My Top 10 in 2010

Several years ago, maybe 15, before I met my gorgeous, loveable and handsome hubby I had a crush on a guy(who turned out to be a loser). Someone once told me that guys liked flowers, too. I decided to purchse a half dozen roses for my crush. At the time, I didn't have a car so I guess you'd have called me a female scrub(of TLC fame) LOL.

Anyhoo,

I walked to a neighborhood or 'hood' florist shop to purchase the roses. When I arrived, many of the flowers were wilted or dead. The owner wore a moo-moo/nightgown and house slippers. Her son was the clerk. The kid was all of 7 and didn't know how to ring a sale. Bad customer service all the way around.

I vowed that I would never patronize another black-owned "hood" business.

Again, that was several years ago. Years before I met real business owners. Business owners who value their customers. Those that give friendly service with a smile. Owners who teach their children proper business practices. Business owners that dress for success. Many of the very people who own businesses in 'the hood.'

Today as I celebrate the fourth Kwanzaa principle: Ujamaa-Cooperative Economics
To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together
I would like to highlight 10 small or homebased businesses(not all are black owned but all are worthy to be recognized)that exude professionalism and exemplary service. These businesses are those that I've visited online, via telephone or in person.

My top 10 in 2010 are.... Drum roll please:

1. The Bel-Air 10 Theatre
http://www.belair10theatre.com

2. Ladel's Book Store and Boutique
It has since closed but it was a great place for books and children's events

3. My Girly Party
http://www.mygirlyparty.com

4.City Talk Magazine
http://www.citytalkmagazine.com
Detroit's Urban Community Source

5. Dr. Yakini Etheridge of The Prissy Mommy Chronicles
http://www.prissymommy.com

6. Lynette Jones of Perfect Presence Event Planning and Consulting
http://www.theperfectpresence.com

7.Tim Miller of Miller Design Studio
http://www.millerdesignstudio.net

8.Afropuffs and Ponytails
http://www.afropuffsandponytails.com
Website Inspiring African American Girls

9. Detroit Impact Center
http://www.detroitimpactcenters.org
Servicing Metro Detroit's Children

10. Monica Marie Jones of The Literary Loft, LLC
http://www.monicamariejones.com
Inspiring and motivating the nation with weekly newsletters, captivating books and an informational radio show

Yes, there are sooooo many others that I could have named and I will feature more in 2011. For now, the remainder of 2010, check out these 10 businesses and you'll see why they are MY top 10.

What are some of the businesses that are the bees knees in your neck of the woods?