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Minority Business Highlight: Frida’s Flowers

Downtown flower shop Frida’s Flowers is “centering Mexican design and Latina brilliance.”

Created by Madeline Miralez-MacKinnon in 2023, Frida’s Flowers is more than just a flower shop. The business specializes in weddings, special events and creative projects, serving as a globally inspired floral design studio in the heart of Indianapolis.

“I envision a world where culture, color, and beauty are central to our collective flourishing,” Miralez-MacKinnon states on the website. “Through working with the medium of flowers, I’ve discovered how deeply the arts play a role in expanding our capacity for wonder and curiosity; and I’ve witnessed firsthand how flowers, as an artistic medium, embody these qualities.” 

READ MORE: Blooming while Black: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Black florists 

Miralez-MacKinnon grew up in Mexico City and Costa Rica, and said being surrounded by the “gorgeous, lush, magical” terrain opened her senses to the natural world, influencing her approach to flowers. Her work is a “fusion of tradition and modernity,” taking inspiration from Frida Kahlo, a renowned Latina artist who incorporated florals into her work, according to the website. 

Whether celebrating a birthday, graduation or another milestone, or planning a wedding or another large-scale event, Miralez-MacKinnon and her team of designers are dedicated to creating floral-forward, immersive works of art that “spark wonder and creative inspiration.” Frida’s Flowers even offers original floral design for magazines or editorial consideration, photoshoots, gallery openings, public installations and more. 

“Not only do flowers capture the essence of culture, color, and beauty, but because nature serves as a co-regulator for our nervous systems, flowers also support the healing of our neural pathways and deepen our connection to the land,” the website states. “All of these realities inspire the work I do with Frida’s and how I choose to do it. And of course, to honor my rich Mexican heritage and childhood, I love to center Mexican design patterns and colors in my work.”

Frida’s Flowers works with a variety of local wholesalers and farms during the warmer months, in addition to sourcing specialty blooms from the New York Flower Group. The team also provides full-service delivery, setup and teardown for weddings and events.

Frida’s Flowers has previously worked with organizations such as the Indiana Fever, Pacers Sports & Entertainment, The Indiana Repertory Theatre, LUSH Cosmetics, Nike, Newfields, GANGGANG, Girls Inc., and The International Center to create one-of-a-kind designs and floral experiences, according to the website.

Frida’s Flowers is located in The Stutz, 1060 N. Capital Ave. For more information about the shop or to book an event, visit fridasflowersindy.com. To get in contact, email Fridasflowersindy@gmail.com or call 765-481-1830.

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: Unlimited Beauty Empire 

Unlimited Beauty Empire is a full-service beauty salon located at 7106 Woodland Drive in Indianapolis, Indiana, dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best through a wide variety of professional treatments.  

With a strong reputation and nearly a five-star average customer rating, the salon has become a go-to destination for hair, nail and skin care services.  

At Unlimited Beauty Empire, guests can choose from an extensive menu of offerings that include precision haircuts and styling, protective and textured braid services, hair extensions and treatments, and intricate locs and twists. The salon also provides nail services, facials, lash enhancements, brow shaping and tinting, waxing, and customized wig installations — all designed to meet a range of beauty needs in a single visit. 

The salon’s plating of services extends to combination packages that bundle luxurious treatments for a more holistic beauty experience, as well as add-on options that elevate primary services into full pampering sessions. 

(Photo/Unlimited Beauty Empire)

Clients choose Unlimited Beauty Empire for its professional staff and welcoming atmosphere, where experienced stylists and technicians work with individuals to achieve tailored looks that reflect personal style and confidence. Whether booking a classic haircut, braiding session, or skincare treatment, the salon emphasizes attention to detail and client satisfaction.  

With convenient online scheduling and a broad selection of services, Unlimited Beauty Empire continues to serve its community as a comprehensive beauty destination where clients can enjoy multiple services in one location, saving time while indulging in selfcare and transformation.  

To make an appointment, visit unlimitedbeautyempire.zoca.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. 

Minority Business Highlight: Helm Coffee

Helm Coffee is a local women-owned coffee shop serving Hoosiers in the Garfield Park neighborhood, offering various brews for coffee lovers around town. This store is owned and founded by 2016 USA Olympic women’s rugby team captain Jillion Potter and her wife, Carol Fabrizio.

“We started Helm because we believe in spreading the love of great coffee through kindness and connection – by building relationships one sip and one cup at a time,” as stated on Helm Coffee’s website.

This shop’s bread and butter is being a specialty coffee roaster dedicated to crafting outstanding coffee and experiences. Their menu features popular coffee options such as cortados, lattes, and espressos. They also offer hand-poured coffee alongside their other staples.

Even if you can’t visit in person, Helm Coffee delivers an assortment of coffee packages and subscriptions.

You can visit Helm Coffee at 2324 Shelby St or visit their website https://helmcoffeeroasters.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.

Champagne and Caviar at 1933 Lounge

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Looking for a taste of luxury in the heart of Downtown Indianapolis? 

St. Elmo Steak House is hosting an exclusive Champagne and Caviar Social at its iconic 1933 Lounge on Thursday, February 19. From 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, guests will be treated to a hand-selected lineup of world-class champagnes and sparkling wines, each expertly paired with decadent bites designed to highlight the evening’s centerpiece: premium caviar.

Whether you’re a connoisseur or looking for an elegant night out, the champagne and caviar social experience offers a unique look at one of Indy’s most historic venues.

 Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026 

 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 

 Location: 1933 Lounge (above St. Elmo Steak House) 

 Tickets: Available now at https://bit.ly/4az1CLx


Contact Multimedia Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news and events, visit indianaminoritybusinessmagazine.com.

Blooming while Black: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Black florists 

Forget the predictable red roses from a national chain.

This Valentine’s Day, you can express your love with unparalleled thoughtfulness and beauty by supporting local, Black-owned florists in Indianapolis. These artists bring creativity, passion and a unique perspective to their arrangements, ensuring your gift is as distinctive as your relationship. 

Choosing a local Black-owned business does more than secure a unique bouquet; it’s a direct investment in the heart and diversity of the Indianapolis community. Here are three exceptional florists you should know about for your Valentine’s Day celebration. 

1. Rooted with Ruby: Modern elegance and artistic flair 

rootedwithruby.com 

Owner of Rooted with Ruby.
(Photo via Rooted with Ruby official website)

If you’re looking for a design that feels like a contemporary work of art, Rooted with Ruby is your destination. This business’ style is characterized by sophisticated, textured arrangements that often feature unique blooms, lush greenery, and an expert play of color and form. Her bouquets are anything but ordinary — they are curated, intentional and intensely romantic in a modern way. 

Perfect for: The partner who appreciates high design, modern aesthetics, and something truly Instagram-worthy. Think of elegant, loose, garden-style arrangements that make a dramatic statement. 

Cupid’s tip: Check her website or social media early for pre-designed Valentine’s collections. Due to the custom nature of her work, placing an order well in advance is highly recommended. 

2. Lady J’s Florist: Timeless romance and classic beauty 

ladyjsflorist.net 

Close up of a young woman working in a flower shop
(Photo/Getty Images)

For the classic romantic who dreams of a lush, full bouquet of roses and traditional blooms, Lady J’s Florist delivers timeless beauty. Specializing in arrangements that evoke warmth and heartfelt emotion, Lady J’s creations are perfect for a conventional Valentine’s gesture that feels both luxurious and personal. Their focus is on freshness, vibrant color and arrangements that speak the universal language of love. 

Perfect for: The classic romantic, someone who loves a bountiful, colorful bouquet, or for anyone wanting that iconic “wow” moment when the flowers are revealed. 

Cupid’s tip: In addition to classic roses, explore their mixed bouquets, which often include lilies, carnations and seasonal flowers, for a stunning, fragrant option. Be sure to inquire about delivery options within Indianapolis. 

3. The Botanical Bar: Experiential gifting and lush designs 

thebotanicalbarindy.com 

Cropped shot of a beautiful young woman posing with a bouquet of flowers
(Photo/Getty Images)

Why give flowers when you can provide an experience? The Botanical Bar is renowned for its stunning arrangements and its unique, interactive pop-up events. While they offer gorgeous, lush bouquets and luxury vase arrangements, they also provide the unforgettable experience of building your own bouquet at one of their stylish bars—a fantastic and fun alternative Valentine’s date idea. 

Perfect for: The adventurous partner or the couple looking for a shared activity. It’s also ideal for someone who would love a lavish, overflowing arrangement that feels abundant and joyful. 

