’s Marshmallows and Confections
Frustrated by the lack of nut-free sweets available for her daughter, Andréa Johnson decided to try her hand at making her own back in 2016. From s’mores bars, to winter marshmallows, and even hot cocoa, rest assured that the only thing you will be thinking about when enjoying Karmalita’s products is how delicious they are. Because when you have a sweet treat in hand, your allergies are the last thing you want to be worrying about.
Queer and Trans owned, Dayum This is My Jam, showcases delicious jams, salsas, and pickles that are named after popular songs (Bohemian Raspberry, Comfortably Plum) to really liven up your brunch menu. Started by owner Andy Waller, Dayum aims to be as accessible as possible for the community by using a sliding scale for their products, ensuring that anyone can enjoy.
3. Two Fat Babies Candle Company
Need some ambiance for your home? Two Fat Babies provides seasonal scents such as Pomegranate Cider and Pumpkin Chai as well as year-round scents such as Sea Salt & Orchid and White Birch. Not only are the scents incredible, but all candles are soy wax, making them a preferred alternative to paraffin candles.
Owned by Black father and daughter duo Robert and Fatima, Color and Culture creates shirts to celebrate Black and Brown children. Also available in adult sizes, Color and Culture cultivates various collections including an LGBTQ collection. Whether you need a t-shirt or sweatshirt, Color and Culture has you covered to wear your Pride in style.
Looking for the perfect host(ess) gift? Holly of Pistil and Stamen will undoubtedly make you the bouquet or other floral design of your dreams thanks to her experience as a florist early on in life and a fashion degree from VCU. From custom centerpieces, to wreaths, to weddings and special events, Pistil offers a wide range of services to meet your floral design dream needs.
With so many amazing LGBTQ places to shop in town, the sky’s the limit on which ones you use to fill your Santa sack this year. So, check that list twice, and when shopping for everyone who’s been nice, be sure to keep your local LGBTQ shops in mind. Happy shopping!