Sponsored

The community of Black-owned businesses in the Shoals is growing, and you’re invited to check out what’s on offer Sunday, August 22 from 3-7PM at The Clarion Inn in Sheffield, Alabama. Keep reading for all the details about Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals plus three reasons why you need to go.

Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals: what it is

Recrissha Doxie, founder of Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals. Photo via Desiree Cole

Founded by Florence-based entrepreneur Reccrisha Doxie, Black-Owned Business Expo of The Shoals creates a platform where Black-owned businesses come together to make magic happen.

They facilitate spaces where the community can:

Grow—take one look at their socials and you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a warm and welcoming space where everyone’s there to lift each other up.
Network—whether online or in person, half of what you know is who you know.
Learn—education makes everybody’s biz and life better.

They’re getting ready to host their third event, and it’s a great opportunity to build relationships across races, cultures and economics.

Saturday is for registered vendors only (more than 70 and rising at last count). Sunday afternoon, the doors of The Clarion open to the public. That’s when you need to check out their wares and sample their services.

Mark your calendar now + head to Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals

For vendors only: Saturday

vendors at Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals — Vendors at Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals. Photo via Desiree Cole

Since Saturday, August 21 is vendors-only day, you want to head out on Sunday, August 22 for the market.

Curious what vendors will be doing on Saturday? After setup, they’ll have the chance to get in some valuable learning with breakout sessions on topics ranging from digital marketing and business management to banking.

There’ll be a shrimp and crawfish boil with some chicken thrown in for good measure.

Not only that, but there will be plenty of chances to hear from seasoned and new entrepreneurs, as well as local elected officials.

Sunday afternoon market: open to the public, 3-7PM

This is where you come in. Whether you’re into fashion, beauty, jewelry, food or music, you’re sure to find what you need. You may even make some new friends and find some new faves along the way.

There’ll be a local sound stage, too, where Kloud9 will feature one of their local artists, 9. Additionally, there will be DJs and a band to set the vibe while you browse, mingle and shop.

Location: The Clarion, 4900 Hatch Boulevard, Sheffield, AL 35660
Time: Sunday, August 22, 3-7PM
Cost: Free, but come ready to support local entrepreneurs

To sum up, here’s why you need to make a plan to spend Sunday, August 22 in Sheffield:

1. You’ll be able to check out what local Black Owned Businesses are offering + meet the owners themselves

Whether it’s food or fashion that lights your fire, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

2. You can relax and enjoy the afternoon

You can get a massage at Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals. Photo via Desiree Cole
DJs will set the vibe. Photo via Garden of Eden

With music and massage baked into the day, you can shop ‘till you drop, then revive in style.

3. Be inspired by next gen entrepreneurs

If you’re in need of some inspiration, be sure to look for some of the Expo’s youngest entrepreneurs who are giving us all a taste of what the future may hold.

University of North Alabama, Wells Fargo, BBVA Compass and First Metro Bank are sponsors for this event.

Follow Black Owned Business Expo of The Shoals on their Website + on Facebook to check out the most up-to-date vendor lists and get to know the community.

Sponsored by: