The news hit us at Converge Media like a gut punch: Mattice Hoyt, the resilient and utterly inspiring “unofficial mayor of Tacoma,” has left us. At just 39 years old, Mattice’s passing leaves a hole in the heart of Tacoma and in the hearts of all of us who had the privilege of knowing her. We are heartbroken, but we also find ourselves reflecting on the profound impact she had, not just on her community, but on each of us at Converge Media, Besa Gordon, and the entire Back2Besa family. (Read more here)
Mattice wasn’t just a business owner; she was a force of nature. Her journey was one of incredible challenges and even more incredible triumphs. A two-time cancer survivor and double amputee, she navigated life with a motorized wheelchair and an indomitable spirit. It was this energy, coupled with a deep personal experience of struggling to find compassionate service for her unique beauty supply needs, that fueled her decision to open Mattice Beauty Supply in 2020. This wasn’t just a store; it was a sanctuary, a haven, and a testament to her belief that everyone deserves to feel beautiful and seen.
Our relationship with Mattice began through our Support Black Business campaign, an initiative close to our hearts at Converge Media. We aimed to shine a light on Black-owned enterprises, and Mattice Beauty Supply quickly became the epitome of the type of establishment we look for. We remember the first time the Back2Besa team, led by Besa Gordon, connected with Mattice while shooting our Buy Black Card commercial last year. From that moment, her infectious energy, candid honesty, and unwavering drive captivated us…