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11 / 21 / 2023

What are credit card late fees and how do they work?

The holiday season is here, which means lots of shopping—and swiping! But, it’s important to be mindful of your spending and avoid costly mistakes that could dampen your holiday cheer. Credit card late fees are a common financial stressor, especially with increased credit card spend during the holidays. Below, we discuss the consequences of late payments, late fees, and how to avoid them—and enjoy worry-free holiday shopping.

What is a late fee?

Credit card late fees are issued if the minimum payment isn’t paid on time. Your minimum payment is separate from your statement balance, which is the amount spent during your billing cycle. Minimum payments vary—if you owe a lot (say, over $1,000), it’s usually around 2% of your balance. If you owe some, it’s often a fixed amount of around $25 (but varies between cards).

Late fees typically cost between $15 to $35 and are usually reflected on the following billing statement. Check your card’s agreement to determine the late fee and when it’s applied.

What happens when you miss a payment or make it late?

You’re charged a late fee

Your credit card company will issue a late fee if you miss your minimum payment. $15 or $35 may not seem like a huge deal, but if you have a smaller balance, that could cost as much as a full year of interest.

Late fees can also increase with each missed payment. For example, you slip up and make one late payment. Your credit card company then charges you $30 for that missed payment. If you make a second late payment, your credit card company could charge another late fee that’s even higher than the first.

Your interest rate could increase

Credit cards already charge higher interest rates compared to personal loans. The average credit card interest rate right now is around 22%. They also have a penalty APR, which is the rate charged if you violate a card’s terms—like making a late payment.

Your interest rate could be raised to the penalty rate—as high as 29.99% APR—if you’re more than 60 days late. This rate can also last as little as six months—federal law requires your credit card issuer to review your account after you make six consecutive on-time payments.

Your credit could take a hit

Late payments are added to your credit history, which can affect your credit score. A late payment of more than 30 or 60 days is reported to the credit bureaus and reflected on your credit report. This can stay on your credit report and affect your score for up to seven years—which could keep you from getting a better interest rate or prevent you from buying a house or a car.

What to do if you miss a payment

As soon as you realize you missed your credit card payment, pay your bill immediately (at least the minimum due) so it won’t affect your credit. If it’s your first time, call the credit card company to see if they can waive the late fee. Explain why you paid late, refer to your payment history, and how long you’ve been a customer. Usually, credit card companies are willing to work with you if you’re in good standing (making on-time payments, not maxing out your credit limit, etc.).

After, think about why you missed your payment. Did time slip away and you simply forgot? Or did you blow your budget this month and avoid reviewing your statement altogether? (Which we don’t recommend.) Either way, evaluate what happened and take the steps to ensure you don’t make the same mistake again.

How to avoid late fees

Automatic payments are the easiest way to avoid late fees. You can set up automatic payments with your credit card issuer for the minimum payment, statement balance, or a fixed amount (at least the minimum due). Remember that your checking account needs enough funds to cover the autopay amount. Most credit card issuers will still deduct the automatic payment if you make extra payments.

If the idea of automatic payments makes you uneasy, there are other ways to ensure you don’t miss another credit card payment. Set up an alert on your calendar a few days before your payment is due. If you need an extra reminder, add another one for the day before.

Or, if you struggle to make payments because your due date falls at an inconvenient time (for example, before payday instead of after), consider changing your payment date. You can do this online or by calling your credit card company.

Bottom line

Late fees can be a major pain, but they’re avoidable if you use your credit card responsibly. By following the above tips, you can work to avoid late credit card payments (and fees!) and keep your finances in check during the holiday season and beyond.

 

04 / 11 / 2023

How to budget for pet ownership

Owning a pet is one of the greatest joys in many people’s lives. Bringing love and laughter into our homes, owning a pet can be seriously fun. But pet ownership is also a serious commitment: many pets can live for more than 10 years, leaving some pet lovers unprepared for the price tag attached to owning and caring for an animal in a responsible manner.

Here, we break down what to expect and how to best budget for pet ownership.

What to expect

Basic pet care costs

Regardless of where you live, the cost of getting a new pet is significant. If you purchase your pet from a reputable breeder, you can expect to spend anywhere between several hundred and several thousand dollars, while adoption fees from a shelter can range from zero to several hundred dollars. But regardless of that upfront cost, the cost of ongoing care for your new pet is even more important to consider.

