• Women

by Kandiss Edwards

August 4, 2025

SisterSong Director Talks Black ‘in(Fertility) Awareness Week’ And $60K Give Away

SisterSong’s Director of Maternal Health and Birth Equity Initiatives, Leah Jones, talked about the fight for equity in fertility sphere.

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Fertility justice nonprofit SisterSong hosted the annual Black (in)Fertility Awareness Week. For a full five days, the organization holds multiple workshops, panels, and interactive virtual and physical events aimed at education. Additionally, the organization is creating awareness about the legislation and barriers surrounding Black access to fertility assistance. 

SisterSong’s Director of Maternal Health and Birth Equity Initiatives, Leah Jones, spoke with BLACK ENTERPRISE about the work SisterSong is doing to fight for equity in the fertility sphere. This includes a $60K giveaway to assist families with fertility services. Including a detailed walk-through of the process and how interested parties can donate funds and necessities needed for infants after birth. 

What did you hope attendees took away from the Black (in)Fertility Awareness Week? 

My biggest hope was that people walked away knowing that this was a space where their stories could exist, their experiences can live and be held and understood. We have some educational conversations and some story sharing and cross learning. 

Also, every year we conduct our Assistant Reproductive Technology Giveaway. This year, we gave away $60,000 for fertility care in partnership with Muna Fertility Clinic. Muna clinic is a Black woman-owned fertility clinic in Atlanta. She’s reproductive justice-centered, queer friendly, and she’s a reproductive justice advocate. 

A major facet of the event was the Muna fertility walk-through. Can you tell us a little bit about what participants were able to observe through that process? 

They were able to see everything from an ultrasound, semen analysis, and diagnosis. They learned how many blood draws you would have in this process. As a person who went through her own fertility journey, I was given 20 minutes to do a rundown. There was so much medical heavy language that I forgot it within 15 minutes.

A lot of times, people can go through this process and still not know what just happened. Black women are very intuitive with their bodies. If you know what the process is supposed to be, if you know what this injection is supposed to do, our bodies can tell us, ‘I don’t think this is the reaction I’m supposed to have to this.’ 

Can you tell us a little bit more about the National Fertility Justice Now campaign?

The Fertility Justice Now campaign started here in Georgia in partnership with SPARK Reproductive Justice Now. They do reproductive rights work. Also, we’re partnering with Morehouse School of Medicine on the research and storytelling component of the policy campaign. The two bills we are focused on are House Bills 588 and 589 for public and private insurance mandates for coverage for fertility care.

What are the key barriers to equitable fertility care that are most pressing? 

Money. That is why we do the giveaway; it’s expensive. People need money, and this is why we are focusing on insurance mandates.

How can people support you throughout the year? 

We’re a nonprofit, so donations are always welcome. We also have the Birth Justice Care Fund. The fund supplies the marginalized community. If you’re pregnant and giving birth, we have lactation specialists, doulas, and maternal mental health therapists. We pay stipends and provide a directory to get you connected. Additionally, we supply basic items. You can’t leave a hospital unless you have a car seat, and sometimes you can’t afford a car seat, so we supply that or diapers and wipes through the care fund. 

Last year, money ran out in two months. There’s an excessive need coming out of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Kentucky. With these abortion bans, we have seen an uptick in the need for care, and so donations to keep it going.

RELATED CONTENT: White Woman Sues Fertility Clinic, Says She Gave Birth To A Black Baby That Was Taken Away

• Celebrity News

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

August 4, 2025

Young Thug Speaks To Students At Skyview High School To Encourage Them To Stay On Right Path

'Gangs are not the move.'

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Atlanta rapper Jeffery Lamar Williams, also known as Young Thug, was seen at Skyview High School in College Park fulfilling part of the sentence given to him by an Atlanta judge.

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, students at Skyview were able to interact with the “Go Crazy” recording artist as he spoke to them, encouraging them to do well and follow their dreams. It was the first “official” public appearance for the 33-year-old rapper who escaped a long prison sentence last October after being on trial for RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) charges associated with alleged crimes in the Atlanta region.

“I feel like violence is just not the thing,” Young Thug said to the audience. “It’s just lame. It’s corny. I don’t want to see something happen to somebody that bad. Gangs are not the move.”

