The overwhelming response was surprise and astonishment from the more than 75 participants in the Black Business Tour held in downtown Wichita on Sat., Nov. 23.
Most of the participants admitted not knowing about only one or two of the businesses. Despite their knowledge, they said the tour provided the kick-start they needed to visit the businesses they knew, as well as those they didn’t know, and the additional motivation needed to open their wallets and support the businesses with their dollars.
The day kicked off with a pre-tour champagne brunch on the top floor and deck of the IMA office in downtown Wichita, where presentations were made by the event promoters and Wayne Bell, local district director for the U.S. Small Business Administration. There were also drawings for prizes.
Participants then departed by bus or their private car to visit the eight participating businesses. Here are the businesses, along with a brief description of their product offerings and location.
2 Beatz Boutique, 320 S. Market, is a trendy women’s fashion and accessory shop for sizes from small to 3x. The selection was great, unique and affordable.
Lola Candle Co., 1029 W. Douglas Ave., Suite 101, is an eco-luxury home fragrance shop with a DIY candle bar. Create a custom scent of your own and/or bring your crew for a candle-making event.
The BlackPrint ICT, 104 N. St. Francis, Suite A, is a retail shop featuring a curated collection of Black-produced products. Many, but not all, of the products are made by Wichita creatives.
Left on Read, 612 E. Douglas Ave, Suite 200. Head down the alley to this brand-new bookstore that held its soft open on the day of the tour. Their diverse collection of books includes a large group offering from Black authors.
Sugaring with Love, 612 E. Douglas Ave., Suite E. This warm spa-like environment features body sugaring, a unique trend in hair removal for both men and women. They promise it doesn’t hurt, and upper lips and chins are their most requested areas.
Bridge + Grace Studios, 612 E. Douglas, Suite G, is a well-equipped, creative studio space designed for rent to entrepreneurs, businesses and influencers who need production space. Rent this space to help elevate your brand.
Wichita Cheesecake Company, 801 E. Douglas Ave., Suite 110. At 10 years old, this source for a delectable assortment of cheesecakes by the slice or whole was the granddaddy of the tour, having proven its staying power with a great product.
Greater Common Grounds Coffee & Co., 922 E. Douglas Ave., is less than a year old and already developing a cult following. In addition to coffee, they have a nice lite menu with crepes and charcuterie boards, along with live entertainment at night.
This tour was such a great success that the planning committee has plans to sponsor another one in the spring. Stay tuned.
Amazing. I had no idea