By Kaleigh Fasanella
While Pride month may be coming to a close soon, it's always a good time to support LGBTQIA+ businesses. From cannabis-infused beverages to makeup and meal kits, the queer community just knows what the people need. With that in mind, we rounded up some awesome queer-owned brands to support — no matter the time of year. Keep scrolling for all the details and be prepared to do some shopping.
Cann
Luke Anderson and Jake Bullock launched Cann, a THC-infused beverage startup, in 2019. Each “Cann” contains five natural ingredients — sparkling water combined with fresh juice, all-natural herbal flavoring, 100% organic Mexican agave, and 2 milligrams of premium THC and CBD distillate. Anderson and Bullock refer to the alcoholic bev-alternative as a “social tonic,” which we freaking love. Also, the packaging is hella cute. Flavors include Pineapple Jalapeño, Ginger Lemongrass, Grapefruit Rosemary, and Lemon Lavender. Definitely check out their seasonal bundles and follow them now on @drinkcann.
Boy Smells
Since partners and fashion veterans Matthew Herman and David Kien founded Boys Smells in their Los Angeles kitchen in 2015, the brand has become massive. Innovative scents like Cinderose, a blend of rose and smoke, and Gardener, an amalgamation of tomato vine and honeysuckle, earned Boy Smells a cult following and collaborations with the likes of country queen Kacey Musgraves. The candle brand now offers an array of delicious home fragrances and perfumes. Follow them now on boy_smells.
Omsòm
Sisters Vanessa and Kim Pham founded Omsòm (a phrase meaning raucous, riotous, or unruly) with the idea of delivering bold Asian flavors to American homes sans the hassle of finding the right ingredients. For the launch in 2020, the Asian meal starter kit brand tapped chefs at the helm of three of NYC’s trendiest restaurants to create the inaugural sampler pack. Since the debut, Omsòm has been featured on Vogue, The New York Times, and more. Check them out to bring some loud flavors to your table and follow them now on @omsom.
Deon Libra
Deon Libra is a queer and Black-owned wellness and beauty company that defines itself as an “adaptogenic stress care brand formulated to support the body’s natural ability to handle stress and activate lasting healthy skin.” Following the death of her father, Devin McGhee Kirkland discovered adaptogens to help manage her stress symptoms. With the help of her wife Brit, Deon Libra was born in 2022. Adaptogens, the star ingredient in their skincare products and elixirs, are non-psychedelic mushrooms and herbs that help your body regulate your cortisol levels and relieve stress. The award-winning lineup includes the Unbothered Elixir, Smoove Exfoliating Cleanser and Big Up Body Glaze. Follow them now on @deonlibra.
KimChi Chic Beauty
KimChi Chic Beauty was dreamt into existence by iconic drag queen and television personality Kim Chi — the first Korean-American contestant to appear on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in the show’s eighth season. In 2019, Kim Chi developed her own cosmetics line in collaboration with Bespoke Beauty Brands by NYX Cosmetics founder Toni Ko. The range includes fabulous lip treatments, lashes, eye palettes, and more, with 2% of proceeds donated to The Trevor Product to support LGBTQIA+ mental health and suicide prevention. Follow them now on @kimchichicbeauty.
Bokksu
When living in Japan, Bokksu founder Danny Taing became enamored with the country’s local snacks — so much so that when he returned home, he decided to bring the delicious delicacies Stateside in the form of a subscription box that allows people to try a variety of Japanese treats. The unique subscription box features an array of over 20+ Japan-exclusive snacks, candies, and teas, all of which are sourced directly from centuries-old family-owned businesses. Additionally, each box comes with a thorough guide that details the different products’ origin, flavor profile, and allergens. Oh, and bonus: They also offer free shipping on all orders! Follow them now @bokksu.
Nostalgia Coffee Roasters
Nostalgia Coffee Roasters is a lesbian-owned, women-led small business founded by Taylor Fields in 2020 amid the pandemic. The award-winning California-based brand sells sustainable, ethically-made (and beautifully packaged!) coffee beans, and donates 5% of its revenue back to its producers each year. On top of that, they use 50% less fuel during their roasting process and make fully compostable brew bags for your coffee. And to top it all off, they ship globally! Follow them now @nostalgiaroasters.
Cocofloss
Cocofloss is a now-renowned dental care brand run by Chinese-American sisters, Chrystle and Cat Cu. Beloved by dentists, the brand offers an enhanced flossing experience compared to standard floss by utilizing over 500 interwoven filaments to increase surface area, thereby effectively eliminating plaque and debris from between teeth and gums. Unlike conventional floss, which can be too smooth and flat, Cocofloss's innovative design aids in preventing plaque buildup and the proliferation of bacteria that can cause cavities. Plus, the fan-favorite floss comes in a variety of yummy flavors, like Cara Cara Orange, Strawberry, and even Confetti Cake. In addition to floss, the brand also offers a whitening toothpaste and an artfully made toothbrush. Follow them now @getcocofloss.