Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Highlighting Black Owned Business in Downtown Hammond

Downtown Hammond’s richness comes from the community we build together. As Black History Month comes to a close, we want to celebrate and highlight the Black-owned businesses that help make our district thrive. Their contributions bring culture and innovation to our downtown—without them, downtown wouldn’t shine as brightly.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Headquarterz: Full-Time Hobby to Full-Time Career

Jorge Maryland turned his passion for cutting hair, which began in sixth grade, into a full-time career when he opened Headquarterz in December 2024. With a dedication to precision and inclusivity, Jorge and his team provide expert cuts, trims, and fades to everyone in the Hammond community, regardless of race or gender.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Wright & Calvey Funeral Home: The Journey of Dreams, Life & Death

Wright & Calvey Funeral Home is a family-driven business, built on a foundation of compassion, teamwork, and dedication to the community. Founded by the Wright brothers and Mr. Darrell Calvey, the funeral home has been a trusted institution since 2011, offering dignified services to families while honoring their shared commitment to care and support during life’s most difficult moments.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Erica Williams: Remember to Breathe

Erica Williams is a dedicated attorney, advocate, and mentor whose commitment to justice and community has made her a well-known figure in Hammond. With over 17 years of experience and a passion for her clients, Erica continues to expand her practice while staying deeply rooted in the values of integrity, service, and justice.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

The Polished Barber: Men Deserve More

The Polished Barber, owned by Teal Myers, is a space where men receive more than just a haircut; it’s an experience that enhances confidence and self-care. Inspired by his childhood, Teal has created a welcoming environment focused on offering every client a personalized and polished look.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Johnson’s Kitchen: Faith Based Soul Food

Johnson’s Kitchen, founded by Terrick and Venetria Johnson in 2020, started as a small, home-based operation and quickly grew into a beloved staple in the community. Now located in downtown Hammond, this family-run restaurant serves Southern home-style meals rooted in faith, family, and a commitment to bringing people together over delicious, soul-filled food.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Salon Vogue Beauty & Barber Shop: Uplifting a Heavy Spirit

Salon Vogue Beauty & Barber Shop is a haven for style, confidence, and connection in downtown Hammond. Since 2004, owner Keisha Brumfield has been dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best, not just through expert styling but by uplifting spirits and restoring confidence with every visit.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Truth Hookah Lounge & Moroccan Restaurant: Everyone Has a Seat at the Table

Truth Hookah Lounge & Moroccan Restaurant is more than just a dining experience—it's a heartfelt tribute to culture, family, and connection. Owners Shane and Mariam Elsaadawy have created an inviting space where guests can savor authentic Moroccan flavors, enjoy the communal tradition of hookah, and feel at home in a setting that honors heritage and hospitality.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

BATTER: Breakthrough Business of the Year

Abi Caswell, the visionary owner of BATTER, has crafted a true sweets empire with her charming bakery. Steeped in pink and brimming with delightful confections, BATTER is more than just a bakery; it’s an apothecary of sugar, joy, and baked perfection.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

What’s Your New Year’s Resolution?

Finding a New Year’s resolution that sticks can be a challenge. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of resolutions inspired by downtown Hammond. These are simple, achievable goals that can bring a positive change to your life and help you connect more deeply with your community.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

A Christmas Date Night in Hammond

Instead of scrambling at the last minute for a gift, my fiancé and I decided to do something different: a Christmas date night. A lovely dinner, desserts, coffee, twinkling Christmas lights—and, most importantly, just being together.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Small City, Big Dreams at Painting with a Twist

For over a decade, Painting with a Twist has been a beloved staple in Downtown Hammond, thanks to the dedicated leadership of Marilyn Kennedy.

Marilyn is proof that small cities like Hammond can hold big dreams.

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Dara Calmes Dara Calmes

Holiday Shopping Made Easy: A Downtown Gift Guide for Everyone on Your List

Looking for the perfect holiday gifts? Our downtown is full of unique shops and perfect gifts, making it the ideal place to find something special for everyone on your list. Check out our curated shopping guide with top picks for mom, dad, tweens/teens, and kids—perfect for spreading festive cheer this Christmas season!

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Ashley Tarleton Ashley Tarleton

Our unveiling of our ‘Historically Hip’ new brand for Downtown Hammond, Louisiana

The Hammond Downtown Development District (DDD) completed an extensive rebranding effort, including a new logo and website. The rebrand signifies a strategic organizational shift to support destination marketing and economic development initiatives for Hammond, with the goal to further distinguish downtown has a thriving and innovative community rooted in sustainable growth.

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