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Minority Business Highlight: UniqueLee Creations

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: UniqueLee Creations

Based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, UniqueLee Creations is a custom bling shoe business encouraging people to “feel unique.”

Founded by Jillian Lee in 2018, UniqueLee Creations was born out of a fascination with sparkling, blinged-out phone cases. Lee’s interest quickly turned into curiosity about whether she could make them herself, eventually leading her to spend time in Facebook craft groups and gather materials. In no time, Lee was taking custom orders from social media.

By 2023, Lee pivoted to designing custom bling shoes with the vision to “transform everyday sneakers into bold statement pieces that allow people to stand out with confidence.” She also began teaching others how to master the craft themselves via online and in-person classes, according to the website.

“After five years of perfecting my craft designing for clients, even Oprah, and inspiring others, I’m proud of how far UniqueLee Creations has come,” Lee states on the website. “From custom shoes to rhinestone supplies and teaching, this journey has been about passion, creativity and connecting with others who love sparkle as much as I do.”

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Touch A Soul Massage Therapy

UniqueLee Creations offers a variety of products and services that reflect clients’ individuality, allowing them to make a lasting impression and “no option but to stand out feeling unique,” the website states. 

Every pair of custom bling shoes is handcrafted with “luxury, love and that one-of-a-kind sparkle that makes you stand out feeling unique,” according to the website. Bling shoes can be customized for any number of reasons, including birthdays, weddings, anniversaries or special events. Clients can also select one of the “most-loved” designs from the online shop.

Shoes, usually Converse or Avia, are provided. However, clients are encouraged to contact the business if they’d like to send in a pair of their own shoes to be bedazzled.

Custom orders typically take 2-4 weeks and can be shipped worldwide. Pricing starts at around $225 and increases based on design, shoe style, and level of customization — such as type of rhinestone, ribbons and charms, according to the website.

Bling shoes are the highlight of the business, but UniqueLee Creations also offers online and in-person classes on how to bling your own shoes, e-book guides and DIY Bling kits. Clients can also purchase glass rhinestones, resin rhinestones and various rhinestone tools to work on projects at home.

For more information about UniqueLee Creations or to order online, visit uniqueleecreations.com. To get in contact, email jillianlee@uniqueleecreations.com or call 260-258-6525.

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, email chloegm@indyrecorder.com.

Minority Business Highlight: Navis Pack & Ship  

Hanna Rauworth
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Minority Business Highlight: Navis Pack & Ship  

Navis Pack & Ship in Indianapolis is a full-service packing, crating and shipping center known for handling items that many traditional carriers can’t or won’t take on. Located at 3333 N Franklin Road, this locally owned and operated franchise offers tailored logistics solutions for both residential customers and businesses throughout Indianapolis and Central Indiana, such as Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood and surrounding communities.  

Specializing in difficult-to-ship goods, Navis Pack & Ship tackles everything from fine art, antiques and furniture to delicate electronics, medical equipment, machinery and industrial assets. Whether you are preparing a single fragile heirloom for a long journey or coordinating a complex commercial shipment, the team provides customized packing and professional crating designed to protect items throughout transit.  

What sets this business apart is its use of advanced packing techniques and quality materials developed through decades of experience. Their services include custom wooden crates built to specification, foam-in-place cushioning, blocking and bracing, furniture wrap, palletizing, and options for both on-site and off-site crating. Declared value coverage and destination delivery options — including white glove service for residential placements — give customers added peace of mind.  

(Photo/Navis)

Navis also offers flexible pickup and delivery services throughout the U.S. and Canada, making it a strong choice for local moves, international shipments and specialized logistical projects. With a reputation for comprehensive service and reliable handling, this Indianapolis location aims to simplify even the most challenging shipping needs. 

Learn more at gonavis.com/location/home/indianapolis/in18009. 

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, please email newsroom@indyrecorder.com. 

Minority Business Highlight: Touch A Soul Massage Therapy

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: Touch A Soul Massage Therapy

Massage therapist Kobie Johnson started Touch a Soul Massage Therapy in 2021 to help Hoosiers find healing and restore balance in their bodies.

