Dr. Lakeysha "Key" Hallmon is one woman who is serious about advocating for black entrepreneurs. She's the founder and CEO of The Village Market, and she cultivates events to provide a platform for socially-conscious, black-owned startups and entrepreneurs to get support, build community, and showcase their products and services.
As a social entrepreneur, speaker and curator, Hallmon uses her gifts of tenacity, smarts and bold confidence to rally behind small business owners, kidpreneurs and nonprofit leaders.
"I started the village before the marketplace. I was teaching classes [on] entrepreneurship and holistic health at a coffee shop on Marietta Street in Atlanta," Hallmon recalled during an interview with xoNecole. "I was dealing with a community of entrepreneurs–some business owners working a 9-to-5 on the side–and from those classes, I would choose about 10 businesses that had a great deal of promise. We were a very small community that met inside a coffee shop once a month."
From there, the community grew, and Hallmon wanted to find a way to meet a common need among the entrepreneurs. "Those classes were the kick-start to everything. Being the researcher I am, I asked, 'What else do you need? Do you need to feel more confident in starting your business or in scaling and growing your business?' They [said they] needed a place where people could shop with them and know that they are here in Atlanta, so I started the market. At my first event, we had 31 small businesses participate and about 300 to 400 people came out. We had a lot of passion and no website or Instagram–just word of mouth. From there, it literally began to be the thing that people became excited about. Today, we offer them the highest level of customer service and entrepreneurs feel seen, guided, and heard."
The Village Market, helmed by Hallmon and her all-female team, is now held quarterly in Atlanta and features more than 50 vendors offering an array of products and services, from apparel to home goods to beauty products. Attendees can also enjoy live performances, a kids zone, and art installations. Hundreds of entrepreneurs vye for a spot at the market and the variety of products and services they offer are diverse.
"Vendors have to apply. We do this partly because at this point, we get a great deal of [applications]," Hallmon said. "We then start our selection process, choosing the best of the best. [As a participant], you also agree to be trained and sign up for workshops and webinars. I wanted to have something that would be more than a marketplace, so entrepreneurs get to work with other entrepreneurs. We have a partnership with Google for our Saturday School and all of these are offerings we have for any business in the village. For the market, the communities get to see the businesses, but the businesses already began to form relationships with one another over the course of three months."
As part of the market experience, attendees can also enjoy plant-based food at the Village Cafe and get a taste of healthy eats. "We feature between 13 and 15 plant-based culinary artists, and the food is so good! I get so excited because …. some of [the attendees'] first experiences with plant-based food are from the Village," Hallmon said. "My goal has always been not to impose my lifestyle on others but to expose our community to other options. They may like something different and expose it to [their families.]"
Her venture into plant-based foods and holistic living began years ago with her mom, who, at the time, was battling lupus and cancer. Hallmon wanted to support her mother's journey to manage the illnesses and get well.
"We were learning a lot together at that time. She just wanted to be better–feel better. I was learning some things, and we began juicing together," Hallmon said. "My mother still transitioned, but I do know that the quality of her life changed. Everything that I support for the community is so that people can feel better and feel loved. It's what I wanted for my own mom. No one should be ashamed of what they don't know or about the foods they eat. We can meet people where they are."
Hallmon also credits much of the motivation behind her belief that education empowers, and opens doors, to her mother. The graduate of Tougaloo College, a historically black institution, continued her academic excellence in an effort to make her mom and family proud and went on to earn her master's and doctoral degrees, graduating from the University of Mississippi and Liberty University, respectively.
"My mother was a high school dropout and earned her GED. She'd say, 'This is good for me, but it's not good enough for y'all,'" Hallmon said, adding that her mom wanted her and her sister to put education first and value the opportunities education would bring. "It was a no-brainer for me. [As a youth], I did well in school. I was an athlete and an avid reader. I'd read books by Maya Angelou and Toni Morison. I would try to find women who had the Dr. in front of their names and figure out how they got it. I once asked a counselor, 'How do I get to have 'Dr' in front of my name?' and he said, 'That's not something you'll ever probably get to do.' I didn't know why he'd say that to me considering I was a pretty good student. [When I went to] Tougaloo College, all of my professors had doctoral degrees and were black. It opened me up and felt so real. I wouldn't stop. I wanted to take the torch further."
She would later become an English teacher and then a Department of Education professional, and she uses those experiences today, as a full-time entrepreneur and consultant, in the work she does with entrepreneurs in the Village.
"There's a privilege that comes [with education] where people will pull the chair out for you at the table and believe that you're supposed to be there. I understand that," she said. "And because I know there's a certain privilege that comes with my education, I don't lose myself because of that opportunity. Every opportunity my education allows me to get, I'm bringing my community with me. When you can speak differently about your business and connect it to research and data, people listen to you differently. You have a different level of respectability. Getting my doctorate is probably one of the best things I've done for my family and my legacy."
"Every opportunity my education allows me to get, I'm bringing my community with me. When you can speak differently about your business and connect it to research and data, people listen to you differently."
That legacy intertwines with what the Village Market stands for, empowering black entrepreneurs through education and offering a community and customer base that will help them thrive, evolve, advance, and someday, pay it forward.
"The reason I created the Village Market: I tell everyone we operate in excellence. That's a hard part to always live up to, [but] I put my company up there. I need people to understand that if we put ourselves up to a level of excellence, you can trust every business that has come into The Village Market to showcase."
For more information on The Village Market, which will be held in Atlanta, GA on November 29-November 30, visit https://www.thevillagemarketatl.com/.
Featured image courtesy of Carol Rose.
RELATED
Whether you're planning to meet a certain financial or fitness goal, or you're simply trying to maintain and build on the progress you made this year, having something to look forward to is always a good look. Setting actual goals, according to research, actually leads to more success than just playing things by ear. So here are a few to get you started, sis:
(Disclaimer: Not everything is for everyone, so do like my Granny always says: "Eat the meat. Spit out the bone." Take on five out of the 40 and focus on that for the remainder of the year, or do them all. Either way, this is just to get you started.)
40 Ways To End The Year Strong and Inspired
Money Moves
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1. Increase your retirement (or other savings/investment) contributions by 1%.
Experts have found that you could be leaving money on the table by not upping your contributions when you can.
2. Cancel two to five subscriptions.
You could be missing hundreds, even thousands, of dollars a year due to sneaky price hikes and "updates."
3. Create a "fun" in a high-yield savings account.
This is especially important if you struggle with the dreaded b-word (budget) and will make next year's efforts a lot less intimidating. Even if it's $10 a month, do it.
4. Put on your big-girl panties, and set up automatic transfers and payments for at least one bill.
It reduces the stress of managing bills, lessens the chance of a missed payment---and the fees that come with that---and there can be cost savings for doing so.
5. Invest in a cleaner or housekeeping service.
Bosses who value their time (and mental health) invest their dollars into areas where the time they'd spend doing those tasks themselves could be better used to focus on other money-making projects. (And yes, rest is part of that.) Get a housekeeper, sis, or drop off that laundry, even if it's once per month.
6. Donate to a charity.
Beyond the tax benefits, it's a win-win for the greater good of communities you care about.
7. Review your insurance policies and negotiate a better rate (or move on) before their end dates.
Experts often agree this is a small but mighty step to take each year, especially since insurance rates are competitive, you could be spending more money than you need to (or not enough) and your insurance rates can affect your mortgage payments.
8. Call your loan provider and refinance.
As interest rates fall, “millions of borrowers may be able to refinance and get more affordable payments. As interest rates eased down to 6.5%, about 2.5 million borrowers could already refinance and save at least 75 basis points (0.75%) on their interest rate,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports. You can also refinance student and other types of loans.
9. Stop buying individual items and stock up via going bulk.
Research has found that, among 30 common products, buying in bulk could save you 27% compared with buying in lower quantities. Water, paper products, and baby products like diapers, toiletries, and garbage bags are the top items where people see the most cost-effectiveness. (This has been a lifesaver for me—children, large family, or not—especially when it comes to toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products, saving stress, time, and money.)
10. Go cash-only for the holidays.
If you set smart goals and stick to limits on things like gifts, going out to eat, or groceries, you'll see the benefits of this. Cash-stuffing is one method recommended, but something as simple as taking a $10 bill out for lunch, disabling that card for an hour, and leaving your card in a safe place at the office can give you that mindset jump start to see how far you can take your money without the need to splurge.
Love And Romance
11. Say "no."
There are clear mental and physical health benefits to saying no including the setting of healthy boundaries, creating time and energy for other self-care activities, and protecting yourself from physically harmful situations (i.e. unprotected sex or abuse). Just say it, clearly and simply, when you need to.
12. Set a fun, free, adults-only date night for once a week or twice a month with your spouse.
If busy, high-profile folk have touted the success of this, even you can make the time for quality time with your partner. And it's even better when it costs nothing. The best connections are made doing something chill, challenging, or outside the usual dinner-and-a-movie date. Play a game that allows you to reconnect, take a walk in your neighborhood to chat and laugh, or try a little erotic chocolate/edible liquid/paint episode a la Mea Culpa.
