2020 Year In Review
It’s been a year. We’ve all had different versions of this year. Amid the pandemic, we faced unique challenges and for some, unique opportunities. This reflection is bittersweet. I’m so surprised by what this blog has become, yet missing the way it started. This time last year I took a staycation to shop around Greenville and make content to launch on January 1. This week, I’m barely going out.
I was going to write about restaurants, boutiques, experiences, all local to Greenville. And yet looking back I only have a handful of posts on those topics! Instead, 75% or more of the content on this blog is about our community’s facing the music of abrupt shutdowns, uncertainty, and racial tension.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the strongest entrepreneurs I know. Some of which I never even planned to meet. Thank you for being here, and thank you for what you do.
Without further ado…
Most read
Faces of black biz: bobby’s BBQ
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favorite food
Topsoil kitchen
Rated by yours truly, Topsoil Kitchen was the most delightful restaurant I tried this year during our stay at Creek Walk. So much to offer!
FAVORITE find
rockerbelles
Again, rated by moi, Rockerbelles is hands down the most unique boutique in this town. I may not have a ton to show for it, but my absolute favorite pieces have come from here!
FAVORITE FUN
Creek Walk Tiny Home Community
Oh hey, it’s me ranking stuff again. This was by far the best experience I had this whole year. I know this isn’t your typical “go do the thing” thing, but I will forever be grateful for the opportunity for this getaway in Travelers Rest.
Someday I hope to have funding (and not a pandemic) to host an awards show. Although I might be the only one cheering from the couch, every small business in Greenville deserves a standing ovation for making it through this year.
I can’t wait to explore and get to know you better next year and the years to come!
Faces of Black Biz: Distinct Cider Room
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
distinct cider room
From the Owner, Derrick Cannon - “Distinct Cider Room is your super chill place to go to for cider on tap, or to go! We have over 30 different ciders available (mostly in packaging). We offer flights, pints and tasters of this tasty beverage. Ciders are SO versatile. We have sweet ciders, hopped ciders, dry ciders and fruit ciders just to name a few. This gluten free apple based beverage has been around for a long time. We're here to introduce you to the yummy world of ciders. We look forward to meeting you and helping you find a cider that you can enjoy. Come see us at 601 Airport Rd, Greenville SC 29607. We love meeting new people and we welcome all to our little cider room. We know that there are a lot of difficult issues going on in the world right now, and we're always up for some good healthy conversation. Be kind, and love one another. 🍻”
Support Distinct Cider Room
Faces of Black Biz: MyFitGamePlan
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
myfitgameplan
From the Owner, Christopher J. Miller - “Here at MyFitGamePlan our goal is to ignite your desire to live a healthier lifestyle. With a core focus on nutrition, training performance, and recovery, we are able to provide a customized system for anyone looking to reach the next level.”
Support MyFitGamePlan
Faces of Black Biz: Idyll Bound Interiors
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
idyll bound interiors
From the Owner, Renatta Davis - “Renatta Davis is an eclectic and intuitive interior decorator who loves incorporating color, texture, and patterns! She offers virtual interior decorating services to professionals and young families, leading them on a creative journey of transforming their houses into beautiful homes. Through video conferences and online communication, she gets an in-depth view of her clients’ needs while alleviating their design worries. Nothing makes her happier than knowing that whenever her clients are home, they are excited to be there!”
Support Idyll Bound Interiors
Faces of Black Biz: Renewed Elements Aesthetics and Wellness
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
Renewed Elements Aesthetics and Wellness
From the Owner, Ineke’ Tolbert - “Hey y’all! My name is Ineke’ Tolbert and I am born and raised here in upstate SC. I am the owner and CEO of Renewed Elements Aesthetics and Wellness. We are a full service medical spa offering IV nutrition, injectables and anti-aging treatments. My goal is to show people they can get services like toxins and fillers and still look natural. I strongly believe the most beautiful thing you can wear is your confidence and I can help you get rid of problem areas hindering that. Part of my mission is to educate and therefore combat misconceptions that neurotoxins and fillers are unsafe or ineffective on darker skin. Many women and men of color don’t feel like these services are for them or offered by someone that looks like them that they can relate to, so I’m here to bridge the gap and show them they too can be the best version of themselves.
