28 Family-Owned Small Businesses With Cool Products You'll Love

Pet toys, chemotherapy jackets, acne oil, and more — from their fams to yours. 😘

1. Bean & Bean Coffee for super-duper-coffee-lovin' folks and newbies alike! You get coffee, tea, matcha, and brewing products — including subscription options. And?! The small NYC-based shop also offers virtual coffee brewing classes!

Bean & Bean

Korean American mother-daughter duo, Rachel and Jiyoon, founded and run Bean & Bean Coffee! They’re certified Q graders (coffee sommeliers, if ya will) running their family business in NYC and have banded together to not only keep their company thriving throughout COVID-19 but also to facilitate gender equality in the coffee industry. The brand sources from female producers as often as possible and more than half of Bean & Bean coffee comes from women-led or owned coffee farms.

Get the DIY cold brew kit from Bean & Bean Coffee for $54 or try a bag of single-origin coffee for $18+ (available in multiple varieties and quantities).

2. Piglet for anyone who literally lives to be cozy and comfy at home all year-round. The brand has loungewear, bedding, and plenty of gifts to choose from to help you get in some heavy R&R.

Piglet

This woman-owned brand is based in the UK and was started by the founder Jessica Mason and her mom!

Get the sleep spray from Piglet for $21 and the slippers for $59.

3. Afro Picks for — you guessed it! — afro picks with gorgeous, vibrant prints on them for detangling and boosting the volume of your stunning kinks, coils, and curls.

Afro Pick

Afro Picks is a Black-owned business founded by the Walker brothers! The statement they shared on their website really captures everything you need to know about their mission:

“We started Afro Pick with the belief that afro picks don't have to be the same everywhere. Afro picks are more than just an incredible tool to take care of our natural hair. They are also a symbol of the unity and strength in Black culture and have the potential to tell a powerful story. A story about you and about our culture. A story that can change the world. We hope you take this journey with us.” —The Walker Boys

Get the pick from Afro Picks on Amazon for $17.99 or from the Afro Picks website for $17.99.

4. Lapcos is a Korean skincare brand that makes products for the face and the body-ody-ody 😋. It's most beloved for face masks that come in different options like collagen (firming) and wine (sipping! LOL, jk. It'll help maintain elasticity).

amazon.com, LAPCOS

The Lapcos brand is also a family business that likes to give back. So far, the brand has partnered with different organizations to address issues concerning homelessness, workforce disparities, animal needs and rights, and more!

Promising review: "It was like I had a whole new face afterward. I have been taking less than great care of my skin during COVID. It was my birthday, and I decided I wanted to wear makeup, but my face was so dry and patchy, which was not a great canvas. I figured a mask would work and ordered the Honey ones and never used them. When I opened the package, it was so thick and goopy I was unsure, but I’m so glad I tried it anyway because when I took the mask off and rubbed the residue into my skin, I was amazed. My skin looked fresh and dewy and smooth. No flakes, patches, or redness. I added some moisturizer and primer and had the most incredible makeup application ever. My husband kept telling me my skin looked amazing, and I got compliments all night by my family. I’ve ordered two more packs from the same line (different kind, but same maker). Can’t wait to try them. Highly recommend. No irritation and the results lasted for a few days." —Tamara D. Johnson

Get it from LAPCOS on Amazon for $17 (available in 12 different options).

5. B Janecka is a multi-generational labor of love run by a mom, daughter, and grandkiddo quartet! The shop is filled with handmade jewelry, free-form pottery, and all-natural skincare.

Amazon

The B Janecka shop was inspired by a soap-making book gifted to Elizabeth from B that reminded Elizabeth of growing up watching her mom and grandma make soaps by hand. The brand also prides itself on not testing on animals.

Get the muscle and joint rub set from B Janecka on Amazon Handmade for $48 (available in

6. Zach & Zoë makes raw honey produced on a family honey bee farm with all-natural processes to sweeten foods and drinks with zero worries. If you enjoy tea, coffee, or honey-drizzled foods, then yupppp, you're welcome.