13. Go out with Mr. or Ms. "Not My Type."
I love my man, but if I were waiting out for my "type" at the time, we wouldn't be celebrating seven (going on eight) years together. Sometimes having strict, unrealistic expectations for a spouse (especially related to things like height, physical features, or career path) is what's keeping you alone and lonely.
Take the pressure off and explore all your options. I'm not telling you to stop popping the balloon on the guy who earns $20,000 less than you if that's a hard no that Jesus himself told you to skip. I'm asking you to explore other options and see what else God might have out there for your love journey.
14. Immediately apologize and pray together.
I've learned that always being "right" isn't always ideal when you truly care about someone and you're in a relationship for the long haul. Defaulting to an apology when necessary, even when things aren't 100% resolved, is a good way to prioritize peace and save your energy for more worthwhile battles. Research has even supported the benefits of apologies in relationships, and how couples married for five or more years do it often.
15. Get a Rose and discover true self-love.
Do I really have to explain this? You've gotta know what satisfies you, and how better to figure that out than to practice self-love in the bed by yourself? You can also try this with a partner, but as a woman who got on this train very much later in my sexual activity journey. I have a lot more learning to do on my own, and even in a satisfying relationship, I like to find out new things about myself, by myself.
Figure out what you're into, watch what you want to watch, and read what you want to read to define pleasure for yourself. There's a freedom and empowering element there especially if you're used to prioritizing pleasing your partner.
16. Be direct and have the "money talk" with bae.
Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce, so you need to have those conversations before you even think about marrying someone. And true, nobody can predict the future so you won't be able to avoid some challenges altogether, however, talking with your potential spouse about how they view money, their spending habits, and the pain points in terms of their approach to money management can at least give you a glimpse into what's in store if you do walk down the aisle, move in with them, or decide to share a bank account/business/child with them.
17. Invest in the "paid" version of that dating app.
I know plenty of successful, married folk who did this and met "the one" as a result. Let's be honest: The free version is for playing around. I had a lot of fun with my "free" profile back in the day, trust me. Upgrade that photo, profile, and package, and see if the quality of your dating adventures changes when you're serious about finding a true partner. Dating coaches and matchmakers cosign this.
18. Solo travel to meet that long-distance connection.
Sometimes, your perfect match isn't within 100 miles of you, and that's okay. Make it an adventure, enjoy the memories, and book that ticket. I met my man this way and it's been a whirlwind escape ever since. If you're not comfortable traveling solo, travel or (network to plan travel) with a group via Facebook.
Career And Business
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19. Schedule coffee or virtual meetups with smart people from your graduating class, previous employer, or current employer.
I have gotten many freelance opportunities by doing this. It's as simple as connecting and offering value (or simply learning how you can better equip yourself to do so.) It's also a great way to expand your network, spark new friendships, or find out about new job opportunities.
20. Invest in a well-made suit.
I don't care what industry you're in, a suit says "power," and it's not as old-school or out-of-style as you'd think. Plus the whole experience of looking for a new one (or getting one tailored) is fun and affirming. Try these options. I swear, anytime I wear a blazer, I'm treated like a celebrity or boss, especially when traveling. I was once upgraded to first-class wearing a yellow blazer outfit, and the airline professional literally said, "You look like somebody important. Here you go."
21. Volunteer for a worthwhile project or cause that's important to your company.
If you're overworked and underappreciated, skip this one, but if you truly have the time, love what you do, and want to advance, this move is clutch. Volunteering for extra projects got me where I am today in media because I had foresight, and knew that was the only way at the time to leverage relationships, and I was able to challenge myself to learn skills that 20 years later are still bankable. That VP you can't get a meeting with will be at that gala your company is planning, so join that committee, sis.
22. Write down why you deserve a raise and ask for it in your next one-on-one.
Gather those receipts (ie sales increase numbers, KPIs met, deals closed, people acquired via recruitment, the impact of systems updates, or other tangible success metrics) and ask for that raise before the first or second-quarter budgets are being finalized.
23. Instead of quitting, write down your exit plan.
While revenge quitting is set to be a thing next year (and maybe you're among those who will be leading the trend), try the better boss move and quit with a real plan.
24. Start automatically separating that estimated self-employed quarterly tax estimate.
If you have side hustles (or you're collecting 1099 income,) baby, you do not want to neglect those quarter tax payments. Talk to a professional, do your research, and set up automatic transfers to an account specifically for paying these at the appropriate due dates.
