Small Businesses I Love!
WilPower Fitness
As a personal trainer, self defense instructor, and marathoner, Wil Tejada is the manifestation of dedication and discipline.
While in college, Wil became a karate instructor. After graduating from college, his passion for teaching and helping others improve their mind and body led him to become a personal trainer.
Mr. Tejada is always trying to push the limits of his clients and himself. This led him to distance running. To date, Wil has run over 50 Half-Marathons and has completed 13 Marathons.
As a trainer and coach, he is focused on creating new methods and techniques of pushing the body and mind to new limits.
My Personal Note - Wil is worth EVERY penny. He can train anyone virtually as well. So even if you aren’t in NYC and are interested in running, he can create a plan just for you!
Harlem Doggie Day Spa
Harlem Doggie Day Spa is dedicated to providing the finest cage-free boarding, daycare and grooming facility in Harlem. They were founded in 2010 with a vision to create a one of a kind grooming facility. From there, business started expanding when clients began requesting care for their pets during the day or while on vacation. In 2016, they opened a second location, in order to serve their growing customer base, and to improve upon providing a better place for dogs to be at ease with their doggie pals. By learning and catering to each dog’s personality and needs, they developed trust with their customers, by providing an enriched environment with your best friend. Harlem Doggie Day Spa focuses every day on safety, cleanliness, client-communication and tail-wagging dog happiness. Their care is distinguished by 24-hour on-site staffing, dog evaluations, daily activities for stimulation, groomer and dog relationships and more.
Hija De Tu Madre
Hija de tu Madre celebrates the beautiful mess that is being Latina and Latinx. Each piece of art and clothing is inspired by cultural crossroads.
Hija de tu Madre is a creative outlet that celebrates the complexities of being a product of more than one culture. Thus, Hija de tu Madre caters to Latinx who bravely question everything, while reconciling our complicated history, culture, and identity. The brand is an ode to mujeres who are unapologetically Latina.
Harlem Candle Company
I LOVE Candles and I LOVE Harlem, so when I found out about the Harlem Candle Company I was HYPE! What’s even better is that Founder Teri Johnson is the sweetest person ever. The candles are so insanely scented and bring the beautiful history of Harlem to life. So if you’re ever looking for something unique and beautiful to gift, definitely considering buying from Harlem Candle Company.
Naked Wardrobe
If you’re looking for amazing, body flattering basics - from tops, dresses to leggings - then check out Naked Wardrobe. Naked Wardrobe is owned by three sisters in LA and they have mastered the art of basics in a fabric that is so flattering and at SUPER affordable prices. I'm not big on fast fashion and I barely buy clothes. I'm definitely a minimalist when it comes to my clothing. Lots of solid colors with items I can layer with, and Naked Wardobe is that. ELLE Magazine did an article on the sisters a few years back and it really made me respect their hustle and vision for their company. Even with clients like J.Lo, Beyonce and Lady Gaga, they could easily raise their prices, but they said their main customer base are women who don't make millions. #Preach
Also, check out this Forbes article with the sisters here!
Renée Rouleau Skincare
When I tell you that Renée Rouleau Skincare is THE BEST, it is. I am a skincare junkie. I’ve been working in the beauty industry for 10+ years. I have tried it ALL. NOTHING works like Renée Rouleau Skincare. I started exclusively using her products when I decided I wanted to overhaul my skincare products in preparation for my wedding and be intentional with my purchase. I met Renée at an industry event in Dallas back in 2017 and became enamored by her as a person, entrepreneur and licensed aesthetician. When I saw her products had a cult following, I had to try. I LOVED her approach to skincare and identifying that there are actually NINE skin types. As a small brand that owns their own lab, her products are POTENT and they work. My skin has never looked better and I’m proud to support this female owned and operated small business.
Uptown Shots
Uptown Shots is not just any production studio in NYC. It’s the BEST one. Am I biased? Yes. The thing is, this is one of my husband’s businesses. He has created an approachable, full-service, creative space normally seen downtown, but in uptown Manhattan, specifically Harlem! In just under two years, he has hosted some of the country’s most well-known music artists to high-end designers all shooting from Uptown Shots. From a massive cyc wall to top of the line Astera lighting, Uptown Shots can help make your photo and video needs come to life. In March 2021, Uptown Shots will be moving into a three-story studio so you’ll def want the check out what’s to come!