Supporting local black-owned businesses is a crucial step towards building a stronger, more equitable community. In and near Mount Holly, there are several Black-owned businesses that are worth supporting. Here are five businesses that are making a positive impact in the area:

• Cafe Neo Soul – This soul food restaurant is known for its delicious and hearty meals. With a diverse menu that includes classic dishes such as fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese, Cafe Neo Soul is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of southern cuisine. With a rotating menu, Chef Moe specializes in all types of cuisines and is always exploring new possibilities in the culinary arts. Click here to read more about him. 

• Unique 2U – For anyone looking for a fresh new hairstyle, Unique 2U is the place to be. This hair salon specializes in natural hair care, offering services such as twists, braids, and loc maintenance. Stylist Princess has been a licensed cosmetologist for 19 years and shares her love of hair and beauty to local community members all for a reasonable price. To book an appointment or consultation, visit her website for more information. 

• Second Time Books – This local bookstore is a hidden gem in Mount Laurel. With a curated selection of books by black authors, as well as other diverse voices, Second Time Books is a great place to find inspiration, education, and entertainment. With a selection of over 60,000 titles, you’re sure to find what it is you need.

• Cesily’s Love Meals LLC – Meet Ms. Cesily Cannon, founder of Cesily’s Love Meals LLC,  in 2020 with the idea of bringing her southern roots and love of cooking into the hearts and souls of her community.  Learning everything she knows from her grandmother, Ms. Cannon began to provide meals for essential workers to express her support with a home cooked meal made with love. Need any catering? She’s here for any and all events in South Jersey!

• Kitchen of Creativity – If you have a sweet tooth but also have a craving for rich and gourmet food, Kitchen of Creativity is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. Located in Westampton NJ, Kitchen of Creativity offers a wide selection of baked goods including cakes, cupcakes, pies, to fried chicken, wings, salmon and sliders, Kitchen of creativity has everything you can imagine all in one spot. This Caribbean fused soul food is one of the best in town. 

RV Junior Nevaeh Burwell-inyang also runs her own Bonnet Business. Established in 2020, Heaven and Beyond specializes in various hair care products like bonnets, durags, and satin lined hoodies.

“I wanted to show girls they can start anything with just an idea,” Burwell-inyang said. “What I’ve learned from this all is great entrepreneurship and marketing. It’s truly been a rewarding experience.”

By supporting these businesses, we can help to build a stronger, more vibrant community in Mount Holly. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to check out these businesses and show your support for local Black-owned enterprises.