25. Sign up for a free one- to 11-week course related to your industry—or the industry you want to be in next year.
Institutions like Harvard University and platforms like Coursera offer free courses that can enhance your skills. You can also invest in certificate courses with accredited colleges as well as tech training.
26. Hit "Easy Apply" for 10 dream jobs listed on LinkedIn.
While you shouldn't solely rely on this when actively job-seeking, using this convenient LinkedIn option is a great way to get into the habit of applying for positions. And if you're already employed, you should still be "dating" other employers if you're looking to make a move in the next six months. Keep your interview skills sharp, practice toughening up for the "nos," and get a bit of an ego boost in the process.
Self-Care And Wellness
27. Pre-schedule three month's worth of massages.
Oftentimes this is cost-effective since some spas offer deals for multiple bookings. Also, it makes an act of self-care deliberate and important, not an option. When you get that reminder call, you'll know it's real.
28. Fire that therapist and try another one.
Cultural competency in mental health support is one major problem that can hinder Black women from even bothering with therapy. And who wants the added stress of spending multiple, paid sessions explaining why something is a microaggression? Cut the cord and move on to try someone else, either via a Black women therapists channel or recommendations from others.
29. Join a small group at church.
Bedside service ain't gonna cut it and neither is going to the usual Sunday service. Join a smaller group and upgrade your efforts to connect, network, and elevate spiritually. Even if virtually, take a step to dig a bit deeper with more targeted Bible study and discussions.
30. Say no, even to loved ones.
This is on here twice, for a reason. Saying no is the simplest, most powerful micro-action you can take today to make 2025 better. No explanations. No guilt. Say no.
31. Choose one "luxury" beauty product for skincare and stick to it.
This was trending big on social, especially for millennials hitting their 40s. There's just something so freeing about not giving in to every trend and sticking to the basics that work, especially when there are quality, healthy ingredients involved. Put those orders on auto-renew.
32. Sign up for a new sport or fitness class just for fun, not for results.
It's great to be on a weight-loss or weight-lifting journey, but try something just for the fun of it. Switch things up with a couple of these fitness activities.
33. Book a staycation.
Leave the passport at home and explore a nearby community or another town in your state. There's so much enrichment in your own backyard right here in the U.S., and you don't even have to break the bank.
34. Pre-schedule your mammograms, Pap smear, and peri-menopause checkups for next year.
Take control of your health by pre-scheduling essential appointments like mammograms, Pap smears, and peri-menopause check-ups for 2025. Prioritizing these screenings early ensures you stay on top of your wellness and make time for self-care in the new year.
35. Cut off support of beauty and wellness professionals whose customer service is below standard.
This is another one that many Black women have been vocal about—from unrealistic pre-appointment requirements, to booking fees, to long waits, to unsavory in-salon experiences. Spot the red flags early, and just stop accommodating foolishness. Support salons or experienced stylists who are kind, have proper systems in place and value your time.
36. Schedule five to 10-minute moments of silence on your calendar.
Again, wellness is not optional, and if it's not on my calendar, it's not official. Sit quietly. Pray. Meditate. Or do nothing. The benefits of silent moments are almost endless.
37. Download a meditation app.
If you've found that meditation is difficult to schedule or to even start, an app can help. Try this, this, or this one, and take that step to embrace something new to enhance your wellness routine. If you're tired of downloading apps, create a playlist for meditation via Amazon Music or Spotify and schedule a reminder to do it once a day or week.
38. Invest in a healthy meal prep or delivery service.
Time is emotionally expensive, so save as much of it as possible. Getting into meal prep to keep to your goals is a great way to save time, stress, and effort. The health benefits of meal prepping have also been proven via research.
39. Create a positive playlist on Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, or other streaming platform.
It can be podcasts, music, affirmations, or somatic sounds. It's a game-changer. You can even set an alarm to wake you up to start your day with the positive playlist. Not into creating your own? There are plenty to choose from with a quick search.
40. Set up reminders for Alexa (Siri or other AI) to remind you, "You are loved," and "You are okay."
This simple effort can boost your endorphins and remind you that you're indeed, not alone, and you will be okay, regardless. To set mine up, I simply commanded, "Alexa, remind me everyday 'Jesus loves me,'" and like clockwork she does. She almost scared the ish out of me one day when I'd forgotten the reminder was active, but it was the reminder I needed when anxiety had gotten the best of me that week.
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