Two influential Black women, India Rose and Angella Henry, have joined forces to launch a premier luxury concierge service in the exclusive destination of Martha’s Vineyard. Named ‘The Inner Circle,’ this Black-owned venture aims to provide members with unparalleled access, personalized service, and a deep connection to the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Insider Access and Curated Experiences
Rose, a long-time resident, real estate agent, and founder of the Martha’s Vineyard Black Owned Business Directory, partnered with Henry, a hospitality leader and owner of the historic Dragonfly House. Their combined expertise and insider knowledge of the island inspired them to formalize their services. ‘Angella and I are great friends, and over the last couple of years, we have had a lot of folks who were reaching out to both of us in similar capacities,’ Rose shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE. ‘It was time to formalize it.’
The Inner Circle makes it seamless for clients to plan and execute curated celebrations, vacations, corporate events, and more. Access to the service is strictly application- and invitation-only, ensuring an exclusive experience for its members. Services are available year-round, with membership packages ranging from seasonal to annual commitments.
Beyond the Island: White-Glove Support
The benefits of The Inner Circle extend beyond Martha’s Vineyard. Henry and Rose offer white-glove support to their members, assisting them wherever life or leisure takes them. ‘We bring our members into spaces and moments that many simply can’t access on their own,’ Henry stated. ‘It’s about legacy, impact, leisure, and unforgettable memories.’
Prioritizing Black and Women-Owned Vendors
As women deeply connected to Martha’s Vineyard, Rose and Henry are keenly aware of the challenges faced by Black-owned businesses in a seasonal economy. They are making it a priority to feature and drive Black spending towards Black- and women-owned vendors within The Inner Circle’s network. ‘Driving and prioritizing Black spending dollars to Black-owned businesses helps to ensure that these businesses are still here when people come back the following year,’ Rose emphasized. ‘It’s a priority for me to keep the legacy of Black people, Black businesses, and Black travelers alive.’
The Inner Circle officially launched over Labor Day weekend at the Mariposa Museum in Oak Bluffs. For those interested in inquiring about membership, further details can be found on their website.
What do you think of this new luxury concierge service? How important is it to support Black and women-owned businesses in exclusive communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!