Greg Clay, Skyview High School’s board chair, said that Thug’s attorney, Brian Steel, contacted him about two months ago about the visit and that the visit happened “fairly quickly.” Clay also serves as the executive director for the City of Atlanta’s constituent services.

“We feel honored,” Clay told the media outlet. “We’re working with the principal to think through positive ways to keep kids engaged. As you can imagine, once students fall behind, there’s this notion that they may want to drop out. So we try to prevent students from falling completely off the cliff. We’re pumping hope into them.”

The appearance by Young Thug is part of his sentencing, which, if followed, will keep him out of prison. While he is on probation, he is required to return to Atlanta four times a year for a “live anti-gang and anti-gun violence presentation” or a benefit concert at a grade school, middle school, or a Boys & Girls Club or similar group.

After being on trial for over two years and held in custody for more than 900 days, Thug pleaded guilty on Oct. 31, following prosecutors’ request that he be sentenced to 45 years, with 25 years in prison and 20 years on probation. Instead, Fulton County Judge Paige Reese Whitaker allowed the rapper to go free, with conditions. “The total sentence is 40 years, to serve the first 5 years in prison, but commuted to the time you’ve already served.”

Some of the charges included firearm possession and participation in criminal street gang activity, and he also pleaded no contest to racketeering and leading a criminal street gang.

The conditions Thug agreed to include no longer residing in Atlanta for the first 10 years and not being present in the city unless it is essential for family functions like weddings and/or funerals. 

RELATED CONTENT: HEROES IRL: Black Couple Detains Suspected Arsonist In Runyon Canyon, 6 Months After California Wildfire Aftermath

• Celebrity News

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

August 4, 2025

Trump Goes After ‘Racist Sleazebag’ Charlamagne Tha God For Criticizing His Presidency

Charlamagne Tha God has become Donald Trump's new target after criticizing him on Fox News.

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Charlamagne Tha God has gotten President Donald Trump all riled up after criticizing his second presidential term during an appearance on Fox News.

The Breakfast Club host caught Trump’s attention recently after appearing on the president’s daughter-in-law, Lara Trump’s, Fox News show, My View, where he openly criticized Trump’s current presidency and explained why he wouldn’t give him a passing grade for a second term.

“I wouldn’t give it a good rating simply because the least of us are still being impacted the worst,” Charlamagne said, later noting how he will benefit from Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, but “There’s going to be so many people that’s hurt by that bill,” he said.

With Charlamagne appearing on Lara Trump’s show, it didn’t take too long before the president took to his Truth Social platform to accuse the radio host of being a “racist sleazebag” who shouldn’t be allowed to use the word “God” in his name.

“The very wonderful and talented Lara Trump, whose show is a big ratings success, put racist sleazebag Charlamagne ‘The God,’” Trump wrote on Aug. 3. “Why is he allowed to use the word ‘GOD’ when describing himself?”

“He’s a low-IQ individual, has no idea what words are coming out of his mouth, and knows nothing about me or what I have done, like just ending 5 Wars, including a 31-year bloodbath between the Republic of the Congo and Rwanda.”

Building on his criticism, Charlamagne also expressed his belief that “traditional conservatives” will reclaim the Republican Party from Trump’s Make America Great Again movement, especially amid internal divisions over Trump’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case.

“I think there’s a political coup going on right now in the Republican Party that people aren’t paying attention to,” Charlamagne said. “I think this Epstein thing is going to be a way for traditional conservatives to take their party back. I really do. I think that they know this is the issue that has gotten the base riled up, the MAGA base isn’t letting this issue go, and for the first time, they can probably take their party back and not piss off the MAGA base. I think they’re going to do that.”

In response, Trump highlighted what he considers his key accomplishments during his second term and criticized Charlamagne for backing Democrats such as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.

“He didn’t know that, or India and Pakistan, or wiping out Iran’s nuclear capabilities, or closing the horrendous open Border, or creating the greatest economy, where prices and Inflation have come way down,” Trump wrote.

“But this dope, Charlamagne, would vote for Sleepy Joe or Kamala? Remember, one year ago our Country was DEAD, now it’s the “HOTTEST” Country anywhere in the World. MAGA!!!”