My motto is Ageing is a fact of life,but looking your age doesn’t have to be.”
Support Renewed Elements
Faces of Black Biz: Barks for Biscuits
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
barks for biscuits
From the Owner, Jewel Payton-Goldsmith - “Barks For Biscuits SC is a local e-commerce dog treat and cake business! All of our treats are made of all organic treats that aid in health and happiness for your puppy pals! Our business started February of 2020, and we have been grateful for the feedback that we receive! I was inspired to start the business after finishing veterinary assistant school in 2018, and learning about the health that goes into play with what we feed our dogs is so important!
Being a black owned business, it can get tough at times because the business of pets specifically, there aren’t a lot of us (black people), so I am proud to set the mark along with my family who helps me along the way with the business! I plan on representing for the younger generation of black children who are animal lovers just like myself. You can do anything you put your mind to! We have received love from every one of all walks of life!”
Support Barks for Biscuits
Faces of Black Biz: Candle Therapy Co.
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
candle therapy co.
From the Owner, Kendra Collier - “Hello my name is Kendra Collier and I am the owner and founder of Candle Therapy Co., a hand poured car freshener, 100% natural soy wax candle and wax melt company operated in Greenville,SC. Our companies goal is to provide our supporters with great smelling, quality products at affordable prices. Most of our candles are featured in tins which make them great for travel and they won’t break if accidentally knocked over. This way you can take your Candle Therapy with you where ever you go. As a mother, wife, employee, and business owner I understand how hard it is to make time for self care but let us help you take just a moment to clear your thoughts and relax with your favorite fragrance to inspire more “Me Time.”
Support Candle Therapy Co.
Faces of Black Biz: Bobby's BBQ
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
bobby’s bbq
From the Owners, Octavius & Sarah Nelson - “Octavius & Sarah Nelson are the husband and wife team behind Bobby's BBQ. They serve Texas-style barbecue and are best known for their beef brisket, housemade sausage, smoked turkey and beef ribs. They also serve delicious pork ribs, pulled pork & homemade sides, which are all seasoned with their signature dry rub, Bobby's All-Purpose Seasoning. Bobby’s BBQ is located at 1301 N. Main Street in Fountain Inn, right across the street from the DMV. The restaurant opened in October 2018. Octavius and Sarah are fueled by “Faith, Family & Food”. You will feel the love the minute you walk in the door.
We need to continue having discussions where people open their minds to find common ground and actively work to solve today’s issues. When we do that, we realize that we have more in common than we ever would have thought. We are in this together. The constant fight should always be to stand up for what’s right. To quote Dr. King, "We all came in on different ships, but we’re all in the same boat now."
Support Bobby's BBQ
Faces of Black Biz: Essie Yvonne Taylor
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
essie yvonne taylor
From the Owner, Essie Yvonne Taylor - “My name is Essie Yvonne Taylor, I am a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist and a Teacher. I have the privilege to meet and interact with so many people through my business. For me it’s more than makeup. When I serve my clients I am empowering them to be their best self! They feel beautiful, confident and ready to shine for whatever event they have in place. I love what I do. My niche is Natural Makeup with a Flare! I teach virtual and in person classes teaching women how to perfect their makeup skills. I have new classes released monthly. I also have great things in the works. Follow me for tips and techniques. I'd love to assist you with all of your makeup needs.
I am a Northern transplant. I grew up in Chicago, IL so coming to the South was really eye opening for me. It has been a great experience overall. Here different races of people actually live together in the same neighborhoods and that was very different from Chicago where for the most part people self-segregate. The people here are friendly and actually say hi. Although people live together and interact there is still a common divide. I think that there is a selective ignorance among some that racism doesn't exist because they don't experience it.
There needs to be more empathy for human experience. As a history teacher as well I taught my students about South Carolina history this year and the common theme of the lessons were the Plight of African Americans in South Carolina. History is riddled with horrific examples of racism here. We can see the roots of it in our society today. There needs to be some systematic changes made for sure. I am so proud of many of my friends who stepped up and express empathy for the struggles that African Americans face. That meant the world to me. There were many who chose to take a blind eye or utter the "All Lives Matter" montage. However I think a Movement is upon us and I am glad to be a part of it. Having empathy first speaks volumes of a person's integrity.