With more than two decades of experience as a licensed massage therapist, Johnson’s practice focuses specifically on holistic wellness — or “healing the mind, body and spirit.” Johnson also has a professional background in social work, life coaching and as a surgical tech and aims to create an environment built on respect, care and empathy at Touch a Soul, providing his clients with skillful and intuitive services from deep tissue to deep relaxation, according to the website.

“I’m passionate about helping people find pain relief and experience real healing through the art of massage therapy,” Johnson states on the website. “Massages shouldn’t all be the same, because people aren’t all the same; each session with me is tailored to your specific needs and concerns.”

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: LA Clean Co

Touch a Soul offers 60-minute, 90-minute and 120-minute massage therapy sessions, each of which can be customized to meet individual client needs. Johnson specializes in deep-tissue massage therapy but also offers a softer Swedish-style massage. 

In the last two years, Johnson has introduced CranioSacral Therapy to his offerings to expand his abilities and help clients reach deeper, broader healing within their bodies, according to the website.

Touch a Soul is located at the Milestone Physical Therapy building at Fort Ben, 9135 Harrison Park Ct. Discounts are available for teachers, social workers and military members. 

For more information or to book an appointment, visit touchasoulwellness.com. To get in contact, call 317-701-8005.

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, email chloegm@indyrecorder.com.

Minority Business Highlight: Circle City Sweets 

MALIK SIMON
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Minority Business Highlight: Circle City Sweets 

Circle City Sweets is a French style bakery located in the AMP at 16 Tech Innovation District.  

This bakery was the brainchild of owner Cindy Hawkins. Circle City Sweets serves their sweet treats from their shop, as well as the Carmel Farmers Market and various local shops and cafes such as Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company, Quills Coffee and Neidhammer Coffee Co. 

Croissants, scones and cookies are a few of the pastry shop’s handcrafted baked goods. Daily cake flavors provide customers with a fresh selection of new and seasonal options. 

Circle City Sweets is at 1220 Waterway Blvd. inside the AMP at 16 Tech Innovative District. For more information visit https://www.circlecitysweets.com/ . 

Staff Writer Malik Simon created this highlight. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, contact him at 317-762-7847 or via email at maliks@indyrecorder.com. 

Minority Business Highlight: Big Benz BBQ

Noral Parham
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Minority Business Highlight: Big Benz BBQ

The aroma of hickory smoke and slow-cooked meat has become a familiar welcome at the intersection of 62nd Street and Michigan Road, where Big Benz BBQ has established itself as a destination for authentic, minority-owned barbecue on Indianapolis’ northwest side. 

The mobile eatery, operating from its distinctive food truck, has built a loyal following by focusing on what truly matters: quality ingredients, authentic preparation and generous portions. While the business may be mobile, its roots in the community run deep. 

“Big Benz BBQ is more than just a food truck; it’s a passion project that brings together the love for BBQ and the joy of sharing delicious meals with our community,” the business shares on its website. 

Big Benz BBQ specializes in smoked meats prepared with sophisticated smoking techniques and a proprietary blend of seasonings. From tender brisket and pulled pork to smoked chicken and ribs, each item spends hours in the smoker, emerging with the signature pink smoke ring and tender texture that signals barbecue done right. 

Customers can find the Big Benz BBQ truck at its regular spot near the busy intersection, serving lunch and dinner crowds drawn by word-of-mouth and the irresistible scent of smoking meat that wafts through the neighborhood on operating days. 

As a minority-owned enterprise, Big Benz BBQ represents the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Indianapolis’ diverse business community. The operation demonstrates that food trucks are not merely alternative dining options but vital small businesses that create jobs, activate public spaces and contribute to the city’s cultural fabric. 

The business maintains an active presence through its website and social media, where followers can check locations, hours and daily specials. For a mobile operation, staying connected with customers is essential, and Big Benz has embraced that connection wholeheartedly. 

Those craving authentic smoked meats can find Big Benz BBQ at its regular Indianapolis location near 62nd Street and Michigan Road. For the most up-to-date information on hours, specials and any location changes, visit bigbenzbbq.com. 

