WASHINGTON D.C., DC — The SpiceGirlin' Market Place was among the few small businesses chosen to receive a brick-and-mortar store in Downton D.C. as part of the Grow Golden program. The pop-up shop consists of 19 Black female entrepreneurs that make handmade or uniquely sourced items, selling everything from specialized cocktails to vintage clothing.
The Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID) partnered with landlords to provide multiple months of free rent as part of the new program to help the area recover due to a high number of vacant offices and retail spaces.
A spokesperson for the Golden Triangle BID said the area encompasses 34 million square feet of office space and attracted almost 90,000 workers a day before the pandemic. More than a year after the pandemic spread to the district, the BID told WUSA9 that the Golden Triangle has 122 vacant office and retail spaces
The retail space is highly sought after and normally comes with a huge price tag. But the Grow Golden program allows for established small businesses that apply to receive up to 12 months of free rent and "favorable terms" for extending their occupancy.
The SpiceGirlin' Market ladies say they are happy to have found their place on the busy Connecticut Avenue and are looking forward to expanding their businesses.
Meet some of the women from SpiceGirlin' Marketplace:
Chrissy Sheffey of Charismatic Creations: Chrissy Sheffey is a certified mixologist and owner of Charismatic Creations, a professional bartending service and premium all-natural cocktail mix company.
Ambrie Jones of SHE Candle Co.: Ambrie Jones has always had a passion for creativity. She started her journey as a candle maker as the owner of SHE Candle Co. in 2017 as a therapeutic outlet. She quickly realized the importance of spreading love to women around the world.
Wumie Konteh of Beads By Woo: "Let me woo you!" This is the phrase that entices the customers of Wumie Konteh, Owner and Creative Lead at Beads by Woo. Wumie's passion is creating fun, sensory experiences.
Dr. Nikki Brooks-Seevers of Zen In A Jar: Dr. Nikki Brooks-Seevers created Zen in a Jar to provide affordable luxury experiences for the mind, body & space through the power of aromatherapy and body chemistry. ZIJ has products available for women, men and children spanning each scent family with 150+ custom fragrance options.
Stacie Moore of Instant Vintage 78: Instant Vintage 78 is a vintage boutique that specializes in buying, selling, and consigning men’s, women’s and children’s vintage clothing, jewelry, shoes and accessories from the 1940s to the 1990s.