Melanin Marketplace

February 2025

Pay-What-You-Can Event

For the Melanin Marketplace, we used a Pay What You Can model to keep the event accessible to our community, with contributions starting at $5. This approach allowed attendees to give in a way that felt right for them—whether through a small contribution or a larger offering—while supporting a shared, inclusive experience.

50% of ticket proceeds went toward helping our House of Art family rebuild their creative space. Your support not only celebrated incredible Black-owned businesses but also invested in the future of art and community.

free entry for kids under age 13

Pouring Into Black Businesses,

Empowering Our Community.

Melanin Marketplace served as the grand finale of the A Taste of BLK Love event series, celebrating Black excellence in entrepreneurship, creativity, and culture. The vibrant marketplace showcased a diverse range of Black-owned businesses from across North Carolina, featuring everything from handcrafted goods and fashion to beauty products, art, and flavorful food.

Guests experienced an immersive shopping environment infused with culture, live music, and meaningful interactions with local entrepreneurs. More than a marketplace, it became a space to connect, support, and uplift the community while discovering unique, high-quality products. From wellness essentials and home décor to new flavors and creative finds, Melanin Marketplace honored Black love through commerce, creativity, and collective support.