A Guide to Black-Owned Shops & Boutiques in Greater Philadelphia

Owned by Michael Yates and Darryl Jones, this classic comic book store, known for its wide selection of comics, graphic novels, manga, back issues, horror, sci-fi and old-school arcade games such as Street Fighter, has been a South Street mainstay since 2001. The shop aims for inclusiveness, offering comics for kids and families, too. Keep your eyes peeled on their social media for updates on in-store author signings, new releases and other events.

More than a bookstore, this cultural center owned by Hakim Hopkins offers DVDs and an array of health and wellness products — like lotions and sea moss, which is touted for its supposed health-fueling properties — in a creative atmosphere. Peruse the books for children and adults lined along the shop’s walls and take a peek at some of the art and body products. The shop also ships to prisons, offering incarcerated folks reading materials.

Branded as not just a bookstore, but an experience, this Lansdale shop has been supplying Black culture since 2017. Among its literary offerings are novels, fantasy books, reference books, books on Black history and culture, young adult and teen literature — and everything in between. They have a sitting area if you want to take a load off and dig into one of your recent finds. Aside from books, The Black Reserve Bookstore stocks jewelry, stationery and records.

One of the country’s oldest Black-owned bookstores — now an official historic site — resides at the same West Philly address where Dawud Hakim founded it more than 60 years ago. Historic, welcoming, old-school and family-friendly, the shop now belongs to Hakim’s daughter, Yvonne Blake. Hakim’s Bookstore has a rich tradition of stocking rare books you can’t find elsewhere, and continues that tradition with books on African American studies, philosophy, history, memoirs and children’s books. They also ship books to prisons to support incarcerated readers.

This welcoming, Fishtown-based, women-centric, art- and activism-forward, frankincense-scented, named-for-Harriet Tubman bookstore is owned by Jeannine A. Cook, who opened it in February 2020. On its shelves: Toni Morrison’s complete collection, works by Zora Neale Hurston, children’s books and more titles that Cook herself loves to read. Cook has since expanded her literary empire, with a sister bookshop in Collingswood (Ida’s Bookshop) and launched a trolley tour to Black women-owned businesses in Philly. Cook recently purchased the building that houses Harriett’s, ensuring the bookshop’s permanent presence for years to come.

This is the stuff nerdy dreams are made of. Fans of speculative fiction (think science fiction, fantasy and horror) can find a lovingly curated assortment of comics and novels, alongside toys, games, posters, apparel and more on the shelves at Multiverse. The shop is run by husband and wife owners Gralin Hughes, Jr. and Sara Zia Ebrahimi Hughes, who credit speculative fiction fandom as vital to their sense of belonging. With Multiverse, they aim to create a welcoming space for fans of any race, gender, body type, or ability.

Owner Marc Lamont Hill’s Germantown hangout exudes community pride in its book selection and living-room vibe, a la Washington DC’s acclaimed Busboys and Poets chain. This bibliophile’s spot takes its name from the columnist and Temple University prof’s favorite uncle, who nurtured his love of reading. Since its opening in 2017, the bookstore has provided underserved communities with books and a place to connect with others. On the shelves you’ll find new releases, books from local authors, YA and kids, historical, nonfiction and so much more.

So, just between us friends, this Chestnut Hill boutique is perfect for cozy sweatshirts, silk tunics, jumpsuits, reversible tops and so much more. Founded by a mother-daughter pair, the store stocks colorful scarves and jackets that you can dress up or down. Fun fact: The spot’s vibrant silk tops are one of a kind, with no two featuring the same patchwork pattern. Between Friends Boutique also carries brands from independent designers, many of whom are Black women.

With a size-inclusive range of clothing that runs from small to triple extra-large, BLACQSKIRT Boutique is your spot for comfortable yet fashionable women’s clothing. Founded by Sherri Hall and her mother Sybil Lyles, the brand began in 2005 with a line of A-line skirts — a black skirt. The boutique is stocked with comfy hoodies with witty sayings (like “Note to self: You’re the sugar, the honey and the iced tea”), cozy dresses, flowy skirts, hats, earrings, belts and so much more.

