Latin-Owned Brands To Support For Hispanic Heritage Month (& Every Month!)
Hispanic Heritage Month (or Latin/Latin-X Heritage Month) is a time to celebrate the rich cultural contributions of Latinx individuals across the globe. One powerful way to honor this heritage is by supporting Latin-owned businesses that not only create exceptional products but also weave their cultural identity into every facet of their business. Here are some outstanding Latin-X/Latin-owned brands that deserve your attention not only during Hispanic Heritage Month but throughout the year.
1. Vavica
Camila, Victoria, and Valentina, the minds behind Vavica Bodycare, recognized a gap in the beauty industry's representation and authenticity. Drawing from their Latin American roots, they crafted a clean bodycare brand that celebrates Latinx culture. By infusing powerhouse skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter with botanicals commonly used in Latin America, Vavica brings awareness to the diverse tapestry of Latin American ingredients and traditions.
2. Tecuane Hair
Anissa Salazar, with over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry, knows the importance of multipurpose and sustainable hair care. This insight led her to create Tecuane, a luxurious clean hair care brand that pays homage to Mexican culture and embraces gender fluidity. With Tecuane, Anissa delivers a product that not only nurtures your hair but also respects the values and diversity of the Latinx community.
3. Ocoa Beauty
Nicole and Cory, sisters and immigrants from the Dominican Republic, founded Ocoa Beauty with a mission to empower curly-haired Latina women. Having experienced the pressure to conform to societal beauty standards, they set out to change the narrative. Ocoa honors natural beauty by using luxe, clean, and minimal ingredients sourced from their homeland. Their products not only nourish your hair but also infuse confidence into every curl.
4. Loisa
Kenny Luna and Scott Hattis, the co-founders of Loisa, embarked on a mission to preserve Dominican heritage through flavorful Sazón and Adobo. Their dedication to authenticity led them to create spice blends, seasonings, and cooking sauces without artificial ingredients. With every product, they offer a taste of pure Latin sabor, while also giving back 2% of sales to an organization fighting for food justice.
5. Lalo Tequila
Named after Eduardo “Lalo” González, the son of the legendary Don Julio González and father to the brand’s co-founder, also named Lalo González. The brand started as a passion project for Lalo and his childhood friend, David Carballido, after a long discussion about the direction of today’s tequila industry and shared ideals of how tequila deserves to be made. The duo drew inspiration from both Lalo’s grandfather and father’s tequila-making practices and insights from a decade of their own professional experience in the industry. After several years of development & a tremendous reception at home in Guadalajara, Lalo and David decided to bring the brand to the United States. They partnered with Jim McDermott, their trusted friend, and businessman who would later marry David, to bring the tequila stateside and introduce the brand in Austin, Texas.
6. Taste Salud
Established by Josh Leyva and Tyler McCann, Taste Salud specializes in crafting a diverse range of drink mixes that enhance both hydration and immunity. Drawing inspiration from the cherished customs of Leyva's upbringing, the brand pays homage to the traditional Aguas Frescas that played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and well-being among neighbors and friends. Explore their extensive offerings here!
7. Calidad
Launched in 2019 by entrepreneur Josh Zad and 5-time MLB All-Star Adrián “El Titán” González, Calidad is a lifestyle beer brand that aims to creatively reinterpret traditional Mexican drinks with a Californian perspective. Their first offering, Calidad Beer “Classic,” presents a high-quality Mexican-style lager characterized by a refreshing, light-bodied profile complemented by hints of sweet corn and zesty citrus notes.
This Hispanic Heritage Month, and beyond, let's celebrate and support these remarkable Latin-founded brands. By doing so, we not only experience the exceptional products they offer but also contribute to the continued success and representation of Latinx entrepreneurs in the global market. Remember, supporting these brands isn't just a one-time act; it's a commitment to appreciating and valuing the diverse stories and talents that make up the Latin & Latin-x community. Cheers to heritage, innovation, and the power of representation!
Note: Please make sure to check each brand's website or social media for the most up-to-date information on their products and offerings.