There’s something special about spending a Saturday surrounded by artists, makers, and people who are just passionate about creating. This Saturday, I went to the Spring Arts Tower Takeover at The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles, and it turned into one of those experiences that reminded me why supporting small businesses matters so much (especially as a brand designer and graphic designer)
One of the most exciting parts of the event was exploring all 12 floors filled with independent artists, vintage collectors, authors, and creative entrepreneurs. Every floor had something different to discover, making it feel less like shopping and more like scavenger hunt for the most unique things.
What stood out to me most was seeing so many diverse creators represented throughout the event. As I wandered from floor to floor, I came across several Black artists and businesses alongside creators from many different backgrounds. Representation matters because creativity should reflect the richness and diversity of the communities around us.
One of my favorite discoveries was actually the World Stage Press, an independent publishing company dedicated to amplifying diverse and often underrepresented voices, especially Black writers and women. There is a website I can get all books written by black authors and poets. I’ve always wanted to publish another poetry book of my own (last one didn’t do well).
Another artist that caught my attention was Reid Gore, whose work supports youth mental health through art that’s run by his mother. Reid passed away on May 11, 2023 and his artwork is to help raise funds to support youth mental health. It was inspiring to see creativity being used not only for expression, but also as a tool for healing and advocacy.
Everyone who knows me well, knows I love j-fashion, so I discovered Amanda Fung, whose booth showcased beautiful vintage j-fashion pieces where I purchase a necklace.
For those who appreciate handmade products, Kopa Kauai Soap Co. offered thoughtfully crafted soaps inspired by nature, while Loving Log featured eco-friendly book accessories made from upcycled cotton denim, proving that sustainability and creativity can go hand in hand.
And for fellow lovers of nostalgia, Retro Ink Typewriters was an absolute gem on the ground floor. Seeing vintage typewriters displayed brought a sense of history and craftsmanship that’s hard to find in today’s digital world.
I also made a stop at AMP Beauty, this had some Black woman-owned beauty and self care items with the melanated skin in mind. While there, I picked up a deodorant from Play Pits, another Black-owned brand known for its natural, aluminum-free formulas. As an added surprise, I received a complimentary sunscreen from Black Girl Sunscreen, a brand that has become beloved for creating products specifically formulated to leave no white cast on deeper skin tones.
Moments like these are why representation matters. Seeing Black-owned brands not only present but thriving creates opportunities for communities to support one another and reminds us that everyone deserves products and spaces created with them in mind.
Events like the Spring Arts Tower Takeover are a reminder that supporting small businesses goes beyond simply making a purchase. It’s about investing in dreams, celebrating creativity, and creating opportunities for artists and makers to thrive.
Most importantly, it’s about community.
In a world where large corporations often dominate our attention, spaces like these remind us that there are real people behind every piece of art, every seller, every handmade product, and every story being shared.
Small Businesses to Follow
- World Stage Press – Dedicated to amplifying diverse and underrepresented voices, especially Black writers and women.
- Reid Gore – Supporting youth mental health through art that’s run by his mother. Reid died at the age of 18 in 2023. Purchasing or donating helps raise funds for to support youth mental health.
- Amanda Fung – Curator of beautiful vintage Japanese fashion but she also does artwork. Follow her on IG.
- Kopa Kauai Soap Co. – Handmade soaps inspired by the beauty of nature.
- Loving Log – Eco-conscious book accessories made from upcycled cotton.
- Retro Ink Typewriters – Celebrating the beauty and craftsmanship of vintage typewriters.
- AMP Beauty – A Black woman-owned beauty retailer championing brands made for textured hair and melanated skin.
- Play Pits – Natural deodorants created by a Black-owned company.
- Black Girl Sunscreen – Skincare products designed specifically with deeper skin tones in mind.
Supporting small businesses isn’t just about buying something—it’s about keeping creativity, culture, and community alive.
Leave a Reply