She Did That. Holiday Bazaar Empowers Black Entrepreneurs

Get ready for a holiday shopping experience with purpose! The ‘She Did That.’ Holiday Bazaar is back for its ninth year, transforming Industry City in Brooklyn into a vibrant marketplace dedicated to celebrating and supporting Black entrepreneurs. Founder Renae Bluitt calls it “the most important work that I’ve done in my entire career.”

From a Small Shop to a Thriving Ecosystem

What began with fewer than 10 vendors in a Harlem beauty shop has blossomed into New York City’s premier holiday marketplace for Black women founders. This year, thanks to a significant partnership, it also proudly includes Black men entrepreneurs. The event, happening on December 6th, is all about “celebrating Black entrepreneurship, building community, and shopping with purpose.”

Bluitt’s journey started with a deep admiration for the resilience and creativity of Black women business owners, especially those operating with limited resources. This inspiration led her to create platforms like the ‘In Her Shoes’ blog and the ‘She Did That.’ documentary, ultimately building a supportive ecosystem.

Addressing Economic Challenges with Intentional Commerce

In a year marked by economic challenges like inflation and funding difficulties, the Holiday Bazaar’s mission is more crucial than ever. Bluitt emphasizes that the event provides a fundamental human need: to be seen. “At its core, the Holiday Bazaar is offering one of the most fundamental human needs, which is to be seen,” she shared. “As much as this is a shopping event, it’s also a marketing platform for small businesses.”

With a growing call for consumers to exclusively support Black-owned brands during the holidays, the Bazaar offers a tangible way to take action. “The Holiday Bazaar is giving people really no excuses,” Bluitt stated. “Posting on social is great, but then what is the action behind it?” Shoppers can expect to find over 60 Black-owned brands offering everything from beauty and wellness to fashion and home goods.

Featured Vendors and Community Partnerships

This year’s vendor lineup is impressive, featuring standout brands like Born to Roam (known for Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ tour hats), Zuri Rose (a children’s brand), The Black Man Can (partnering for the ‘He Did That.’ Marketplace), and apparel brand Never Settle. Food favorites such as The Crabby Shack, BCake NY, and Aunts et Uncles will also be present.

The ‘He Did That.’ Marketplace, introduced last year in partnership with The Black Man Can, returns to highlight Black men-owned brands, a response to consistent requests from the community. Bluitt stresses the importance of unity: “Now, more than ever, we need to lock arms with each other… and make sure we’re keeping each other lifted so that we can just stay above water.”

Adding another layer of community support, the Bazaar is partnering with One Love Community Fridge, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting food insecurity in Brooklyn. Attendees can contribute to this vital mission on-site.

A Vision for the Future

Beyond the shopping and community building, Bluitt hopes guests leave with joy and hope. “That room, for me, is filled with joy from the moment the merchants come in,” she described. “The room is buzzing. The music is taking over the space, there’s laughter.” In an increasingly isolated world, the event offers a much-needed connection.

Bluitt’s vision for the future includes expanding the Bazaar into a two-day event with mentorship programs and funding opportunities, potentially involving celebrity entrepreneurs. A limited-edition shopping tote, designed in collaboration with Maya Winston, is also available for purchase.