Thursday, August 7, 2025
Home Blog Page 2

Minority Business Highlight: Memory Lane Tattoo Club

Memory Lane Tattoo Club LLC, a Latino-owned business, offers comprehensive tattoo and piercing services in Indianapolis.  

Founded in 2022 by partners David Rivas and Eduardo Cervantes, the licensed studio operates from the Pyramid Place Shopping Center on the city’s north side. 

Located at 8644 Purdue Road, the shop provides a full suite of body art services. These include custom tattooing, professional tattoo removal and various body piercings, specifically highlighting ear and nose piercings. 

It conducts standard tattoo shop services typical to the industry. Their business hours are Monday-Thursday 1-6:30 p.m., Friday 1-8 p.m., Saturday 6-10 p.m. and closed Sundays.  

Clients can contact Memory Lane Tattoo Club at (317) 492-9631. Check out their work on Instagram @memorylanetattooclub


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Facebook and TikTok @horsemensportsmedia. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: Blue Print Playhouse Learning Academy 

Blue Print Playhouse Learning Academy is a faith-based early childhood center serving families on the east side of Indianapolis.  

Founded with the belief that play inspires learning and growth, the academy provides care and education for children from infancy through age five in a nurturing, creative and developmentally supportive environment. 

(Photo/Blue Print Playhouse website)

The academy’s philosophy centers on the idea that each child is unique and learns best through hands-on experiences. Its curriculum blends academic preparation with social, emotional and spiritual development. Children are introduced to early literacy, math and science concepts through structured play, STEAM activities, creative arts and outdoor exploration. Teachers provide individualized attention to support each child’s strengths, interests and learning style. 

Spiritual development is an integral part of the school’s environment, with Christian-based values woven into daily activities and routines. Children are encouraged to grow in kindness, patience and empathy while also building confidence and independence. Families are considered active partners in the learning process, and staff work closely with parents and guardians to support each child’s development. 

(Photo/Blue Print Playhouse website)

In addition to full-time care and preschool, Blue Print Playhouse offers Pre-K preparation, after-school care and summer programming that continues to emphasize enrichment and play. The facility is designed to be safe, welcoming and engaging, with age-appropriate learning spaces and experienced educators committed to early childhood excellence. 

Visit blueprintplayhouse.org to learn more. 

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: Pretty CREATIVE, LLC

Founded by Alexandra J. Hall, Pretty CREATIVE, LLC is a Black- and woman-owned digital marketing agency based out of Indianapolis.

Pretty CREATIVE, LLC specializes in helping clients build and foster customer relationships through “culturally rich and relevant marketing, design and outreach,” according to the website.

Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Hall relocated to Indianapolis more than a decade ago and her business allows her to combine her passion for child development, social justice, advocacy, mental health and wellness and “love of all things resplendent.”

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Pamela Bean Enterprises, LLC

Under Hall’s leadership as creative director, the Pretty CREATIVE, LLC team brings more than a decade of experience in formulating and executing political, health and wellness, education and nonprofit marketing campaigns. 

Pretty CREATIVE, LLC’s services include brand strategy, content curation, graphic design, web design and copywriting.

“We welcome the opportunity to partner with your organization and utilize our expertise to develop a strategy that elevates your brand and expands your territory,” the website states. “Our passion is curating vibrant and engaging content that focuses on amplifying missions and aims to inspire impactful change. We thrive on helping organizations achieve their goals and expand their reach.”

At Pretty CREATIVE, LLC, clients can expect to work alongside a team that prides itself on creativity, innovation, strategy and community connection as they work to create vibrant and intentional brands that will nurture rich interactions, drive growth and deliver results.

Pretty CREATIVE, LLC is based out of an office suite at The Amp at 16 Tech, 1220 Waterway Blvd. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit prettycreativellc.com/home. To get in contact email hello@prettycreativellc.com or call 317-203-9470.

Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Alpha Health and Wellness: Indianapolis native delivers holistic healing

Dr. Sarita Sharp, a Sherman College-trained chiropractor and lifelong Indianapolis resident, is transforming Indianapolis community health through her woman-owned practice, Alpha Health & Wellness LLC. 

The clinic is located at 4201 Millersville Road (Suite MW-13) and offers evidence-based holistic care rooted in personalized patient journeys. 

Services tailored to Indianapolis 

Dr. Sharp’s practice specializes in: 

  • Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments for pain relief, mobility and preventative wellness (treatments from 15–45 minutes; Medicare accepted). 
  • Spine & Unwind: Gentle tension-release techniques promoting spinal relaxation and mental balance. 
  • Laser Therapy/Physiotherapy: Non-invasive solutions for inflammation and injury recovery. 
  • Weight Loss-Laser Lipo: Targeted body contouring programs. 
  • Specialized Care: Prenatal, pediatric and auto-accident (PI/MVA) rehabilitation. 

