Sponsor these 11 LGBTQ-owned businesses this pride month (and every month)

Pride month is in full swing and after a year of lockdown, what better way to celebrate than by hanging out with a local LGBTQ-owned business?
As many companies acknowledge pride with a new rainbow paint job on their logos, this year let’s celebrate by giving back to companies that work hard year round to be inclusive and serve queer customers.
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Here’s a list of 11 LGBTQ-owned businesses around Houston, from fashion houses to dance studios and restaurants to yoga retreats.
Anthony Ferrell and Alan Lett, owners
When it comes to high quality custom shirts, no company does it better than AF custom shirts. Along with great clothes, Ferrell and her husband Lett offer monthly small business training with videos and seminars to help them learn to use the resources readily available to them.
Rosa Montereal, owner
At one of the few trans-owned businesses in the Houston area, Montreal offers top-notch haircuts at an affordable price. She is a professional master stylist, creative colourist and amazing hairdresser.
Christophe Barry, owner
Buddy’s is more than just a gay bar in Houston. Buddy’s has fantastic monthly events that range from fashion shows and steak nights to its popular karaoke nights.
Michael Dorsey and Chih Lin, owners
Chih Lin, left, and Mike Dorsey of Dumpling Dudez.
Dudez dumplingLooking for a unique dumpling experience? Look no further than Dumpling Dudez. Where can you find rainbow dumplings in the Houston area? Dorsey and her husband Lin, in their cooking classes, help people create lasting memories and delicious dumplings. This is part of the magic that happens when you attend a class with the Dumpling Dudez.
Juan Quintero, owner
HortiProcess, dedicated to the specialty coffee and tropical fruit industry, showcases tradition and culture through tropical gastronomy. For Pride Month, use promo code PRIDE for a 35% discount.
Antonio and Diego Chiarello, owners
This Italian cafe offers wonderful pastries that remind us of the beauty that Italy has to offer. Diego, an esteemed chef, shares his love of his culture and his homeland in La Sicilia. This establishment captures the American essence of baked goods and blends them wonderfully with its Sicilian specialties.
Charles Armstrong, owner
JR’s Bar and Grill is one of the most talked about gay bars in Houston. Providing a safe space for the LGBTQ + community, this establishment promotes local artists and DJs from the queer community. JR’s continues to be a destination for having a good time, Pride Month or not.
Perfecto Ramirez, Owner
Owned and operated by Ramirez, Sky Dreams Dance Studio provides an enjoyable experience for everyone. Her dance choreography encourages children and adults to understand the importance of being responsible, engaged and hardworking. By motivating local children and adults to understand the concept of teamwork, it not only teaches them how to dance, but also builds their self-confidence and allows them to explore different genres of music and cultures.
Tamika & Lenie Caston-Miller, owners

Tamika, left, and Lenie Caston-Miller bought the property for The Ranch Houston in January.
Annie Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / ContributorThis wellness community creates a space where BIPOC and LGBTQ + people can feel seen, heard and empowered. The facility allows members to reconnect with nature and with each other through art and yoga. Plus, they offer free and discounted services for any paid TRH workshop or event for those who need it most. All proceeds go to fund scholarships and education programs for the community.
Krysten Mabry, owner
Mabry works hard to create an environment where everyone can improve themselves through the practice of yoga. With classes focused on fitness, mindfulness, and recovery, what better way to spend a Monday night?
Julie Mabry, owner

Julie Mabry, owner of the Pearl Bar, poses for a photo at the bar on Tuesday, September 15, 2020, in Houston. The Human Rights Campaign has awarded Pearl Bar, Houston’s only lesbian bar, funding to help preserve it during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Godofredo A. Vásquez, Houston Chronicle / Personal PhotographerOne of the last lesbian bars in Texas and one of the last 21 in the United States, the Pearl Bar serves as a hangout for many. Now, with a more inclusive vibe, non-stop parties, and awesome drinks, it’s an environment where everyone is appreciated and accepted.