Of course, you’ll need to feed your pet. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA) 2021–2022 National Pet Owners Survey, feeding a cat can cost on average $4.88 per week, and it increases to $5.52 a week for a dog. Additionally, you’ll likely want enrichment tools like toys and treats, as well as beds, leashes, and crates.

Veterinary visits

Medical care is another guaranteed expense. Four-legged friends need basic medical care to prevent future problems, and even fish get sick. For dogs and cats, a yearly checkup is routine maintenance. According to the APPA survey, the average American spends about $583 in medical expenses per dog each year; medical expenses for cats are estimated to be about $343 per year, although most cat owners have more than one.

Just like humans, taking your pet for their routine checkups is critical to staying ahead of any health issues, and in turn, unexpected expenses. It’s much more expensive—and risky—to treat illnesses than to protect against them. It’s also a good idea to shop veterinary practices by comparing fees for preventative care.

Spaying or neutering your pet can also save a lot of money by preventing serious health problems, including cancers. Many local shelters provide resources for low- or no-cost spay/neuter surgeries.

Other considerations

Beyond the basic costs, many pet owners also need to open their wallets to pay for expenses such as grooming and boarding. If you take your pet with you on your travels, most hotels and airlines will charge hefty fees to accommodate Rover or Fluffy. Additional costs can also come in the form of pet sitting while you’re at work, as some pets can’t be left alone for long periods. Lastly, it’s important to note that as your pets age, their needs may change. They may require specialized diets, more regular veterinary care, or a daily pet sitter, all of which equals more money. Keep all these things in mind as you start the budgeting process.

Budgeting for a pet

Overall, pet spending has increased over the last few years. Many pet owners have demonstrated an increase in spending in the past 12 months, with food as a top expense, regardless of pet type owned. Veterinarian care is also a greater expense for pet owners. That said, there are still ways for you to save some cash while properly caring for your pet.

Review and update your budget

We know you’re already a rockstar with a budget. Adding a new pet adds a new category of expenses, which means it’s time for another budget review. You may want to reserve a set amount each month to cover all anticipated expenses, like a bag of food, so that when it’s time to restock, you’ll already have money allocated for that purpose. And if you want to splurge for a special treat, you can check your budget and make sure there’s money available.

After your first year of pet ownership, consider setting aside at least $80 every month for your cat or $200 for your dog.

Pet insurance

To cope with the medical costs, an increasing number of pet owners are turning to insurance policies. Some employers offer pet insurance programs, but others can be purchased independently. Pet insurance functions more like property insurance than health insurance. Unlike health insurance, the policyholder must pay for their pet’s healthcare directly, then be reimbursed by the insurance provider.

Pet insurance never covers preexisting conditions. While insurance can be helpful in an emergency, be sure to read the fine print and make sure that you understand applicable spending caps, deductibles, and coverage limitations.

Pad your emergency fund

Ideally, the money you set for routine pet expenses will cover everything your new companion will ever need. However, accidents can happen, and an emergency vet visit can cost as much as $5,000—and sometimes even more!

Every pet parent should have an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. Your emergency fund can cover everything from a surprise surgery to a flat tire. Consider opening a Money Market account for your emergency fund, so your money can grow while it sits.

Key Takeaways

• Many pets live for more than 10 years, so it is important to be fully aware of the costs of owning a pet.
• Annual costs of owning a pet can range from several hundred to several thousands of dollars, with food being the biggest cost, along with vet bills.
• Pet insurance is one way to manage the medical part of the expense of caring for a pet. You may also want to add to your emergency fund for potential emergencies.

Overall, owning a pet is not cheap but is so worth it. Their unconditional love brings so much happiness into people’s lives. April 11th is National Pet Day, and we want to celebrate all the wonderful pets out there. And if you’re considering adding a new member to your fur family, be sure to consider the above factors before committing.

04 / 05 / 2023

How to teach your kids about money at every age

April is Credit Union Youth Month, and what better time to remind you about the importance of teaching your kids to save money? Today, financial literacy is one of America’s biggest issues, so the sooner your children understand the how and why behind saving their hard-earned pennies, the brighter their financial future.

