I am a big fan of checking out new businesses and especially those run by LGBTQIA+ people. Why, I hear you ask, why are they any different? Well, the reason is that they already have so much to contend with. Can you imagine people boycotting your business because they know you have a preference for different people to them in relationships? This is the reality for a number of businesses where people are open about their sexuality.
Why do business owners share their sexuality?
It may be that you are reading this and wondering why people are happily sharing their sexuality when starting their business or further down the road knowing that discrimination exists. Personally, I commend them, why on earth should they hide it away?
It is everyone’s personal preference who they share their bed with, who they identify as and who they tell about these preferences. Each to their own is my general opinion, tell people what you want to tell them, let everyone be who they want to be and be who you want to be!
I also encourage my son to feel the same and I truly believe that he is very open to any kind of orientation and choice anyone makes. I don’t think he actually considers it because it is just another set of people in love or another person being whoever they are. That is the way it should be, isn’t it?
LGBTQIA+ Businesses to check out!
Kelzo Jewellery
If you want to wear something unique then Kelzo is definitely the place to shop. The images throughout this article are products of theirs and I have a few myself too. I would definitely recommend them. Check their website here.
The Crop Club
Do you want to grow your own food and would like to see what growing kits are available? Check out The Crop Club, an amazing sustainable variety of gifts and ideas to grow your own food or help someone else to do the same. The owner of the Crop Club identifies as gay and non-binary so go on pop over and have a look at the website and buy something to help you grow food in small spaces!
Our Transitional Life
A blog all about Kelly, Zoey and their children challenging societies misconceptions around gender identity, being transgender and LGBTQIA+ life in general. Zoey shares how life is as a transgender lady in the UK, how coming out to her wife and family was hard and her journey along the way. Kelly shares her feelings and how to her the gender identity isn’t important she loves Zoey for who she is! The lovely couple shares everything so openly and honestly to help others in a similar boat but also to show society that they can accept Zoey for the lady she now is, and probably always should have been. Check out their website here.
Weird Wednesday
If you want to buy bumbags, badges, t-shirts, mugs and lots more both openly sharing your identity or just to support an LGBTQIA+ business then this is definitely the place to be Weird Wednesday is an amazing selection of well-priced goodies that I am positive you will love! Check out the website here.
Queer Little Family
A brilliant blog with lots of lifestyle articles and information about different genders and so much to read. Pop over and check out the website here.
Twoodle co
Twoodle Co is a candle company run by a gay man who shares his passion for amazing scents with amazing candles, gift sets, soaps and much more. Why not check out the range and visit the website here. There is a shop in London too if you fancy a visit to see the products for yourself before buying!
Peggy Dollface
Are you struggling to find your family represented in art, dolls or trinkets? Peggy Dollface designs unique art for perfect representations of you and your family and/or friends! Check out the website here.
The Queer Box
If you are wanting some diversity training for your business then The Queer Box would be perfect as they truly are the experts in this field! It isn’t always easy if you are not in the community yourself to ensure you are training people well to encourage equality in your business or organisation but The Queer Box can do that for you and help you ensure everyone is welcomed and supported in your workplace. Check their website here.
DevelopSafe
Sometimes navigating complaining and resolving issues is made harder by being queer, lesbian, gay or any other orientation. this can be because of other people’s prejudices or because you have been discriminated against so many times you are nervous about it. DevelopSafe is an app which is free to help homeowners solve disputes and look at insurance and legal risks of home improvement work hopefully without having to resort to legal action, but with their support if you do get to that point. Visit the website here.
Dragged around London
Drag shows are becoming more and more popular whatever your gender identity or sexual orientation. To find the best drag performances in London or book one for an event you have planned Dragged around London is the site you need! Check their website here.
Boostology
when looking for gifts there are so many shops available and so much variety but why not add Boostology to your list to browse. It is a lovely store of eco presents that anyone would love and is owned and run by a gay man. Whilst there are lots of gift shops available please do pop and give him your support and visit the website here.
Shared Harmonies
Well-being is so important whether you are gay, bisexual, queer or anything else. Shared Harmonies is a social enterprise helping everyone in the community to sing for well-being! They organise events and are run by a lesbian so aim to be as inclusive as possible. Check out the Shared Harmonies website here.
Do you have any other recommendations? Please do comment below so that I can check out more diverse businesses.
