Shopping with Storycatchers Theatre
In the spirit of Black History Month, Storycatchers staff and youth compiled a list of 28+ Black-owned businesses that value representation and community. We’re celebrating brick and mortar options for Chicago locals and great online shops for our out-of-town followers.
Happy Black History Month and happy shopping!
Purchase from Storycatchers’ Ensemble Members
Our ‘Shop Black-Owned with Storycatchers’ list starts with businesses founded and owned by current ensemble members and alumni of our Changing Voices post-release program.
Merch Chicago
Founded by a DA, a Changing Voices alum from the Saucy CV Ensemble, Merch Chicago is a streetwear brand dedicated to the city. Its online store is full of screen-printed designs showing off love for Chicagoans (regardless of their 312 or 773 area code 😀).
The Ingenious Brand
Founded by Leeko, also from the Saucy CV Ensemble, The Ingenious Brand is an Instagram-only store (for the time being) with the mission of making clothing that looks and feels original and inventive. Make sure to send him a selfie after you receive your purchase!
Lived Through Hell
This collection of poetry by a current member of Changing Voices, Zarria, “is devoted to all those who feel alone. If you’ve ever faced rape, abandonment, betrayal, or heartbreak – You are not alone. Live to tell your story.”
Our Favorite Chicago and Online Shops
Below are Black-owned businesses recommended by Storycatchers staff and youth. Each recommendation represents our values of community, relationship building, and healing through our stories.
Clozet Essentials
Afrohemien
Silver Room
Sultry Steps
Englewood Branded
Mimi’s Tot Closet
Kiwi’s Boutique
Found Objects
Bronzeville Boutique
Jojayden
The Work Spot
Kido
An Orange Moon
Semicolon Bookstore & Gallery
Bundles of Joy
Hyde Park Hair Salon
Bettye O Day Spa
Jordan’s Beauty Supply
TGIN
CurlMix
Iris Botanicals
Forty Acres Fresh Market
Batter and Berries
Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat
Two Fish Crab Shack
Brown Sugar Bakery
Funkytown Brewery
The Hot Dog Box
Shopping cart not full yet?
We hope to see you at our favorite spots or to catch you rocking some of these amazing products the next time you’re a Storycatchers Theatre audience member. If you’re still craving more Black excellence, be sure to check out these lists of businesses and restaurants:
The Black Parade Route
Black People Eats
Black-Owned Chicago
Supporting Black-Owned for Parents