Effectively communicating the importance of saving for a rainy day can be quite the challenge for parents, especially because stashing your cash isn’t always fun. That’s the secret, though. Saving CAN be fun if you make it that way, and once your kids realize it was all a lesson, they’ll already understand its importance. Mission accomplished!

Here are some creative and practical ways to tap into savings fun and prepare kids of all ages for a smart and responsible financial future:

Preschoolers & Kindergarteners

Visit your local financial institution 

Don’t forget—your children are often watching you! A study by the University of Cambridge found that money habits in children are formed by the time they’re 7 years old. If you set a good example for your children now, they’ll be more likely to follow it in the future.

One of the easiest ways to start is with an afternoon outing to your local bank or credit union. Kids are curious, and we’re betting the drive-thru is far less interesting than what’s inside. Schedule a short tour and consider opening a savings account for your child when you’re done. Georgia’s Own’s Coindexter Club® is a great way to start learning about money and interest. An account for a child under the age of 13 can begin with an initial investment as low as $5.00 and will start earning interest at $5.01. Which leads us right to…

Start saving and setting goals 

Gone are the days of the pink ceramic piggy bank with the curly tail—we’re going high-tech here. Purchase an automatic coin-counting bank so your child can keep track of how much money they’re saving and spending. It’ll help with addition and subtraction skills, and they’ll love the pride and satisfaction they feel when they can actually see their progress.

Once they have the hang of saving, start adding savings goals. When they’ve hit their goal, you can reward them with prizes like a special trip to the zoo or an additional contribution to their savings. Savings is the most important financial habit to instill early on, and this tip can easily be adjusted with age.

Distinguishing wants versus needs 

Ever heard, “Look at this!! Can we get it please?!” as you’re heading towards the checkout? This age group can easily give in to impulse buys, especially if they are using someone else’s money.

Encourage your child to use their hard-earned allowance to pay for these purchases instead. Helping them distinguish between what they really want and what they really need will help them think harder before spending their own money. Another good tip is to encourage your child to sleep on it—instead of buying an item right away, wait at least a day before they commit to the purchase. The item likely won’t sell out overnight, so they can make that money decision with a more level head the next day.

Pay it forward 

Teach your children to be generous. While healthy spending and saving is important, the value of generosity trumps them both. Whether it’s with money, time, or talent, it’s important to give back to the community. You can volunteer together to pack lunches for the homeless, visit a nursing home, or fold clothes at a thrift shop. No matter what they choose, over time they’ll see how giving doesn’t just affect the people they give to, but the giver as well.

Elementary Schoolers

Play to learn 

Board games are fun activities you can enjoy with the whole family while secretly teaching them about money. Buy some property and build some hotels in Monopoly Jr., go to college and choose a career in The Game of Life, and get to the next month without blowing your entire paycheck in Pay Day. Each one requires wise financial decisions and includes a surprise monkey wrench or two along the way!

Video games like Animal Crossing as well as computer games are also a great way to introduce money management. Try Peter Pig’s Money Counter. It’s an interactive game from Visa® that teaches counting skills and savings strategies to kids from ages 5-8. For your littler ones, Cash Puzzler is a game that lets 3-to-6-year-old kids put their memory to the test by putting scrambled puzzle pieces together to form images of different dollar bills. For your sport-loving kids who are ages 11 and up, check out Visa’s NFL-themed Financial Football game, which focuses on money management. And The Payoff, for ages 14 and up, is played in a web-app that simulates a mobile phone, allowing players to chat with characters, check their bank, open fake websites, check their emails, and more.

Let ’em earn it 

Do you have a child who loves to vacuum or fold the bath towels? Do they watch you mow the lawn or water the plants? Get them involved in age-appropriate chores and give them an allowance so they understand how money is earned. They’ll think it’s fun, and you might get a little help around the house.

We know you don’t always get to do the things you enjoy when you’re earning a salary, so toss in a not-so-favorite chore every now and again as they get older. While not as much fun, it’s a good reality check!

Are there other chores that need to be done in the house? Make a list of things that need doing and assign a payment amount to each one. If your child is saving for something special or wants a side hustle to supplement their allowance, they can choose an additional chore and get paid for completing it.

