From Culture to Commerce: Houston’s Diverse Business Community Why They Matter and How You Can Help

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From Culture to Commerce: Houston’s Diverse Business Community Why They Matter and How You Can Help

Being a Houston based blogger and photographer has led me to get to know my city more and the faces that make our economy thrive. Houston’s economy is heavily reliant on the diverse local businesses because Houston has so many different ethnic communities. This is what makes Houston so special, the coexistence of many cultures within our city limits. As I have been to markets, dinner, and exploring, I’ve been so lucky to meet with this diverse community, and anyone from Houston or visiting should too! Let me introduce you to them and then tell you how you can help support this crucial and diverse business community!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of me, the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of any other individual or organization. This article has not been endorsed by any individual or organization and is intended for informational purposes only. Thank you! 🙂

Ube Co. 

A set of ube baked treats are on display.

Ube Co. (OO-beh) is a Filipino and woman owned businesses. Here is another link to their website www.ubecohtx.com. Jai Duque, owner of Ube Co., started Ube Co. to share Filipino traditions with Houston! What sets them apart is that they are a women-led business with a mission is to introduce the rich and diverse flavors of Filipino food to a wider audience, while also showcasing the unique cultural heritage of the Philippines. Their menu focuses on Filipino baked goods, with the main flavor being ube, similar to taro flavor if you’re familiar with that. It’s delicious, but not too sweet, and obviously gorgeous. “These are products that I made based out of childhood memories and exploration as I grow older”, Ms. Duque wrote to me. They do custom orders and attend pop ups, and with your help and orders, let’s get them their own storefront!

follow them on Instagram!
A piece of ube cake in a bowl.

A big thank you to Ube Co. for their collaboration on this article and for their contributions to Houston’s food scene with their delicious and unique ube-inspired offerings. Through their passion and dedication, they are not only introducing more people to Filipino cuisine, the power behind women-run businesses, but also adding to the diversity and richness of Houston’s culinary landscape. www.ubecohtx.com.

Nissa Crafts 

Nissa Crafts, started in 2020 (by the way I love their website <3), is natural, organic sourced soap business that started with the goal to target acne and eczema. As someone who severely suffered, and still does moderately from eczema, I love Nissa’s soaps! I discovered her at the Ion for the Lunar New Year pop up, and I loved her products, as well as the aesthetically pleasing presentation. Nissa Crafts always has the Earth in mind, and as an advocate for sustainability in this ever-changing world (stop willow), Nissa Crafts is perfect for others who love the Earth as much as we do. From her website, Nissa Crafts operates “with the simple goal of giving the world moisturized skin”. Nissa Crafts has a huge arrange of soaps and related products that are suited to your need (that won’t break your bank), and you’ll never have to question the source! Not to mention, for organic, cruelty free and healthy ingredients, Nissa Crafts won’t oversell you because Nissa Crafts is a business aimed to help the Houston community, Mother Earth, and you of course! Nissa Crafts Official Site. Nissa Craft’s Facebook. Instagram below, go support!

Thank you to Nissa Crafts for their invaluable contributions to this article! Their expertise in natural skincare ingredients and homemade skincare products has helped countless people achieve better skin. I encourage you to check out Nissa Crafts’ website for even more amazing skincare products, tips, and tricks, and to follow them on Instagram for inspiration. Thanks again, Nissa!

Ms. Moss Potter

Credit @ms.moss.potter on Instagram
A woman stands in front of plants.
CEO of Ms. Moss Potter
Priscilla Saynay

Ms. Moss Potter, a local business started by Priscilla Saynay, (pictured bottom left), a Chinese woman that immigrated from Indonesia in 1994, is located at 2204 Summer St. #105, Houston, Texas. I also discovered her at the lon! Their main product are these gorgeous terrariums (like the ones pictured right). She wanted me to emphasize that Ms. Moss Potter is not just about plants. It’s a business that sells terrariums, preserved moss art, and even works with local interior decorators! If you’re interested in learning more about how to make your own moss art, they also hold classes. Ms. Moss Potter takes a holistic approach to moss art. If you like decorating your home with low maintenance unique plant art, a designer looking to impress your clients, or if you’re looking for a more educational approach for long term learning, Ms. Moss Potter has both and everything in-between. By supporting Ms. Moss Potter, you’re not only getting a beautiful addition to your space- you’re also supporting a locally-owned business that cares about the environment and the wellbeing of our community. So why not add a touch of green to your life today and support them here or here?

It was a pleasure to work with someone who is so passionate and knowledgeable about their craft and provide me with the information I needed to create a compelling article. Thank you again for your genermossity (; and willingness to collaborate with me! If you’re ever in Houston stop by to see the moss-terpieces (get it?) and for everyone reading who can’t visit, please support here.

Little Cherry Toys 

Little Cherry Toys

Crocheted Winnie the Pooh toys.
this is the moment I fell in
love with Little Cherry Toys <3

If you attend any Houston event, chances are you’ll come across Little Cherry Toys, a local, woman-owned business that specializes in handmade crocheted toys and bags. Every piece from Little Cherry Toys is made by _______????, with love and care put into every stitch. This small business not only provides unique, high-quality products, but also contributes to the local economy and supports the community. Each toy and bag is not only beautiful, but also functional and durable, making them a perfect gift for any occasion. Their collection of hand-crocheted toys and bags is sure to catch your eye and warm your heart. I felt a sense of pure nostalgia and warmth when I discovered Little Cherry Toy’s’ Winnie the Pooh characters. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, each item is made with care and love, and is guaranteed to bring joy “for all ages”. By purchasing from Little Cherry Toys, you’re not only getting a one-of-a-kind item, but also supporting a small business that cares deeply about their craft and their community. They frequently update their Instagram, so you’ll know where to find them!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpn2Rj-JI5a/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
go check them out this weekend!

Conclusion

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***This article is written in no particular order!

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