More on Sharp’s journey  

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Sharp founded Alpha Health in 2017 to address gaps in patient-centered wellness.  

“I recognized the need for a place where comprehensive care and compassion meet,” Sharp said on her official website.  

Her approach treats each patient as “an individual with unique needs,” prioritizing long-term health over quick fixes. Beyond clinical work, Sharp hosts community meet & greets to educate locals on spinal health resources. She extends her recruitment mentorship work from Sherman College. 

Community connection 

When not treating patients, Sharp walks her boxer, Tank, explores local restaurants and attends sporting events like the 2025 WNBA All-Star Weekend in downtown Indy. 

Visit Alpha Health 

  • Phone: 317-602-4066 

Walk-ins are welcome; appointments are recommended for specialized services.


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Facebook @HorsemenSportsMedia. If you want your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: 2Hope360 

2Hope360 is a minority-owned business that offers digital and print journaling tools centered on self-care, identity and heritage.  

Available through its Payhip storefront, the business was founded with the goal of helping people, especially women of color, use journaling as a path toward healing, clarity and purpose. 

The store features more than a dozen journals and ebooks, including the “Melanin in Motion” collection, which celebrates Black identity through bold cover designs and affirming prompts. Titles include “Afro & Glasses Journal,” “I Am My Ancestors’ Journal” and “Pineapple & Prayer Journal.” Other offerings include self-guided habit trackers, faith-based prompts, Black history notebooks and affirmation planners. Prices range from $9.99 for digital downloads to $34.99 for printed spiral-bound journals. 

The founder of 2Hope360 describes journaling as a daily grounding practice that builds mindfulness and self-awareness.  

“With just a few minutes a day of putting my thoughts on paper, I cultivate a deeper understanding of who I am, reduce my stress levels and boost my well-being,” reads a message on the store’s welcome page.  

An example of a journal available for purchase from 2Hope360. (Photo via/Facebook)

The journals reflect that personal philosophy, with prompts designed to guide reflection, goal-setting and emotional processing. 

While rooted in wellness, 2Hope360 also serves as a platform for representation. Many products feature artwork and affirmations that center Black women and culture. The designs aim to reflect the communities they serve. 

2Hope360 is also active on social media, where it shares journaling tips and reflections on entrepreneurship. Posts often explore the intersection of mission-driven business, mental health and storytelling. Customers are encouraged to share their own journaling journeys, creating a sense of community around the brand. 

To shop, visit payhip.com/2Hope360

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: Pamela Bean Enterprises, LLC

Pamela Bean of Pamela Bean Enterprises, LLC, does it all — from HR consulting, to event coordinating, life coaching and even podcasting. 

Oh, she’s also an independent travel advisor. 

Bean is a self-proclaimed “EmpowerNista” — or “ trailblazer dedicated to empowering, uplifting and elevating others.” Pamela Bean Enterprises, LLC is based in Indianapolis and offers a diverse range of services tailored to meet each of its clients’ needs, according to the website.

An Ohio native and current Hoosier, Bean spent her career in corporate America and is now “embracing the entrepreneurial spirit” by inspiring those around her to be their best selves, according to the website.

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Crosspoint Family Dental

As a human resources consultant, Bean uses a DEI and leadership lens to help clients identify, create and carry out policies, procedures and action plans. Her services and expertise lie in company culture, recruitment, retention and employee relations.

Bean’s event planning services also fall into the corporate realm, including designing, planning and executing events for organizations and corporations. Bean is also prepared to elevate her client’s next trip through Memorable Moments Travel or help them set goals and develop new habits through #HeadTrash Coaching.

Situationally Speaking: A Podcast with Pamela Bean combines all aspects of Bean’s entrepreneurial spirit, featuring episodes on starting a business, finances, self-care, building a legacy and more. Stream episodes at pamelabean.net/podcast. To get in contact, email pamela@pamelabean.net or call 317-214-0888.

For more information or to book a service with Pamela Bean Enterprises, LLC visit pamelabean.net/home.

Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

‘Curating our own tables’: She’s Got Now Empowerment Luncheon syncs with WNBA All-Star

Forget waiting for an invitation. Tomeka B. Holyfield isn’t just setting a table; she’s building a movement.  

The inaugural She’s Got Now Empowerment Luncheon, timed to the electric energy of WNBA All-Star weekend, aims to be far more than a celebration. It aspires to be a healing force and a powerful declaration for women in sports. 

“This is going to be a movement,” Holyfield said in an exclusive interview with the Indianapolis Recorder. “It’s one of those events that you know is going to be a movement. That’s what we’re feeling.” 

Scheduled amidst record-breaking WNBA viewership and surging female ownership in sports, the luncheon honors legends, current stars, executives and media leaders. Names like A’ja Wilson, Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, Dawn Staley and Doris Burke are central, with Serena Williams receiving a special recognition award.  

