Skift Take
Diversifying event partnerships is one way to join the world-wide call to action to support the Black community in the fight to end systemic racism. Here is a curated list of 50 Black-owned businesses to diversify your partner and supplier portfolio.
Making the conscious decision to support Black-owned businesses is the first step event professionals can take to fight systemic racism within the industry, and many organizations including ours have begun that journey. But for many industry organizations and even independent event professionals, it can be a challenge to figure out how to make an impact at a time when their own businesses are struggling.
At the Future of the Event Industry event, Ashanti Bentil-Dhuel described diversifying your partnerships as a ‘quick win’ — an easy way to create a tangible positive effect. When we take the time to diversity our partnerships, we are expanding the possibilities of our business and events by adding fresh perspective, talent, and experience.
This list is not meant to be exhaustive; it is a work in progress that just scratches the surface of the Black events community, and we will be expanding it to include more locations and businesses over time. If you would like to be included, please see instructions at the bottom.
For now, this list offers a range of small- to medium-sized businesses that would be perfect for the smaller in-person events that are starting to come back in some places. It is designed to take the legwork out of your first step toward meeting your diversity and inclusion goals. Use it to research, support, and develop partnerships with representatives of the Black events community in your region.
The Challenge And The Motivation
When trying to understand where racism exists within the event industry, it is important to understand that racial oppression caused by systemic injustices has been a longstanding barrier even where overtly racist attitudes may no longer be apparent. This system economically exploits Black people, and has often been a reason why black professionals struggle to build and maintain profitable business, and even benefit from career advancement.
This struggle is compounded by all the larger challenges the industry is now facing. But as things begin to recover in some regions and event planners in those locations begin to plan their in-person events for next year, it could be the perfect opportunity to incorporate these Black businesses in your broader partner networks.
United States
ATLANTA, GEORGIA
Printing
BTech Printing was founded in 2006 by Kevin Levermore. The company provides a professional print shop experience as well as design and branding services. Customers have the option to buy and/or rent office equipment, copiers, printers, fax machines, scanners and software.
Event Technology
Sched provides virtual, in-person and hybrid event management software and professional event services for organizations looking to create engaging and exceptional events. Sched creates event websites, event mobile apps, dashboards and provides speaker training and event support.
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Tess Vismale has 20+ years of planning and execution experience. She has also expanded her event expertise by helping clients seamlessly launch virtual/hybrid experiences. She works side by side with her clients to transform their live events to virtual/hybrid experiences, educate their attendees, and train their staff to be virtual natives.
Decor and Floral
The J Madison is a design firm founded by Justin Payne that provides floral and design production. Justin and his team are known to bring an element of luxury to special occasions and events.
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
OneTouch Events is a premier event planning firm based in Atlanta, GA, offering stylish and seamless event planning for corporate and social clients looking to host an event without the task of managing every single detail.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
Entertainment Company
FLOW entertainment provides Chicago events with a range of entertainment offerings including professional DJS, bands, MCs, dancers, lighting and staging.
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Magnificent M.Iles Events is a Chicagoland-based and minority-owned event planning business. Marissa Iles developed an interest for this industry while providing planning services in the workplace as well as for family/friends. She has effectively serviced several types of events, whether corporate or purely social.
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Full-service event planning company with professional background and a true commitment to expanding network and building beneficial relationships.
Catering
On the Go Jo is a mobile espresso cart for private and corporate events with specialty coffee, drinks and pastries. Equally owned and operated by managing partners Toni Dale, Quiana Deberry, and Crystal Morrison-Graham.
HOUSTON, TEXAS
Event Production and AV
Southern Sound & Lighting is a full-service Event A/V Production company based in Houston, Texas, producing virtual, hybrid and live events. Founded by Terry Gobert 20+ years ago, we are the largest, most experienced black-owned event production company in the region.
MIAMI, FLORIDA
Event Design
St Germain Design and Co. specializes in event production and floral design for any type of event. The company is owned by couple Racquel and Randal Guyton. Their mission is to always create jaw-dropping, one-of-a-kind weddings and events.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK
Events To Remember, a division of Events by Chereese, Inc.