After Trump’s social media rant, Charlamagne fired back on August 4 by naming the president his latest Donkey of the Day. In his sharp response, Charlamagne fact-checked Trump’s Truth Social post using verified data about the wars Trump claimed to have ended and highlighted that borders remain open to asylum seekers, with ICE detaining individuals beyond the “illegals and criminals” Trump promised to deport.

RELATED CONTENT: ELEVATING YOUR EXCELLENCE: Benjamin Crump Is The Relentless Advocate For Justice And Civil Rights

• Sports

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

August 4, 2025

Sha’Carri Richardson Misses Qualifying For 200-Meter Final By .01 Seconds

The sprinter came in fourth place in her latest race to miss qualifying for the 200-meter final at the U.S. Track and Field (USATF) Outdoor Championships

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It has not been a great week for sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson as she came in fourth place in her latest race to miss qualifying for the 200-meter final at the U.S. Track and Field (USATF) Outdoor Championships.

According to The Associated Press, Richardson’s time in the race was 22.56 seconds, placing her three spots from the fastest times in Eugene, Oregon. She missed advancing by .01 seconds. To advance, a runner had to be among the top two finishers, and then the next three with the fastest times. Madison Whyte beat her by a whisker by clocking in at 22.55.

Runner’s World reported that McKenzie Long won the competition in 22.12 seconds in the race that took place Aug. 3. Although Richardson did not qualify for the 200-meter final, as the reigning world champion over 100 meters, she has been granted a bye, so she will be competing in the World Championships, which will take place next month in Tokyo. On July 31, she ran a season’s best of 11.07, which is still under the 10.65 that she ran when she took home the world title two years ago.

According to LetsRun.com, Richardson was arrested at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport July 27 after allegedly assaulting her sprinter boyfriend, Christian Coleman. She was reportedly caught on video pushing Coleman and throwing some headphones at him. After spending 19 hours at the South Correctional Entity (SCORE) in Des Moines, Washington, she was released. She was arrested on a fourth-degree domestic violence offense.

Coleman felt that she did not need to be arrested and spoke to the media about the situation, saying that she had to take a step back and try to do better for herself.

There is no word on when she is scheduled to appear in court to answer the charges. 

RELATED CONTENT: K. Michelle’s Expertly Clears Delusional Journo During Interview, Affirming Her Rightful Place In Country Music

• Education

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

August 4, 2025

Black-Led Homeschool Networks Are Growing As Parents Ditch Public Schools Over DEI Pushback

Homeschool networks in Texas have risen

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Black-led homeschool networks that teach progressive values are growing, with many parents disenrolling from public schools as DEI scales back.

These nontraditional schools encourage students to think deeply about political and social issues, instead of treading away from these worldly topics as insisted on by the Trump administration. The conservative movement against diversity, equity, and inclusion has pushed many public schools to eliminate these teachings to keep their federal funding.

However, not all parents are leaving it up to their public schools to teach their children these values. Many have opted out of federal mandates by joining these growing homeschool networks. One of these cooperatives, For The Culture Homeschool, offers children throughout San Antonio an inclusive and secular curriculum.

Students not only learn multiplication and the parts of speech, but also about current events and how they shape the world, whether through advocacy for the people in Gaza or unrestricted lessons on the plight of Black Americans. For The Culture ingrains social action into every lesson.

Its existence remains especially relevant in Texas, where censorship, book bans, and federal cuts have severely impacted schools. For the Culture’s Co-Founder, Ashley Peek, says their expanding community comes from parents who are fed up with the conservative education system, who refuse for their children to fall prey to it.

“They were also looking for an inclusive, justice-centered space that affirmed our kids’ identities and gave them room to thrive,” Peek explained of the growing community to TruthOut. “We dreamed of a space where banned books are read on purpose, where we don’t shy away from hard history, and where our families don’t have to code-switch or constantly explain their existence. A decolonized, secular, inclusive homeschool community where all of our identities are honored.”

Peek co-founded the institution after the city’s public schools failed to wholly support her daughter’s visual impairment. Although initially seeking already-established homeschools, the lack of diversity alarmed Peek and her husband. A chance meeting with Kiah Mitchell Scott and Jennifer Verme led to the parents meeting every week to educate each other’s children.

