Welcome to
The Intelligence
Centre
Document
Number:
005
Publish Date
03/10/2023
Author
TM+f
Reading Time
7 Mins
Subject:
6 Black-Owned Businesses that have Inspired Us in the Retail Sector
Introduction
At Time Machine + Folks, culture is at the centre of our passion and work. We are on a mission to build multicultural brands that shine with an international heart and social value.
We believe that there is no future without culture. The diversity of cultures is what has made the world wonderful and each brand unique.
Today, we are going to introduce 6 black-owned retail businesses that have inspired us with their stories. They have brought innovation into their heritage, with the memory of their homeland, and an unwavering spirit to make a difference. They have explored their unique cultures to captivate the hearts of modern customers worldwide, extending beyond their own communities.
Inspiration #01:
Celebrating Fusion: Eva Sonakie's Vibrant Interiors that Merge African Culture and European Style
Eva Sonakie is an extraordinary interior designer who skillfully bridges the gap between African culture and mid-century European style.
Her visionary approach is rooted in a desire to infuse vibrant colours and rich traditions of African culture into the world of luxury British interior design.
With the motto "Bringing Colour to Life," Eva Sonakie is on a mission to introduce a luxurious African way of life, seamlessly harmonising it with modern contemporary living.
Her work is a testament to her ability to bring cultures together, creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful, capturing the spirit of two worlds and making them beautifully compatible. Eva Sonakie's designs are a captivating blend of heritage and modernity, where African culture and European style unite to breathe life and vibrancy into every space she transforms.
Inspiration #02:
Ethical Fashion: Kente Gentlemen's Tapestry of Colour, Poetry, and Culture
Kente Gentlemen is a clothing brand with a profound mission at its core - one that is deeply rooted in ethical practices within the fashion industry. Their commitment to ethical production and consumption of clothing sets them apart in the world of fashion.
What drives their design philosophy are three essential elements: colour, poetry, and culture. Colour is the embodiment of emotion, each shade telling a unique story. Poetry serves as the eloquent messenger, weaving narratives into the fabric. And culture is their powerful voice, reflecting the rich heritage and traditions they hold dear.
Each piece from Kente Gentlemen is meticulously handcrafted in-house in a collaborative effort between skilled craftswomen and men. This not only ensures the highest quality but also supports and empowers the artisan community, making each garment a work of art that embodies their values of ethical, culturally rich, and emotionally resonant fashion.
Inspiration #03:
Crafting Legacy: Maison Eli's Slow Fashion and Sustainable Craftsmanship
Maison Eli epitomises the essence of slow fashion and craftsmanship. With a meticulous approach, each piece they create is a testament to the time-honoured art of handcrafting, a process that typically spans 2-3 days for each item.
In a world where fast fashion prevails, Maison Eli celebrates the beauty of taking one's time to perfect each piece, emphasising the true value of craftsmanship.
They take pride in using vegetable-tanned leather, a sustainable and eco-friendly choice that aligns with their commitment to ethical practices.
Every design that emerges from Maison Eli is more than just an accessory; it's a legacy in the making, meant to be passed down from one generation to the next, a testament to their enduring commitment to both quality and style.
Inspiration #04:
Omi Woods: Crafting Ethical Jewellery Rooted in Afro-Indigenous Caribbean Heritage
Omi Woods is a unique and socially responsible jewellery brand that is deeply rooted in its Afro-Indigenous Caribbean heritage. Each piece of jewellery is a testament to the brand's commitment to sustainability and ethics, as they are individually handmade with fairly sourced African gold, recycled fine metals, and carefully selected diamonds and gems.
The brand's vision goes beyond creating beautiful jewellery; it's about creating timeless pieces designed to be worn every day, and cherished for generations to come.
Omiwoods envisions its jewellery becoming treasured heirlooms - passed down through families thus keeping the rich heritage and profound meaning alive for generations.
Inspiration #05:
Sooochi: Where Simplicity, Timelessness, and Sustainability Converge
Sooochi embodies the essence of simplicity and timelessness in its product design, focusing on functionality as a key element. Their creations are a testament to the belief that good design should stand the test of time, offering lasting value to its users. What sets Sooochi apart is its unwavering commitment to being environmentally friendly whilst crafting their products with sustainability in mind.
Sooochi's approach to design not only enhances the lives of their customers with functional and stylish products but also aligns with the pressing need for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
Inspiration #06:
Nurturing Nature and Well-being: The Positive Philosophy of Plant Apothecary
Plant Apothecary is a skincare brand with a heartwarming philosophy based on the belief in the harmonious connection between humans and nature. With a commitment to spreading positivity and uplifting spirits, this brand goes beyond just skincare; it's a beacon of light in the beauty industry.
Plant Apothecary's message is clear and uplifting: they strive to transform not only your skin but your mood and mind as well. Their motto, "be a positive force of nature", shows their dedication to not only producing clean, natural skincare products but also inspiring a positive, nature-driven change in the lives of their customers.
Plant Apothecary’s products, and their ethos behind the brand, emphasises the profound influence nature can have on our well-being and overall outlook on life.
End Note
It is our passion to celebrate the diversity of culture, entrepreneurship, and leadership in the world by sharing stories and introducing all these amazing brands to more people!
Get in touch now (hello@tmfolks.co) to explore how we can help enhance your brand storytelling using cultural intelligence.
Note: All images used are from Google, websites and official channels of the brands and Unpsplash.com open source.