🌈 Shop With Pride All Year Long: WOW loves Louisville’s Queer-Owned Business
At Woman-Owned Wallet, we believe Pride isn’t just a parade—it’s a powerful opportunity to put our money where our values are. Shopping queer-owned means investing in freedom, self-expression, creativity, and community. And luckily, Louisville is overflowing with queer-owned businesses that deserve our attention, our dollars, and our love.
Whether you're sipping espresso, hunting for vintage gems, dancing all night, or indulging in wine and cheese, these businesses are serving more than just great vibes—they’re creating safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone. Here's your guide to some of our favorite LGBTQ+ owned businesses in the city:
📚 Set & Setting
Location: 1512 Portland Ave.
Website: setandsettingshop.com
Kaleigh Basso (she/her), who identifies as bisexual and autistic, runs this cozy, curated bookstore in PORTAL + ARTPORTAL. It's a one-woman operation where you’ll find titles by LGBTQ+ authors like Carmen Maria Machado and Ocean Vuong.
Why we love it: Set & Setting is proof that small can be mighty. Supporting Kaleigh means supporting stories that matter and voices that often go unheard.
☕ Old Louisville Coffee Co-op
Location: 316 W Ormsby Ave.
Website: louisville.coffee
Worker-owned, queer-owned, and full of heart. This 24/7 café is a rare alcohol-free late-night hangout with amazing coffee and events like drag shows, open mics, and poetry readings.
Why we love it: Their energy is unmatched, their mission is fierce, and the coffee? Chef’s kiss. It's a hug in a mug from a business that walks the walk.
✨ Violet Moon Salon
Location: 1813 Bardstown Rd.
Website: violetmoonlou.com
Part spiritual center, part salon, Violet Moon offers everything from haircuts to Reiki to tarot readings.
Why we love it: It’s like walking into a spell you didn’t know you needed. You leave with good hair and good energy.
🛍️ Barret Babes
Location: 1000 Barret Ave.
Website: barretbabes.com
This communal shop hosts over 50 local artists, makers, and resellers. It’s your one-stop for vintage finds, handmade goods, and queer-friendly community vibes.
Why we love it: It’s a love letter to local makers. Every corner is packed with personality—and it’s one of the most affirming places to shop in the city.
🧀 Cultured – Cheese & Charcuterie Bar
Location: 1007 E Main St. (NuLu)
Website: culturedcheeseshop.com
A downtown gem serving curated charcuterie boards and a full bar with regional delights.
Why we love it: Every board feels like a love language. Grab your besties, split a bottle, and toast to queer joy (and goat cheese).
🤠 Velvet Outlaw
Location: 1860 Mellwood Ave., Studio 268
Website: velvetoutlaw.com
Miranda Deaton (they/them) creates upcycled, Western-inspired fashion that’s body-positive and size-inclusive.
Why we love it: They’re not just making clothes—they’re making statements. It’s fashion with a yee-haw and a whole lot of heart.
🎨 LouaBull
Location: 1015 E Main St. (Butchertown)
Website: louabull.com
A gift shop full of sassy tees, clever cards, and local love.
Why we love it: It’s impossible to walk out without smiling. A go-to spot for playful gifts that actually get your humor.
🛋️ Red Tree
Location: 701 E Market St. (NuLu)
Website: redtreenulu.com
A gorgeous queer-owned furniture and home décor store featuring artisan-crafted pieces and vibrant style.
Why we love it: It feels like stepping into the living room of your coolest, artsiest friend. Plus, the staff? Always kind and affirming.
💫 Dazee Studio
Location: 800 Envoy Circle
Website: instagram.com/dazee.studio
A beauty studio by esthetician Marcie (she/her), specializing in waxing, brows, lashes, and skincare.
Why we love it: Marcie is hilarious, talented, and genuinely cares about her clients. She makes beauty feel joyful, not intimidating.
💃 Play Dance Bar
Location: 1101 E Washington St.
Website: louisville.playdancebar.com
The iconic LGBTQ+ nightclub hosting high-energy drag shows and dance nights.
Why we love it: It's where you go to celebrate being exactly who you are. The queens bring the house down every time—and the dance floor is always a judgment-free zone.
🥩 Le Moo
Location: 2300 Lexington Rd.
Website: lemoorestaurant.com
A luxe steakhouse known for its fabulous drag brunches and over-the-top energy.
Why we love it: The glam, the glitter, the gravy. It’s fabulous food with a side of fabulousness.
🍽️ Happy Belly Bistro
Location: 1020 E Washington St.
Website: happybellybistro.com
Chef Ashlee Northington runs this Black- and queer-owned food truck serving bold fusion eats.
Why we love it: The food is fire, the vibes are fierce, and Chef Ashlee is a total powerhouse. Track this truck down—it’s worth the hunt.
🍸 Big Bar
Location: 1202 Bardstown Rd.
Website: facebook.com/BigBarLouisville
A queer-owned Highlands bar known for its theme nights and community spirit.
Why we love it: Big hearts, big drinks, big dance floor. Whether you’re here for a themed night or a casual hang, you’ll always feel like you belong.
💖 Final Thoughts
Pride is more than a month—it’s a movement. By supporting these incredible queer-owned businesses in Louisville, you're not only celebrating diversity but also investing in a community that thrives on love, creativity, and resilience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, make it a point to shop, dine, and engage with these establishments. Your support helps ensure that these spaces continue to flourish and inspire.
Want us to add someone you love? DM us—we're always ready to expand the rainbow. 🌈