Renae Bluitt is no stranger to creating spaces where Black excellence thrives. From her early blogging days with In Her Shoes to producing the acclaimed documentary She Did That. on Netflix, Bluitt has always championed Black women entrepreneurs with an unwavering commitment. Yet, her latest venture, the He Did That. Marketplace, is expanding that vision to include a new focus: Black male entrepreneurs.
In partnership with SheaMoisture’s Trailblazers initiative, the He Did That. Marketplace represents an evolution of Bluitt’s work, creating a platform for Black men to showcase their entrepreneurial talents across a variety of industries. This extension of her annual Holiday Bazaar is a dynamic response to the need for intentional support of Black-owned businesses—especially those led by men.
“We’ve always needed spaces like this,” Bluitt shares. “While women often gather and build community naturally, I’ve noticed that Black men don’t have as many opportunities to collaborate and connect in a meaningful way. This marketplace is about shifting that.”
The Power of Community and Collaboration
Since its inception in 2017, Bluitt’s Holiday Bazaar has connected consumers with emerging Black women-owned brands, creating economic opportunities and fostering personal connections. Now, with the introduction of the He Did That. Marketplace, she’s creating a similar environment for Black men to thrive.
“The idea came from seeing the incredible impact of SheaMoisture’s Trailblazers program,” Bluitt explains. “We’re hosting nearly 20 Black male entrepreneurs across industries—beauty, consumer packaged goods, craft beer, photography, videography, and more. It’s about celebrating their talents, amplifying their brands, and encouraging collaboration.”
Bluitt vividly recalls the energy from a recent event at Georgetown University, where participants in the Trailblazers program came together. “Seeing these men connect, share ideas, and support each other was so powerful. It reminded me why spaces like this are so necessary.”
Black Men and Women: Building Together
As a fierce advocate for collaboration within the Black community, Bluitt stresses the importance of Black men and women working together. “The narrative that we don’t need each other is simply untrue,” she says. “We’ve always needed each other. When we come together, we’re unstoppable.”
In an era where social media often amplifies division, Bluitt believes initiatives like He Did That. are proof of the opposite. “This event is a reminder that, despite what you might see online, there is unity and collaboration happening. We are building businesses, elevating each other, and showing the world what’s possible when we stand together.”
Amplification: A Collective Responsibility
For Bluitt, amplifying Black-owned businesses is an essential, collective responsibility. She emphasizes that supporting these businesses doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. “It can be as simple as sharing a product you love on social media, telling a friend, or making an intentional choice to shop Black,” she explains. “When we amplify these businesses, we create awareness, drive sales, and contribute to their sustainability.”
Bluitt sees platforms like Shoppe Black and community-driven initiatives as key to keeping Black-owned brands visible. But she also calls on individuals to play their part. “Every share, every purchase, every word-of-mouth recommendation matters. It’s about building momentum that helps these businesses grow.”
Looking Ahead: Rest and Resilience
As 2024 draws to a close, Bluitt reflects on a year of highs and lows and prioritizes rest before heading into an ambitious 2025. “This year has been a rollercoaster, not just for me, but for so many in our community,” she says. “Being Black in America takes a toll, and I’m making it a priority to recharge.”
With Women’s History Month and other major initiatives on the horizon, Bluitt is already planning for a transformative year. “What I do is not seasonal. It’s a year-round commitment to amplifying Black entrepreneurs, and I know 2025 will be even more impactful.”
A Call to Action
As Bluitt prepares to host the He Did That. Marketplace by SheaMoisture, her message is clear: Black businesses need support, collaboration, and amplification now more than ever. “We have to save ourselves,” she says. “By intentionally supporting each other, we create economic power and ensure our stories, brands, and legacies endure.”
The He Did That. Marketplace by SheaMoisture is more than an event—it’s a movement, a celebration, and a call to action. And under Renae Bluitt’s visionary leadership, it’s bound to be a game-changer for Black male entrepreneurs and the community as a whole.
Get Tickets to Renae’s Holiday Bazaar!
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