Artist:DanroyHenry,Sr.
FOUNDER'SLETTER
HealingWaters
There is something about water that calls us together.
For generations, people have gathered along the shores of Martha's Vineyard, whether at the Inkwell, on harborfront porches, around dinner tables, at community events, or on the beach with family and friends. Again and again, we find ourselves drawn to the water's edge.
This year's cover artwork by Dan Henry beautifully captures that spirit. The image of the Polar Bears emerging from the waters in Oak Bluffs is both iconic and symbolic. Water restores us, calms us, and reminds us that healing is possible in every season.
In a time when so much feels divided or uncertain, I have found myself reflecting on the simple power of gathering. Healing happens in conversation, in shared experiences, and in community. It happens when neighbors support one another, when friends reconnect, and when strangers become friends.
Whether you are a year-round resident, seasonal resident, or visitor, Martha's Vineyard has long been a place of renewal, joy, and belonging. The waters surrounding this Island welcome us all and remind us that we are connected to something larger than ourselves.
As you explore this year's Martha's Vineyard Black-Owned Business Directory, I encourage you to support the businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs who help strengthen our community every day.
I am also grateful to BECMA, Meredith Moore, and Leverette Weekes Communications for their sponsorship and support of this year's Directory, helping us expand our reach and amplify Blackowned businesses throughout our community.
May this season bring opportunities to reconnect, celebrate one another, and embrace the healing waters that surround us.
With Gratitude,
India Rose
Founder & Publisher of the Martha's Vineyard Black-Owned Business Directory
presents:
CAPTAIN CAROLE HOPSON CAPTAIN CAROLE HOPSON
PILOT · AUTHOR · SPEAKER · PHILANTHROPIST
AUGUST 5TH, 3PM-5PM
Captain Carole Hopson is one of the few African American women flying for United Airlines, an acclaimed author, and the founder of the Jet Black Foundation, committed to sending 100 African American women to flight school by 2035.
Her debut novel, A Pair of Wings, tells the inspirational story of Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to earn an International Civilian Pilot's License.
India Rose Collective • 49 Main Street • Vineyard Haven
JULY26TH-AUG1ST2026
Morethanavacation—it'samovement. Legacy Week on the Vineyard was created to engage, empower, and highlight the bond and value of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This will be an ideal opportunity to relax, connect with fellow HBCU alumni and their families, and participate in events both fun and impactful.Wewillpartywithapurpose,buildnewbonds,and getstrategicinsustainingthelegaciesofourgreatschools.
Bee Blunt is a heritage-driven lifestyle brand that blends classic American style with rich cultural storytelling. Rooted in history and designed for modern expression, the brand reimagines timeless silhouettes through the lens of Black heritage, craftsmanship, and elevated everyday luxury.
We offer thoughtfully designed apparel and accessories—including signature sweaters, tailored pieces, dresses, scarves, and lifestyle goods—each connected to a deeper narrative inspired by historic places, figures, and cultural movements. In addition to our core collections, Bee Blunt provides custom design services, collaborative capsule collections, and immersive retail experiences through seasonal pop-ups and curated activations.
At its core, Bee Blunt is both a brand and a platform—using product, storytelling, and community to honor legacy, inspire connection, and redefine what heritage looks like today.
Studio Danroy
Powerful mixed-media works fusing acrylic, leather, fabric & gold leaf.
DanroyHenrySr.AKAStudioDanroyisa multidisciplinary, ekphrastic artist. As a self-taught outsider artist, he often pushes the limits of boundaries and constraintsusingdimension,textureand technique to reach beyond canvas, framesandartstyles.Hissculpturesand canvas work reflect his connection to materials and the stories they tell. His works hang in the homes of collectors throughouttheUS.
The cover of this guide features
an
"Into the Water" (2024),
original work by Danroy Henry Sr. — acrylic, leather, fabric, gold leaf, and Inkwell Beachsandoncanvas.
DISCOVER THE UNTOLD STORIES OF MARTHA'S VINEYARD
Martha's Vineyard isn't just a vacation destination. It's a place where Black history breathes through storytelling, tradition, and community.
Discover the rich history and culture of African Americans on the island with 40+ historic sites, each marked with a bronze plaque that tells a unique story. Learn about the island’s deep-rooted connections to the Civil Rights Movement, the Underground Railroad, and the formation of the NAACP.
Self-guided · Driving Tours · Walking Tours · Private Bookings Tours
featured exhibit
WHATDOESFREEDOM MEANTOYOUTODAY?
JUNE19–SEPTEMBER19,2026
The DAP Project Founded by Rhonda Henderson & Aaron Stallworth, The DAP Project explores the dap — the Black handshake — as a cultural language of dignity, pride, love, and resistance. Through interviews, portraits, and multimedia storytelling, they ask the questions that matter most.
Visit Mariposa Museum in Oak Bluffs—a welcoming space that celebrates African American and diaspora history through the creativity of diverse artists, storytellers, and scholars. Located on Circuit Avenue, Mariposa’s exhibits and programs bring powerful stories to life, right in the heart of our community.
Exhibits • Programs • Kids Art-Making Space • Gift Shop • Gallery
JUNE 19 – SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 THE DAP PROJECT
A multimedia exploration of the dap — the Black handshake — as a cultural language of dignity, pride, and community. Featuring portraits, interviews, and storytelling byfoundersRhondaHenderson&AaronStallworth.
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
Harry Seymour A longtime Oak Bluffs resident and retired UMass professor, Harry Seymour, 82, creates scratch art — combiningIndiaink,waxpastel,andeggtempera—rooted insocialjusticeandaccompaniedbyoriginalpoetry."Myart is heavily infused with O.B.," he says. "I promote social justicethroughmyart."
Monday: closed
Tuesday: 11 am - 5 pm
Wednesday: 11 am - 5 pm
Thursday: 11 am - 5 pm
Friday: 11 am - 5 pm
Saturday: 11 am - 5 pm
Sunday: : 11 am - 5 pm
Openingdaysvarybyseason;please checkourwebsite.
HarrySeymour-ArtistinResidence2025-2026
A chef-driven menu highlighting seasonal ingredients in simple, handcrafted dishes served straight from our kitchen.
Breakfast served until 3 pm!
Your new place to gather, to celebrate, and to belong.
Inkwell Beach House is a premier restaurant and event space opening Summer 2026. Now booking for 2026 and 2027.
THE INNER CIRCLE
Membership is by application and invitation only. Seasonal to full annual lifestyle management packages available.
Inquire about membership or concierge services:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
FOR ALL OF YOUR VINEYARD CELEBRATIONS
Allie & Paryss are a dynamic and versatile husband-and-wife musical duo that brings a captivating blend of soul, passion, and musicianship to every performance. With the wife’s powerhouse vocals delivering deep, soulful melodies and the husband’s extraordinary ability to play any genre— masterfully showcasing his skills on lead and acoustic guitar—this duo creates an unforgettable musical experience. Available for Weddings/Vow Renewals • Receptions • Corporate • Activations • Milestone Celebrations •Worship
India Rose Collective is an elevated lifestyle boutique on Martha’s Vineyard featuring curated gifts, home décor, apparel, books, art, and everyday luxuries designed to inspire good taste and joyful living. Formerly Sideline and reimagined under the same owner, the shop is also home to the Collective Coffee Bar, where guests can enjoy handcrafted iced lattes and espresso drinks while they browse.
India Rose Collective • 49 Main Street, Vineyard Haven • @indiarosecollective
Boutique Artist collaborative
NYA CLARKE
Owner/ Principal Broker of MV Island-Wide Realty, Inc . Nya is a 5th generation islander with over 20 years of experience providing real estate services, construction consulting and interior staging for buyers & sellers of Martha’s Vineyard investments. Nya is also the owner of Island Life Studio, seasonal boutique and artist collaboration, in Oak Bluffs.
My bucket list is calling — but I’m never too far away!