Finally listening is key. I pray that long term changes come.”
Support Essie Yvonne Taylor here and here
Faces of Black Biz: James Morton Photography
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
james morton photography
From the Owner, James Morton - “The James Morton Company, LLC was founded in West Michigan in 2014 and moved to the Upstate in 2016. Now going by the name jamesmorton.photography, I bring a fun and well crafted experience for clients both private and public. The goal is to not only capture the moment but to capture the mood. Photography tells a story and everyone’s story deserves to be told in a manner that is accurate. I love the Upstate community and look forward to many years working within it.
Growing up as a Black and Puerto Rican boy, representation of artists that looked like me were rare or were called exceptions. As I grew up, I realized that “safe” careers and “normal” lifestyle was just not for me. I wanted to live a life that excited me and kept me in love with living. And I wanted to be a photographer to both create the imaginary and report the real. I find that being a Black man and being a Puerto Rican man adds a pressure to me to best represent my ethnicities and to inspire other artists and business owners to know that success in a field you love comes from betting on yourself and figuring out how to showcase your talent. While I wish there wasn’t a world with the racial challenges facing so many people nationwide, particularly Black and Latino peoples, it has given many of an extra push or a feeling of obligation to succeed and master our skills.”
Support James Morton Photography
Faces of Black Biz: Sugapiehoneybun
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.
sugapiehoneybun
From the Owner, Ebony DeVonne - “Sugapiehoneybun is a full-service catering company located in Mauldin, SC. With over 10 years experience, we pride ourselves on being the peak of elegance and sophistication displaying high expectation that hospitality and customer satisfaction is the main priority. Since opening in 2014, we have grown from providing baked goods, custom cakes, and catering to now offering family prepared meals, meal preps, as well as a personal chef service.”
Support Sugapiehoneybun
Faces of Black Biz: The Seafood Spot
gvl enthusiast stands in solidarity with the black community.
gvl enthusiast as a person believes black lives matter. this is not a politically charged statement to me, nor is it for pr. it’s what i believe every day with or without this platform. with or without a movement.
gvl enthusiast as a brand is here to share and showcase the greenville community. right now black business owners in greenville need support from our community, if nothing but to listen, and to love.
while my main objective will be to share black-owned businesses that we can support financially as a way to put our money where our social media mouth is, i have also let participants know that they are welcome to share anything they would like to in regards to racial relations. some will choose to share, some may not. that’s okay. there may be differing thoughts and opinions on this platform, and that is okay.
if you would like to be included in this series or nominate another black-owned business, please reach out to me on instagram @gvlenthusiast.com.
the seafood spot
From the Owners, Greg and Kenisha Brantley - “We have 3 daughters, 1 son, a brand new grandson, and a fur baby. Simone-24, Jamira-24 (and brand new mom to grandson), Jalen-17, and Jewel-12. Our grandson’s name is Seven and he was born 6/3. Our fur baby’s name is Neo and he is 14. Greg and I have been married for 18 years.
The Seafood Spot opened May 26th, 2018. The owners Greg and Kenisha Brantley moved to Greenville from Beaufort, SC in July of 2016. Being from the Lowcountry, we took for granted the availability of fresh seafood. We realized very quickly that fresh seafood did not exist here in the Upstate and it was then that we decided to open The Seafood Spot. We bring a taste of Lowcountry Seafood to the Upstate.
We are proud to be an African American owned restaurant. We are troubled by the recent events in our country. We are doing our part to make sure that things like the recent George Floyd situation does not continue to happen. We are encouraged though, that change will begin to take place and we believe that the protests are a great start to change some of the issues affecting the African American community. We believe that we are past due in this country to have meaningful dialogue regarding race relations and it is necessary. We have to address the issues at hand that are affecting many of our brothers and sisters through systemic racism. It is time for change and we will work hard to be the change that we want to see.”
Visit The Seafood Spot: 219 W Antrim Drive, Suite C, Greenville, SC 29607
