Memorial Day, But Make It Intentional: Black-Owned Brands to Shop This Weekend
Cookouts, playlists, SPF, and side dishes—Memorial Day weekend is officially loading.
But before you hit “add to cart,” let’s talk about something bigger than your usual shopping list: where your money’s going.
This year, I’m inviting you to make the long weekend feel even more powerful by circulating your dollars through Black-owned businesses. Because if we’re going to spend (and you know we are), we might as well spend like it matters.
From your cooler to your lipstick to the paper towels your guests will absolutely use too many of—here’s a curated, culture-forward roundup of Black-owned brands to shop for Memorial Day Weekend:
This isn’t just whiskey. It’s legacy in a bottle.
Named after Nathan "Nearest" Green, the formerly enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel how to distill, Uncle Nearest is the most awarded American whiskey brand of the last five years—and the first to be led by a Black woman CEO in the industry. It’s a bold toast to the stories history tried to bury and the excellence that refuses to be ignored. Pour one for the ancestors. And then another for the future we’re building.
From rosé to sparkling, the McBride Sisters are rewriting the rules of wine culture.
This brand isn’t just about sipping—it’s about celebrating. Founded by two sisters who reconnected through an extraordinary story and a shared love of wine, Black Girl Magic Wines embodies elegance, resilience, and full-bodied flavor. Every bottle is a moment, a mood, and a reminder that our magic always belongs at the table.
For the Cookout Table
This brand is proof that “from the can” doesn’t have to mean “compromise.”
Goode Foods is a Black-owned brand offering organic, non-GMO canned vegetables and beans that taste like you actually tried. Whether you’re making a mean pot of baked beans or just need a quick pantry pull, Goode lets you shop clean while supporting Black farmers and food systems. Add it to your pantry now—your future self (and your guests) will thank you.
For the Guest Who Never Brings a Dish But Always Uses Your Bathroom
Let’s talk about something nobody talks about enough: Black-owned toilet paper.
Leafy is soft, sustainable, and made by a team that cares as much about clean living as they do about community equity. Their mission? To be "soft on the planet, strong on culture.” Yes, even your bathroom essentials can be rooted in purpose.
Sustainable and seriously chic.
Reel Paper offers bamboo-based paper products that don’t just reduce waste—they make a statement. Black-owned and built for impact, this brand helps you reduce your footprint while keeping your cookout clean and your conscience clear. Paper towels, toilet paper, packaging—it’s all plastic-free, tree-free, and full of intention.
For the Selfies, Sunshine + Serving Face
Unapologetically bold. Universally flattering. 100% Black-owned.
Founded by Melissa Butler, who once got laughed off Shark Tank (joke’s on them), The Lip Bar has become one of the most recognizable beauty disruptors in the game. From juicy glosses to punchy mattes, their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and made to pop on purpose. This isn’t makeup—it’s a message. Your lips deserve luxury, and The Lip Bar delivers.
The sun’s out. The melanin’s glowing. No ash allowed.
Created by Shontay Lundy, Black Girl Sunscreen is SPF made for us, by us. No chalky residue, no white cast, just smooth, hydrating protection that lets your skin shine (safely). And yes—it’s reef-safe and eco-conscious too. Keep one in every bag.
For the Fit, Flex + Festivities
Athleisure that understands your body—and your goals.
This Black woman-owned brand creates luxury performance wear designed to flatter every curve and move with every intention. It’s for the stretch, the strut, the errands, and the exit shots. Plus, their sizing is inclusive and their campaigns always represent real women. Wear it to the gym, the cookout, or just because it makes you feel powerful.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.Say it loud: we wear culture well.
D’Iyanu means “miracle” in Yoruba, and this brand lives up to the name. Known for bold African-inspired prints blended with modern silhouettes, D’Iyanu pieces are made to stand out—without compromising comfort. Think statement shirts, chic jumpsuits, and family fits that slay. If you want to show up loud, proud, and fully styled—this is your go-to.
The Bottom Line? Spend It Like It Means Something.
Memorial Day is about more than grilled corn and card games.
It’s a chance to reflect on legacy, invest in community, and keep our dollars circulating where they count.
So whether you’re bringing the vibes or the veggie burgers, shop with intention.
Choose brands that build us up. And tag @askardenia when you do—I want to see your picks, your plates, and your power moves.
Happy Memorial Day, fam. Shop loud. Spend proud. Build legacy.
— Ardenia 🖤