The latest project by Grant Blvd’s own Kimberly McGlonn, Blk Ivy Thrift calls back to the work and aesthetic of the Civil Rights Movement, combining community engagement and activism with cultural artifacts and fashion. The West Philly shop curates vintage and second-hand clothing that challenges industry norms for men and women. Comb through the sunny boutique’s racks of 1960’s dresses, skirts, jackets, sweaters, jeans and more. Blk Ivy Thrift fosters community engagement with regular open mics, too.

Sneakerheads, rejoice. This Midtown Village consigner owned by Phillip Moore offers exclusive collectible sneakers and vintage pieces —retro Air Jordans, Nike Lebron — and features rare, sold-out merch from prominent sportswear brands like Supreme and Bape. Plus, where else in the city can you find a 1994 Barry Manilow T-shirt? Never miss out on a drop: Keep your eyes peeled on their Instagram, where new arrivals are posted daily.

Former Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins founded this men’s boutique to redefine modern custom suiting with creativity, styling and precise tailoring — all while keeping culture at the forefront. The shop stocks men’s suits, jackets, sweats, along with custom suits and pocket squares. Whether you’re preparing to walk down the aisle, need to upgrade your wardrobe, or need custom suiting you’ll wear for years to come, book an appointment with a style advisor. Damari is open by appointment only or online any time.

The stylish set loves that this shop — owned by Shani Newton — carries women’s clothing for all sizes (small through triple extra-large), ages and budgets. Dolly’s has provided wares to some of the most prominent women in Philadelphia, including hip-hop and radio legend Lady B and Mayor Cherelle Parker. If you want some of that for yourself, head to Mt. Airy and sort through the racks for pant sets, stylish separates, maxi dresses and on-point accessories.

Don’t let the name fool you: Jonesys Accessories has everything a woman needs to upgrade her wardrobe, from apparel to accessories. Located in two of Philadelphia’s most stylish areas, Center City and Chestnut Hill, the chic boutique carries bold dresses, tops, shoes, jewelry and more in a rainbow of colors and patterns. With over 20 years of experience helping customers express themselves using fashion, owner Stephanie Jones and her team take pride in providing exceptional customer service alongside high-quality products.

Owner Tamara Hudson founded her consignment and thrift store as an online boutique during the pandemic and quickly built a community of customers around her affordable, sustainable fashions and mission of empowerment. When it came time to open a brick-and-mortar storefront, Konsignify joined East Falls’ growing community of Black-owned shops on Ridge Avenue. Each piece of clothing the store carries has a personality of its own, and Hudson hopes that her collection “helps others find their light, confidence and inner beauty.”

A self-taught seamstress, Shaelia Dawkins creates high-end formal and prom dresses as well as streetwear, like tracksuits, T-shirts, and hoodies for men and women. With only a $30 sewing machine and big dreams, she created a fashion institution. Covering both ends of the style spectrum, Kylie Rose Fashion carries attire for red carpets and lazy weekends alike. For those who want to make a statement for a special event, you can get your own custom-made Kylie Rose dress.

Your search for an amazing candle stops here. At Loomen Labs, you can make your own custom candle or custom perfume, choosing from dozens of scents at the Queen Village shop. Led by owner Jordan Lee Cook, visitors can book a BYOB class to learn how to make a candle, perfume or even your very own all-purpose cleaner. Other experiences include flower-arranging and stoneware planter-crafting sessions. Even better? The entire facility is zero-waste.

Across the street from West Philadelphia’s Malcolm X Park, Love Yourself by Shea Elizabeth is a chic boutique that helps women create their own definition of cool with a great selection of shoes, jackets, dresses, jumpsuits and more. The shop stocks contemporary-chic wares, like cargo pants, thigh-high boots and trendy tracksuits. Definitely don’t miss out on house brand Shea Elizabeth’s luxe fur coats.

Fresh on the Fabric Row scene, Moore Vintage Archive is the place where you can find vintage Chanel, Gucci, Hermes and more high-end women’s designer fashion. Owner Keesean Moore stocks the shop with timeless dresses, jackets, sets and books from Black authors. Knowing that vintage can be overwhelming, Moore wants shoppers to feel at ease and to have fun while browsing the racks and trying things on.

Hand-poured scented soy candles are the star attraction for this growing business founded by owner Marques Davis in 2018. Online, at their newly opened studio and retail lounge, and at select Pennsylvania retail locations, devotees can purchase candles in fun scents like grapefruit and vetiver, passionfruit and plum, lavender clouds, and cactus flower and jade. Or if you’d rather take the scent with you, try their new eau de parfum fragrances in orchard pear and spice and citrus santal.

Founded by friends (and former business competitors) Aaron Johnson and Bruce Tabbs, The Movement Philly specializes in handmade clothing, T-shirts, tie-dye, jewelry and vegan bath and beauty products. Every product is one of a kind and is inspired by Black culture. The Mt. Airy shop was featured in a “Buying Black” segment on Philly’s Fox 29 TV station in 2020.

After operating as a mobile boutique, Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift opened a brick and mortar in Brewerytown. (You can’t miss its neon yellow facade.) Founded by Tia Whitfield — who loves to chat with customers and will recommend pieces for you to try on — the shop stocks both women and men’s fashions, from blazers and dresses to denim and T-shirts.

This South Street boutique is owned by Charrita Jones, who curates the shop’s collection of “effortlessly chic” women’s apparel. The vibe at Senoj is all about empowering women to be comfortable in their own skin. The shop offers all kinds of looks, from bodysuits and outerwear to skirts, dresses and sunglasses. If you want to be on-trend but don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard, Senoj is where you’ll want to shop.

TC Unlimited Boutique has your back for all of your designer-inspired needs on a budget. Hop in on all the latest trends (think: cargo pants, fringe and puff sleeves) at this Chestnut Hill women’s clothing shop, which first began as an online store in 2005. Founded by Keia Chesson, TC Unlimited Boutique adds new inventory weekly, with inclusive sizing to fit all body types. From sweat sets to stylish dresses, TC Unlimited offers pieces for all dress codes.

Combining Philly and cycling culture, VeloJawn is owner Michael Brown’s one-stop-shop for all things bike. The West Philly store sells bikes, offers maintenance and sells cycling accessories. VeloJawn offers guidance, advice and gear to cyclists of all ages and experience levels. Whether you need a custom bike or need some help picking out a cruiser to get you around town, VeloJawn has the goods and the knowledge.

Cute and curated apparel, accessories, home decor, and gifts grace the shelves of Mt. Airy’s Vera Doyle. Owner Lori Thomson first sharpened her eye for style as a fashion merchandising and design student at Thomas Jefferson University, a visual display artist and merchandiser for sophisticated retailers like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, and a maker. Nowadays, Thomson uses her penchant for beauty to uplift the stories and talents of women, Black, and people of color makers and artists while honoring her mother, Vera Doyle, the namesake of the inviting shop and a trailblazing woman herself.

Owner Steve Jamison, a fashion footwear specialist, established his sunny Rittenhouse Square boutique in 2007 to cater to high-end tastes in men’s shoes, socks and accessories — and to provide high-quality customer service. Just a few years later, Jamison was named “Best Italian Foreign Buyer” by a Milan footwear organization — which means there are tons of Italian shoes in store. You’ll find boots, lace-ups, sneakers, oxfords and more. Among the designers in stock: Harris, Magnanni, John Galliano and Les Hommes.

