Shop local for holiday gifts and treats at these Black-owned Knoxville businesses

Angela Dennis, Knoxville News Sentinel
Literature for sale at The Bottom, 2340 E. Magnolia Ave. in Knoxville
Literature for sale at The Bottom, 2340 E. Magnolia Ave. in Knoxville

The hunt for Christmas gifts is in its final days. If you prefer shopping small, local and conscientiously, this guide is just for you.

These businesses led by Black entrepreneurs present a diverse array of items and services but also play a role in nurturing spaces and economic prosperity for the next generation of business owners in Knoxville.

Whether you're after skin or haircare products, good eats, or cool experiences, you can explore these Black-owned businesses to support not only during the holiday season but into 2024.

Ink & Oil Tattoo and Massage

As the needle meets the ink and skilled hands work their magic, this business that opened in 2021 owned by Genesis Howard and Craig Carnes crafts an experience centered on wellness and self-expression. The shop offers holiday gift certificates that can be used toward services such as hot stone therapy, deep tissue and prenatal massage, and lymphatic drainage. Tattoo services include portraits, coverups, black and gray realism, and traditional. The shop is at 3103 Alcoa Highway and can be reached at 865-474-9121. Visit the website at theinkandoil.com.

Mer Mer's Bakery

Chandra Taylor, owner of Mer Mer’s Bakery on North Gay Street, decorates cupcakes.
Chandra Taylor, owner of Mer Mer’s Bakery on North Gay Street, decorates cupcakes.

At Mer Mer's Bakery, everything is crafted in the store by owner Chandra Taylor. The bakery offers cakes, cupcakes, cookies and cinnamon buns. Mer Mer's Bakery has gained recognition for its exceptional pound cake and innovative designs, establishing itself as a go-to for nearly 30 years - and perhaps the perfect place to pick up treats for your holiday party. The bakery is at 617 N. Gay St. in downtown Knoxville. Head to mermersbakery.com for more.

Coulis Beard Company

Shawnry Baker of Coulis Beard Company
Shawnry Baker of Coulis Beard Company

In the midst of a personal journey marked by the realization that his hair was taking a different course, Shawnry Baker founded of Coulis Beard Company. Determined to bridge the gap between facial hair growth and proper care, he delved into the world of beard products. Coulis Beard Company offers beard oils, balms and butters for men that can be used for women's haircare as well. Visit the website coulisbeardco.com to purchase products, which are also sold at the Market Square Farmers Market and at Frog Juice Kombucha.

The Bottom Bookstore

Dive into the world of literature with a touch of cultural vibrancy! The Bottom's Black-owned bookstore in East Knoxville stocks novels, inspiring memoirs by Black literary legends and modern authors, and more. The store founded by Enkeshi Thom El-Amin has a curated selection with something different for every visit and staff that will guide you. Book It at The Bottom is a monthly subscription program for different age groups. The Bottom Bookstore is at 2340 E. Magnolia Ave. Purchases also can be made online at thebottomknox.com.

Harper's Naturals

Tanika Harper is the creator of the Harper's Naturals skin care line.
Tanika Harper is the creator of the Harper's Naturals skin care line.

In 2014, after being diagnosed with an auto-immune disease, Knoxville native Tanika Harper founded Harper's Naturals, a line of natural skin and body care products that work for anyone. Her top-rated bug spray and deodorant are a hit at downtown’s Mast General Store, and Harper's Naturals offers a whole line of products for your skin and body care needs, as well as candles, haircare products and beard oil for men. Visit harpersnaturals.com to purchase items online.

Afromermaid Skincare

Afromermaid Skincare owner Sybil Bailey
Afromermaid Skincare owner Sybil Bailey

Looking for the perfect skincare regimen? Visit owner and esthetician Sybil Bailey at Afromermaid Skincare at 4928 Homberg Drive. When it was founded, Bailey’s mission was to make skincare accessible to as many people as possible, from all walks of life. The clinic offers a range of services specializing in facials, chemical peels, body treatments and skin exfoliation. Holiday gift certificates are available.

Angela Dennis is the Knox News race, justice and equity reporter. Email angela.dennis@knoxnews.com. X formerly called Twitter @AngeladWrites. Instagram @angeladenniswrites. Facebook at Angela Dennis Journalist.

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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knoxville Black-owned businesses to shop for the holidays

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