The National Negro Doll Company was founded by Richard Henry Boyd. As a former slave Boyd was born Dick Gray on March 5, 1843. He was an entrepreneur, preacher, missionary, publisher, banker, and a Black Nationalist. In 1911 Henry Boyd founded the National Negro Doll Company. The former slave created the first black doll company…
Darlyng & Co. the first Black-owned kid’s registry was created by the husband and wife, duo Carl and Tara Darnley in 2014. The Darnley’s wanted parents to have access to safe, eco-friendly, and non-toxic products. As a result, a brainchild was born in 2014. As with most businesses Darlyng & Co. the first Black-owned kid’s…
SMR PSMR PET SERVICES proudly serves the Greater St. Louis region, including surrounding Missouri counties and Illinois Metro East area. Our services span urban, suburban, and rural communities on both sides of the Mississippi River. At SMR Pet Services, we believe pets deserve the best care, and guardians deserve peace of mind. Guided by our core values of Education, Rehabilitation, and Transformation, we’re all things pets—your trusted partner for thoughtful, personalized care. From dog walking and vet transportation to pet matching, waste pick-up, obedience etiquette training,…
The topic of reparations for the Black community often centers on state-led initiatives or large-scale federal programs. However, the reality is that progress in such initiatives has been slow, inconsistent, and at times nonexistent. For generations, Black individuals and communities have faced systemic racism, economic disadvantage, and a lack of formal redress for historical injustices. The concept of self-administered reparations, which highlights the agency of individuals and communities in addressing their own suffering and building pathways for progress, has emerged as a powerful alternative to fill the…
Ben Welch Is Awarded James Beard Best Chef Semi-Finalist. Acclaimed chef and recent James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Midwest, Ben Welch, has opened doors to Lucy Quinn and Little Lucy, a dual-concept Southern-inspired restaurant and all-day diner located at 4156-4158 Manchester Avenue in the heart of The Grove in St. Louis, Missouri. Named after his late grandmother, Lucille Quinn, the restaurants are a homecoming in every sense. “A 35-year career in kitchens means I often missed family milestones and holidays,…
Greek Accessories and Introducing Stylish Pet Gear Vanessa Lacewell Celebrates Over 30 Years of Greek Accessories and Stylish Pet Gear. Vanessa Lacewell, a seasoned entrepreneur from Fayetteville, North Carolina, has spent over three decades crafting accessories for Black college Greek letter organizations. Born to a military father and a teacher mother, Vanessa enjoyed an enriching childhood that set the stage for her entrepreneurial journey. Initially, she ventured into the corporate world but soon realized her passion for design. Vanessa’s understanding of the timeless appeal of Greek organizations…
Here’s What’s About to Go Down Pop the Balloon will air on Netflix. Pop the Balloon is the most hilarious dating show ever. Currently airing on YouTube and other social media channels, this dating show is like no other. The show’s format involves an eligible bachelor or bachelorette standing before a group of potential suitors,…
Put Me in the Game Pivot On Purpose Put Me in the Game Pivot On Purpose is more than just a business networking event—it’s a hands-on experience designed to empower both new and seasoned entrepreneurs. Attendees will gain the tools to build a business that reflects their core values, leverage social media for greater engagement,…
Creating and Fostering Collaboration In Our Community Emerging Business Leaders LLC STL Black Biz had the privilege of connecting with Emerging Business Leaders LLC (EBL) founders, Trey Scott and Dominick Tice. This incredible group was founded to create opportunities for entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and community leaders, fostering growth and collaboration. How did you two connect?Dominick and…
Black Business Is Important For Economics In Our Community The Importance of Supporting Black Business Directories Supporting black businesses has been a hot topic for years. Discussions can be very positive or sometimes downright negative depending on your audience. Today STL Black Biz discusses the importance of supporting Black businesses. We will also talk about…