Cupid’s tip: Watch their social media closely for announcements on Valentine’s Day weekend pop-up events or workshops. For a guaranteed gift, order a pre-designed “Botanical Box” or luxury arrangement directly from their website for pickup or delivery. 

Connecting with Black florists this V-Day 

Face, beauty and smile of a woman with a roses on a studio background for valentines day. Makeup, model and happy young Indian girl with a flower bouquet for romance or love on a pink backdrop
(Photo/Getty Images)

Supporting small businesses during their busiest season ensures an excellent experience for everyone. Here’s how to plan: 

Order early: Don’t wait until Feb.13. These florists are artisans, not warehouses. Place your order at least one to two weeks in advance for the best selection and to guarantee your date. 

Communicate clearly: Provide detailed delivery instructions and a reliable contact number for the recipient. 

Consider the full gift: Pair your bouquet with other Black-owned local goods — artisan chocolates, a candle from a local maker, or a bottle of wine from a Black-owned shop — to create an extraordinary, community-focused gift basket. 

Share the love: After you receive your beautiful arrangement, take a photo, tag the florist and, if you enjoyed your experience, leave a positive review. Your support helps them bloom year-round. 

This Feb. 14, let your love story include a chapter about supporting local dreams and cultivating community. By choosing one of these incredible Black-owned florists, your gift of flowers will carry so much more meaning — beauty, intention, and a commitment to the vibrant tapestry of Indianapolis. 

You can also pair these Black-backed flowers with chocolates and candies from Esther Price, as they celebrate over 100 years of providing fine confections.


Contact Multimedia Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more, visist indianaminoritybusinessmagazine.com.

Minority Business Highlight: Taylor Made Wellness

Five minutes from Monument Circle is Taylor Made Wellness, a Black-owned personal wellness center and private gym created with the community in mind. 

Kelsey Taylor, founder and president of Taylor Made Wellness, is an International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) Pro Bodybuilder, certified personal trainer, sports nutritionist and strength training instructor with more than 20 years of experience. Established in 2018, Taylor Made Wellness aims to provide clients with a total wellness approach around mind, body and community “to empower people of all types, ages, and fitness levels,” according to the website.  

“Wellness and well-being is a personal journey unique to each individual,” the website states. “Whether your goal is to lose weight, build muscle, or something completely different, we are committed to supporting you!” 

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Rooftop Fruit 

Taylor Made Wellness offers one-on-one personal trainer services to help clients build a fitness and nutrition plan they can commit to. They also provide customized meal-prep programming, including fat-loss and mass-gain nutrition plans, as well as corporate and community wellness programming. 

Gym memberships are also available, giving clients access to the 24-hour fitness center, which features a 1,500-square-foot gym space with treadmills, elliptical trainers, resistance machines, barbells and dumbbells; a supplement store; a separate cycling and yoga studio; and private showers. 

Taylor Made Wellness is located in Downtown Indianapolis at 1000 E. Market St. Taylor is currently accepting new clients for both in-person and virtual personal trainer sessions. For more information or to book a session, visit taylormadewellnessindy.com. To get in contact, call 317-809-6628. 

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: Dolled by Taje 

Dolled by Taje  is a beauty service business specializing in custom hair styling and weave installations for clients seeking professional, on trend looks. The business focuses on providing a range of services including quick weaves, braid styles such as knotless braids and feed-ins, and sleek ponytail looks tailored to individual preferences.  

Clients can book appointments online through the business’ scheduling platform, where services are clearly itemized to make it easy to choose the style and price point that fits their needs. Price points seen in social posts include $75 for basic quick weaves and $120 for quick weaves with curls and layers, reflecting the variety of customizable options available.  

Social media posts promote specials on stitch braids and quick weaves, indicating a lively client engagement and a focus on community driven promotions to attract customers looking for hairstyling for everyday looks or special occasions.  

Dolled by Taje operates within the competitive beauty and barbering industry, where personalized service and client satisfaction are paramount. Hairstylists work directly with clients to ensure that each appointment delivers a polished, confident result. Online booking and active social engagement help connect the brand with its audience and streamline the scheduling process. 

With a focus on detailed styling and adaptable service offerings, Dolled by Taje aims to be a go-to option for individuals seeking professional hair care and styling expertise. 

To browse services and book an appointment, visit dolledbytajee.as.me/schedule/45eb7824

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. 