Find their entrepreneurial spirit 

Is your child a crafter or an artist? Do they love to bake brownies? There are tons of opportunities to sell things in the neighborhood (supervised, of course). Try setting up shop at the home swim meets, during the neighborhood garage sale, or at the holiday craft show. Discuss the cost of the ingredients and supplies, the price of the items, and how to calculate a profit. If you have an older child, help them design a colorful flyer to drum up some dog sitting, lawn mowing, or mother’s helper opportunities.

Tweens & Teens

Teach your gamer how to game 

Have a gamer? There’s a huge market for pre-owned video games. Talk to your child about buying certain items new or used and the savings opportunity it can offer. If you’re making the purchase, you might even consider giving your child the amount you saved a time or two as a way to emphasize the impact.

This is also a good time to discuss selling items, like old video games, toys, and electronics as a way to make some extra money and clear out that clutter. Explain to your child that when they sell items that they no longer use, the funds could be reinvested into something else they’ve been swooning over—or they can save it in that nifty coin-counting bank! As the adult, you’ll want to list the items for sale on the resale sites, but have the kids help take pictures, write the descriptions, and set prices.

Stick to a budget

Have your child grab a calculator (or your smartphone) and head to the grocery store together. Before you leave the house, though, set a budget for your shopping trip. As you walk up and down the grocery aisles together and put items in your cart, ask your child to add the cost of each item to your running total, being mindful of your budget.

Compare brands and pricing, and explain the benefit of buying items on sale. Did you bring your coupons? Ask your child to match them with the appropriate items and then add the money you saved. What was the goal, and was it more or less than the last trip? As your kids age into teens, you can add in new concepts, like how to create a monthly budget, calculating fixed and variable expenses, and more.

Introduce them to investing 

Once your kids have saved some money, you can consider introducing the concept of investing. With your younger teens, try purchasing a blue-chip stock with fictitious dollars and having them track the daily market fluctuations. How much money would they have lost or gained in three months, six months, and a year? Do the same with a penny stock and you can introduce the idea of risk and return.

If they’re older and you’re already an investor, consider opening a custodial brokerage account for them or helping them purchase fractional shares. Keep in mind the potential tax considerations for custodial accounts and work with an advisor to ensure they would be appropriate for your situation.

Build that resumé

Your teen is likely babysitting, mowing lawns, or engaging in some other entrepreneurial activity to earn a few bucks. Encourage them to keep track of their earnings and brainstorm with them about how they can improve and expand their business. If they’re old enough, a summer job may be a good way to introduce the concept of taxes.

Key Takeaways

• Kids are always watching–so be sure to set a good example with your own finances and start introducing these concepts as early as possible. While it’s never too late to start, kids have their money habits set young.
• Some of the most important concepts to cover are savings, budgeting, and paying it forward.
• Talking about money may not sound fun, but it can be for both you and your kids!

Whether it’s across the kitchen table, on the way to a baseball game, shopping for school supplies, or tucking them in at night, there are an unlimited number of ways to work financial responsibility and savings into the conversation. The most important thing is to get started early and to continue making time to discuss financial responsibility as your kids age—but it’s never too early or too late to start teaching your kids about how they can create a more financially stable future.

 

03 / 13 / 2023

Banking on Purpose since 1934

For nearly 90 years, Georgia’s Own has been a trusted, financial partner. Our commitment to our members, our employees, and the communities that we serve are the foundation upon which Georgia’s Own was built.

The safety and soundness of our members’ money has been our number one priority since our inception in 1934, and remains unwavering today. The credit union business model is designed to return earnings to members (rather than stockholders), which inherently creates a safer, more conservative financial portfolio for these financial institutions—and Georgia’s Own is no exception. Our liquidity remains strong and our capital position remains well above what our regulators require. In addition, each of our individual depositors is insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Association (NCUA). Our members can rest assured that their money is secure at Georgia’s Own, and we will continue to ensure that they are safeguarded at every step.

Important Links

• How Your Accounts are Federally Insured (PDF)
• NCUA Insurance Calculator

03 / 08 / 2023

Supporting women-owned businesses in Georgia

March 8, 2023 marks the 112^th International Women’s Day (IWD), which is about women’s equality in all its forms. IWD encompasses so much–for some, IWD is about fighting for women’s rights, and for others, it is about reinforcing key commitments. For some, IWD is about celebrating success.

