Next time you’re on the road, make a stop at an alumni-owned business
Shop Sustainably: The chic merchandise at Seven Sisters—slow fashion, homewares, apothecary items, and pantry goods—is ethically produced by small-batch makers from around the world. Inspired by her previous work in art museums, founder and owner Jillian Punska ’00 curates her collection with an eye toward simplifying shopping for customers who want to support independent brands and artists.
Seven Sisters in Portland, Oregon
Raise a Glass: Bohemian Village, owned by Silas Luster ’07, is more than just a cozy cafe offering cold-pressed juices, smoothies, hand-crafted teas, and other healthy vegan fare. It presents itself as an “experience space,” helping confront long-standing dietary health issues within the African American community. Toward that goal, the book-and-artwork-lined eatery also hosts wellness discussions and events.
Bohemian Village in East Chattanooga, Tennessee
Get Fit: Founded by Melissa (Manseau) Martin ’00, a multi-credentialed instructor and former two-time All-American field hockey player at Bryant University, Downdog studio offers beginner through advanced classes in yoga, Pilates, and barre, as well as personal coaching and fitness training, all guided by a mission “to spread the love and passion of yoga and fitness, and serve the community.”
Downdog Flow Yoga & Pilates in Bedford, New Hampshire
Treat Yourself: When Hurricane Sandy destroyed her home and bakery equipment in 2013, Jana (Kotowski) D’Agostino ’00 and her husband, Russ, decided it was time to follow their dream of creating a dessert business on wheels. Today, the Sweet Cravings food truck brings its spectacular cupcakes, milkshakes, sundaes, cannoli, and other treats to private and community events from Miami to Port St. Lucie.
Sweet Cravings in South Florida