The co-operative has expanded to nearly 30 families, now requiring a waitlist for others to take part. However, as homeschooling grows in popularity, For The Culture does not want to take over public schools entirely. The co-founders believe in the purpose and benefits of public schools, while also affirming that not every student thrives in such environments.

For The Culture also emphasizes unorthodox approaches to learning that deviate from other public schools. As many public settings can deal with bullying, stemming from racism, classism, or otherwise, encouraging students to love themselves and respect one another remains a core value.

“We really try to center joy in our homeschooling experience,” added Peek. ” For instance, first thing in the morning, the kids do an affirmation that they don’t have to be like everyone else — that it’s cool to be themselves.”

A key to homeschooling efficiently and productively requires some structure and balance, including diversity of the lessons themselves. However, For The Culture wants other parents passionate about their children’s schooling to start where they can to ensure their education as well as empathy.

Homeschooling Rates Are Skyrocketing, Here’s Why

• Health and Wellness

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

August 4, 2025

Rainbow Baby Mom Launches Wellness App To Empower Women Of Color Facing Infertility

A new app aims to support and empower Black women facing infertility.

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Meet Reniqua Allen-Lamphere, a two-time rainbow mom who turned her infertility journey into inspiration for launching a new app that supports women of color facing similar challenges.

Allen-Lamphere, an award-winning journalist and TV producer, recently launched Oshun Griot, a wellness platform explicitly designed for women of color. While many wellness apps cater to Black women, Oshun Griot fills a unique gap by supporting those navigating the often-overlooked emotional journey of fertility struggles and the desire to start a family.

It’s a journey Allen-Lamphere knows all too well, as she had her two children, son George, and daughter Charlie, in her early 40s after experiencing multiple miscarriages, making them her cherished rainbow babies, Essence reports. The author and scholar first faced signs of reproductive challenges at just 13, enduring intense period cramps later diagnosed as the result of grapefruit-sized fibroids and endometriosis.

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These conditions are prevalent among Black women, who experience fibroids at higher rates and with more severe symptoms than white women. Research also shows that Black women are more likely than white women to undergo hysterectomies and myomectomies to treat fibroids, and tend to have larger fibroids and face a higher risk of complications during these surgeries.

“I’ve been in hospitals often, and no one had any answers for me. I was given birth control pills way before I even started having sex, and when I was in my late 20s, I had a myomectomy for fibroids, like so many other Black women do, and was told I had endometriosis. It was the first time I’d even heard of the term endometriosis,” Allen-Lamphere told Essence.

Since fibroids are linked to fertility issues, Allen-Lamphere’s experience reflects a broader struggle, especially as 1 in 6 American families face infertility. A harsh reality that can often discourage a woman from wanting or trying to start a family.

“I just thought that everything was broken. I thought I was broken,” Allen-Lamphere said. “I felt like my uterus had long been broken, and it was continuing to fail me.”

After being told she was infertile while trying to start a family with her husband, Allen-Lamphere took matters into her own hands. She joined Facebook groups, downloaded fertility apps, interviewed doctors, and even began an unsuccessful IVF journey. Along the way, she noticed a lack of diversity in support spaces, which inspired her to launch Oshun Griot, the first infertility wellness platform specifically created for people of color, rooted in lived experiences and the belief that fertility journeys shouldn’t be faced alone.

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With a name inspired by African heritage, honoring Oshun, the Yoruba goddess of fertility and love, and “griot,” the traditional African storyteller, Allen-Lamphere takes a bold and intentional approach in creating a wellness app centered on the experiences of Black women.

“I was inspired to name it that, because I realized that for so long, especially for Black and other communities of color, our stories of our fertility weren’t told in the way we would’ve wanted them to be; instead, it’s been controlled by other people,” she said. “This platform is designed to help us share our own stories, because they’re powerful. The Black family is important. Black children are so centrally important. However, the story of how we build our families is also important. And for too long, we have not been in control of our fertility, and it’s felt like it’s been in the hands of other people.”

Rooted in both medical insight and cultural traditions, Oshun Griot provides users expert directories, wellness trackers, and Q&As on topics like fibroids, medical bias, and healing practices. The app also features guided meditations, yoga, affirmations, and personal stories from people of color navigating fertility challenges, as well as resources for those supporting loved ones on the journey.

“In the political times we’re in, where we’re not sure if we can even access fertility care, it felt like a time when we needed something more,” Allen-Lamphere said.

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• Lifestyle

by Ahsan Washington

August 4, 2025

10 Black Entertaining Food Reviewers Shaking Up The Dining Scene

Food criticism isn't just for insiders anymore

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Food criticism isn’t just for insiders anymore. Gone are the days when only Michelin inspectors and newspaper columnists got to have a say. Now, a fresh wave of Black food reviewers is injecting some much-needed humor and perspective into the dining world. They’re giving us a way to think about food, one bite at a time. You can find them on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. They’re the ones making us laugh, making us hungry, and showing us what’s really good. Let’s take a look at a few favorites. Here are 10 food reviewers who are changing the dining game with their voices and style.

Rashad “Mr. ChimeTime” Mooreman (@mr.chimetime)

Rashad Mooreman, notably known as Mr. Chimetime, is a popular food reviewer recognized for his assessments of local dives and small Black-owned establishments throughout the United States. Mr. Chimetime has established himself as a notable figure with his irreverent personality and shoot-from-the-hip style of food critique on Instagram. Mooreman’s perspective has not only sparked discussion around your favorite food spots but also ignited widespread debates that have gone viral. Chimetime also spreads the love across good restaurants by paying for the meals for scores of customers. 

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Keith Lee

Keith Lee, a former MMA fighter, has created a lane reviewing restaurants across the US with a special focus on Black-owned eateries. What sets him apart is his approach. Lee orders anonymously, which helps keep his reviews honest and authentic. Lee’s food reviews have a side effect; once he features a restaurant, it tends to get a surge in customers and attention. The “Keith Lee Effect” has been a game-changer for Black-owned businesses, which often struggle to gain the spotlight. Lee has built up a strong following. People love his down-to-earth reviews and his commitment to showcasing America’s hidden gems.

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Cheryl Parks Ajamu (@BlackGirlFoodCritic)

Cheryl Parks Ajamu, the woman behind Black Girl Food Critic, is on a mission to shed light on Black-owned restaurants and community-driven eateries. Ajamu started BlackGirlFoodCritic in 2021. From mouth-watering Detroit brunch spots to classic Southern-style dishes, BlackGirlFoodCritic tries them all. The reviews are not only about the food. She weaves in the context and history behind each spot. If you’re looking for in-depth reviews that go beyond just what’s on the plate, definitely check for BlackGirlFoodCritic.

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Eden Hagos (@blackfoodie.co)

BlackFoodie is a platform founded by Eden Hagos that highlights Black-owned restaurants across the country. Her feed is more than a bunch of food pics. She’s built a community around it where she shares her thoughts on restaurants, talks about dining events, and breaks down the latest culinary trends. What really sets BlackFoodie apart is the way she weaves in commentary and highlights the Black people behind the food. 

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Chef Vicky V (@thequeenofyum)

Chef Vicky V, or The Queen of Yum as she’s fondly called, is making waves. This food influencer has a knack for storytelling. She uses vivid images and killer events to bring dining hotspots to life. The Queen of Yum champions Black-owned restaurants and gives them the attention they deserve. Chef Vicky has been getting nods for her work since 2024. It’s clear she’s on a mission to lift up food spots, bring people together, and make Black food scenes more accessible. 

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Brittany & Dave (@twomidwestfoodies)

Brittany and Dave, who run the Instagram account Two Midwest Foodies, are on a mission to highlight Black-owned restaurants in the Midwest. These two have been creating content since 2019. They cover all kinds of cuisine from comfort food to adventurous dishes. Their account is a resource for anyone looking to support Black-owned businesses and see what the Midwest’s food is hitting on. 

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Lyndsay C. Green (@ladyluff)

Lindsay C. Green made history as the dining and restaurant critic at the Detroit Free Press. She’s been writing reviews since 2022, covering everything from fine dining spots to beloved community eateries that mean a lot to the people of Detroit. Green has an eye for what makes a restaurant special. She’s been getting some serious recognition for her work, including a James Beard Award nomination for Emerging Voice and even a Pulitzer Prize finalist nod. Her reviews give readers a sense of the city’s restaurant scene and tell stories rooted in Detroit culture. 