Contact Multimedia Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or noralp@indyrecorder.com if you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine.

Minority Business Highlight: Dieudonne Foundation 

Hanna Rauworth
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Minority Business Highlight: Dieudonne Foundation 

The Dieudonne Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit rooted in Indianapolis dedicated to fostering health, education and empowerment for individuals in underserved and special communities. Its mission focuses on reducing barriers to essential care and resources, especially for those facing language challenges, poverty and systemic inequities. 

Central to the foundation’s work is its culturally responsive EQuiMama program, which provides doula training and certification geared toward supporting women throughout prenatal, labor, postpartum, and newborn care. The foundation equips bilingual caregivers with the skills and knowledge to deliver compassionate, culturally sensitive support, helping expectant families navigate maternal health journeys with dignity and confidence. In addition to training, the organization offers transportation assistance to medical appointments and support for families experiencing premature birth and loss, addressing key obstacles that can prevent access to care. 

(Photo/Dieudonne)

The Dieudonne Foundation also hosts workshops and community-focused events that promote education and awareness, while advocating for equitable maternal and family health outcomes. By partnering with local groups and relying on volunteers, the foundation strives to make a lasting impact by connecting underserved residents with the tools and support they need to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. 

Support for the foundation comes from grants, donations, and fundraising activities that help sustain its direct services and community outreach. Those interested in partnering or contributing can contact the organization through its website to learn more about upcoming initiatives and how to get involved. 

(Photo/Dieudonne)

For contact and additional information about programs, visit DieudonneFoundation.org. 

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, please email newsroom@indyrecorder.com. 

Minority Business Highlight: Smitten Kitten Cafe and Coffee Shop

MALIK SIMON
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Minority Business Highlight: Smitten Kitten Cafe and Coffee Shop

The Smitten Kitten Cafe and Coffee Shop is the spot for those who love cats and coffee. This café offers a variety of beverages and treats from local businesses, and a free-roam cat lounge.  

This cafe is owned and operated by Holly Moss. Moss and her team welcome everyone to come in, have a coffee, and possibly find fellowship with a furry friend.  Guests may also consider adopting a companion for their home.

“Our mission is to reduce the number of surrendered, abandoned, and homeless cats in our community,” the website states.  “Our playful, stress-free, interactive environment allows for a stronger bond between the adopter and the cat. Our cat lounge is a safe, cage-free, peaceful environment for adoptable cats to reside, relax, and play with our guests and hopefully find their own human to go home with.”

Guests are encouraged to make a reservation. The cafe limits the number of people permitted in the cat lounge and may not be able to accommodate walk-ins.

The Smitten Kitten Cafe and Coffee Shop is at 7852 E 96th St. For more information visit https://www.smittenkittencatcafe.com/ .

Staff Writer Malik Simon created this highlight. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, contact him at 317-762-7847 or via email at maliks@indyrecorder.com.

Defro LLC: Capturing community through the lens

Noral Parham
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Defro LLC: Capturing community through the lens

Long before the shutter clicks and the flash pops, there’s a relationship being built. For senior sports photographer David Dixon, known to nearly everyone in Indianapolis sports circles as “Defro,” that connection between photographer and subject is just as important as the final portrait. 

“Most of the athletes I have photographed over the past two decades probably don’t know my real name,” Dixon said. “They call me Defro. So that is what I decided to name my business.”  

What started as a hobby evolved into Defro LLC, a minority-owned, for-profit  photography enterprise. Dixon’s work spans multiple sports and events, but his heart remains rooted in the high school basketball culture. His business has grown to encompass partnerships with other photographers. Today, Defro LLC is contracted by the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) for state championship events, in addition to working with individual schools and venues across Indianapolis.  

His philosophy, distilled from those early lessons, is simple: “Never take your finger off the trigger.”  

Dixon arrives hours before tipoff to scout scenes and prepare. The best shots happen after the play — the reaction, the emotion, the bench exploding.  

“I want to capture images, not photos, that hopefully ignite something in somebody,” Dixon said. 

