Profiles in Black Entrepreneurship: LaTonia Cokely, founder of Adjourn Teahouse

To celebrate Black History Month, we want to highlight and celebrate a few of our amazing entrepreneurial contributors to Self-Made Boss and share more of their insightful advice and journeys. LaTonia Cokely wanted to start a tea and wellness brand for years and started Adjourn Teahouse in the metro DC area when her husband gifted her the incorporation details for Christmas. Now she’s running a successful business built upon and fueled by her roots.

Has your background influenced your decision to become an entrepreneur? How so?

My entrepreneurial journey is birthed from a place of radical and collective care. I wanted to create space for me and others to create, grow, pause and rest. As a Black woman growing up in Richmond, Virginia, I was privy to many thriving Black owned businesses and a rich history of Black entrepreneurship. In contrast, Richmond is steeped in troubling racial history much of which still thrives today. Even still, I grew up around people who saw the beauty in my Black skin and my creativity. To this day, I am inspired by the dope art teachers, business education teachers, mentors and family members who allowed me to flourish creatively – who saw my creations as valuable. I am honored to carry the torch of my ancestors by holding space for Adjourning, or intentionally pausing. I am honored that my history continues to inspire my work around self and collective care.

What are ways that communities can help small businesses, especially those with black founders?

There is one really simple but impactful way to support small businesses, particularly those with Black founders - support! Purchase and share with your friends and family. Take photos and tag them. Pass along your amazing interactions with the business owners; word of mouth is gold. If you have access to resources, share them! One area that is really difficult for Black and woman-owned businesses if to secure funding. According to a report by American Express, the average revenue for a Black woman-owned business is $24,000 while the national average revenue for all woman-owned business is $142,000. This can change with consistent support!

What’s the one piece of advice you’d give someone contemplating entrepreneurship?

There is a fortuitousness that comes with the entrepreneurial journey, specifically when you open yourself up to new opportunities. My biggest piece of advice is that, while it is important to be selective, allow moments of serendipity and alignment to shine. Search high and low and, also, let things unfold as they will. Focus on your intention and your message and allow your creative process to flow!