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Support queer owned businesses this holiday season
Yes, gentle readers, we are back from a long break. Apologies, but after nearly two years in a pandemic, a person needs a moment to catch their breath.
On to the prezzies! As holiday shopping begins ramping up, there are several fabulous queer-owned businesses that could use your support. So give your pink dollars to these fine establishments!
Treats and libations
This queer-owned bakery in Austin is wunderful. Preservative and trans-fat-free, these cookies and brownies come in a variety of flavors like Pecan Pie, Red Velvet, and of course, Gluten-free Chocolate Chip. The treats are a delight in themselves but paired with Wunkerkek's whimsical packaging; you can't go wrong.
Dyke Beer founders Loretta Andro Chung and Sarah Hallonquist have been shaking up the craft brew scene and creating a queer community at the same time. When they aren't making brews like their flagship Dyke Beer (a Farmhouse Ale - Saison) or Witch, Please, (a Pumpkin Lager), this Brooklyn-based duo hosts parties like Queereoke or Dungeons, Dragons, Dyke. Dyke Beer can be a little tough to get a hold of outside of New York, but ask your favorite queer-friendly beer seller and check out online delivery options. You can also pick up Dyke Beer merch.
I recently heard about this queer, women-led coffee company through a local coffee shop (yay Junto Coffee) when they posted about a collab. Finca to Filter is based in Atlanta, GA and specifically works to partner "with BIPOC, Woman, and Queer Roasters" and "working towards a coffee community that is home for everyone." So pick up a bag of their holiday-themed "Feelin' Festive" for the coffee lover in your life or even a monthly coffee subscription.
Clothing and Accessories
Friend of Queer Media Matters, Homoco is a sustainable clothing company founded and designed by Daniel DuGoff. Daniel has come up with some out-of-this-world collabs, from Tom of Finland to Kum and Go to the Ace Hotel. High-quality, affordable, and fun clothes for all genders.
Couple Jesus and Sergio are the founders of Gay Pride Apparel and have a vast line of tees, hoodies and accessories for identities of all kinds. (I wore their Daddy shirt to ClexaCon.) Cheeky, fun, and committed to activism, the LGBTQutie on your list will love anything from GPA.
Get gorgeous and gay in gold from Automic Gold Jewelry. Founded by Al Sandimirova, this queer/trans-owned business makes stunning jewelry for all genders. Get earrings, necklaces, rings, or even commission a custom design.
This body-positive workout apparel company is LGBTQIA2s+ owned and has several terrific tees and hats for the gym-goer in your life. In addition, Strong Athletic has a dedication to supporting non-profits, all bodies, and all genders. So if you are anything like me and struggle to find a snap-back that fits, Strong Athletic makes a smaller size just for you!
There's a reason why Wildfang makes it onto almost every queer-owned gift list - their clothes are queer as hell and well-made. Wildfang is known for its coveralls but has made a name for itself in suiting and casual cool. While some of the items might tip the scales into pricey, these are clothes made to last. (My relaxed fit button-ups are still going strong after three seasons and numerous visits to the dry cleaner.) Wildfang has redefined queer clothing, and you can find a lot of items under $100 for the fierce fashionista in your life at Wildfang. Also, keep an eye open for holiday sales.
Other Fun Stuff
Married couple Alaina & Jocelyn are behind the ultra-cool Bijou Candles. Their expertly-scented candles have some serious thought behind them and come in collections like 70's Icons (Dolly, Stevie and Cher) and Coven (Willow, Hermoine, and Sabrina). Pick up singles, sets, and even tall votives.
I think we can all agree - Trixie Mattel has the most contagious laugh in the world. This drag icon has really managed to build an empire with some seriously gorg merch and cosmetics. Beautifully pigmented and relatively affordable (if you've been to a Sephora lately and looked at palettes, you'll know what I'm talking about). For example, Trixie's "Plant Gay" shadow palette is under $50 and vegan to boot! Trixie has lipsticks, eyeshadow, blush and merch of all kinds.
Ready to start building that shopping list? Go forth, be gay and merry!