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Minority Business Highlight: Floral Design Lab 

(Photos/Floral Design Lab)

Flowers are more than just nature’s beauty — they are a language of their own, expressing emotions, setting the mood and transforming spaces. At the Floral Design Lab in Indianapolis, flowers take center stage, bringing creativity to life in stunning arrangements. 

Founded by Nicole Woodson, Floral Design Lab has become a beacon of artistry. It offers a fresh perspective on floristry while blending sustainability, education and community engagement. The mission is simple: to bridge generational, racial and socioeconomic gaps, uniting communities through the beauty and art of floral design. 

(Photos/Floral Design Lab)

The Floral Design Lab specializes in creating bespoke floral arrangements that elevate any event or occasion. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering or an intimate celebration, Woodson and her team infuse each design with a commitment to both beauty and detail. The Lab’s arrangements combine traditional floral techniques with modern, avant-garde designs, offering something unique for every client. 

Floral Design Lab offers the following services: 

  • The Floral Arrangement Experience: Woodson and her team bring flowers, vases and all materials, along with a facilitator, to show participants how to create a floral arrangement. 
  • Flower Bouquet Bar: The team will set up a bar at an event with flowers and wrapping paper for guests to create their own arrangements to take home. 
(Photos/Floral Design Lab)
  • Self-Empowerment Activity: The team brings an interactive activity to assist guests in connecting and uplifting one another. 
  • Special Event Décor (Corporate Private Events): Woodson and her team will decorate and transform an event space with flowers. 
(Photos/Floral Design Lab)
  • Special Occasion Arrangements: Woodson and her team will create personalized floral designs for events like formal dances, holidays and funerals. 

The Floral Design Lab also offers Power-Up Floral Workshop events for participants to create floral arrangements and engage in self-empowerment activities.  

(Photos/Floral Design Lab)

To learn more about services and workshops, visit their website at floraldesignlab.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: LiMStudios Creative Hub

Founded by Victoria Odekomaya, LiMStudios Creative Hub aims to redefine content creation in Indianapolis.

LiMStudios is the city’s newest creative hub, offering a full-service environment to produce high-quality, strategic content — such as visuals, videos and podcasts. LiMStudios Creative Hub is designed to be a one-stop shop for all types of women visionaries — including budding entrepreneurs, business leaders, coaches and influences — to engage their audiences, increase visibility and bring new ideas to life.

“Our space is more than just a studio — it’s a launchpad for success,” Odekomaya said in a statement. “We provide not just the tools, but the strategy, confidence and creative direction businesses need to thrive in today’s digital world.”

LiMStudios is built on the belief that visibility creates opportunity, according to a press release. Clients will not just leave with high-quality content and innovative strategies but with newfound confidence, strategies and momentum to take their next big step.

LiMStudios Creative Hub goes beyond traditional content studios and equipment rental by helping women-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs who are struggling to grow their audience. The space offers photography, videography, podcasting, live streaming, workshops and TV production.

LiMStudios Creative Hub officially opens on April 1, 2025. For more information or to book a session, visit victoriaodekomaya.com/creativehub. To get in contact, email victoria@thelimstudios.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: Shé Butta Shop

Shé Butta Shop, a minority-owned business in Indianapolis, redefines self-care with its luxurious, handcrafted skincare products.

Founded by Danielle Jarrett in 2020, the business offers a range of nourishing body butter, unique fragrances and wellness essentials, all meticulously crafted to commemorate natural beauty.

At the core of Shé Butta Shop’s offerings is its commitment to quality and natural ingredients. Each product is infused with high-quality components like shea butter, jojoba oil and botanical extracts. This ensures every application provides a nourishing experience for the skin. Customers can explore their website for a full range of products.

Beyond their online presence, Shé Butta Shop has established a physical location known as The Butta Bar, situated at 3328 East 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46201. This interactive space offers DIY body butter workshops, allowing customers to engage directly in the creation of their personalized skincare products. The Butta Bar also hosts various events and provides opportunities for private bookings, fostering a community centered around self-care and wellness.

