This Small Business Saturday, Check Out These Alumni-Owned Businesses
This Small Business Saturday, Check Out These Alumni-Owned Businesses
From local restaurants to apparel, this list has something for everyone.
Small Business Saturday, held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is an annual event that supports emerging retailers. It’s a perfect opportunity to support our entrepreneurial Terrier community! From clothing brands like Friendship Park to popular BU restaurants like Sunset Cantina, BU-owned small businesses are thriving. Whether you’re searching for special gifts or enjoying a meal, here are some small businesses to explore.
Craggy Games
Kyle Czarnecki (CGS’11, Questrom’13)
If you’ve ever been out to eat at a dive bar or brewery, there’s a chance you’ve seen patrons playing with “HOOKS!”, a handcrafted bar game Kyle Czarnecki began selling on Etsy a couple of years ago. After a TikTok video of the game went viral, demand exploded almost overnight. Kyle seized the moment and decided to start his own business. What began as a garage project in Virginia Beach quickly became a favorite for any game nights, tailgates, and parties. Read more about Craggy Games here.
Friendship Park
Sofía Vainesman (COM’18)
Launched by Sofía Vainesman in October 2025, Friendship Park is an athleisure brand inspired by the simple moments that bring people together. Their pieces are cozy, simple, and made for any occasion. Whether you’re heading to a casual Sunday dinner with friends, a pick-up game at your local park, or out to coffee, Friendship Park has a look for you. Shop Friendship Park here.
Sunset Cantina
Catarina Chang (SHA’11)
A BU classic, Sunset Cantina has long been a campus favorite for Tex-Mex comfort food, drinks, and a lively, laid-back atmosphere. Under alum Catarina Chang’s co-ownership, the beloved spot continues to serve up its signature burritos, tacos, and bold flavors right on campus, making it a go-to for students, alumni, and locals. Don’t forget to order their iconic nachos the next time you drop by. Yum!
Curie
Sarah Moret (Questrom‘11)
Founded in 2018 by Sarah Moret, Curie makes natural deodorants that actually work, with ingredients you can feel good about. After appearing on Shark Tank in 2022, Curie grew fast and is now in over 4,000 Walmart stores nationwide. Designed for busy people on the go, shop Curie here.
Shop Purple Umbrella
Leigh Held (COM’04)
Leigh Held has built a rock‑n‑roll-inspired wellness brand that helps women create calm, creative spaces for themselves. From cozy loungewear to yoga essentials and mood‑boosting candles, Shop Purple Umbrella empowers women to prioritize self‑care while embracing their inner rockstar. Check out Shop Purple Umbrella here.
FarmSteady
Erica Shea (CGS‘04, COM‘06) & Stephen Shea (CAS‘07, COM‘07)
FarmSteady creates DIY kitchen kits that let you make delicious foods right at home. The company makes a variety of kits, from pickles and kombucha to bagels and hot sauce. Founded by Erica and Stephen Shea, FarmSteady is all about hands-on cooking and turning simple ingredients into something incredible for yourself. Their kits make it easy and fun to bring high-quality flavors into your own kitchen, all from scratch. Find out more about FarmSteady here.
This Small Business Saturday, support Terrier-owned businesses and celebrate the creativity, passion, and community spirit that BU alumni bring to the table! Want to discover even more BU alumni‑owned businesses? Check out the full directory on BU Connects!
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