In the Bay Area, the holiday shopping season is in full swing. However, many stores are struggling to stay in business as a result of the epidemic and the growth of online shopping.
A group of Black business entrepreneurs in Oakland on Sunday emphasized the need for bravery and creativity to succeed in the current difficult economic climate.
At the 7th annual Black Sunday Holiday Shopping Experience pop-up event for local African American business owners, guests were greeted by a Black Santa Claus. But just because the companies weren’t big doesn’t imply they were inexperienced, says Cathy Adams, president of the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce, which is organizing the event.
“You’ve got smaller businesses like this that are not in a commercial building, and they’ve been in business for, like, twenty years!” she replied.
The decorator for the event was one of them. Beginning with basic balloon animals, Cathyfara Brown’s business now produces balloon masterpieces that are much sought-after for holiday parties.
“I just wanted to make sure that I learned correctly, but I was never intimidated,” Brown stated. And this business has simply given me the confidence that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. And it’s simply helped me go farther than I ever imagined I could.”
When inspiration whispered in Della Edwards’ ear, she dared to listen.
“And this concept suggested covering an apple cider bottle with a garment. And I ask myself, “What?” Edwards stated.
But that gave rise to her “Chic Champagne Coats,” a chic embellishment that resembles a tuxedo or party dress and fits over the neck of a bottle to provide a unique present.
“So, I went to Walmart,” stated Edwards, “bought a hundred bottles of apple cider and started playing with these dresses and then started selling them in the grocery store parking lot.”
And as the epidemic started to hamper sales, “New Orleans Bill” Washington was selling his spicy potato salad in big-box retailers. Instead, he switched to making and selling seasoning kits.
“They just add a little mayonnaise and potatoes to the package. That’s it. I’ve been selling my creole potato salad to the retailers for almost 25 years, and they have it,” Washington remarked.
Making it in the ever-evolving marketplace of today requires brains, guts, and inventiveness. And it has historically been a strength of the Black community, according to business coach and strategist Dr. Lynette McElhaney.
“Over time, I think some people have lost the confidence,” she stated. “Getting a college degree and working for someone else has been a major drive. However, we see that African Americans are generating entrepreneurs on a daily basis, and this is one of the ways we can weather economic downturns.”
Those that are unable to quickly adapt will likely not survive in the rapidly evolving business environment, which is similar to the dinosaurs of old. However, even in this economy, African Americans are fast to respond when opportunity presents itself since they have always had to rely on their own initiative and resourcefulness.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.