Beyond his business success, Dixon has made community investment a cornerstone of his life’s work. He serves as a founding mentor of 300 Cameras for 300 Kids, an initiative dedicated to providing underserved high school students with pathways into photography careers. The program offers mentorship, professional training, and actual equipment to students who might otherwise never access the industry. 

For Dixon, the initiative is about paying forward the generosity shown to him. He regularly shares tips with young photographers, emphasizing that the technical aspects of photography matter less than genuine connection and relentless preparation. 

As Defro LLC continues to grow, Dixon shows no signs of leaving the baselines. Whether he’s documenting championship celebrations or mentoring the next generation with a camera for the first time, his mission remains consistent: capture the moment, build the community and keep the shutter clicking and the bulb beaming. 

Contact Dixon and Defro, LLC at 317-590-8744. Follow Dixon on Instagram @Defroinc.

Multimedia Reporter Noral Parham created this highlight. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, contact him at 317-762-7846 or email him at noralp@indyrecorder.com. 

Minority Business Highlight: LA Clean Co

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: LA Clean Co

Based in Greenwood, Indiana, LA Clean Co is a woman-owned business dedicated to providing exceptional cleaning services tailored to its community’s needs. 

Founded by Alexis Orchard and Anna Ruble in 2023, LA Clean Co specializes in providing clients with a spotless home and seamless transition, “ensuring a healthier and more inviting living environment, according to the website.

“Founded on the principles of integrity, reliability, and excellence, our mission is to create pristine living spaces that promote health and well-being for our clients,” the website states. “With experience in the industry, we understand that a clean home is essential for a happy life.”

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Instant Giving Home Care

LA Clean Co employs a team of fully trained, insured and motivated professionals who aim to deliver the highest quality of service, according to the website. Services range from residential cleaning, designed to keep the home tidy and organized through regular dusting and sanitizing, to move-in and move-out cleaning to prepare spaces for new occupants by thoroughly cleaning all surfaces and areas, and to commercial cleaning, which maintains cleanliness throughout a workspace.

“Where you own your time and peace of mind,” is LA Clean Co’s motto, and the team believes in building lasting relationships with its clients, taking the time to listen to their preferences and customize each service accordingly, according to the website. 

The business also uses eco-friendly cleaning products and the latest techniques to ensure their clients’ homes sparkle while keeping family members and pets safe.

For more information about LA Clean Co or to book services online, visit lacleanco.net. To get in contact, email info.lacleanco@gmail.com or call 317-759-4073.

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, email chloegm@indyrecorder.com.

Minority Business Highlight: Decor by Dannie 

Hanna Rauworth
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Minority Business Highlight: Decor by Dannie 

Decor By Dannie is a creative event and decor company based in Indianapolis, Indiana, that has grown from a simple canvas painting service into a multifaceted experience provider since its founding in 2019.  

What began with basic paint and canvas offerings has expanded into a premier destination for artistic events, at-home craft kits, event rentals and unique party experiences across the region.  

The business hosts immersive canvas-themed parties and events designed for artists of all ages and skill levels. From romantic date nights to themed group gatherings, Decor By Dannie’s event calendar invites participants to explore their creativity in fun, social settings. In addition to studio events, the company offers a variety of paint-and-party kits for adults and children, including canvas kits, glass paint kits and themed art bundles that customers can enjoy from home.  

Decor By Dannie also provides event planning and rental services that include tables, chairs and party enhancements like inflatable photo booths and 360 spin booths, giving hosts tools to elevate celebrations ranging from birthdays to corporate functions. Their Paint & Party bus brings the creative experience directly to date nights, family outings or private gatherings, offering a mobile option that adds fun to any occasion.  

(Photo/Decor by Dannie)

Located on East Washington Street, Decor By Dannie combines art, community and personalized service to make every event memorable. With a focus on hands-on creativity and inclusive experiences, the company continues to build its reputation as a one stop shop for arts-based celebrations and memorable moments in Indianapolis and beyond. 

To learn more, visit decorbydannie.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. 

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