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Events To Remember, a division of Events by Chereese, Inc. is a full service live and virtual event management and public relations located in Mount Kisco, NY. Events To Remember specializes in conceptualizing, organizing, managing, marketing and publicizing for entrepreneurs, not-for-profit organizations, municipalities and small to mid-size corporations, helping them manage their events and tell their stories with PR campaigns. ETR focuses on corporate, community, fundraising galas and benefits, trade shows, and social events. In short, we create lifetime memories and experiences that allow our clients to thrive.
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
We are a team of event planners, innovators, creators, thinkers and listeners. We offer a full spectrum of event management and experiential marketing services. Glow was built on a firm foundation of top-quality event planning services. We are a full-service event management agency specializing in dynamic, purpose-driven events. Over the course of more than 20 years, the agency has successfully coordinated meetings, conferences, galas, outdoor events, and other special productions in the U.S., Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Winery
Sunshine Foss is the owner of Happy Cork, a boutique wine and spirits store with a carefully curated selection. The business focuses on minority-owned, sustainable, BIPOC-dynamic and natural selections. They also specialize in weekly wine tasting experiences and events.
Floral and Design
Makini Regal Martin is the owner of this Brooklin-based event design company, which specializes in floral and event decor. Fusing classical and contemporary elements with whimsical touches, they provide floral and event design services uniquely suited for special occasions and luxury events.
PROSPER, TEXAS
Event Production and AV
Engage Productions is a video company designed to give event venues and services a voice. We have developed a project to unmask how covid-19 has affected our industry and the protocols implemented to keep guests and employees safe.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
Gaming Rental
Out of Control Gaming was established in 2016 and is independently owned and operated by Jun Riven. An accessible and mobile video gaming truck that brings to life a unique way to host your next event. Guests can play the latest game titles on gaming consoles such as Xbox-1, Xbox360, PS4, Wii and Wii U.
Venue
The Hour Room is a great option for private and company events and especially team building initiatives. The company has taken extra precautions during Covid to limit the number of visitors while still being able to enjoy the escape rooms in a safe environment.
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Event & Wedding Planner
Andrew Roby is an award winning wedding and event planner from the DC area with 13 years of experience. He has worked with top-shelf brands and continues to win guests with his dedicated passion to his work.
Florist & Event Designer
Designs by Oochay offers a variety of floral designs along with cohesive and detailed event design. Wife and husband duo Uche Ojunta and Lekan Akinkuowo are both owners of Designs by Oochay.
Event Production and AV
We are event producers for socially conscious brands and creative projects. We lead projects and collaborate with partners. Our area of expertise includes production for live and virtual events, stage management, VIP management and logistics coordination.
Decor and Rental
Valadera Rental N Decor provides a glamorous and flawless touch with luxe pieces to inspire and turn your next event into a grand experience.
WOODBRIDGE, VIRGINIA
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Pride In Planning LLC is a full-service event planning and management company with more than 10 years of experience producing high-caliber events of every type and scale from start to finish. It is our goal to plan your event with pride so that you can focus on being proud of the accomplishment, milestone, or celebration of your event. Our passion is managing the behind-the-scenes details so our clients don’t have to worry about them.
Canada
CALGARY, ALBERTA
Cake Artist & Designer
Brianne Gabrielle Cakes creates a variety of sweets including confections, chocolate gems, and, of course, cakes. Owner and founder Brianne Hurst has been trained by the industry’s finest. Her company uses ingredients of the highest quality and her confections are a joy to look at, too.
Catering & Rental
ITK Catering has been operating for nearly two decades. It started in Nigeria and made its way to Canada. They cater for a variety of events such as weddings, birthdays, office meetings and family gatherings. Specializing in meals, pastries and breads, they also provide rental for glassware and utensils.
HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA
Cakes and Treats
Temi Bakes is a Halifax-based cake studio that specializes in creative wedding cakes.
Owner Temi is also a multi-award winning baker with high regard in the Halifax area. Her services are suited for weddings, corporate meetings, or social events.
