LGBTQ+ Small Business Roundup
Part 1 of our latest series has arrived:
Maddie McBratney rounded up some of the city’s local LGBTQ+ owned businesses, so you can show your support!
Photo by West Bottoms Plant Co.
In the current times, people are voting with their dollar now more than ever. It’s important to know about the businesses you frequent, so you can decide what businesses to support and what businesses to avoid. For the LGBTQ+ community, feeling represented and welcomed by a business is incredibly important. Kansas City is a very inclusive and welcoming community, and that does not stop when it comes to their local businesses. To aid in your journey to support “the little guy”, I have highlighted a few below:
Service, Food & Beverage Based Businesses
Him.Her.Them
Located on 75th and Wornall, Him.Her.Them is centrally located, perfect for anyone around the KC Metro area to get their hair done. The owner, Keating Van Vleck, is passionate about Kansas City and the inclusive spaces that Kansas City has to offer. Immediately upon entering their establishment, you will feel welcomed by friendly staff, and a sign-in for new guests inquiring preferred pronouns. I have been getting my hair cut by Keating for a few years now, and don’t think I can go anywhere else!
Gael’s Public House
Gael’s Public House is not too far away from Him.Her.Them, located on 55th and Troost. I had the pleasure of getting to dine in, and speak a little with the owner, Derrick. Derrick stated that when opening, his goal was “to ensure a safe and supportive environment for Gael’s guests, employees, and surrounding communities. When someone is provided a safe space, it allows you to be yourself; and by doing so, allows others to be themselves.” His favorite menu item is surprisingly not the famous Gael’s Guac, but the Pastrami Burnt Ends Sandwich. I had the brilliantly named “Chicken Tendies,” finished with their Dole Whip, and could not have left happier.
Black Atlas Tattoo
Black Atlas is the recent neighbor of Him.Her.Them on 75th and Wornall. They are an inclusive tattoo parlor, with some incredible tattoo artists. Blake Van Vleck is the partner of Keating Van Vleck, and tattoos out of Black Atlas. His work is so incredible, you’ll want to book your tattoo months in advance!
Servaes Brewing Company
Servaes Brewing Company is located in Shawnee, Kansas, just outside the KC Metro area. They brew in house, and have an ever changing list of beers to choose from. Courtney Servaes began brewing in her kitchen, and has expanded her passion into a well established business– the first female owned and run brewery in KC! They even include their son in on the action with Aaron’s Craft Soda that can be enjoyed in their taproom as well.
Product Based Businesses
Red Hare Leather
Artist Faye Woods is the mastermind behind Red Hare Leather, and has a passion for what they do. What also started as a passion for Faye, developed into a career. They have a wide variety of goods on their site such as wallets, belts, and harnesses. Don’t find what you’re looking for? Not to worry, Faye loves to take on a custom project!
Civic Saint
I got to speak with the owner and founder of Civic Saint, Godfrey Riddle, and have nothing but kind words to say about him and his company. Civic Saint sells wearables inspired by a desire for political change. The business was built to inspire the legacy left behind by Godfrey’s parents; a legacy filled with public service, passion, and love. His shirts are meant to spark conversation, including his personal favorite item “Persist.”
Effing Candle Co.
Effing Candle Co. is breaking barriers when it comes to the candle business. Their name is fitting, as each candle is decorated with a witty saying, often containing both profanity and a semi-politically influenced statement. Candle making began as a hobby for owner and founder, Birdie, and quickly became a well established business. Birdie’s favorite fragrance is the Warm Hugs scent, which is available in Made in KC marketplaces.
Bear Soap Company- Located in Mid Coast Modern
Co-owner and founder of Bear Soap Company, Matt Bramlette, was very welcoming and excited to tell me a little bit about his business. Bear Soap Company is sold out of his Westport store, Mid Coast Modern. Him and his partner bought a DIY soap kit and tested it out, with intentions of selling the kit in their store. From here, they began selling their soaps, and have had much success with it! The name was inspired by the bear community, though Matt would like to ensure that their company is for anyone and everyone. He would most highly recommend either their shower steamer, or one of their original soaps!
West Bottoms Plant Co.
Recently relocated into the new 12th Street Post, this creative duo fits perfectly into the collective space. Featuring plants, ceramics, gift, adorable merchandise and more, this is one of the most fun places to shop in the West Bottoms! Plus, co-owner Austin Mosier is a phenomenal photographer– you can book him in the studio space as part of the collective for any of your photo needs.