Business Highlight: Joi McCrary’s portfolio of empowerment services

Entrepreneur and Indianapolis resident Joi McCrary operates two distinct, certified minority-owned businesses from her office near the intersection 46th Street and Keystone Avenue in Indianapolis, each designed to empower different segments of the community through expertise and strategic support. Together, Grants With Joi and ResumeMe, LLC provide a complementary suite of services that fuel organizational growth and individual career advancement.

Grants With Joi functions as a dedicated grant-writing, funding strategy and organizational development consultancy. It supports nonprofits, small businesses and community organizations across Indiana and beyond in securing vital funding. The service demystifies the grant process by offering comprehensive support, including grant research, writing and submission; funding readiness assessments; budget development; and long-term pipeline planning. A key focus is building organizational capacity, ensuring clients are not only prepared to win grants. However, they are also structured to sustain their impact. Recently, the initiative has expanded to include monthly grant education workshops and ongoing retainer consulting packages, providing clients with consistent strategic guidance rather than one-time assistance.

Alongside this organizational focus, McCrary’s venture ResumeMe addresses the critical need for professional development at the individual level. This career advancement service aids job seekers at every stage, from first-time applicants to seasoned professionals navigating a career transition. ResumeMe specializes in professional resume writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, one-on-one career coaching, and in-depth interview preparation. Moving beyond generic templates, the service offers personalized strategies to help clients articulate their value and achieve long-term career success. New offerings include monthly career development workshops and flexible coaching packages for ongoing support, reflecting a commitment to client success beyond a single transaction.

Both businesses are rooted in a philosophy of empowerment, clarity, and access. Grants With Joi aims to level the playing field for organizations seeking resources, while ResumeMe opens doors for individuals in the competitive job market. They are driven by the belief that with the right tools and guidance, both organizations and people can build stronger, more sustainable futures. McCrary’s dual ventures represent a holistic approach to community and economic development from a minority business perspective.

Contact Joi McCrary:

Grants With Joi: Website: GrantsWithJoi.com | Phone: 317-969-7111

ResumeMe: Website: MyResumeMe.com | Phone: 317-969-7111

Email Joi at info@myresumeme.com.

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

Minority Business Highlight: B. Erin Designs

B. Erin Designs is a boutique that delivers gifts and stylish decor for your home. Located in Speedway, the boutique is more than a shop, positioning itself as a hub for the community.

Founded in 2014, B. Erin Designs has been procuring detailed home décor items for years. Providing Hoosiers with stylish decorations, gifts and furniture was the vision of owner Brooke Minnix. As a proud Speedway native, Minnix has always had a love for creating beautiful spaces.

Minnix’s vision, which began as a passion project, transformed into a full-time business when family and friends started requesting custom pieces. Aided by her husband, family and friends, Minnix built this boutique as a “space where people can press pause, find inspiration, and shop with joy,” according to the website.

You can visit B. Erin Designs at 1320 N Main St or visit their website https://berindesigns.com/Staff Writer Malik Simon created this highlight. Contact him at 317-762-7847 or via email at maliks@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here Indiana Minority Business Directory – Indiana’s Best Source for the Goods and Services You Need

Business Highlight: Shrewsberry

Shrewsberry is a nationally recognized, minority-owned civil engineering and consulting firm founded in Indianapolis in 2001 by William “Bill” Shrewsberry. The firm has grown from four employees to a nearly 100-person operation, with certifications in more than 29 states and services in civil engineering, landscape architecture and construction. 

Currently led by President and CEO Anthony Warren, the company is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). Its geographic expansion includes offices in Denver, Washington, D.C., Cincinnati and other U.S. cities.  

Shrewsberry’s project portfolio includes significant infrastructure work, such as the DC Water Clean Rivers Program in Washington, D.C., the Accelerate I-465 rebuild for the Indiana Department of Transportation, the Midfield Terminal at Indianapolis International Airport and the Community Justice Campus for the City of Indianapolis. 

The firm has been featured in Jet Magazine for its stature as a Black-owned business and received the Workforce Diversity Award from the City of Indianapolis in 2011. In 2019, it was named to the Best Places to Work in Indiana list. Shrewsberry continues to manage impactful community projects, emphasizing a strong corporate culture and core values as it marks over two decades in operation. 

For more information, visit their website, shrewsusa.com

Contact Multimedia Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on X @3Noral. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here

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