Small businesses are a major engine of growth in the U.S. economy, and women are playing an increasingly large role in the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, women-owned firms now represent more than one in five businesses with employees in the U.S–out of all 50 states, Georgia has the 8th most female business owners. Overall, these enterprises report over $1.8 trillion in annual revenue and employ nearly 11 million workers.

Below is a list of some of our favorite women-owned businesses across Georgia. From home goods and trendy apparel to baked goods and more, we’ve got you covered. Check out these 20 women-owned shops and restaurants across Georgia that you can start supporting today.

Boutiques + Markets

the beehive – Atlanta

This beautiful boutique is fully stocked with local, independent designers offering apparel, housewares, accessories, baby goods, food goods, and jewelry. Visit them in store or shop online at the beehiveatl.com!

Berry Trap Boutique – Waycross

If you’re looking for the latest trends, head to Berry Trap Boutique–a one-stop shop for all kinds of women’s clothing and accessories. With a variety of styles, you’re sure to find something you love when you visit them in-store or online!

The Culturist Union – Savannah

Not just a coffeehouse, The Culturist Union is a community gathering spot, and inclusive marketplace that empowers creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Ordinary Magic – Savannah

Ordinary Magic is an online and brick + mortar shop in Historic Downtown Savannah. With a wide selection of crystals, minerals, and magical lifestyle products, Ordinary Magic provides a welcoming atmosphere for all, plus the tools and resources to dive deeper within, and bring more happiness and magic into your life.

U-Neeks – Savannah

Find all kinds of little hidden treasures and wonderful furniture at this unique shop! They specialize in vintage and refurbished furniture.

Restaurants

Cheesecaked – Norcross

It’s time for your taste buds to branch out. Cheesecaked Creamery & Café is known for its showstopping cheesecakes—serving up the absolute best in America—and the result is as surprising as it is delicious. Step into any Cheesecaked Creamery & Café, and you’ll find yourself in a whimsical world filled with treats including cheesecake cannoli, red velvet milkshakes, and “Unicorn” grilled cheese sandwiches.

The Little Tart Bake Shop – Altanta

Founded by Ohio-native Sarah O’Brien in 2010, Little Tart is made up of passionate bakers, baristas, and counter staff who work diligently every day to make and serve delicious, thoughtfully produced pastries and coffee. Offering handmade eats & treats, Little Tart works with local farmers, jam makers, beekeepers, cheese makers, and butchers for local, quality ingredients.

Jardi Chocolates – Chamblee

Decadent cocoa bombs, chocolate bars filled with strawberry jam, macadamia nuts covered in white chocolate and raspberry—your sweet tooth is begging to stop by!

Seoul Food – Kennesaw

Meet your new and favorite, fast-casual Korean restaurant, serving up Korean street comfort foods with a modern twist. All made with fresh ingredients, this food is ready to leave a Seoul-ful impression.

Sisters of the New South – Savannah

Sisters of the New South is serving up authentic Southern cooking from their locations in Atlanta and Savannah. Not local? Check out their online store!

Star Provisions Market & Café – Atlanta

A culinary dream. Just a fraction of chef Anne Quatrano’s Atlanta empire, this market and cafe serves up baked goods, cheese, meats, seafood, locally roasted coffee, and other gourmet food items. Quatrano is known for running Bacchanalia and Floataway Café, as well as mentoring other women in the Atlanta restaurant industry.

Super Sweet Bakeshop – Kingsland

While working at Nana Teresa’s, Amanda Ramos let her imagination run wild, having the opportunity to craft beautiful, edible works of art. With the start of Super Sweet Bake Shop, Amanda is ready to take all those creative techniques and put them to work, bringing joy and sweetness into the world. Visit her website to start an order!

Tropical Taste Restaurant – Albany

Where Southern cooking meets African cuisine. Tropical Taste serves up traditional dishes like jollof rice, plus Southern classics like black-eyed peas.