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KJ Kearney (@BlackFoodFridays)

KJ Kearney is the brains behind Black Food Fridays, a platform that’s racked up a James Beard Award. Born and raised in South Carolina, Kearney’s passion project has become a go-to spot for advocating for Black-owned eateries across the country. What sets them apart is their weekly review system, which breaks it down into five telling categories: how good it tastes, how it looks, how well it’s made, the vibe of the place, and how clean it’s. Since launching Black Food Fridays in North Charleston in 2020, Kearney’s been crisscrossing the nation trying spots and sharing their honest take on each one. What I love about these guys is that they really know how to review food in a way that’s fair and thoughtful. They consider the culture behind the dish, making their opinions highly valuable to anyone passionate about food.

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Alex & Allison Onyina (@acoupleofbites)

A Couple of Bites is a couple who reviews food spots in Houston. Alex and Allison Onyina are a husband-and-wife team that focuses on date night restaurants and Black-owned establishments in the community. Since 2024, they’ve been getting attention around Houston and their unique take on dining. A Couple of Bites make trying new restaurants feel approachable. 

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Stephen Satterfield

Stephen Satterfield, a food writer from Atlanta, is the face behind the Netflix show High on the Hog. Satterfield travels all over the US to share stories about the food and people behind it. What sets him apart is that he doesn’t just review food, he digs into its history and culture. It’s not only about what’s on the plate; he’s on a mission to elevate the conversation around food. Satterfield has been reviewing food culture since he started Whetstone Media back in 2018. But his passion for food goes back much further. 

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• Education

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

August 4, 2025

Marva Johnson To Have ‘Open Mind’ With FAMU Community As HBCU President Begins Tenure

In her speech, Johnson shared how she sees the FAMU community and its passion for the HBCU's future.

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Marva Johnson has officially started her tenure as president of Florida A&M University.

The polarizing leader shared a message of unity with the FAMU community in her first virtual message as president. Johnson spoke about having an “open mind” during the HBCU’s summer commencement ceremony Aug. 1.

She began her speech by recognizing the latest cohort of graduates from FAMU, while calling her presidency a “sacred obligation.” The corporate lobbyist then stated how she had heard the impassioned takes regarding the institution’s future.

“My presidency is not simply a new chapter in leadership. It is a sacred obligation,” began Johnson. “To Rattler Nation, students, faculty, alumni and community stakeholders, I want you to know I see you. I hear you and feel your passion. I’ve listened, I’ve reflected, and I will continue to learn from those who care deeply about this university’s future.” 

From there, she spoke about beginning this new position with an “open mind” and “unwavering commitment” to the school’s continued success.

“To lead FAMU is to step into a legacy and to carry forward the charge of ensuring this institution thrives for the years to come,” continued Johnson. “I step into this role with an open mind, a full heart, and an unwavering commitment to protect and extend FAMU’s legacy, while positioning this university to thrive in a changing higher education landscape.”

Johnson’s appointment faced pushback, particularly from the HBCU’s alumni community, over her support from Florida’s GOP leadership. Deeming her the “MAGA” pick, many called out the presidential search for lacking transparency, as well as Johnson’s limited experience in academia. Johnson has never led any college or HBCU before, but has served as chair of the Florida Board of Education.

Despite the controversy, the Florida Board of Governors confirmed Johnson’s appointment on June 18. While not explicitly mentioning the contention surrounding her appointment, Johnson emphasized her commitment to students by becoming a consistent face on campus.

“I will be visible. I will be engaged. My door will be open. You’ll find me on campus, in classrooms, at events, and in the heart of this vibrant community—hearing your hopes, your concerns, and your vision for what FAMU can be,” added Johnson. “And to the graduates: wherever life takes you, carry the flame of FAMU with pride. The world needs your light—and I’m proud to be taking the helm of the university that helped spark it.”

Despite FAMU limiting comments on the post, commenters kept the same energy regarding their initial discontent with Johnson’s appointment. Now, all eyes look upon FAMU and Johnson to see what her presidency holds for the HBCU.