Zach and Zoë, amazon.com

Zach & Zoë is a Black-owned business that cares for the bees AND produces the honey themselves on their rural Hunterdon County Farm in New Jersey. The married couple, Summer and Kam, initially began making raw honey in hopes of finding a natural remedy for their son Zach's allergies. Now, they're making the whole world a little sweeter. Zach & Zoë, named after Summer and Kam's son and daughter, has a regular stand in New York City at the Chelsea Market. The brand also made the famous Oprah's Favorite Things List! 🐝 🍯🏆

Heads up: Most reviewers reallllly go up for how well the creamed honey boosts their coffee, tea, and even English muffins. You're welcome. 😋

Promising review: "Tried creamed honey for the first time with this and I have to say I don't know if I'll ever go back to regular liquid honey. The taste was so pure and sweet, and mixed deliciously with butter for English muffins. Can't wait to try them on my homemade biscuits! Thank you for this quality superfood!" —Cali Tran

Get a jar from Zach & Zoë on Amazon for $20 or directly from the Zach & Zoë site for $20.

7. MagicLinen provides a go-to spot for literally any home, clothing, and accessories made of breathable linen material. The Lithuania-based brand sources all of its materials locally and prides itself on top-tier quality.

MagicLinen

The brand even takes custom orders!

Promising review (for apron): "I bought two of these aprons. And then I bought five more as gifts. They are fabulous — stylish, comfortable, great coverage, and easy to get on and off in a jiffy." —Kathryn B.

Promising review (cinnamon waffle blanket): "I am in love with the new bedding I bought from MagicLinen!!! It’s gorgeous even when the bed is not made! I could not be happier! Cinnamon and tan!!!" —Katie F.

Get the apron from MagicLinen for $57 (available in 19 colors and sizes S/M, L/XL, and XXL ) and the cinnamon waffle blanket for $149 (available in two bed sizes).

8. Lillie's of Charleston was created by two sisters Kellye and Tracey who want to share their father and great Aunt Lillie's recipes with the world. If you appreciate savory Southern flavor, then get their sauces and seasonings in your kitchen, stat.

Lillie's of Charleston

The Lillie's of Charleston brand is based in (surprise! surprise!) Charleston, South Carolina. The brand offers different sauces and seasonings in various flavors — including vegan and low-sodium options.

Promising review: "My family loved this sauce. We baked a batch of chicken thighs in the oven and within the last 10 minutes of cooking, we added this sauce. It was a true winner!! Will definitely buy more and recommend. Thanks!" —Nedrah

Get the hot mustard BBQ sauce from Lillie's of Charleston on Amazon for $10.98.

9. Lily Ann Boutique holds your fur baby's newest ragging obsession — and heart-melting dog bandanas.

Lily Ann Boutique / Etsy

This small family-owned business is based in Houston, and also carries adorable coffee cups for humans. The family also runs an Etsy shop with woodwork designs called Melbie Design Woodwork.

Get the giraffe plush from Lily Anne Boutique on Etsy for $11.99 (available in a single pack or a double-pack and in two additional animal styles) and the dog bandana for $14.99 (available for small and large dogs).

10. Me's Way is a Seattle-based brand founded by Chau Tonnu, a first-generation Vietnamese foodie who's decided to put her mom's sauce recipe on all our plates. I think you'll def see things her family's ~Way~ when you try the spicy, savory, and sweet chili sauce!

Me's Way / Instagram / Via instagram.com, Chau Tonnu / Me's Way

Peep this blurb from the Me's Way site that shares more about Tonnu's love for Vietnamese food:

"Chau holds many precious memories of Vietnam — from eating street foods with friends to biking to school under the crimson shades of phượng vĩ (royal poinciana). These memories of her formative years and her experiences as an adult living in the US led her to wanting to share a piece of Vietnamese culture through what she knows best: the language of food... 'Mẹ' means mom in Vietnamese, and as our name sake suggests, this sauce was made using our mother’s recipe, her way."

Get one jar of chili sauce from Me's Way for $25.95+ (available in two sizes)..

11. Colossal Candles run by a husband and wife duo Will and Anjelica – is for folks with a really (and I mean really) big obsession with lighting fragrant candles for ambiance (and keeping bugs away because: important!).

Colossal Candles / Etsy, Colossal Candles

Oh yeah, you deserve to know: THIS THING IS ABOUT 15 INCHES WIDE AND 6 INCHES TALL. LIGHT UP YOUR FRIGGIN' LIFE. Colossal Candles is a Black-owned business based in Georgia too, BTW.

