ShopSmall with 50 minority businesses and organizations on Nov. 30

Rutherford County Black Business Network returns to Patterson Park Community Center with its Fall Business Showcase from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 30 at Patterson Park Community Center.

This one-of-a-kind cultural connection is curated and hosted by Taiisha Bradley, founder of Rutherford County Black Business Network, now dba Modernoire.

Back by popular demand after the success of the first Business Showcase in February 2019, the one-day, six-hour showcase will bring together nearly 50 of Middle Tennessee’s leading minority entrepreneurs, innovators, creators, and founders that serve, or desire to serve Rutherford County. It is held on the 10th anniversary of American Express’ Shop Small initiative.

The event is designed to showcase a variety of minority-owned businesses that often go undiscovered and encourage the community to do business with them.

"Many people reach out to Modernoire for referrals to black-owned businesses," Bradley shared. "They are specifically looking to patronize a black accountant, florist, childcare provider, or attorney, for example. In addition to making referrals, I am creating the space and vibe that will organically create an environment and a partnership designed to drive visibility, credibility, and commerce."

She continued, "Small Business Saturday is the day after Black Friday and is one of the busiest shopping days of the year. I even have a few celebrity guests stopping by to support our mission!" Also, many of the businesses will have the opportunity to benefit from media coverage, before, during, and after the event. It’s one of the perks of participating in a Modernoire powered event."

In addition to a vibrant marketplace of business professionals and creators, the Fall Business Showcase will feature music by DJ David Hartwell, Sr, decor by Kimtopia Balloons, food by Trinidaddy Island Grill food truck, Seafood Sensations Murfreesboro, Boro Town Cakes, and "Luxury Lemonade" by B Chill Lemonade.

There will be a gift wrapping station, a holiday craft activity co-hosted by Brush it Off, fun photos and videos by Bryte Photo Booth and an African American Santa giving out toys and taking photos with children and families! There will be 2 celebrity guests stopping by as well. The local Epsilon Psi Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc, are the official volunteer partners for this event.