Shé Butta Shop, a minority-owned business in Indianapolis, redefines self-care with its luxurious, handcrafted skincare products.  
Shé Butta Shop, a minority-owned business in Indianapolis, redefines self-care with its luxurious, handcrafted skincare products.  (Photo via official website)

Shé Butta Shop actively engages with the local community by organizing events that feature local vendors, especially during significant occasions like Black Friday. These events highlight the brand’s products and support and promote other local businesses, reinforcing a sense of community and collaboration.  

For those seeking to indulge in handcrafted skincare that emphasizes natural ingredients and tailored experiences, Shé Butta Shop may be for you. 

The business is available via phone at 317-683-0862. For more information, visit their website at shebuttashop.com


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here

Minority Business Highlight: Brozinni Pizzeria 

New York-style pizza in the Circle City? 

Fuggedaboutit. 

Founded by New York native James Cross, Brozinni Pizzeria’s three Indiana locations bring the taste and style of an East Coast pie straight to the hands of Hoosiers. 

Characterized by the homestyle, folded-in-half crust and the melt-your-face-off cheese pulls, Brozinni XXL pizzas are fired in a brick oven and served by the slice.  

Cross decided to build his pizza spot in Indy after his trucking job brought him here several times, during which time he was unable to find a good, affordable pizza spot like he had back home. 

Owner James Cross (left) and Ryan Seward. (Photo via/Facebook)

Cross sold his trucking business in 2008 and used the money to build the first location in Greenwood in 2017. Since then, the menu has expanded to feature classics like the garlic knuckles, which sit in a pool of liquid gold garlic butter, and 20’’ pies dolloped with indulgent ricotta cheese a New York granny would approve of.  

Brozinni Pizzaria’s pizza. (Photo via/Facebook)

From the marinara to the dough, each component is handmade and curated to meet the standards of Cross’ hometown. The business mainly advertises through word-of-mouth and its social accounts, opting to keep the marketing as simple as the ingredients. 

To read more like this, click here.

The business now features locations in Speedway and Nashville, as well as catering options and a food truck. The business has also established two locations in Florida, one in Santa Rosa Beach and one in Niceville. To view menus, hours, addresses and place online orders, visit brozinni.com

Upcoming workshop helps authors write and publish books

The Minority Business Review (MBR) will host an intensive Book Writing Workshop on March 20 at 712 Adams St. in Carmel. 

Designed for aspiring authors, particularly coaches, entrepreneurs and thought leaders, the event aims to help participants turn their book ideas into reality.  

Led by TedX speaker and publishing expert Porsché Mysticque Steele, the workshop provides hands-on guidance to help attendees complete their first chapter, create a structured book outline and refine their work with actionable feedback.  

Writing Workshop graphic from MBP
(Photo provided/MBR)

During the workshop, participants gain insider tips on crafting engaging narratives and navigating the publishing process. 

The event, beginning at 8:30 a.m., is limited to 15 spots to ensure personalized attention.  

Registration is available through Eventbrite at eventbrite.com/e/mbr-intensives-book-writing-workshop-tickets-1252623804519. You can check out workshop video here.


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3NoralFor more news, click here.

Minority-owned businesses to support during Pi Day

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March 14, or 3/14, is Pi Day, a celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi), which starts with 3.14.  

But let’s be honest, for most of us, Pi Day is really about indulging in pies of the edible variety.  

Whether you’re craving a savory pizza pie or a sweet dessert pie, today is the perfect excuse to treat yourself. And what better way to celebrate than by supporting minority-owned businesses in the Indianapolis area specializing in all things pi? 

Pi Indy 

If you’re looking for a pizza pie that’s as innovative as it is delicious, Pi Indy is the place to go.  

This minority-owned pizzeria offers a creative twist on classic pies, with toppings that range from traditional to adventurous. Their commitment to quality ingredients and unique flavors has made them a local favorite. Celebrate Pi Day with a slice (or a whole pie) from Pi Indy.  

Order online at eatbetterpizza.com or at 317-602-6314.   

The Cheesecake Lady 

Who says pie has to be circular? The math does, we know, but that is beside the point.  

