Shop Black-Owned Businesses For The Big Day

Shop Black-Owned Businesses For The Big Day

If you are a regular follower of the news and social media, you will have seen a lot of publicity around the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement. This movement, focused on equality for black people, is without a doubt, a brilliant way to educate and inform people who were otherwise unaware of the systemic issues going on right under our noses. However, what do we do when the Instagram trends fade out and the news stops talking about these important issues? How can we, here in the UK, support people of colour when we risk being ignored once again? One way we suggest is to do your own independent research on black-owned businesses and purchase their services where you can. Supporting these businesses is a perfect way to unite our communities in the bid to eradicate racism and improve the lives of those who have been put at a disadvantage due to the colour of their skin.

With the easing of lockdown in the UK, welcoming outdoor weddings and more socially distanced gatherings – wedding planning can begin once again! Therefore, we have collected together a number of incredible black-owned businesses that you might want to consider using when kick-starting your day. From events planners to photographers – you may just find your new favourite brand that you never even knew existed to help you on your way to making your wedding perfect.

Wedding Planners

Benessamy Weddings & Eventshttps://www.benessamy.co.uk/

Based in Nottinghamshire here in the UK, Val Mattinson has built a name for herself all over the world. Not only does she plan weddings locally, but she has branched out and planned the ‘Big Day’ in Barbados, Jamaica and Saint Lucia – just to name a few! With her fresh approach to events planning, she has a keen eye for detail and wants even the seemingly insignificant to run as smoothly as possible. With over 15 years in the industry, Val Mattinson is a true perfectionist and inspiration to other events planners all over the globe.

SM Events Management Agencyhttps://www.instagram.com/seritamurrayevents/?hl=cs

Serita Murray has worked very closely with the Black Lives Matter movement and her aim is to achieve diversity in the world of events (and the world in general – obviously!) SM Events Management Agency has been involved in a lot of big changes to help society become more diverse and promote equality throughout her whole brand. Serita is a go-to for all your events needs, with the added extra of promoting such a great cause too.

MJP Events – https://www.mjpevents.co.uk/

For a trustworthy events coordinator with a keen eye for detail, Jeanette Spencer has created unforgettable weddings for countless couples all over the country. She is best known for hunting down exclusive and unique venues that are sure to leave you breathless. Her general ethos is to build a trusting and friendly relationship with her clients, which contributes to her weddings being so personal.

Natasha Corbin-Stewart Wedding and Events Planninghttps://www.natasha.corbin-stewart.com/

With 20 years of experience under her belt, Natasha Corbin-Stewart has all the experience she needs to help you with your big day. You only have to look at her pristine portfolio of successful, happily married clients to know just how dedicated she is to each individual’s wedding.


Florists

Kate Wren Flowers – https://www.katewrenflowers.com/

No wedding is complete without flowers – the thought that goes into their arrangement needs to be personal and passionate. We simply had to include Kate Wren Flowers. Kate has a keen eye for precise, subtle touches that so many people have fallen in love with. Her use of pastel combination has been praised by all of her previous clients. Whether you need delicate aisle décor, or magnificent centrepieces – Kate is your florist. What we particularly love about Kate is her choice of accessories to accompany her floral arrangements; candles, crystals and fabrics are never far from her designs.

Michelle Baubin Flowers – https://www.instagram.com/michellebuabinflowers/?hl=cs

Michelle’s work is stunning – Fact! drop dead gorgeous arrangements, beautiful colours.  No matter the type of wedding you envision Michelle will create something to match your style.   Working across the most sought after venues and with an array of prestigious clients under her belt, you can’t go wrong with Michelle as part of your wedding dream team.

 

Hair and Makeup

Charis Hair – https://charishair.com/

If the award-winning status isn’t enough for you to be drawn to Charis Hair, then we aren’t sure what will be. Charis has created a brand for all the needs of the bride on her big day – no one would want to miss this. Her portfolio is full of sleek, unique and classy hairstyles fit for any bride. On top of this, she offers a wide range of wigs that are hand styled – this touch is perfect for those who may be a bit concerned about their hair on their wedding day.

AVOS Hair – http://www.avoshair.com/

With over 13 years of experience in London’s top salons, Bunmi has branched out and created her own unique brand. Hair is their creative passion of choice, and they use it to express creativity and perfection with every individual client. They understand each client is completely different and aim to show this with each style. Whether someone is after a wig or wants their natural hair on their big day – AVOS hair has you covered and is ready to experiment with you every step of the way.

Inspire Beauty – http://www.inspirebeauty.co.uk/

The clue is in the name!  Inspire Beauty are really one of the best London teams out there.  Providing both hair and beauty services you can have all of your wedding glam team in one place.  Sounds like bliss.  With an extensive menu to select from you’ll be trying to cram it all in before the big day.  Professionalism, knowledge and reliability are all key for your hair and beauty providers.  Inspire Beauty has this in abundance.  We can, hand on heart, vouch for the quality as a number of our brides have used this team (shout out to hair guru Lisa) and the results have been Instagram worthy.

