Supporting LGBTQ+ small businesses this festive season

The holiday season is a time of giving, joy, and celebration. What better way to spread cheer than by supporting LGBTQ+ small businesses? We’ve put together a list of diverse and inclusive businesses from the LGBTQ+ community that you can support during the festive period. Whether it’s a gift for a loved one or a contribution to a cause, by shopping with these queer-owned businesses, you can make a direct impact on their success and help create a more inclusive economy.

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1. Queer Candle Co.

Queer Candle Co is a small business that creates hand-poured soy candles with a focus on queer representation and unique scents. Their candles not only provide a warm and inviting ambiance but also serve as a symbol of inclusivity and celebration of queer identity. With a diverse range of scents and eye-catching designs, Queer Candle Co offers a special way to bring LGBTQ+ pride and empowerment into any space.

2. Wildfang

Not just a clothing brand, Wildfang is a movement that challenges the confines of gender norms. They offer a wide range of gender-neutral and stylish fashion options for all, encouraging people from across the gender spectrum to embrace their identity and express themselves authentically.

3. Fluide

Fluide is a vibrant, queer-owned makeup brand that celebrates and embraces all gender expressions. Their mission is to create a diverse and inclusive beauty community. They offer a wide range of inclusive and high-quality makeup products, encouraging self-expression, and empowering people to look and feel their best.

4. Otherwild

Queer-owned gift shop Otherwild offers a curated selection of art, homeware, jewelry, and more. They prioritize featuring items created by LGBTQ+ artists and designers, amplifying queer creativity, and capturing the essence of the LGBTQ+ community in their offerings. Otherwild is a go-to destination for those seeking one-of-a-kind and meaningful pieces.

5. Haus of Swag

Haus of Swag is a queer-owned brand that designs and sells statement apparel and accessories celebrating Black LGBTQ+ culture. With bold and vibrant designs, they embrace the power of representation, allowing the community to showcase their identity and pride through fashion. Haus of Swag's creations celebrate the intersectionality of race, queerness, and individuality.

6. Little Gay Shop

Online store Little Gay Shop features a diverse range of LGBTQ+ products, including clothing, home decor, and self-care items. With a commitment to supporting queer creators and businesses, they provide a platform for LGBTQ+ artists and designers to showcase their talent and share their stories. Every purchase from Little Gay Shop supports both the LGBTQ+ community and the independent artists behind the products.

These businesses not only offer exceptional products but also contribute to creating a more inclusive world where everyone can feel seen, represented, and celebrated. Supporting them enables the LGBTQ+ community to thrive and grow. These are just a few examples, and there are many more incredible LGBTQ+ businesses out there waiting to be discovered and supported.

Beyond rallying behind small businesses, you can also support the LGBTQ+ employees in your own business. myGwork’s digital guide, Supporting LGBTQ+ Employees During Festive Periods Effectively provides the tools you need to ensure your celebrations encourage genuine belonging rather than exclusion. Download this guide below!