People are recognizing Black History Month in many ways across the country, highlighting important contributions to our collective culture and society. In honor of Black History Month here, we wanted to highlight a few of our favorite local Black-owned businesses and organizations.

Ray Adea’s Mediterranean and Jamaican Cuisine
90 Lafayette St, Unit 1B, Salem MA
https://www.rayadeasmk.com/

Ray’s is a family owned, Jamaican and Mediterranean restaurant right around the corner from us on Lower Lafayette. The diverse menu offers a variety of choices including several vegan friendly dishes and the best falafel in the area. On a regular day, you can find Ray behind the counter often with his mother sitting by the window. We recommend their falafel wraps or jerk chicken – both are great staples. 

The Enchanted Magnolia
https://www.theenchantedmagnolia.com/

Creating one of a kind styles by hand, The Enchanted Magnolia is a small on-line boutique offering unique accessories made by owner, Christina James. We recently hosted a pop-up here at Seagrass for Enchanted Magnolia. Christina strives to make all her customers feel special and loved, as if they were receiving a gift from their grandmother.

Outside Mind
https://www.outsidemind.org/

Outside Mind is a local non-profit based in Salem, whose mission focuses on outdoor recreation access for minority groups and families. Founder Jireh Ishaazi established Outside Mind to help eliminate barriers that prevent people of color from experiencing outdoor activities and connecting with nature. A weekend paddle on the Ipswich River, bird-walking and watching in the Castle Neck Reservation, skiing and riding at local mountains, Outside Mind embraces the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson that adorn our interior walls – “Live in the sunshine. Swim the sea. Drink the wild air.” 

Susie’s Stories
51 Bearskin Neck, Rockport MA
https://susiesstories-107442.square.site/

With its uniquely curated selection of books, Susie’s Stories bookshop is a great place to find a good read. Based in Rockport, Susie Rich’s boutique offers not only a wide selection but a scenic view in a warm inviting space. Susie herself is a published author. She stocks titles for a variety of interests and we highly recommend a ride up to Rockport to see her and the store.