 

Cake Designers

The Indulgent Sugar Plumhttps://www.theindulgentsugarplum.com/

If you imagine the modern, abstract art showcased in the Tate Modern gallery and add a hand whisk for good measure, you will probably find yourself with one of The Indulgent Sugar Plums cakes. With a bold new approach to cake decorating, or cake ‘architecture,’ they are sure to deliver. The cakes in their portfolio are full of seemingly steampunk-inspired designs, that almost look like they should be displayed in a gallery rather than consumed. We are simply in love with their luxurious creations.

Little Cake Garden – https://www.littlecakegarden.com/

If fairy tales and elegance is what you are after, Little Cake Garden might just be the place for you. Their perfect, sleek finishes and beautiful floral designs will make your wedding day feel extra special. If these cakes don’t seem like just one romantic dream already, they are also run by husband and wife dream team, Jasmine and Robert. That is just the icing on the cake – pardon the pun.

Party Angelz – https://www.instagram.com/partyangelz/?hl=cs

You know when you want it all but the budget says – Hell No!  Well, your budget will always allow for a cake from Party Angelz.  Tricia, owner and cake designer, provides scrumptious cakes at an affordable price.  Throw any idea at her and give her your budget and she will work wonders.  Nothing is too much work and she will try her hand at anything.  She has saved us many a time and we are forever indebted.  Her red velvet and vanilla sponge are to die for.  Peep the Instagram.

Walnuts and Honey – https://www.walnutsandhoney.co.uk/

First of all, this list wouldn’t even be complete without Walnuts and Honey on it – trust me!  Secondly, just by the name you can tell these cakes are going to be full of yummy goodness.  Thirdly, Matt (the owner) and I used to work together in the world of IT and so I have personally tasted and begged for these cakes on a very regular basis.

We’ve had glowing reviews from clients and we’ve witnessed the stunning creations in the making.  Peep the website but jump onto the Instagram.  Better still, if you’re in South Norwood ever or local, go and check out his shop.  It’s worth a trip.

 

Caterers

Bubble Bar Caravan – http://www.bubble-bar.co.uk/

If you are looking to escape the traditional ‘sit down meal’ after you have said ‘I do,’ then why not give this a try? The Bubble Bar Caravan is a converted caravan that now serves as a bar – cute, right? With fully changeable draught systems, you are able to choose what you have on tap (from beers to ciders) giving it that bit more of a personal touch. Along with this, just to add to the quirkiness, they have fully trained bartenders ready to create the perfect cocktails for you and your guests.

Peppercornhttps://peppercorn.uk.net/

Established by the wonderful Adwoa Mwanza, Peppercorn is a catering company that excels in providing their clients with incredible service and even better menus. We’ve eaten many a wedding food provided by the capable chefs and there are no complaints from us.  They really enjoy what they do and will work tirelessly with you to refine your menu and ensure you are happy with each course.  Each member of their team brings a unique touch to the table and the glowing testimonials on their website just confirm that. The team are all equally dedicated to delivering perfect service and the results really show!

Favour Catering – http://www.favour-events.com/

As a family run business, Favour Catering knows just how important your big day is to you and your loved ones. They have built up a reputation for their bespoke services, with personalised menus for each individual client. They want you to enjoy their food– so they make sure each menu caters (pardon the pun) for everyone. As a business, Favour Catering goes above and beyond to make sure your big day looks, and tastes, sensational.

Burrel Cateringhttps://www.burrellcatering.com/

Specialising in Indian and African Cuisine, Burrel Catering offers you a really unique approach to catering. Offering private consultations, whereby you are able to test out their menus and discuss changes and additions – you cannot go wrong with this business. Despite being in the industry for over 30 years, Burrel Catering is by no means old fashioned. They keep up to date with the latest tricks and trends, making them a favourite among wedding planners.

Magic Fingers – http://www.magicfingersevents.co.uk/

Offering a bit of everything across the whole event planning space, Magic Fingers are a caterer with a difference.  Mouth watering West African and Caribbean menus will have you drooling. The team are fun and have a passion that is clear in every dish they bring to the table.  Don’t take our word for it – the proof is in the pudding.  Book a taster and have your senses blown

 

Wedding Outfit Designers (women)

Jacqui Jameshttps://www.jacquijames.co.uk/

Your wedding dress needs to be out of this world, you need to choose a designer who really listens and puts their all into creating the dress of your dreams. Therefore, we introduce you to Jacqui James. Jacqui has a passion for bespoke bridal wear and dedicates all her time focussing on what would be best for you. From the word ‘go,’ she sketches out designs that might be suitable and, once you have picked the ideal one, brings it to life. She expects nothing but perfection and her portfolio shows just that.

