4 Ways To Make Inclusivity A Priority In Your Business

Jul 23

Photo from Babe Crafted's "Create Easy, Engaging Video for Instagram" Workshop by A. Creative Co. // Location: Brave Haus

“When you know better, do better.” I’ve been recalling this quote from Maya Angelou often lately and thought it was especially fitting today, because we’re making it a point to chat about Inclusivity, babes.

There are lots of things to think about when it comes to being Inclusive, including gender & identity, body positivity, religion, race, physical ability, and more. Together we are moving towards running businesses & brands that are not just welcoming on the surface, but that are truly welcoming and supportive!

Let’s jump in. xx -Gina

Here are 4 tangible ways to become a more Inclusive business owner TODAY from real business owners who are taking action.

Christina Maldonado | Boudoir Tampa // IG

“I make sure to always how diversity because growing up, I never saw anyone whom looked like me in a magazine. I feel it's important for individuals to be represented. That also goes for individuals with disability. As someone with one myself, I always want to make sure that all bodies, sizes, shapes, genders and abilities are represented. How can I preach self love, otherwise?!.”

Tampa, FL

Krista Varnum | Martian Follicles // IG

“My haircutting services and pricing structure are gender neutral because all hair is equal. No one should have to pay more for the same service because of how they identify. I also carry products that are more unisex regarding the branding and the natural fragrances they contain. “

St. Pete, FL

Cristina O'Connor | Cristina Danielle Creative // IG

“I plan to start actively re-sharing more past clients of color in my marketing, to send a message that I encourage people of all races and ethnicities to hire me for my services. I enjoy working with people of all backgrounds, and that it is a mission and goal of mine to enrich my business with a diverse array of clients. I plan to think more carefully about the words I choose, offers I make and whether my copy is inviting diversity. I plan to seek out more business owners of color when looking for services, and hope that hiring them will lead to lasting relationships, reciprocation of services or potential partnerships. I plan to make an announcement to be held accountable. I plan to diversify my personal life.”

Tampa, FL

Allison Bernardi | Hazel + Dot // IG

“I think it’s important more now than ever for business owners to lead by example and make a point of highlighting and improving diversity. As a female shop owner I have always made an effort to search out brands that empower and advance women, and while I have included goods from people of color in the past, the Black Lives Matter Movement made me realize I can and should be making a greater effort to be more inclusive and bring even more diversity into the shop.

I’m proud to be able to share so many of these new brands, from @prettypeacockpaperie paper goods to jewelry from @thepinklocket and so many more, and I’m mostly excited to help diversify and broaden our customers’ purchases!”

Tampa, FL

Don’t forget to let me know in the comments what your thoughts are, girl. It’s okay to have questions and feel a bit clumsy. Positive growth & change tend to have this effect and know these 2 things: 1) you are not alone and 2) you are making worthy progress.

Let’s keep this Inclusivity conversation going well beyond today and keep taking strides together!