A New Day — After18-plusgratifying years practicing real estate on Martha'sVineyard,Ihaveretiredfrom active client representation. A bittersweetdecision,butmybucketlist calls! It'sbeenmyprivilegetohelpsomany of you secure your Vineyard happy placesorprofitfrompastinvestments. Thankyouforyourtrustinme.
My help isn't entirely over. Thinking of buying or selling? I remain a licensed broker, happy to consult, share market insights, and refer you to my curated selection of trusted active brokers. No charge, ever.
Over coffee, phone, or Zoom — don't hesitate to reach out. See you on "the Rock!"
Shelley
ShelleyChristiansen
MEET INDIA ROSE Real Estate Agent
As a buyer-focused agent and year-round resident, India takes pride in guiding clientsthroughoneofthemostimportant investmentsthey'llevermake.Herstrong negotiation skills, market knowledge, and concierge-style approach help clients navigate the unique Martha's Vineyard marketwithconfidence.
Whetheryou'researchingforayear-round home, vacation retreat or investment property, India is committed to making theprocessseamless.
(508) - 685- 0484
VALUING RELATIONSHIPS OVER TRANSACTIONS.
Generations Realty Group puts relationships first. Whether buying, selling, or investing, expect strategic pricing, sharp negotiation, and an agent who truly listens.
LEGACY BUILDING IS MY LIFE
... and there is no better place to start than Martha’s Vineyard
I'm Kim Seawright, Owner and Principal Broker of Generations Realty Group. I've been coming to this island since I was five years old, and today I'm proud to call it my year-round home.
With 18+ years in the industry, I specialize in luxury homes, new construction, professional staging, relocations, and smart real estate investments. Licensed in MA, NY, and RI.
READY TO MAKE A MOVE? LET’S CHAT! (617) 637-1873
Discover your dream home on Martha's Vineyard with Jennifer B. DaSilva, a top performing real estate professional with over $50 million in sales in 2025.
With deep family roots on the island since 1958, Jennifer combines her extensive local knowledge with a background in international corporate law to provide unparalleled service.Whether you're buying or selling, trust Jennifer's passion, professionalism, and dedication to guide you through every step of the process.
MARTHA'SVINEYARD'STRUSTED REALESTATEEXPERT.
Jennifer B. DaSilva - Senior Vice President jennifer.dasilva@compass.com mobile: 973-568-7093
compass.com/agents/jennifer-daSilva
Sterling Window Designs offers full-service window treatments on Martha's Vineyard, featuring Hunter Douglas products.Ourwindowcoveringscomplementyourinterior decor beautifully, and as a local year-round business, we arecommittedtoyourcompletesatisfaction!
WINDOWDESIGNS
(508) 338-2645
STERLING
BLACK IVY COTTAGE
DIRECT OCEANFRONT ON EAST CHOP
Sleeps 12 | 6 Bedrooms | 5 1/2 Bathrooms
FOR MORE INFO, OR BOOKINGS, SCAN QR CODE
Escape to Bird Street Breeze in
Oak Bluffs
Sleepsupto12•5bedrooms•3.5baths•chef’skitchen•outdoor diningpatio•cedarshower•gameroomwithpooltable• walkingdistancetoshops,restaurants,theharbor,andbeaches.
PICK-UP DROP-OFF LUGGAGE LUGGAGE SERVICE SERVICE
Arrivingtooearlytocheckintoyour rentalorhotel?
Travel stress-free on Martha’s Vineyard with Bag & Shag! We’ll pick up your luggage from your ferry or flight and deliver it straight to your vacation rental at time of check-in. Relax and start your vacation as soon as you arrive! www.bagandshag.com
Bespoke itineraries for discerning travelers who yearn to explore authentically—without sacrificing an ounce of luxury along the way. We create unique trips which align perfectly with your individual travel style and interests, brought to life with immersive experiences, hand-picked luxury properties, and a finely detailed itinerary that unfolds seamlessly. With vetted industry contacts in over 150 countries around the world, our expertise is your key to magical travel moments you can’t find anywhere else— and travel guidance you can truly trust.
genosbbqandcatering@gmail.com genosbbqandcatering@gmail.com
508.560.5071