Holyfield sees this moment as undeniable. 

“Why not now,” Holyfield asked. “Now is the best time, more than ever. Women are the fastest-growing entrepreneur. This year alone, the WNBA will gross upwards of one billion dollars.”  

She contrasted historic NBA viewership lows with Clark-Reese matchups, drawing tens of millions.  

“The tide is changing. It’s been in the making for two or three years… She’s Got Now spoke to me,” she said. “You have to do it now. It’s not tomorrow. It’s not yesterday.” 

Black women focused while building bridges

Tomeka B. Holyfield, CEO, founder of She's Got Now Empowerment Luncheon, happening during WNBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis in July 2025.
a headshot fo Tomeka B. Holyfield, founder of the She’s Got Now Empowerment Luncheon. (Photo provided/Holyfield)

Crucially, the event centers on (but is not limited to) Black women, athletes and entrepreneurs who are shaping a historically male-dominated arena. Honorees represent generations of groundbreaking effort. Holyfield highlighted pioneers like Nancy Lieberman and Lisa Leslie, media icon Doris Burke and current moguls like Candace Parker. 

“What they’re doing is why this thing is bigger than business and basketball,” Holyfield said. “The ball is the foundation, but it’s helping them get the bag … These ladies are turning over the veil of what they thought they couldn’t do.” 

‘A melting pot of hugs’ 

Dawn Staley, University of South Carolina women's basketball head coach.
FILE – In this March 6, 2016, file photo, South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley is shown during the third quarter of an NCAA college basketball against Mississippi State in the Southeastern Conference women’s tournament final in Jacksonville, Fla. Dawn Staley was chosen as The Associated Press Southeastern Conference coach of the year, for the second time in three years, announced Tuesday, March 15, 2016. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough, File)

Beyond accolades, Holyfield envisions profound connection.  

“My number one goal is that this grows into a networking and meeting place,” Holyfield said. “We could take our Superwoman capes off and just be glad for the next person … We subliminally know what each other is going through.”  

She described her hope for “a melting pot of hugs and admiration for each other.” 

“I want to make sure that when they leave, they’re uplifted and clapping for everybody else … everybody has something they’ve gone through.” 

She sees the luncheon as a catalyst for unity during a competitive season. 

“We have to talk about the elephant in the room,” Holyfield said, referencing league tensions. “I’m hoping this is the platform to bring all of them together, collectively despite their dreams, goals, even their scars … I’m hoping their scars turn into celebrative memories.” 

Strategic synergy and a call to action 

WNBA Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese during an Unrivaled, women's basketball league, game in Miami, Florida.
Rose’s Angel Reese (5) waits for to shoot free throw shots during the Unrivaled 3 on 3 inaugural basketball game, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, in Medley, Fla. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

Holding the event during All-Star weekend in Indianapolis was deliberate. Holyfield cited the city’s welcoming atmosphere and proven capability to host major events like the 2024 NBA All-Star.  

“The numbers are changing … it’s a strategic move,” Holyfield said. “It was a no-brainer.” 

While high-profile honorees draw attention, Holyfield makes space for community. Initially focused on corporate tables, her team persuaded her to release a limited number of community tickets. 

“I wanted to have company tables and keep it cohesive … but we do have some individual community tickets,” Holyfield said, directing interested parties to the She’s Got Now Empowerment Luncheon website. 

Don’t wait, curate. 

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark WNBA Media Day 2025
Indiana Fever point guard Caitlin Clark (22) during WNBA Media Day on April 30, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo/David Dixon)

Ultimately, Holyfield’s message extends far beyond the luncheon. It’s a clarion call for every woman everywhere.  

“I just want the readers to know we are no longer waiting for a table or to be invited. We curate our own tables,” Holyfield said. 

Her challenge is direct.  

“Wherever you are, you don’t need to be validated,” Holyfield said. You don’t need to wait for a seat at the table. Create your own table …  It’s over waiting for somebody to validate who we are … We make our own tables, we make our own decisions, and we create our own narratives of our lives.” 

Holyfield believes this self-validation breeds peace.  

“When we begin to do that … that’s when peace and enjoyment come into us … because we have peace within ourselves,” she said. 

The She’s Got Now Empowerment Luncheon is the physical launch. But Holyfield’s vision — of women curating their own tables, celebrating shared struggles and triumphs, and forging unity in a fragmented landscape — is the true movement.  

As she put it, “This is going to change lives and perspectives.” 

Learn more about the She’s Got Now Empowerment Luncheon at eventbrite.com/e/shes-got-now-empowerment-luncheon-tickets-1432524773159


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on Facebook @horsemensportsmedia. For more news, click here. Visit the Indiana Minority Business Magazine here.

Highlight: Mattingly Concrete honored as Indy’s Vendor of the Month 

Mattingly Concrete was recognized as the City of Indianapolis’ Vendor of the Month for July 2025 on July 7. The Office of Minority and Women Business Development (OMWBD) presented the award. 

OMWBD Director David Fredricks honored the certified Disabled-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) at the Indianapolis City-County Building. 

Mattingly Concrete is a leading concrete construction company. It has served Central Indiana, Southern Ohio and Northeast Kentucky for over 35 years. The company handles residential and commercial projects. 

Fredricks celebrated President Will Mattingly and his team. The award acknowledged their outstanding service as a concrete contractor and their role as community service champions. 

The firm emphasizes transforming client visions into reality. It prioritizes exceptional quality and unmatched customer service. 

Mattingly Concrete states its core values form its foundation: 

  • Quality First: Using top equipment and materials for lasting solutions. 
  • Customer Satisfaction: Prioritizing client needs with clear communication. 
  • Safety Always: Maintaining strict safety standards for all. 
  • Honesty and Respect: Building long-term client relationships on trust. 
  • Commitment to Excellence: Continuously improving skills and industry knowledge. 

Throughout July, OMWBD will spotlight Mattingly Concrete Inc. The focus is on their contributions to Indianapolis and beyond. The company stresses it builds trust alongside concrete structures.  

Learn more about the business at mattinglyconcrete.com


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Facebook @HorsemenSportsMedia. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: Crosspoint Family Dental

Crosspoint Family Dental, a Black- and family-owned dental suite based in Indianapolis promises “comprehensive care” for overall wellness.

Led by Dr. Chari L. Fletcher-Crayton, Crosspoint Family Dental is comprised of a team of professionals committed to “ongoing professional growth.” Fletcher-Crayton received her doctor of dental surgery from Indiana University School of Dentistry and is certified in sedation dentistry and laser surgery to treat periodontal disease.

Under Fletcher-Crayton’s leadership, Crosspoint aims to give patients comprehensive and gentle dental care using the latest techniques and newest technology, according to the website.

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Pretty Smart, LLC

“At Crosspoint Family Dental Care, we’ll greet you with a smile and hello and do everything we can to give you the best dental experience you’ve ever had,” the website states. “From preventative care to complex procedures, we begin every appointment by making sure you are relaxed and comfortable. We’ll explain every step of your treatment and answer any questions you may have.”

Crosspoint Family Dentistry specializes in services that help clients “restore or maintain your perfect smile,” including periodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, preventive oral health and sedation dentistry for those with dental anxiety. Crosspoint also offers emergency dental care for cracked teeth and pain in addition to cosmetic and restorative dentistry services such as dentures and veneers, tooth bonding, bridges, crowns and fillings.

Crosspoint Family Dental is located at 9855 Crosspoint Blvd., Suite 144. It is in a network with more than a dozen different insurance plans and offers CareCredit and other dental savings plans. 

New and returning patients can schedule appointments with Crosspoint Family Dental by calling 317-486-5841 or booking online at crosspointfamilydental.com.

Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Minority Business Highlight: Three To Four Dogs  

Indianapolis-based pet treat company Three To Four Dogs is making a name for itself with its line of simple, high-quality snacks designed for both dogs and cats. Focused on digestive health, transparency and ingredient integrity, the business offers a growing range of products that appeal to pet lovers looking for healthier alternatives. 

The brand’s name reflects its founders’ real-life experience as pet owners, caring for three to four dogs at any given time. That experience drives the company’s mission: to provide high-value, functional treats using ingredients that are easy for pets to digest. According to its website, every product is designed with both flavor and purpose in mind. 

Among the brand’s bestsellers are their Beef Liver Chews, made from a single ingredient and suitable for both dogs and cats. The company also offers Fish Jerky, a protein-rich treat that supports muscle development and overall health. 

Ronica Owens, founder. (Photo/Three To Four Dogs website)

For pets with sensitive stomachs, the Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Bites are crafted with fiber-rich ingredients that aim to soothe and support digestion. Sweet Potato Chews serve as another gentle option for dogs, offering high fiber content and natural flavor without additives.  

A standout item for cats is their Catnip & Fish Donuts, creatively shaped and designed to be served alone or used as a food topper to encourage finicky eaters. 

Three To Four Dogs also offers a dog-and-cat-friendly meal topper made from dehydrated meat, intended to boost the nutritional profile and taste of standard pet food. All items are shipped from Indiana, and customers in the U.S. can receive free shipping on orders over $40. 

With a growing presence online, including a Shopify storefront and an active Instagram account (@threetofourdogs), the company connects with pet owners across the country. Their website highlights upcoming breaks in shipping or operations, showing a commitment to transparency and customer service. 

For more information or to shop their selection, visit https://three-to-four-dogs.myshopify.com

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Translate »
Skip to content