Wandaful Things – Kingsland

Every day isn’t perfect, but it may come pretty close if it’s filled with Wandaful Things! Fresh bread, delicious food and desserts can all be found at this awesome bistro.

Other

A Pot To Plant In – Smyrna

Your green thumb’s new favorite store. A Pot To Plant In is your community plant shop, offering various indoor plants and accessories to help create your own living oasis. Plus, they’ll help with plant maintenance, plant sitting, educational workshops & events, and on-site design.

Art Bash Studio – Savannah

Whether you’re alone or with your friends, Art Bash is an unforgettable evening of fun, music, and art. Get ready to be inspired by our local artists who will guide you step-by-step through a featured painting—canvas, brushes, paint, and apron provided! Book your next night out here.

Brave + Kind Bookshop – Atlanta

A neighborhood kids and family bookshop, Brave + Kind Bookshop carries a carefully curated selection of literature, from activity books and pre-school, to fiction favorites and graphic novels. They also have a monthly book subscription services for all ages. Shop online, or browse in-store.

Chemin – Atlanta

Chémin is a luxury lifestyle brand that operates at the intersection of beauty and wellness, experience and service, artistry and life. At Chémin, they believe that selfcare isn’t selfish, it’s vital! Specializing in custom fragrance, they also offer a curated collection of luxury wellness essentials, products, and experiences. Book an experience and join their legacy of living well.

Pinker Times – Buckhead

This floral design studio was created by artist Skye Lin, a SCAD Atlanta graduate who designs ethereal arrangements highlighting peonies, Amaranthus, dahlias, and more. Her studio features floral art installations, bouquets, and a choose-your-own flower bar!

Unexpected Atlanta

Founded by Akila McConnell, a former lawyer who turned her love of history and Atlanta into a business, Unexpected Atlanta. You think you know the city? Take one of their tours, like the Grant Park Past and Future Food Walk or the King Historic District Tour, and you’ll see it in a whole new way.

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This year’s theme is Embracing Equity. Forging gender equity isn’t limited to women solely fighting the good fight. Allies are incredibly important for the social, economic, cultural, and political advancement of women. One of the best ways to celebrate this month is by using your spending power to support women-owned businesses. When we shop with companies that uplift diversity, we increase representation, visibility, and economic development. Buying from women-owned shops, restaurants, and brands is just one of many ways you can support a community that are essential to Georgia’s culture and economy.

02 / 17 / 2023

Supporting Black-owned small businesses in Georgia

February marks the start of Black History Month, a time to reflect on and highlight the contributions Black Americans have added to the country and society as a whole. One of the best ways to celebrate this month is by using your spending power to support Black-owned businesses. When small businesses flourish, so do their communities.

Below, we’ve listed some of our favorite small, Black-owned businesses across Georgia. Whether you’re looking for jewelry and trendy apparel to baked goods and more, we’ve got you covered. Check out these 23 Black-owned shops and restaurants across Georgia that you can start supporting today.

Boutiques + Markets

the beehive – Atlanta

This beautiful boutique is fully stocked with local, independent designers offering apparel, housewares, accessories, baby goods, food goods and jewelry. Visit them in store or shop online!

Berry Trap Boutique – Waycross

If you’re looking for the latest trends, head to Berry Trap Boutique–a one-stop shop for all kinds of women’s clothing and accessories. With a variety of styles, you’re sure to find something you love when you visit them in-store or online!

Just Add Honey Tea Company – Atlanta

Not a fan of coffee? Then Just Add Honey is the perfect place. With unique and classic flavors available, stop by for a pot of tea, or buy to take home.

Nourish + Bloom – Fayetteville

Say hello to the world’s first Black-owned, autonomous grocery market. Aimed at making healthy foods more accessible, Nourish + Bloom offers locally sourced craft items, such as produce, meats, baked goods, dairy, and prepared meals, alongside everyday convenience items without the hassle of a checkout line. Simply download their app and get to shopping!

Restaurants

Albany Fish Company – Albany

With fresh seafood daily, Albany Fish Company caters to all your seafood needs–raw, fried, steamed, grilled, blackened, or however ever you like it!

