We’re coming to the end of Pride Month, a month that is usually a time when large corporations attempt to cash-in on the “pink pound,” a phrase used to describe the purchasing power of the LGBTQ+ community. Brands will sell Pride themed products and merchandise, and seemingly make a big stance of supporting LGBTQ+ people and really push themselves as allies. However, it isn’t very often these businesses extend their allyship beyond the month of June, and it isn’t uncommon for businesses to keep their profits from Pride products for themselves, rather than donating them to LGBTQ+ charities.
So, instead of allowing big brands to profit off Pride this year, why not support a small business that truly has LGBTQ+ people at its heart instead?
Get started with our suggestions!
HellomynameisWednesday
Wednesday Holmes is an illustrator and activist running a shop bursting with colourful designs to encourage self expression and offer strength to those who may be struggling. Their designs are bright and so detailed, and products range from hoodies to water bottles, from cushions to stickers. As a non-binary lesbian, Wednesday uses their artistic skills to connect with the LGBTQ+ community and spread important messages about equality and inclusion. So, whether you’re a queer person looking for a sweatshirt to make you feel powerful, or you want some vibrant wall art to give you a boost on bad days, check out Wednesday Holmes’ store!
Flaming Crap
Merchandise with a satire twist your thing? Check out Flaming Crap. This LGBT-owned home business creates politically charged and pop culture inspired products, and some of them are pretty iconic! They sell apparel and greeting cards, but they are most known for their candles. Their sweet candy fragranced Trans Lives Matter candle was created to honour Transgender Day of Remembrance and in conjunction with Mermaids, a charity supporting trans youth. 50% of all profits from the candle are donated to Mermaids.
KelZo Jewellery
With KelZo Jewellery, you can show your Pride all year round. Founded by Kelly and Zoey, an LGBTQ+ couple who also run a blog sharing their journey as a transgender family, KelZo sells polymer clay earrings, necklaces, badges and bracelets, all handmade and with a no waste policy, as all clay used for the designs is used and leftovers are recycled. They have an amazing Pride Collection of jewellery and keyrings, 10% of the profits of which is donated to LGBT+ charities. Their jewellery is unlike anything you’ll come across elsewhere, so get shopping!
Queer Brewing
Queer Brewing is a queer-owned brewery providing visibility and representation for LGBTQ+ people, using beer as a vehicle for social change. If beer and soda are your thing, or you’re looking for a new beverage to try, this could be the company for you! With a whole range of flavours and multipacks available, this could be just what you need for those get-togethers with friends in the sunshine this Pride Month!
Kandid
Tired and unhappy with how heteronormative sex toys are, boyfriends Josh and Greg started Kandid, a sex toy company with inclusivity at its heart. Their mission is to remove to stigma of sex toys for everyone, and ensure everyone feels included in conversations on sexual wellness. They support experimenting without judgement and creating products that last and reduce plastic waste. Their collections inclue couples sex toys, vibrators and masturbators, lubricants, and more. How great would it be to support a refreshing sexual wellness brand that celebrates everyone’s differences and is committed to changing attitudes?
Binge
Binge designs pop art fashion inspired by pop culture. They have a huge love for the LGBTQ+ and drag communities. So many of their designs feature LGBT+ icons and they have even designed official merchandise for queens including Trixie Mattel and Miss Coco Peru. They also work extensively with charities such as The Make a Difference Trust and Terrence Higgins, to help fight the spread of HIV. If playful fashion is for you, this could become your new favourite brand! It’s certainly the perfect place to find vibrant, cheeky gifts for friends! Their Fierce Political Women collection is particularly brilliant if you’re after an AOC mug or a Michelle Obama shirt.
What A Drag
Brad and Dom launched What A Drag following conversations with drag queens in their dressing rooms about how costly drag can be. The pair wanted to change that, so now run a shop that sells top quality drag cosmetics, wigs and accessories for a fraction of the price. With vegan lashes, adjustable wigs and even a loyalty scheme that allows customers to earn points to save money on future purchases, this brand has so much to offer!