LONDON, ONTARIO
Florist
Bloom Blvd provides an array of wedding flowers and event styling services. The owner is Stephanie Commisso and the company has a portfolio full of garden-style wedding bouquets and wedding centerpieces, lush ceremony arches, and more.
MONTREAL, QUEBEC
Rental
Kelitos is an inflatable games and sports accessory to entertain the public at different types of events and keep your guests physically active and healthy. Suitable for corporate team-building and group-wide engagement, this unique experience is owned and operated by Marc Elie.
Decor and Rental
Pop & Balloonz takes your event to the next level of fun and creative. This decor company styles balloons for any occasion, and they also provide rentals such as donut walls, cotton candy, and popcorn stands.
OTTAWA, ONTARIO
Rental
Zoom Photo Booth owned by Rowland Gordon provides a unique photo booth rental experience for any wedding, corporate, or social event. Options include digital or print packages.
TORONTO, ONTARIO
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Alicia Jenelle Events is a full-service corporate and social event planning firm based in Toronto, Canada. We execute best in class brand experiences, social and corporate events, event management, and staffing solutions for PR agencies and brands worldwide. From upscale galas and executive dinners to national product launches and webcasts, our team is a true extension of our clients and partners. As experiential storytellers, we connect brands with community.
Event Rental & Decor
Marilyn Og is the owner of Bliss Event Rentals, which provides clients with a wide array of selections for their special event. Whether you are looking for linens, glassware, cutlery or unique decor designs, they have exactly what you need.
Virtual and Hybrid Event Specialist
Founder Mahoganey Jones (CMP, DES, HMCC) has over 20 years of experience in the event planning industry. She founded Event Specialist in 2004 and continues to provide consultation services and/or event management using event technology trends, meeting design, and/or livestream technologies.
Event Strategist
Keisha Pinto Events is a full-service event planning boutique founded in 2010 by Keisha Pinto. Keisha specializes in lifestyle events and private events, weddings, and major brand events.
Event Production
Upper Echelon Events is the premier producer of Toronto’s “urbane and urban” events. Founded by Kay Jordan, Upper Echelon Events are designed for the future leaders of the city. Kay and his team host private soirees, celebrity events, and popular branded events.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Food and Beverage
Faded Living is a lifestyle brand normalizing adult cannabis use through workshops, infused dinner parties, cookbooks, clothing line, podcast & shopping experiences.
Chef & Caterer
Jean Jacques Kabuya is owner and caterer for Salt and Sear. The company focuses on providing high end quality and ensuring an authentic culinary experience by using fresh ingredients grown right in BC’s backyard.
Media & Event Production
The Stolbie Sisters are a sister duo working in front and behind the camera. Many of their event production initiatives are focused on showcasing cannabis education, awareness and understanding.
UK
LIVERPOOL
Cake Maker
Desserts by Dre offers a variety of sweet treats including cakes, deserts and treat boxes. Dre is known for its simplicity and originality, paying homage to the classic flavors. Desserts by Dre can also process cake orders in as little as 24-48 hours.
Decor
Helen’s Party Decor is a small business operating in Liverpool that offers a range of services for their clients. Whether you are in need of planning, decor, rental or entertainment services, Helens Party Decor will assist with your event needs.
LONDON
Catering
BERRY and Brie is a catering company owned by Mako Ndoro. The company creates exquisite grazing tables, platters, and boxes. Menu items are fresh, delicious, and locally sourced for your next event.
Catering
De’Osa Catering & Events is a full-service and drop-off catering company that serves corporate and social clients. Owned and operated by Rita Osa, the company offers Nigerian, Ghanaian, Sierra Leonean and Jamaican cuisines. Their mission is to provide delightful cuisines and excellent customer service.
Print Studio
Differprint is a print company with bespoke services to small, medium and large organisations. They are known for an outstanding design and exceptional print quality, whether you are looking to create brand identity, stationery, or event souvenirs.
Live and Virtual Event Production
Events by Knight has been creating, planning, producing, and managing events for over 20 years. Founder Kwame Knight is the creative driving force behind the innovative planning company.