The Cheesecake Lady specializes in decadent cheesecakes that are so rich and creamy, they might as well be called pie. This woman-owned dessert shop offers a variety of flavors, from classic New York-style to inventive creations like salted caramel, turtle and red velvet. Perfect for Pi Day, their cheesecakes are a sweet way to honor the holiday.  

Although The Cheesecake Lady is closed on Fridays, be sure to get your cheesecake fix this Pi Weekend by calling 317-721-4266. 

Pots and Pans 

Another hidden gem in Indianapolis is Pots and Pans, offering a fusion of Caribbean and American flavors.  

While they’re known for their savory dishes, their dessert menu features pies and pastries that are worth the trip. Their sweet potato pie, in particular, is a crowd-pleaser. Observe Pi Day by trying something new and supporting this minority-owned eatery.  

Check them out at potsandpansindy.com or call 317-426-6900. 

Brozinni Pizzeria 

For a classic New York-style pizza pie, Brozinni Pizzeria is the go-to spot.  

This minority-owned pizzeria is known for its massive slices and authentic flavors, making it a local favorite. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, their pies are perfect for sharing (or not — we won’t judge).  

Celebrate Pi Day with a slice from Brozinni. Visit their website at brozinni.com or call 317-888-9696. 


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here.

Minority Business Highlight: House of Color Event Productions

Founded by Brittany Ayers in 2015, House of Color Event Productions (HOC) is an Indianapolis-based event planning company specializing in balloon styling and décor.

House of Color promises the “perfect balloon styling” for every event or occasion — from casual and fun, to luxurious and classy, according to the website. Every piece created is an original work of art, custom-tailored for each client.

HOC offers two balloon styling options: Color On The Go — a one-stop shop for party accessories and custom balloon design for kids’ parties, holidays and baby showers — and HOC Luxe, a premier luxury balloon décor for weddings, showers and classier parties.

Regarding designs and offerings, HOC can fulfill custom requests for decorations, classical balloons, balloon bouquets, organic garlands, balloon walls, wedding balloons, holiday designs and more. Customers can even request add-ons to specific designs such as LED lights, floral, greenery, streamers and foil shapes, custom lettering, confetti, tassels and tails.

House of Color is based in the Indianapolis area. For more information, request a free quote or to book with HOC, visit houseofcolorevents.com.

To get in contact, call (317) 418-1392 or email houseofcolorllc@gmail.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.

Southside USCT Coalition hosts resource fair

The Southside United States Colored Troops (USCT) Coalition will host a Community Resource Fair on March 15, offering various services and resources to residents of Southeast Indianapolis. 

The event, which runs from 10 a.m-2 p.m., connects community members with essential resources, including expungement services, eviction assistance, employment opportunities and youth and health programs. 

The fair features various vendors, including Indy Parks Department, Workforce Development Resources, Rethink Indy and IndyCLT.  

Food trucks, raffles and other activities will also be available. 

Sourthside reource fair graphic.
(Photo/Getty Images)

The event is part of the coalition’s efforts to support the six African American neighborhoods in Southeast Indianapolis that the United States Colored Troops established during the Reconstruction Period (1865-1877.) 

The Southside USCT Coalition has a long history of advocating for the neighborhoods it represents, focusing on initiatives that impact education, housing and economic development. The Resource Fairs are just one of many efforts the coalition undertakes to strengthen the community and provide residents with the resources they need to succeed. 

Those unable to attend the resource fair on March 15 can attend the summer edition on Sept. 20. 

The event occurs at Southeast Community Services, at 901 South Shelby St. 

For more information about the upcoming Resource Fair or the Southside USCT Coalition, contact them via phone at 317-236-7400.  


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here.

Huse Culinary launches 1933 Lounge in Carmel

Carmel’s dining scene is about to become even more luxurious with the addition of the newest 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo.

Set to open April 1, the upscale cocktail lounge and restaurant will be the third location from Huse Culinary.

CEO of Huse Culinary Craig Huse spoke on the company’s newest location.

“Bringing the 1933 Lounge to Carmel has long been our vision, as the city embodies a deep appreciation for exceptional dining and craftsmanship,” Huse said.  