Diamonds are everyone’s best friend. Custom engagement and wedding rings, one-of-a-kind pieces and gemologist-certified appraisals are the reason clients call ahead to book appointments at this Old City jewelry shop, owned by Ken and Nicole Black. Named a Best of Philly pick for wedding rings by Philadelphia magazine, the team at Philadelphia Diamond Company takes pride in its process, which they consider an act of creation rather than simply shopping. Heads up: They’re open by appointment only.

With a showroom featuring a pool table, elegant wooden side tables and a beautiful fireplace to display his singular selection of shoes, owner Voltaire Blain — known as the best-dressed man in Chestnut Hill — strives to make shopping for shoes an experience like no other. His shop carries a wide selection of hard-to-find shoes, including loafers, oxfords, and both high- and low-cut boots for men, as well as several styles for women. If you’re looking for even more personalized service, private appointments are available.

Founded by Pauline Houston McCall, Sheena Garcia and Marcy Morris, this creative hub, studio space and gallery offers art classes for all ages, pop-up workshops, family arts days and gallery exhibitions. Drop off your little ones and let them create works of art or stop by on First Friday to see the new works on the walls. The space can also be rented for paint-and-sips, pop-up exhibitions, classes and workshops.

For more than 35 years, this Reading Terminal Market stall has served as a location for silversmith Charita Powell to showcase her handmade jewelry. Now, she stocks designs from metalsmiths the world over. Powell hand-curates the selection of necklaces, bracelets, rings and other jewelry at Amazulu, where she also sells lamps, dolls, sculptures and cultural clothing, including Powell’s vibrant pieces from her Urban Karma Wear line.

Imagination knows no bounds at Germantown’s ARTrageous Brush & Flow. The brainchild of owner Moneek Pines-Elliott, this mixed-media art studio specializes in leading creative and fun painting and crafting experiences for children and adults alike. With guidance from ARTrageous’ expert painters, anyone can tap into their artistic side at one of the studio’s public, private and virtual paint parties. Paint parties are offered in-studio as well as on location thanks to its mobile services, and students can choose among a variety of designs to paint on pre-drawn canvases or tote bags.

Philadelphia native Rikki-Quinn James-Renz took over the reins at AR Workshop Chestnut Hill in 2021 where she oversees the robust calendar of DIY workshops, held nearly every single day. Creatives of any age and skill level can learn to make a variety of crafts, from wood signs to canvas pillows. They even host events for larger groups celebrating birthdays and other special occasions. The next time you host a party, you can brag about the home decor you happened to make yourself.

Opened in November 2020, this West Philly store showcases pieces by more than 50 national and international artists and makers, including works by owner Stefani Threet, all in a modern, minimalist-styled space. The shop was created to highlight the work of artists of color, women and local artists. Here’s where you’ll find tableware, ceramic jewelry, mugs, vases and so much more. Ceramic Concept also hosts artist events and pottery workshops to get the community involved.

Stone and wooden jewelry, artwork, fabric, sculptures and more from Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria are on offer at this Reading Terminal Market stand owned by Watson and Joycelyn Parks. Joycelyn Parks credits De’Village’s longevity — the store opened in 2001 — to her ability to make customers feel welcomed and comfortable. Shop for gifts, like necklaces, dresses, earrings, bags and head scarves.

Expect Lace aims to build customer confidence through an intimate understanding of the female body and offerings that sculpt every shape and size. Owned by Shaw Lewis, the Manayunk boutique carries some of the world’s top intimate brands like Monique Morin, Elomi and Bluebella in sizes from 30A to 42J. Aside from standard bras and panties, Expect Lace stocks sports bras, nipple covers, pajamas and sexual wellness products. In-store services include personalized undergarment fittings and lingerie consultations.

Kelly Monk’s South Philly home decor shop is designed to feel like a sanctuary, and her rich fabrics and textiles can transform any home to feel the same way. Monk comes from a long line of women in her family who taught her that each room holds a purpose and creativity has a home there. A new bedding line (the product of 20 years of research), cozy blankets, colorful throw pillows and luxe table fabrics are among the offerings. Either make an appointment or stop by if you’re in the neighborhood.

Showcasing the goods of owner Chakir Bouchaib’s home country, Little Marrakesh Bazaar is Reading Terminal Market’s destination for Moroccan handcrafted gifts. Bouchaib often travels to Morocco to source the highly detailed goods directly from the artisans themselves. In his booth, find intricately designed home goods (like mirrors, ornate tea glasses and spice jars), leather bags and turquoise jewelry.

Owner and curator Jonene Lee challenges the stuffy art gallery stereotypes to create more meaningful connections between local and international artists and the community at large at this hip, six-room gallery in Chestnut Hill. Visitors can explore (and purchase) artwork from a range of styles, including urban, abstract, pop, contemporary and street art. New exhibitions pop up monthly, and the gallery regularly hosts sip and paint events, live painting sessions, DJ performances, and more.

Keeping the punk spirit of South Street alive is South Street Art Mart, a shop curated by co-owners Nicole Krecicki and Nicole Wiegand. The Art Mart carries works of art, jewelry, zines, pins and so much more from over 180 Philly-area artists and makers. Regardless of the time of year, if you’re looking for a singular present, you’re sure to find it here.

This Northern Liberties lifestyle boutique, co-owned by Dorothea Gamble and Dagmar Mitchell, carries socially responsible, handmade and environmentally conscious products for the home and body, including jewelry, clothing, art and beauty essentials. Gamble and Mitchell have over three decades of retail experience, which means they know a thing or two about curating — and creating — a delightful in-store experience. Trunc carries products from makers with diverse backgrounds, including Latino, Black, Indian, Asian and LGBTQ+.

This fine art photo gallery in Germantown showcases the work of its founder and owner Steven CW Taylor, a software engineer turned photographer. Displayed prints of Taylor’s work immerse visitors and encourages them to interact with the places and people Taylor has photographed during the course of his travels. Aside from the art, visitors can enjoy ambient sounds and scents that accompany the visuals. Each print comes with care instructions and a certificate of authenticity.

What first began as a home and lifestyle shop in 2016 has now blossomed into a boutique hotel, shop, design studio and cafe, founded by Shannon Maldonado. The Queen Village cafe and storefront is stocked with design-forward home goods, jewelry, books and apparel. The hotel is an extension of the shop, with Maldonado’s keen eye for style and design carried through each of the 15 suites. Don’t skip Wim Cafe, located on the ground floor of the hotel, for pastries, salads, sandwiches and coffee.

Formerly known as 3rd Element Spa & Salon, Avenue 215 Self Care Studio is a full-service day spa run by siblings Tomika Branch and Chyvonne Shackelford — a nail specialist and esthetician, respectively. Now with a brand-new space in Germantown, this spa is where you can get a super-detailed and creatively designed manicure, expertly sculpted brows, a massage and facial combo, and lash extensions. The spot also offers facials, massages, manicures and pedicures for men in their exclusive “Club M” area. Avenue 215 also doubles as a hair salon, offering haircuts, braiding, color treatments and more.

Abiyah Naturals is the spot for owner Topia Tessema’s handmade and natural soaps, body oils and moisturizers, which she’s been making for over two decades. Tessema began by giving her body products as gifts before opening this shop after she saw a need for sustainable and eco-friendly body products. Abiyah Naturals’ best sellers are their soaps, but the shop also stocks art, jewelry and apparel from other women and Black-owned merchants.

Sisters (and Philly natives) Nakia and Taahirah Stith are the owners of this Rittenhouse Square apothecary — or “a‘plant’ecary,” as they call it — that sells plant-based remedies in the form of herbs, smoothies, tonics, teas and tinctures. Their goal? To offer up herbs of the liquid, powder or cut variety that relieve customers of what’s bothering them in a judgment-free zone. They were rewarded for their efforts with a 2022 Best of Philly award for best apothecary by Philly mag.

After an allergic reaction forced her to remove her braids the very next day, Kadidja Dosso has been on a mission to supply sustainable, hypoallergenic braiding hair to the masses. Dosso Beauty’s gender-inclusive products range from whipped shea butter and edge control to braiding hair and extensions in multiple lengths. Dosso Beauty opened a Wissahickon salon in 2024, providing hair braiding, crochet hairstyles, natural locs, men’s services and more.

Syreeta Scott — stylist to Jill Scott, Ava DuVernay, Questlove and Janet Jackson — has held court in North Philly for over two decades, pioneering natural styles and in-demand services (locs, braids, two-strand twists, hair color) that definitely require advanced booking. Despite all the A-list love, Scott still feels like the young girl who did hair for the women on the block. The salon also stocks a vegan, in-house hair care collection.

It’s more than just a haircut. Focusing on bespoke grooming and barbering, Ethos GSFM has a refined menu of offerings focusing on attentive service, communication and quality design. Co-founder and CEO Jonathan Jacobs wanted to make the barbershop feel like a luxury destination, hence the wet bar and a library. Guests can book haircuts, beard maintenance and facials in 30-, 60- and 90-minute durations. They also sell moisturizer, beard oil, beard wash and other body products for men — because they deserve pampering, too.

Faheem Alexander has taken the barbering world by storm with his hands of precision. At it for over 25 years now, he’s known for his expertise in styling, hairline correction and beard grooming. Alexander picked up his first pair of clippers at age 16, met Black Thought from The Roots after graduating high school and became the group’s go-to barber — and never looked back. Over the years, Alexander has worked on many celebrity clients, including Tracy Morgan and, of course, Philadelphia’s favorite hip-hop group, The Roots.

Engineer turned mechanic (and author of Girls Auto Clinic Glove Box Guide) Patrice Banks has established the city’s first and only women-run garage. At first, Banks offered car care workshops before opening the women-run auto repair shop in 2017. Next door, she opened Clutch Beauty Bar, serving up manis, pedis and waxing services. Customers can get a free manicure while they wait for their car to be serviced in an environment that couldn’t be farther than the traditional auto shop waiting room.

With three locations in Philadelphia — South Street West, Roxborough and Queen Village — this full-service waxing studio owned by Sarah Joy Mobley is a convenient option for those interested in quick and painless body and facial waxing (using their own formula of wax) as well as lash-brow tints, lash perm-lifts and threading. If guests are really feeling bold, they can try a facial for their bikini area, complete with cleansing and toning, microdermabrasion, a targeted peel and an intensive jelly mask. The Naked Peach has provided more than $42,000 in scholarships to Philadelphians in need.

Owned by Naeemah Johnson, Nbeauty Inc. is a beauty brand and salon that caters to Black American hair styles and textures. From natural hairstyling to braids and extensions, two locations (in West Philadelphia and East Falls) offer full salon services, with stylists who specialize in working with the diverse textures of Black American hair. In addition, an online shop offers a line of skincare products, shampoos and conditioners. They also offer wedding day makeup looks, nail appointments and expert hair coloring.

After struggling with hair loss herself, Alexis Baxter opened a hair restoration center, Philly Hair Healer, within her beauty salon that also focuses on hair health. The salon offers non-surgical hair replacement treatments, hair and scalp analysis and custom services, hair extensions, and wig services. Philly Hair Healer also has a trendy head spa; think of it as a facial for your scalp with a scalp analysis, aromatherapy, scalp detox massage, customized hair treatment and a hair loss tonic. Plus, Baxter has her own line of hair-care products meant to heal the scalp and hair.

With over 23 years of expertise, owner Tish Taylor created a relaxing and tranquil setting in Chestnut Hill to ensure that clients get the best hair-care experience. Ever since she was young, Taylor knew she wanted to be a hairstylist and a business owner. At Posh, which she opened over 15 years ago, she combined her two passions. Stylists work on all textures of hair for blowouts, color and extensions. Services include relaxers, weaves, highlights, special-occasion hair and more.

At QueenStylista’s, Sheena Dickerson has cultivated a friendly, welcoming space exclusively for women. The Ardmore salon is known for its precision cuts, coloring and styling, and the staff has a reputation for building trust with clients in search of a fresh look. Dickerson herself specializes in pixie cuts and stunning color, especially her signature Perfect Platinum Pixies that are sure to impress.

Owner Aundrea Watkins’ experience in natural hair care helped her create a loyal client base when she opened Salon A’Marie in 2020. Her history in the industry dates back to 2007, when she co-owned a salon. Now she creates opportunities for younger stylists following her lead. The hair, brow and lash studio in Manayunk offers vivid colors, braids and styling and also sells body oil, scrubs, hair growth oil and more.

Safi Brown, whose name means “pure and sincere friend” in Arabic, knows what it’s like to struggle with acne. At her facial studio, the licensed skin therapist provides customizable solutions for clients specializing in facials, LED therapy, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and dermaplaning. Essential facials at her Manayunk spa come complete with a skin analysis, deep cleanse, exfoliation, extractions, massage, mask and hydration. All services are custom to your skin and its needs.

Owned by Brandy DaVila, Salon Tenshi’s two locations in Philadelphia and Narberth offer full salon services, including hair styling, coloring and custom oil treatments. DaVila has spent years studying products that work on all hair and skin types. Salon Tenshi accepts clients of all ages. DaVila is also the creator of Tenshi Makeup, a line of all natural and hypo-allergenic beauty products that can be purchased in-store.

This by-appointment-only spot belongs to an industry vet whose 25-plus years in the business include stints with Chanel and Dior. Originally a computer science major, owner Ursula Augustine dropped out of college in the 1980s to explore the world of makeup. Devoted clients swear by Augustine’s award-winning brow sculpting (Allure, Philadelphia magazine), dermaplaning facials, lash lifts and pro makeup. Augustine even hosts makeup lessons so you can learn from the best.

Award-winning body builder and coach Audra Anusionwu takes a holistic approach to wellness. In an East Falls studio, Anusionwu and her team offer personal training, group fitness classes, dance fitness classes and nutritional guidance to help you feel strong and confident. Classes are designed for small groups of all fitness levels, ensuring you get individualized attention and motivation.

Under new ownership — by Megan Kizer since 2023 — this Chestnut Hill boutique dance fitness studio offers in person and online classes for people who love to dance. With offerings like Zumba (a Latin dance-inspired class), HipFit (which features pop and dance music) and Tone Zone (a class meant for toning), DanceFit disguises exercise as fun and makes working out feel like a party. Don’t have any rhythm? No worries: The studio also offers a light on dancing boot camp and kickboxing classes.

Peter Watts opened his gym in 2003 in the heart of the city’s Latino community and has nurtured an all-are-welcome atmosphere. Today, Watts Fitness Studio serves a very diverse clientele. People here, regardless of age or fitness level, are encouraged to participate in a variety of classes, including Zumba, HIIT cardio and weight training, as well as personal-training sessions. Whether you want to lift heavy or just want to move with others, you’ll find something here.

FarmerJawn Agriculture is a mission-driven organic produce farm and garden center owned by James Beard Foundation Leadership Award-winner Christa Barfield (aka FarmerJawn). At this 128-acre West Chester farm, you’ll find locally produced products like syrups, breads and teas, along with plenty of flowers, seeds, herbs, grow kits, and seasonal fruits and veggies. You can sign up for their CSA and get locally grown food while also supporting their mission of donating to local food cupboards and community refrigerators.

Succulents, palms, cacti, monstera plants, hibiscus and snake plants galore line the walls of Foliage, a Chestnut Hill plant shop owned by Yolanda Palmer. The shop stocks large indoor houseplants ranging from six to 12 feet, so if you’re looking to turn your home into a lush oasis, look no further. If you’re an inexperienced plant parent, Palmer will guide you in selecting the perfect plant and teaching you how to care for it. Foliage also offers plant installations, repotting services, weekly plant maintenance and plant sitting.

For over half a century, Paul Beale’s Florist has been the go-to florist for every occasion from proms and weddings to illness and sympathy bouquets. Altermese Beale and her late husband Paul opened the flower shop in 1971 and now their daughters, grandson and great-grandson are at the helm. This family-owned business takes care of all aspects of the floral arrangement process, from ordering the flowers to the floral design.

For mother-and-daughter-duo Cherron Perry-Thomas and Amma Thomas, plants are a means of stress management, self-care and community restoration. Plant-based health and medicine is central to the Thomas’s lives and the shop is an extension of that. On top of houseplants (including low-light and pet-safe plants) and fair trade environmentally friendly wellness products, Plant and People offers books, natural supplements, hemp-based supplies, handcrafted accessories and community workshops throughout the year.

Owned by Diana Baye and Breana Pettiford, Vault + Vine is a greenhouse, a flower shop, a retail shop, a floral designer and a coffee shop. Located in East Falls, the spot sells small and large plants and pots; custom floral arrangements; and other goodies like candles, mugs and jewelry. On the menu is coffee, lattes, smoothies, donuts, muffins, croissants, avocado toast, wraps, salads and more. Whether you’re looking for a plant or just want a tranquil place to grab lunch, Vault + Vine is your spot.

Rock a hoodie or sneakers designed by a local:

• All Caps Studio: Graphic T-shirts, tote bags, crewnecks, and more, founded by Philly fashion photographer-turned-designer Saeed Ferguson.
• Brown Girls Can: Handmade jewelry, apparel and candles, including a signature intention-setting candle, founded by Tanysha Powell.
• Bungee Oblečení: Luxury sneaker and athleisure brand founded by Darrell Alston following his release from prison.
• D’Iyanu: Bold print and African-inspired blazers, pants, scarves, maxi dresses, skirts and jumpsuits.
• Emotional Therapy: Sweatsuits and t-shirts, including popular beanies with bear ears.
• Expressionz By Faith: Custom tunics and hijabs influenced by self-taught seamstress Imani’s passion for helping women channel their inner beauty.
• FreeBird1985: Handmade, locally-crafted jewelry — think chunky bracelets, earrings and sets.
• Philadelphia Printworks: T-shirts, tote bags and more, adorned with modern designs, all through the lens of social justice.
• The Sable Collective: Clothing, jewelry, housewares and wellness products intentionally sourced from BIPOC and women artisans and entrepreneurs.
• Stoop + Stank: Graphic tees inspired by Black pop culture “representing who you are, what you love and what you wanna say.”
• Xavi Row Bespoke: Custom suits and shirts for professionals, grooms and wedding guests, prom goers and red carpet appearances.

• Black Soul Vintage: Black texts, ephemera, art and home goods that inspire an Afro-centric lifestyle, curated by owner Tomarra Sankara-Kilombo.

• Buddha Babe: Luxurious but practical items for babies, toddlers and the home.

• DNA Floral: Flower arrangements prioritizing local resources and sustainable efforts.

• Flourishing Beauty and Wellness: Organic loose leaf tea and skincare products with natural ingredients.
• Gold+Water Co.: Handcrafted soaps, bath items and home decor in small batches, founded by Chartel Findlater.
• Marsh + Mane: Hair, skin, and bath and body products owned by Visit Philadelphia’s own Jenea Robinson.

• Custom Cuisine by Chef C. McCoy: Countertop hydroponic plant systems, organic plant starts and skincare products.