Creative and Print Studio
GB Designs is a freelance creative design company providing clients with the most cost-effective design solutions. The company specializes in branding, logos, business cards, banners, flyers and more.
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Organized Bizness Ltd is a London-based company offering global business support and full events planning service – from concept development to logistics and delivery. Specialists in corporate events, meetings, seminars and conferences for stakeholders in healthcare, industry and/or academia.
AV Specialists
Rigs & Gigs is a PA, sound system, lighting, and AV company with a range of equipment for rent and technical services for hire. The company is equipped to provide anything from just one set of speakers for a party at home or a large sound system, stage, and lighting for an outdoor event.
Catering
Rosehall Caterers has been providing high quality of food and service for 25 years. Owned and operated by Albert Robinson, the company offers local, regional and international menus with high quality organic ingredients for all your event needs — whether you are hosting a corporate event, convention, seminar, conference, party, wedding, non profit, or gala.
Venue
Saint Aymes is a cafe and bar open for small private parties. Owned and operated by two sisters, Lois and Michela Wilson, the venue is an endearing cafe with tasty baked goods and specialized cakes.
Events & Wedding Planning
Founded by Rumbi Kamwaza, SD Events London started with party planning in 2015 but now provides wedding planning and event styling for functions.
Event Ticket Platform / NightLife and Live Events
Shoobs is an online event ticketing platform founded in 2013 by Louise Broni-Mensah. Shoobs is best described as a YPlan-style event app that lets you buy tickets for events. The twist is that it’s focused on garage, grime, and urban music.
OXFORD
Event Planning and Strategy/Consulting
Founded in 2016, Legacy is a sustainable events agency and consultancy. We provide in-person and virtual event management services, whilst considering the environmental impact of the event, its carbon footprint, and its potential for positive social change.
France
PARIS
Photography & Production
Christin Bela is an international creative director, photographer, and filmmaker. His services include video production, photography, and consultation. Christin empowers his clients to tap into heart-centric storytelling that helps them grow their brands and connect on a deeper level with their audience.
Chocolatier
Edwart Chocolatier Paris was created by Edwart Yansané in 2014 and guarantees you will enjoy 100% artisanal, fine, subtle and sequenced chocolates. Select some of their decadent treats for your next celebration.
Pastry Caterer
Eolia Pâtisserie is a 100% plant-based and gluten-free event caterer with an eco-responsible approach. Founded by Eolia and Aronn Essama, their creations are imaginative, bringing to life flavours that create nostalgia but are nonetheless healthy.
Catering
GA Food n Fusion is a catering company that caters to special events. They offer cooking classes, which are great for team building initiatives, as well as home chef services.
Event Videography
Kimya PROD is a team of photography and video enthusiasts. Founded in 2009 by Jonathan Munguama, he and his team stunningly capture your events’ stories from the beginning to end.
Event Rentals
Madam de la Maison is an event rental company curated by Ajiri Aki. The company works with linen from sustainable materials and original European fabric. They collect, sell, and rent antiques to give new life to old objects while staying green-friendly.
Event Production
Make it Clap Agency offers personalized support for your event creations and product positioning. The agency has been in business for more than 10 years to meet the event needs of private individuals and urban cultured brands alike.
Winery
Champagne Marie Césaire was founded by Marie-Inès Romelle and offers a selection of four vintages to best match your event needs.
Lighting and Decor
Mia Bantoo provides rentals of unique neon lights for various private and professional events. They also prepare personalized balloon decor for all your event needs.
Winery
Stuyvesant Champagne is a brand curated by Marvina Robinson. Available in two popular selections: a rosé and a Grand Reserve Brut. This unique brand is grown, harvested and bottled in France.
TOULOUSE
Florists
Jungle Utopia is a unique floral boutique founded by Alice Rangayen. Whether you are looking for floral arrangements for a birthday, wedding, retirement, or office reception, Jungle Utopia provides arrangements for your event needs.
FURTHER RESOURCES
If you would like your business to be added to the directory, please complete this form.
For more guidance on Black-owned and operated businesses, resources, or to further lend your support, please reach out to the following Black events communities:
