Pride Month is a time to honor the history, resilience, and ongoing contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s a celebration of identity, progress, and the freedom to live and do business authentically. For the Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD), it’s also an opportunity to recognize LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs who are shaping the local economy and enriching our communities with creativity, culture, and innovation.
Shop 53 Custom Tattoo and Art Studio and Bird City Records, located in La Plata, is co-owned by spouses Ramona Wise and Shannon Wang. Together, they’ve built an all-female-artist business that combines a tattoo studio and record store under one roof. It’s a space that celebrates art, music, and intentionally creates a place for people from all walks of life where they can feel safe, seen, and inspired.
“My wife and I have been fortunate to grow that vision here in Charles County, a place that has always been home,” says Shannon Wang.
Shop 53 and Bird City Records honor both place and purpose, becoming a conduit for creativity and connection. “We see people marking new chapters in their lives, whether it is overcoming cancer, leaving difficult relationships, or simply celebrating their authentic selves. To be able to share that journey with them, artistically and personally, will always be such an honor.”
That support goes both ways. Wang and Wise have made it a point to support others in the comunity, whether it’s sharing artists' work, sharing the services and information of clients who offer counseling services, or supporting local fundraisers that celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
“As a business in Charles County, the partnerships and relationships that you create with the county are so important for your business,” shares Wang. “We’ve experienced that firsthand. Our collaboration with the Charles County Economic Development Department has been especially beneficial, whether it’s through visits during community tours, inclusion in local promotions, or invitations to participate in county initiatives. There’s always an effort to make sure small businesses like ours are seen and supported.”
Shop 53 and Bird City Records are also participating businesses in Charles County’s community gift card program, With Love From Charles, which has helped attract new visitors and increased awareness of small businesses in Charles County.
As Pride Month continues, Shop 53 and Bird City Records are a local reminder that when businesses are rooted in authenticity and supported by their communities, they thrive. To stay connected and learn about upcoming events, artist features, and more, be sure to check out Shop 53 on Facebook or Instagram and Bird City Records on Instagram.
