Celebrating Black History Month: Elliman Agents Spotlight Black-Owned Businesses

In celebration of Black History Month, we invited Douglas Elliman agents to shine a light on Black-owned businesses in their communities and markets.

California

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Recommended by Scott James

This list collects the diverse Black-owned small businesses in the areas of Altadena and Pasadena that were devastated by the Eaton Canyon fires. In the spirit of #EllimanCares, I encourage everyone in the Los Angeles area to support these businesses and be part of the rebuilding process.

Recommended by Christian Stillmark

Stimulant Coffee in Upland. The owner is a good friend, and the coffee shop is a feature of the community.

Zac Coughlin of Zac’s Sweet Shop

Recommended by Heather & Learka

We LOVE Zac’s Sweet Shop. We found out about him and his amazing treats during the pandemic and haven’t stopped ordering since! He’s done gorgeous displays for our annual holiday party toy drive and fun deliveries for our friends at Valentine’s Day, but you can get his sweets all year long.

Learka’s favorite is the cookie butter sandwich cookies, and Heather loves the dark chocolate holiday bark.

Florida

Recommended by Julie Jones

I would love to highlight Corporate Move Management Services, Inc. (CMMS), based in Pompano Beach, Fla.

Founded and led by Dionne Absheer, CMMS specializes in Relocation and Move Project Management Services. The company has successfully managed the relocation of over 18,000 government staff nationwide, including laboratories, courthouses, corporate campuses, military bases, and more. Their expertise spans project management, furniture installation and coordination, IT equipment management, and excess property management.

Beyond their outstanding professional services, CMMS is deeply committed to community engagement and philanthropy. Dionne is actively involved in organizations such as Lux Ladies, Women’s Executive Club, Royal Dames of Cancer Research, and the NSU Museum Auxiliary Group-Beaux Arts, demonstrating a strong commitment to both business excellence and social impact.

CMMS embodies the essence of resilience, leadership, and service, making them a remarkable Black-owned business in my market.

Recommended by Jacqueline Zimmerman

Blue Mountain Coffee House at 540 Clematis St #3 in West Palm Beach was founded by Allison Boettcher, whose family has a small coffee plantation in Jamaica, where the beans are harvested.

She is wonderful, and so is her delicious gourmet coffee—all produced in small batches. Plus, she makes all the desserts homemade.

Please showcase this wonderful shop!

Recommended by Ana Maria Cury

I appreciate the contribution to the region’s economy by Coke Florida, a family-owned Coca-Cola bottler and one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the United States.

New York

Recommended by Sterling Cleveland

Carver Federal Savings Bank — Founded in 1948, Carver Federal Savings Bank is recognized as the largest Black-owned financial institution in the United States. It offers a range of banking services and has a significant presence in Harlem.

They have been around for a long time and continue to evolve.

McKissack & McKissack — Established in 1905, McKissack & McKissack is the oldest Black-owned architecture and construction firm in the U.S. Headquartered in Manhattan, the firm has been involved in numerous high-profile projects nationwide.

They have a huge portfolio of great work that continues to grow.

Apex Building Group — Originally founded in Harlem, Apex Building Group focuses on affordable housing and mixed-use properties in New York and the tri-state area. The company is a certified minority-owned business enterprise.

They do a wonderful job constructing affordable homes in NYC

Recommended by Terhi Edwards

Cote Wine Bar, a wine bar at 5639 Mosholu Ave. in cozy North Riverdale, owned by Katarina Charles. With woodwork salvaged from 19th-century Rockwood Hall on the Rockefeller estate, it’s like stepping back into the Gilded Age. They have live music every Friday and Saturday night. I have had our last two office holiday dinners there.

Recommended by McKenzie Ryan

I’d like to nominate NTRL, an amazing haircare and skincare company made here in New York by Sabrina Rowe. Both she and her products are exemplary and an excellent showcase of hard work, creativity, and entrepreneurship. She is also a celeb hair stylist.

Recommended by Renee White

Franz James Floral Boutique at 2114 Frederick Douglas Blvd (212-531-1800)—right next door to our DE office at 2112 Frederick Douglas Blvd!

Recommended by John Matthew

Black Momma Vodka is a business that I recently had the pleasure of finding a new location for staying on Long Island. It was two years in the making. The distiller may be the only female distiller in New York State. It has been a pleasure working with and getting to know her and family and creating a friendship along the way!

Recommended by Nancy Strong

Jolie Jordan is a fabulous upscale women’s boutique in Mount Kisco. Excellent service and great clothes!

Texas

Recommended by Misty Meredith

Next Generation Payroll 

Branwarwine

Kimble Littleton Interior Designs

Recommended by Crystal Washington

Recommended by Kamarah Emery

My favorite black-owned business in the DFW area is Lakewood Dental Studio, owned and operated by Dr. Leisa Robotham, in Dallas. The studio is not only modern and gorgeous, but the care is compassionate, meticulous, and transformative. I have been going to Dr. Robotham since her practice opened in 2022 and recommend her services to all my clients.