Known for its signature handcrafted cocktails, premium steaks and fresh seafood, 1933 Lounge offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere designed to enchant guests to the elegance of the post-Prohibition era.

The Carmel location features the same tailored menu as its companion in Fishers, catering exclusively to guests aged 21 and older.

The 8,200-square-foot lounge will accommodate 200 indoor guests, with an additional 70 seats available on a covered patio overlooking Rangeline Road. The space evokes a sense of timeless regality, featuring bold hues, theatrical textures and layered design elements. A gold dome over the bar, dimmed steel accents and a double-sided fireplace contribute to the warm yet opulent ambiance.

The restaurant offers eight private and semi-private dining spaces for events, housing groups from seven to 58 patrons.  

Features like live-edge wood tables, abundant natural light and a convertible sunroom enhance the intimate and upscale dining experience. The covered patio, designed for a year-round experience, includes fire pits, lounge seating, heated floors, overhead heating and fans. 

“Every detail of this space, from rich textures to inviting ambiance, was designed to offer a sophisticated yet comfortable gathering place for the community,” Huse said. 

The Carmel location brings 125-150 new jobs to the community.  

Wendy VanVelzen, formerly the general manager of 1933 Lounge Fishers, leads the new location. Jason Chesky, former executive chef at Harry & Izzy’s Northside, oversees the kitchen. 

“As we continue to grow with intention, our priority remains delivering an elevated experience while fostering strong connections within the communities we serve,” Huse said. “Beyond the menu and ambiance, we’re excited to create career opportunities, invest in local talent and provide a place where guests can celebrate everyday moments and special occasions.” 

The 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo in Carmel will accept walk-in guests starting April 1, with reservations available beginning April 14.  

“This expansion reflects our commitment to excellence — not just in the food and cocktails we serve but in the atmosphere we create,” Huse said. 

The restaurant, located at 175 South Rangeline Road, operates from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday , from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from noon until 9 p.m. Sunday. Reservations can be made online or by calling 317-751-1933. For more information, visit 1933Lounge.com


Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here.

Minority Business Highlight: J’Adore Pastry 

In the heart of Indianapolis, J’Adore Pastry has emerged as a beacon of culinary artistry, blending rich cultural heritage with innovative pastry creations.  

Founded by Moroccan-born pastry chef Youssef Boudarine, J’Adore Pastry has quickly become a cherished name among local dessert enthusiasts. 

Ariel and Youssef created J’Adore to be a celebration of food and community. (Photo/J’Adore)

Boudarine’s journey began in Berber, a small town in Morocco, where his passion for baking was ignited while assisting his mother in the kitchen. This early exposure to traditional baking laid the foundation for his future endeavors. 

J’Adore’s pastry creations. (Photos/J’Adore)

Pursuing his passion, Boudarine earned a hospitality degree in Casablanca and honed his skills under renowned pastry chef Pierre Hermé in France. His career flourished at the prestigious Ladurée, where he contributed to numerous restaurant openings over five years.  

Relocating to Indianapolis, Boudarine played a pivotal role in developing pastry programs at esteemed establishments like Anthony’s Chophouse and Bluebeard. His innovative approach to desserts, characterized by vibrant colors and architectural designs, captivated the local culinary scene. In his spare time, Boudarine works closely with the Junior Chef Academy to prep students for the World Food Championship, returning to Indy in October. 

Boudarine’s extensive experiences culminated in the inception of J’Adore Pastry in 2022, a venture co-founded with Ariel Hendrickson, celebrating food, culture, art and community.  

J’Adore Pastry operates primarily through pop-up events across the city, making high-quality pastries accessible to a broader audience. These events not only offer delectable treats but also foster community engagement, aligning with Boudarine’s goal of inspiring conversation through his desserts. 

Looking ahead, Boudarine envisions establishing a permanent storefront for J’Adore Pastry. Until then, he continues to delight patrons with his pop-up appearances, each event a testament to his dedication to culinary excellence and community connection.  

To stay up to date with Boudarine and J’Adore, follow them on Instagram at @jadorepastry. 

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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