Staples InTents encourages people of color to safely explore the outdoors to heal and connect

Staples InTents is an outdoor and overlanding business founded by the Atlanta-based wife-and-husband team Sonya and Necota Staples. (Brody Leven)

Cooler temperatures and fall weather provide ideal conditions for spending time outdoors – long walks to see leaves in peak color, hiking, outdoor meals with s’mores by the fire, and for the adventurous, camping. Recent statistics show the number of Black campers is growing, and outdoor industries are taking note. One brand, in particular, is looking to cater more toward a diverse customer base. Staples InTents is an outdoor and overlanding business founded by the Atlanta-based wife-and-husband team of Sonya and Necota Staples. The Staples joined “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes via Zoom to talk about how their company teaches people how to plan for their next outdoor adventure. 

Interview highlights:

How navigating a rough patch together revealed an opportunity: