Shopping·8 min read

Our Favorite LGBTQIA+-Owned Businesses

LGBTQIA+-owned businesses
Design: theSkimm | Photo: JVN Hair, Diaspora Co., The Peach Fuzz
June 13, 2023

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

Hey, what’s up, hello. We’re back this time around to show some love to the LGBTQIA+-owned brands that we can’t get enough of. We’re covering hair care that makes us feel like we’re the stars of a Pantene commercial (IYKYK), innovative skincare, delicious coffee, and joy-sparking accessories. Read up and stock up in 3, 2, 1…

Couplet Coffee

Couplet Coffee for delicious everyday blends…

Caffeine lovers, unite. Couplet Coffee is first-generation immigrant and queer-woman owned. They have everything from espresso to a signature blend. The coolest part? They collaborate with some of their favorite community artists for limited-edition drops, so your coffee isn’t just tasting great, it’s looking great while sitting out on your counter. Might we suggest their drip coffee starter kit for your first order?

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Boy Smells

Boy Smells candles to revamp your space…

We’ve been shopping this brand for years, whether it be for our own homes or for the ultimate gift for a friend. While the brand has “boy” in the name and is known to be packaged in their iconic pink boxes, the founders sell and embrace scents that aren’t targeted towards one gender. Their candles, room sprays, and perfumes are layered with notes of sweetness, smoke, and musk. Our forever favorite: their collaboration with singer Kacey Musgraves. PS: Use code SKIMM15 for 15% through the end of June.

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The Peach Fuzz

The Peach Fuzz for hair accessories, homeware, and more…

Founded by illustrator Elizabeth Hudy in 2017, this online shop is based out of San Francisco. Hudy uses colorful artwork as an outlet to make activism more accessible to customers. Plus, if you’re looking to start a shop or small business, she shares resources on her website on where to begin. We’re about to add this adorable hair clip and bumper sticker to our carts.

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Ghost Democracy

Ghost Democracy for dependable skincare…

Ghost Democracy is a clean brand, which means that their products are formulated without silicones, essential oils, sulfates, parabens, fragrance, and more. They have a higher concentration of active ingredients, which means it’s skincare that actually works. Also, it’s direct-to-consumer, so it’ll be easier on your wallet and is more accessible overall. TLDR, if you’re a skincare junkie, this brand should be on your radar. Warm up your cart with the brand’s starter kit, which includes their cult-fave moisturizer.

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Wednesday Holmes

Artwork from Wednesday Holmes…

Wednesday Holmes is one of our favorite Instagram follows. Based in London, they’re a queer, trans illustrator covering topics like mental health, TGNCI (transgender, gender nonconforming, and, intersex) advocacy, and more. In addition to giving them a follow, check out their shop and add this heartwarming print to your walls.

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JVN Hair

JVN Hair for products that soften and defrizz…

Yep, this brand comes from the Jonathan Van Ness. We’ve tried a lot of this line and it provides a great foundation for your hair to naturally thrive. The pre-wash scalp oil is ultra nourishing and the brand’s air-dry cream is perfect for days when you’re short on time or you don’t want to use heat. Psst…check out this set (some of the proceeds go to GLSEN).

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Bokksu

Japanese treats from Bokksu that’ll elevate your snack time…

You can try different goodies, candies, and teas from centuries-old family makers. Every box purchased supports family-run businesses in Japan to help keep their culinary traditions alive. Share with friends for the most elevated snack-tasting out there.

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Automic Gold

Automic Gold for high-quality gold jewelry for everyone…

This queer, trans-owned business is size-inclusive, diverse, and has pieces that are made of reclaimed gold with recyclable packaging. From dainty pendants to minimal initial earrings, Automic Gold has long-lasting pieces at affordable prices. They even do custom orders if you’re looking to treat yourself or want to commemorate a milestone.

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Ink Meets Paper

Ink Meets Paper for uplifting cards and stationery…

You can never have too many cards, and there’s nothing better than stocking up for those random moments where you need to send a one-off birthday wish. Owned by wife-and-wife Allison and Jamie Nadeau in Charleston, South Carolina, the brand promotes the idea that there’s nothing better than a handwritten note. Brb, adding these postcards to our deskside ASAP.

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Diaspora Co.

Hearty spices from Diaspora Co…

Looking to build out your spice rack? We got you. Diaspora Co. sources their single-origin spices from 150 farms across India and Sri Lanka. They treat their farmers well, paying them an average of 6x above the commodity price. Pick from baking trios, a custom bundle, rich masalas, and so much more.

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Peace Out Skincare

Peace Out Skincare for pimple patches and travel-friendly beauty…

We always keep these patches on hand, just in case. They’re hydrocolloid dots that also have aloe vera, salicylic acid, and retinol. The most satisfying part? You can see how much they’ve sucked out of your blemish, so you really know they’re working. Our newest obsession from the brand are their travel-friendly skincare sticks. They come in a vitamin C version, an under-eye option, and a retinol one for the face.

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Music City Creative

Music City Creative for graphic tees, sweatshirts, hats, and drinkware…

Steven Romeo and Jared Sizemore started their sustainable business during the pandemic. Their goal with the apparel they create is to support their surrounding queer community. They’re most famous for their “Y’all Means All” tee, but we’re also obsessed with this mug that pays homage to Dolly Parton.

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Grace Miceli

Grace Miceli for clever illustrations…

The New York-based artist is known for her hilarious takes on mental health through her drawings of classic logos, iconic cereal boxes, and more. Her book, “How to Deal,” is an uplifting “manual for life” that will become a punchy new companion to your coffee table.

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