Kahmune – https://kahmune.com/

One of our favourite black-owned businesses is Kahmune. Something that has been brought to a lot of people’s attention in the past few months is the concept of ‘nude’ products: ‘nude’ plasters, ‘nude’ shoes and ‘nude’ tights, for instance. It was a shock to some people to realise that ‘nude’ isn’t ‘skin tone’ for everyone. Kahmune has decided to take this matter into their own hands and create a shoe brand where ‘nude’ isn’t just one colour. With a variety of different shades, this site will cater for anyone’s skin tone – which is ideal for not only the bride, but the bridesmaids and groom too!

Alonuko – https://alonuko.co.uk/

If you’re considering a jaw dropping wedding outfit then you simply MUST add Alonuko into the mix!  Peep the Instagram, get inspired, book consultation – Done.  You think we are exagerating…….jump onto her website now, we’ll wait.  Oh, you’re back.  TOLD YOU SO!

We have had many a bride who has worn a bespoke Alonuko piece and the end result is always breathtaking.  Her designs will make you want to get married again or find a partner asap if you’re nowhere near getting married.  Ok, we’ve grovelled enough but really, definitely worth an enquiry.

 

Photography

Quadosh Photography – https://www.quadoshphotography.com/

For a captivating, traditional photographer, Quadosh Photography is the place to go. He makes sure to capture each unique love story in a traditional, yet refreshingly modern way. He captures true moments of love and affection in one still image and we cannot get enough of his photos.

Ben Achana Photographyhttps://benachanaphotography.format.com/

After experiencing life as a photographer in the midst of London’s nightlife, Ben Achana has also added wedding photographer to his long list of talents. He is able to capture the energy, power and love between couples on their big day, while also capturing the fun and laughter later on too. His sharp and crisp photography would fill the perfect album to keep your memories alive, even after the main event.

Adebayo Deru – www.adebayoderu.com

With a desire to show the love between two people, Adebayo Deru captures wedding days and special events with his own personal touches. He is able to capture the chemistry between a couple with each and every image and we cannot get enough of him. Just one of his photographs speaks a thousand words, so even those who aren’t able to be there on the big day will be able to share the emotion, love and electricity between the couple. Adebayo is truly passionate about what he does and that is represented in each and every photo.

Bigg Ayohttps://www.biggayo.com/

You only have to open up Ayo’s website to know just how special he is. As an award-winning photographer, Ayo has captured hundreds of weddings – but no one image is ever the same. His slogan ‘photography is poetry’ is represented with every image. He is able to create far more than just a ‘wedding album,’ but instead creates works of art. Couples will feel like supermodels with their crisp, artistic shots by Bigg Ayo.

Mintt Photographywww.minttphotography.com

From portraiture to weddings, Mintt Photography has it all. No task is too large for lead photographer Freddie Onuma, whose passion and dedication is displayed in each photo. Freddie is able to capture beauty in his own style and does so with natural talent. Mintt Photography is both friendly and approachable, so they are always up for a chat to talk about what you want for your big day.

 

Stationary

Studio Oudizohttps://studiooudizo.com/

Last, but by no means least. One thing people don’t necessarily first think of when it comes to wedding planning is the stationary. Who doesn’t love a stationary shop? Well, if you are after luxury, modern items of stationary, then Studio Oudizo might be the place for you. Ofe (the brains behind the business) shows off her unique talents by giving us some stunning items – from unique handwritten calligraphy agate place cards, to personalised vow books. There is nowhere else quite like it out there.

 

Decorators

If they are listed here it;s because their work is exemplary.  Stunning, breathtaking and full on wow factor.  That’s all you want isn’t it?  Peep the websites and Instagrams to see for yourself!  Thanks us later.

Afmena Eventshttps://afmenaevents.co.uk/

Event Decor Hirehttps://eventdecorhire.com/

GB Elegant Eventshttps://gbelegantevents.co.uk/

 

This list is by no means exhaustive.  We have worked with so many more fabulous black owned businesses.  This is just a short collection of noteworthy black owned wedding businesses that you can check out. We must stress, however, that your research shouldn’t stop there. You may not have found your perfect business here on this list, but it is out there – we promise you. If you are wanting to continue your search for a black-owned business, then you may want to check out www.ukblackowned.co.uk – it is a great place to find black-owned businesses for whatever you may need, outside of planning your wedding. From plumbers to estate agents, this site has it all. Of course, you can do research of your own as well to find that perfect brand – but we hope we have opened your eyes a little to quite how sensational and inspiring just a few of these businesses are. Stay safe everyone and don’t be silenced in the fight against racism. The Black Lives Matter movement should still be very much in the spotlight – now and always.

Let us know your thoughts and recommendations!

2 Comments
  • Mark Fortnite
    Posted at 09:30h, 10 July Reply

    Amazing blog / website & so much useful information & nice to see people still put effort into their website like this. Best of luck for 2020 & onwards 🙂

    • Bianca G
      Posted at 07:27h, 20 July Reply

      Thanks for the feedback Mark – much appreciated!

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