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• Contributor Network

by Black Enterprise

August 4, 2025

How To Attract High-Profile Guests And VIP Clients To Your Hospitality Business

Impression matters

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If you want VIPs to pull up to your spot, you’ve got to give them a reason. Once? Twice? No! Over and over. But this isn’t about chasing trends or copying what next door is doing.

You have to know your lane. What makes your business different? Every detail, from first impression to the moment guests walk out of your door, should reflect your brand, your story, and your standard.

Everything matters because VIPs notice when things are off. Your playlist, your lighting, and even whether your commercial fridge keeps the drinks ice-cold and the ingredients fresh.

Sounds overwhelming? We’ve got all the tips ready for you!

1. Make Your Brand Impossible to Ignore

Your brand is more than a logo; it’s the energy people feel before they even step through the door.

So, ask yourself: What’s your spot known for?

Is it the vibe? The plating? The playlist? The storytelling? If you can’t point that out, it’s time for a change.

Think of how Slutty Vegan Founder Pinky Cole built a full-on movement. The name grabs attention. The visuals pop. From their menu names (e.g., “One Night Stand,” “Fussy Hussy”) to their food truck rollouts, everything tells a consistent, unapologetic story.

That’s the goal. Know your story. Own your aesthetic. Be consistent, from your menu design to your Instagram grid. If you’re in the food service industry, here’s a look at the restaurant concepts that are turning heads right now.

Pro Tip: Use clean shots, sharp design, and imagery that reflects your vibe to draw the right crowd. When your brand looks like it knows exactly who it is, folks notice. They don’t just show up; they bring their people.

2. Deliver a VIP Experience Every Time

VIPs don’t always roll in with a spotlight. That’s why every guest needs to feel like they matter.

Take Bomb Biscuits in Atlanta. Chef Erika Council earned national recognition not only for the food but also for the consistent, thoughtful experience. Clean space. Warm welcome. No detail skipped.

It doesn’t take glam. It takes care.

• Train staff to lead with warmth and calm.
• Remember regulars. Use names. Make it personal.
• Keep the basics tight: lighting, music, restrooms, and service flow.
• Stay ready, every time (even when it’s quiet!).

Nail the experience, and the VIP customers will keep coming.

3. Let Influencers Work for You

High-profile guests pay attention to where the buzz is, and influencers help create that hype. But skip the big-name celebrities with fake engagement. Focus on local voices with real reach in your city, such as food bloggers, lifestyle creators, and respected culture shifters.

Invite them to exclusive experiences that they’ll want to share (no hard sell), such as private tours, special tasting events, or a soft launch with first access vibes. That organic content and exclusivity signal to VIP guests that your spot is hot, trusted, and worth a visit.

Trap Kitchen grew its loyal customers through this kind of real love, not paid ads. People with influence showed up, posted, and the right people followed.

4. Network Like a Pro Behind the Scenes

Influencers bring attention. But access? That comes from insiders.

If you want to attract VIP guests, cultivate quiet relationships with publicists, artist managers, executive or personal assistants, and event planners. They’re the folks booking last-minute changes and tables or scouting the perfect vibe for a VIP’s night out. When they trust you, your name starts showing up in the right texts.

Host a closed-door session for them. Or send a personalised invite when there’s something special on the menu. Through this, you can build exposure and trust, and you’ll become the go-to for VIP customers.

5. Make Your Online Presence Match Your Energy

Before VIPs walk in, they check you out online, or someone checks your digital vibe for them. And if it’s off, they won’t book.

That means your Instagram, website, and Google listing all need to be tight. Clean visuals. Updated hours. Clickable links. Smooth booking flow. No excuses.

Look at Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley. Its online presence? Just like its dining experience: bold, polished, and photo-ready. You catch the vibe instantly. The colours hit, the energy’s real, and you already know what kind of experience you’re about to step into.

That’s what VIPs want: confidence before they commit. That means:

• Post crisp, professional shots
• Keep your link in bio updated
• Make it easy to book, call, or share

Let your digital front door speak for you, and speak well.