Back in the Day Bakery – Savannah

Initially founded as an artisan bakery, Back in the Day Bakery has a curated specialty menu featuring delicious morning pastries and sweet & savory bites alongside a gourmet retail shop featuring independent + BIPOC small business products for the neighborhood. They also have a new event space called Dåy Studio that allows people to come together around the love of food, classes, and focus on community.

The Flint – Albany

The Flint is not just a restaurant—it’s a gathering place and a celebration of community. Offering the freshest seafood and richest southern cuisine in Southwest Georgia, The Flint remains true to local roots while exploring the flavors of the world.

Good Times Jazz Bar and Restaurants – Savannah

If you’re looking for a great night of entertainment and good food, look no further than Good Times Jazz Bar and Restaurant! Delicious Southern fare, fine wines, and the best in jazz can all be found at this sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere.

The Grey Market – Savannah

The Grey Market combines the classic New York City bodegas with the history and convenience of the southern lunch counter. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or picnic basket for the beach, The Grey Market is ready.

Le Petit Marche – Atlanta

Established in 2008, the Little Market started as a true market complete with fresh breads, cheeses, and other unique, locally made pantry items. Today, Le Petit Marche focuses on delectable breakfasts and lunches that draw people from all over, making it a favorite neighborhood hangout.

Popbar – Atlanta

Cool off with tasty popGelato, popSorbetto, and popWiches in delicious flavors like chocolate, green tea, hazelnut, and more.

Sisters of the New South – Savannah

Sisters of the New South is serving up authentic Southern cooking from their locations in Atlanta and Savannah. Not local? Check out their online store!

Slutty Vegan – Atlanta

In trying to open the conversation around vegan food options, Slutty Vegan has taken over Atlanta. A plant-based burger chain, this restaurant offers a variety of burgers piled high with sauce and plenty of toppings.

Sublime Doughnuts – Atlanta

Founded by Kamal Grant, treat yourself to a yummy treat from Sublime Doughnuts at their North Druid Hills or Georgia Tech locations. Delicious flavors include Orange Dream Star, White Chocolate Peach Fritter, and more.

Tropical Taste Restaurant – Albany

Where Southern cooking meets African cuisine! Tropical Taste serves up traditional dishes like jollof rice, plus Southern classics like black-eyed peas.

Wandaful Things – Kingsland

Every day isn’t perfect, but it may come pretty close if it’s filled with Wandaful Things! Fresh bread, delicious food and desserts can all be found at this awesome bistro.

Who’s Got Soul Southern Café – Atlanta

This casual neighborhood restaurant was founded by owner and executive chef Keith Kash. Focusing on family and food, this southern café features local ingredients and special seasonings and sauces to spice up your traditional favorites.

Other

atl kula Wellness Studio – Atlanta

From yoga to Pilates, tai-chi and more, atl kula has it all. Inspired by nature’s ability to withstand and transform, this wellness studio is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and work out.

Auntie Renee Story Teller – Atlanta

Auntie Renee is a captivating storyteller who uses her creative skills for performances and motivational speaking. She performs storytelling for festivals, schools, and birthday parties, and she does monthly workshops.

Brave + Kind Bookshop – Atlanta

A neighborhood kids and family bookshop, Brave + Kind Bookshop carries a carefully curated selection of literature, from activity books and pre-school, to fiction favorites and graphic novels. They also have a monthly book subscription services for all ages. Shop online, or browse in-store.

Footprints of Savannah Walking Tours – Savannah

Learn about Urban slavery, the Slave Trade, and the Cotton Trade in Savannah. See the remnants of the 1860s slave trade and a building that once was a slave mart that became a Freedmen’s School.

Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia – Atlanta

An affiliate of The National Association of Black Storytellers, Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia’s teachers, actors, drummers, biblical pundits, educators, and librarians share and spread the love of storytelling. Kuumba Tattle Tales for ages 7-15 is part of their Kuumba Youth Storytellers program.

Medu Bookstore – Atlanta

Medu, meaning “the power of the word,” is the second largest African-American owned bookstore in Atlanta. Medu specializes in culturally significant and often hard to find books written, published, and distributed for the enhanced awareness and enjoyment of its readership.

When we shop with companies that uplift diversity, we increase representation, visibility, and economic development. Buying from Black-owned shops, restaurants, and brands is just one of many ways you can support a community that is essential to Georgia’s culture and economy.