Promising review: "We will be able to use this all summer long. Bought it to use at our outdoor fire pit but have been moving it around our back patio wherever we are and it has kept the bugs away! Seller was wonderful to work with. Shipping issue was quickly resolved. Highly recommend." —Tamarastrouth

Get it from Colossal Candles on Etsy for $94.95 (free shipping).

12. Alphabet Bags is a one-stop shop for all things lifestyle and gift-related, thanks to an assortment of fun statement tote bags but the shop's also full of pins, pouches, wallets, tees, and even gift sets!

Alphabet Bags, Alphabet Society / Etsy

The shop's based in the UK and run by a husband and wife duo, Lucas and Hayley Lepola. Their team also consists of Hayley's sister Amy, and their daughter June Lepola (whose job title is ADORABLY the "motivator." 😍) I also HAVE to tell you that there's a "Sunshine Appreciation Society" T-shirt too and it's equally amazing! ☀️

Get the tote from Alphabet Bags on Etsy for $28.72 or the T-shirt for $31.60 (available in three colors and sizes XS-XXL).

13. Southern Jams and Jelly serves up the most unique (and can't forget to say YUMMY) party favors ever. You have your pick between jam, honey, and hot chocolate favors so there's something for whatever your gifting ~tastes~ are.

Southern Jams and Jelly / Etsy

Southern Jams and Jelly is based in Georgia and run by Michelle "Miss Shelley" Donoho who makes the jam. Her husband Michael Donoho ships out the orders to make sure they get to you safe, sound, and in good time. All orders are shipped to arrive between one to three weeks ahead of your big day so be sure to order accordingly and I hope your wedding is a jammin' good time.

Get the mini jam jar favors from Southern Jams and Jelly on Etsy for $42.80+ (available in quantities of 10 or more and a variety of flavors including strawberries and cream 😋🍓).

14. Chemo Cozy was started by married couple Ellen and Greg Hamilton, to create snuggly fleece jackets with details designed to help people in chemotherapy feel much comfier during the treatments. The jackets have specifically located zipper openings to allow universal access to ports, PICC lines, or forearms by clinical staff without having to disrobe in a cold office.

ChemoCozy / Etsy

Chemo Cozy is based in Pennsylvania and was founded by Ellen and Greg Hamilton after Greg's experience with chemotherapy. Greg has since passed on and may he rest well. Here's a blurb from the brand here:

"Greg was diagnosed with cancer in 2010. His treatment included both radical surgeries and very extensive chemotherapy. Based on Greg’s experience, he and his wife Ellen realized there was a need for more accessible and comfortable clothing specifically designed to provide patients a better experience during their treatments. During chemo, nurses repeatedly need to access the patient’s port, pic-line or forearm, often requiring the person to practically disrobe in order to gain access to the infusion site. Not only was this humiliating, it also added to the pre-existing anxiety related to battling cancer. Greg and Ellen searched for clothing that could help improve his treatment experience but found nothing that was both practical and comfortable. After months of research, they decided to create their own solution and began designing the jackets which are now the signature product for Chemo Cozy. Sadly, Greg passed away in 2015. His vision and mission live on through each infusion patient who has a better experience because of the fleece he and Ellen designed."

Promising review: "Bought this for a family member dealing with chemo. I wasn't sure about their size but Ellen was very helpful. The jacket fit and is much appreciated! Highly recommend this. There aren't a lot of items out there geared toward men going through chemo. So glad I found this!" —Susan

Get the men's jacket on the left from Chemo Cozy on Etsy for $69.99 (available in sizes M–XXL) and the kids jacket on the right for $69.99 (available in sizes 4T–12 US kids).

15. Independence Brothers is the Philly-bred jacket brand founded by two brothers, Scott and Robbie. Their cool FULLY customizable leather jackets are made of 100% full-grain leather. Now, on a scale of one to Fonzie, how excited are ya?

Independence Brothers

And when I say "FULLY customizable" I do mean completely and totally. You'll get to choose every single thing on your jacket including the leather type, color, lining material, and hardware type — all with a custom fit!

Get the jacket from Independence Brothers for $325 (available in lambskin or calfskin and in seven color options).