6. Host What They Can’t Get Anywhere Else

In the hospitality industry, VIP guests are always looking for an experience worth spending money on. That might mean a custom-tasting menu, but it could also include spa treatments, concierge services, or private jet arrangements through business partners. The goal? Make your business feel like a full escape, not just a stop.

Not to mention, extended stays with additional services: personal chefs, massage therapy, and access to exclusive events. Curate it.

One example is The Ivy Hotel in Baltimore, where five-star service and fine dining meet historic elegance. It’s culture wrapped in luxury, with charm you can feel in every room. From the grand architecture to the quiet, personalized care, it strikes that rare balance: intimate, but unforgettable.

When you create something they can’t get anywhere else, high-profile guests notice. They stay longer. Spend more. And tell the right people.

7. Stay Ready for the Big Moment

In this business, the big moment rarely comes with a heads-up.

A celebrity books under another name. A journalist walks in solo. A high-level guest’s team scouts your spot hours before arrival. If you’re not ready, you miss it.

So don’t scramble. Stay ready.

Train your team to deliver even when the room is quiet. Keep your space and press kit tight, and have your high-resolution photos ready. Build systems that don’t rely on you being in the room.

Because reputation? It moves fast. And in VIP circles, word travels faster than you think.

If your service is consistent, your space is always photo-ready, and your story’s locked in? You won’t have to chase the moment. It’ll find you.

Be the Spot That’s Worth Talking About

Attracting VIPs? It starts with how you treat everybody who walks through your doors. You’ve got to build a space that feels intentional, where the vibe speaks even without a word.

In a market full of copy-paste concepts, your story has to come through loud and proud. From a restaurant to a boutique hotel and private lounge (especially when you’re in scaling mode), having the right energy leads to longer stays, higher spend, and real loyalty.

After all, when guests feel seen and valued, they remember. And they tell folks.

RELATED CONTENT: Chefs Kwame Onwuachi And Mashama Bailey Are Bringing Elevated Dining to AMEX Centurion® Lounges

• Entrepreneurship

by Black Enterprise

August 4, 2025

Meet The Black AI Developer Who Has Helped Entrepreneurs Generate $17M In Revenue

Gabe Wilson says every day businesses use AI to save time, cut costs, and boost profits

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While many businesses are still experimenting with AI, one developer is already reshaping how companies operate and scale.

Meet Gabe Wilson, co-founder of Edgy Design Group, automation expert, and Microsoft Certified AI Engineer, trusted by cultural icon 19 Keys and a roster of high-performing entrepreneurs. Gabe’s AI-driven systems have generated over $17 million in client revenue. His clients range from creators and CEOs to a major U.S. municipality. He is setting a new standard for growth in the digital age.

“AI shouldn’t replace people–it should empower them,” says Wilson. “We build systems that think, speak, and act like your best employee–on their best day, every day.”

Wilson also co-leads a venture with millionaire entrepreneur Mario Kelly, known for his appearance on Earn Your Leisure (EYL). Their partnership highlights the power of combining AI with real-world applications.

What Makes Edgy Design Group Different?

Edgy Design Group isn’t just another AI agency, it’s a full-scale transformation partner. Their services include:

• AI Consulting – Pinpointing high-impact ways to integrate AI into your business
• Education & Training – Helping teams adopt AI confidently
• Custom AI Development – Building intelligent chatbots, voice agents, and automation workflows that work around the clock

Whether it’s booking appointments, nurturing leads, or delivering better customer service, Edgy Design Group’s systems help clients cut costs, save time, and make money.

The Bottom Line

AI isn’t just for Big Tech – it’s for any business ready to work smarter.

Founded in 2014, Edgy Design Group is a tech-forward creative agency specializing in AI-powered tools, mobile apps, sales funnels, marketing, and web development. Its mission is to deliver enterprise-level automation and design solutions at startup-friendly pricing.

With over 15 years of experience in technology, Wilson, a North Carolina A&T State University alum, has positioned Edgy Design Group as a trusted partner for businesses ready to grow through smart automation and innovative digital solutions. Learn more at EdgyDesignGroup.com.

Beyond leading the agency, Wilson serves as a panel speaker, youth AI educator, and business consultant, helping both emerging entrepreneurs and established organizations harness AI for meaningful business growth.

RELATED CONTENT: Upskilling Strategies For The AI Era