The first Pride parades 53 years ago commemorated the Stonewall riots and pushed for LGBTQ rights. Today, you don’t need to wait for Pride Month to celebrate diversity. Many LGBTQ-owned businesses provide products and services to Delawareans from all walks of life.
Join in on the celebrations this month and all year round by visiting a few proud LGBTQ-owned businesses in Delaware.
Blue Blaze Associates
Newark
Marketing experts Sandy Taccone and Wendy Scott founded their company in 2001 and happily celebrated their marriage in 2014. Their team provides branding, website design and development, content strategy and marketing campaigns to businesses and nonprofits.
The Blue Hen
Rehoboth Beach
Chef Julia Robinson and wife Heather Sharp helped open The Blue Hen in downtown Rehoboth. When the owners decided to sell, they became the proprietors. The restaurant in the Avenue Inn building is buzzing at happy hour, and the fire pit is a popular gathering spot. Try the lobster toast, fried chicken and steak tartare.
Blue Moon
Rehoboth
After serving as a Sears Craftman house from 1907 to 1981, Blue Moon was transformed into a unique dining environment by owners Tim Ragan and Randy Haney. Within the fun, yet sophisticated ambiance, guests may enjoy performances, games and a refined list of dishes that are ready to be paired with cocktails.
The Comic Book Shop!
Wilmington
This LGBTQ-owned and -staffed store is new reader-, kid- and pet-friendly. Offering items such as graphic novels, vintage action figures, statues and gaming supplies, it’s a must-visit for those interested in exploring a variety of hobbies. Owner Nick Putiri, who recently stepped into Sarah Titus’s role, is devoted to providing a kind and welcoming environment for all ages.
Gidget’s Gadgets
Rehoboth Beach
Kids of all ages—including adults who are young at heart—will get a kick out of Steve Fallon’s colorful, retro emporium. You’ll find vinyl records, vintage barware, candies and toys.
Hamilton’s on Main
Smyrna (coming soon)
Anthony Brooks managed the front of the house while Jeremiah Brooks worked his magic in the Main Street restaurant’s kitchen. While the Newark location closed down this month, the restaurant is making a south-bound move to Smyrna.
Huxley & Hiro Booksellers
Wilmington
With the mission of making a positive impact, this LGBTQ- and woman-owned general interest bookstore serves its community in a variety of ways. Named as two of the “Most Influential Delawareans” of 2024 in The News Journal, co-owners Claire van den Broek and Ryan Eanes pride themselves on filling the literary void in downtown Wilmington. Each week, the store hosts book readings, comedy shows, open mic nights, art talks and more.
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Mercury Café & Teahouse
New Castle
Mixologist Dwayne Foster and husband Aaron Vederman, a tea enthusiast, opened this vegetarian café in December 2021. The cocktails, lattes, teas and sandwiches have made it a destination for out-of-towners. Locals come for coffee, tea and conversation. Everyone can enjoy the café and teahouse, to-go coffee window or happy hour.
Rehoboth Guest House
Rehoboth Beach
The downtown bed-and-breakfast has operated as an inn for more than 100 years. Frank Colonnello and Garrett Wood purchased it in 2013 and brought Tom Kelch on board as the innkeeper. The following year, the Victorian B&B won a commercial preservation and renovation award. In addition to the inn, there is a five-bedroom home and an oceanfront condo for rent.
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Stephan & Co. Salon & Spa
Rehoboth Beach
Stephan and Michael Maybroda created a restful retreat on Route 1 near Rehoboth. The salon offers hair, nail and skin services, including sugar hair removal and diabetic pedicures. Stephan trained at the Vidal Sassoon Academy.
Related: Your 2024 Guide to Pride Month Events in Delaware