16. Tal + Bert is one home goods shop — founded by husband and wife team Ray and Val Talbert — brimming with gorgeous cement geode planters, tealight holders, and more to give your space a unique, pretty touch.

talandbert/Etsy

Btw, Tal & Bert is a Black-owned small business based in Pittsburgh. The Talberts started the company in their home studio and have now moved into a storefront!

Promising review: "Fits in the palm of my hand, perfect to set on my nightstand. I love having the option of placing a small candle or plant inside. The amethyst is so gorgeous, thank you!" —Alyssa Ann

Get the tealight holder/planter from Tal & Bert on Etsy for $32+ (also available with plant or candle).

17. Blume churns out skincare and self-care products designed to support women and girls and destigmatize regular experiences like acne, puberty, periods, and sex education.

Blume

The Blume brand was founded by two South Asian sisters, Taran and Bunny, who have a passion for supporting girls and women. You'll find gentle skincare products (think acne oil and face wash) but the brand also sells a First Period Starter Kit, a self-care bundle, and more.

Get the face wash from Blume for $16.

18. Best South BBQ makes a multipurpose grilling rack for any carnivores who plan to cook up as much meat as possible — and wanna do it fast. Flip it on one side to cook up to 36 drumsticks at a time and the other side for three racks of ribs. 🤤🍗

Best South BBQ / The Grommet

Best South BBQ was started by husband and wife duo John and Donna Irwin who share a passion for perfectly grilled chicken wings.

Promising review: "This rack is so easy to use and oh my — the chicken wings came out very nice. A little crisp but not too much. I heated up my gas grill on high. Put the wings on the rack and onto the grill turning down to medium and waited 12–14 minutes and did another minute or 2 on high and they were done to perfection! Amazing. I am sending them as gifts now!" —Wendy

Get the BBQ rack from Best South BBQ on The Grommet for $45.

19. Cleaning Studio founded by married couple Claudia and Angelo Zimmermann — sells gentle, eco-friendly cleaning products meant to keep your space spic-n-span.

Cleaning Studio, Cleaning Studio / Etsy

A blurb from the brand lies ahead:

"Shopping for effective and non-toxic cleaners is simply overwhelming and you shouldn't risk harmful chemicals and damaged finishes by using the wrong cleaning products. At Cleaning Studio, we've professionally formulated all Natural & Zero-Waste Cleaners that really work so you don't have to worry about any of the toxins in other brands. After +5,000 happy customers, we're confident that your Clean & Detoxified Space will help you feel refreshed and productive."

Get the microfiber cloth set from Cleaning Studio on Etsy for $19.99+ (available in a six-pack or higher quantities).

20. OKcollective Candle Co., founded by wife-and-wife duo Jessi and Kelli, offers a large selection of handmade soy candles with excellent names ("Birch Please" has my heart, tbh) and even better scents.

OKcollective Candle Co., OKcollective Candle

The shop, if you can't tell by the name, is based in Oklahoma City. You'll also find soap and candle-related items like wax melts and matches on its site. Btw, Jessi and Kelli also run an amazing gift shop called Common Dear, which carries more home goods, accessories, and paper goods.

Get the candle from OK Collective Candle Co. for $18.

21. With The Grain Weddings makes custom wedding items so you have memorable favors, bridal party gifts, and more personalized things that folks will actually factually use after the wedding. 😘

With The Grain / Etsy

With The Grain Weddings is owned and operated by married couple Nathan and Pam Ridgely and their adorable twin babies in southwest Ohio. Peep this sweet blurb from Nathan Ridgely ahead:

"We hope you will let us be a part of your special day. And please let us know if you have any ideas that we don't offer yet (we LOVE custom work!). Congratulations on your engagement. We hope to hear from you soon!"

Get the bottle openers from With The Grain Weddings on Etsy for $30 (available in quantities of five or more) or the custom engraved cork for $50+ (available in quantities of 10 or more).

22. Bella Skin Beauty is run by mother-daughter duo Diana and Alex who aim to share their love of wellness and skincare through beauty products with natural, non-toxic ingredients.

Bella Skin Beauty

You'll find a lineup of unique items for the skin including their fan-favorite watermelon underarm toner and turmeric guava cleanser.

Get the watermelon underarm toner from Bella Skin Beauty for $25 (available for pre-order and next batch ships out in August) or the cleanser for $69.

23. The McBride Sisters ensure it's always wine-o-clock, thanks to their collection of wines. But that isn't all — the brand also treats taste buds to spritzers for folks who want a lil' bubbly sans the champagne.

Kayla Boyd / BuzzFeed, Target, McBride Sisters

The McBride Sisters is a Black and woman-owned brand founded by (surprise surprise!) the actual factual McBride sisters. They grew up not even knowing each other — one grew up in New Zealand, while one was raised in California — and found each other in their late teens. They've now turned their shared love for wine-making into a successful family business.

Promising review: "I’m a sweet-wine drinker but I was willing to give this flavor a shot. I really enjoyed the taste. It wasn’t too dry or bitter. It left me in a great state of mind and feeling so relaxed. I will buy the rosé again and continue to gift it to friends." —OsMom

Get the bottle from McBride Sisters on Target for $18.99 or the can for $6.99.

24. Lani and Kei is an adorable bralette boutique that could have ya waving ta-ta (🤣 get it?) to the big box brands you usually score yours from. Also, it's run by a married couple who named the brand after their dog, Keilani. Isn't that the sweetest? 🐶💝

Lani and Kei / Etsy

Promising review: "Such a fantastic find! You cannot beat the quality, fit, look, and feel combined with an absolute steal of a price tag. I purchased four off the bat and am so happy with them that I'm ordering one per each remaining color — because, honestly you do not come across this kind of all around awesomeness in bralettes often and I am not going to miss out." —Ashe Scites

Get the bralettes from Lani and Kei on Etsy for $8.09 (available in sizes S/M and S/L and in nine colors).

25. Browndages is a children's brand where you'll find comfy bandages to address the boo-boos that you and the kiddo in your life may experience — while also matching skin tones from fair to deep, rich brown.

Browndages

The Black-owned brand carries bandages, First-Aid kits, healing balm, graphic pajamas, storybooks, and more!

Get the Care Package Bundle from Browndages for $35 or try a single assorted bandages pack for $3.99.

26. Ecovibe is the wave if you're into plants, plant accessories, and eco-friendly home decor. It's def an "omg, what do I buy first?" kinda situation because everything looks soo chic and intriguing. 😍

Ecovibe

This Black-owned brand is run by the cool marrieds, Leonard and Andrea Allen, who created the shop with the intent to obviously share amazing product designs but in a sustainable, environmentally-conscious way. The shop also donates 1% of all its online sales to local nonprofit 1% For The Planet members to further support environmental causes.

Get the geo pillow from Ecovibe for $58 and the cement planter for $12.

27. Yoseka Stationery provides a fun landing spot for folks who'll always love writing and drawing (it me! 😍). Here, you'll find stationery, writing utensils, and more — all thoughtfully curated by the hubby and wife team Neil and Daisy to share their love for stationery inspired by their Taiwanese culture.

Yoseka Stationery

Neil and Daisy's shop is based in Brooklyn. Check out this story behind the brand from Neil:

"Growing up in Taiwan, my parents' stationery store was my playground and it was always easy for me to access any notebooks, pens, and pencils available in the store whenever I needed them. About 10 years ago, I moved to America, and it didn't take me long to realize how lucky I was to have grown up surrounded by all the supplies I needed to encourage my daily creativity. During school breaks, I'd always stock up on stationery supplies whenever I went back to Taiwan and start the semester fresh. It was a ritual of mine.

Stationery has always been special for me and I think the same is true for anyone who grew up in Asia. Everyone has their own unique pencil case packed with a never-ending rotation of colorful and cute pens, highlighters, pencils, erasers, and stickies. I believe that for me, and all of my friends growing up in Taiwan, our stationery was an extension of ourselves and who we were as students, creators and thinkers."

Get the stationery set with the poppy flowers from Yoseka Stationery for $16 and the set with the goat stickers for $7.

28. 2 4 1 Cosmetics is run by Eritrean twin sisters Feven and Helena who make loads of wearable hypoallergenic makeup. The products are designed for everyday wear and special occasions — to enhance (not cover up!) your beauty, per the brand's mission.

241 Cosmetics

2 4 1 Cosmetics made Oprah's Favorite Things List too, btw! 🏆

Promising review: "Goes on smooth, nonsticky, producing a full and lustrous shine that STAYS!!" —Jennifer N.

Get the eyeliner from 2 4 1 Cosmetics for $17.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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