More Gay-Friendly Businesses In Tucson

Velvet & Shadow Photography

Velvet & Shadow Photography in rainbow colors
Velvet & Shadow Photography in color
Welcome to Velvet & Shadow Photography, a rainbow color explosion for the eyes. But, not in an ‘it hurts my head to look at’ kind of way. The lighting is dreamy and the sets are custom to elicit ethereal emotions, perhaps a dream half-forgot…
Velvet & Shadow photography
Look like a dream with Velvet & Shadow Photography
If you’re a regular to 4th Avenue you may have wandered into &Gallery or deliberately gone to their art openings. And if that’s the case there’s a good chance you’ve glimpsed the work of this incredible photographer who makes every shoot memorable. Velvet & Shadow Photography is a Tucson, AZ-based experimental boudoir photography business founded by Isabella Laos that offers personalized photoshoot sessions inside visually stunning hand-crafted sets with rainbow explosions of colorful lights. You can take part in a staging shoot where different models get to use the same set or a completely custom set you and Isabella decide on. For instance, if you want to be a fairy princess she creates the illusions to make it so.

Background

Model Bri posing for Velvet & Shadow Photography
Model Bri poses for Velvet & Shadow Photography
Having worked as a venue and event photographer for many years, Isabella is deeply inspired by the theatrical lights and special effects of the dimly lit stage. Isabella provides positive affirming direction and encouragement throughout each session which cultivates a truly therapeutic journey of self-discovery & empowerment. Boudoir photography makes a lot of people nervous but you don’t have to worry about that with Isabella. She makes every subject feel like the only person in the world. As a result, she guarantees genuine and touching photographs.
We like Velvet & Shadow Photography because she actually listens. Whether you’re having a conversation about your favorite restaurant or coming up with the perfect pirate shoot she’s paying attention and making sure that you feel heard. But don’t take our word for it. Here’s a review from local artist Sophie McTear.
Sophie poses for Velvet & Shadow Photography
Sophie posing for Velvet & Shadow Photography

Client Review: Google Sophie McTear

 “I love working with Bella. I feel comfortable and at ease when I’m in front of the camera with her, even when I’m in lingerie! She makes me feel confident, and her photos have such a gorgeous, dreamy quality that she’s honed in on and made completely her own. I love her work and encourage anyone in Tucson to book a shoot with Velvet & Shadow!”

The Details

Company name: Velvet & Shadow
(velvet.and.shadow – Insta)
Contact Name: Isabella
Phone: 5203073775
Pricing: $150+
Website: Velvetandshadow.com

Roma Imports

Roma Imports
Roma Imports

Roma Imports

Lets talk about lunch.

Go to Roma Imports and have some of the best Italian food in Tucson.

Roma Imports is an Italian food import store with a little restaurant in the back. Nothing fancy, but absolutely Italy-icious!

I like to eat lunch there and then take home some of the home made hot Italian sausage. They have one that is really hot.

They always have incredible antipasta’s, cheeses, desserts, pastas and just about anything Italian your heart may desire.

I don’t know the owner but I do like the people who work there. The reason I’m telling you about them is because I’m Italian and everyone should know good Italian food, gay or not.

Tell them Tony Ray sent you and have a great lunch.

Roma Imports
Roma Imports

Roma Imports

627 S. Vine
Tucson, AZ 85719
520-792-3173
www.RomaImports.com
Roma Imports

Kristi Frank – American Family Insurance

Kristi Frank American Family Insurance Office Tucson AZ
Kristi Frank American Family Insurance Office Tucson AZ

Kristi Frank – American Family Insurance

Kristi Frank Agency, INC.

4319 E Broadway Blvd
Tucson, AZ 85711
Office: 520-323-0017
Fax: 855-383-8085
Website
E-Mail: kfrank@amfam.com
24-Hour Claims Reporting: 800-374-1111

I’ve known Kristi Frank for years and she always has been someone in the community I respect and trust. And my clients, they can’t say enough about her. From the minute they walk in and meet her and her associates, they know the experience is going to be different. Everyone is friendly and professional at Kristi Frank’s office.

My clients have told me that they appreciate how Kristi cares enough to really examine their entire financial situation before offering her services. Best of all, she usually gets them more insurance and still saves them money. She has done the same for me.

Whether it’s home owners insurance, renters insurance, flood insurance, auto insurance, an umbrella policy or a combination, you should at least give her a call and see what she can do for you.

Kristi Frank American Family Insurance
Kristi Frank American Family Insurance

I know that when you meet Kristi, you’ll feel at ease about discussing and disclosing personal information with her. You will also get an overwhelming sense that she genuinely cares about you and your needs. You’ll know immediately that she is someone on your side and someone you can trust.

You’ll be sending me an email with a big thank you.
A small gift would be nice too, just saying LOL

The legal stuff:
©2005 American Family Mutual Insurance Co. and its Subsidiaries
Home Office – Madison, WI 53783

Antigone Books

Exterior of Antigone BooksAntigone Books was founded in 1973 as a predominantly lesbian-owned feminist bookstore. This was at a time when there were more than fifty independent bookstores in Tucson. In the decades since the number of indie bookstores in the city has dwindled. Still Antigone Books has remained a pillar of the local book-loving community, expanding our mission to be a community bookstore with feminist roots. Although ownership has changed hands a couple of times since we originally opened in the 70s, we’ve remained women-run from the start. The current owners and long-time Antigone Books employees Kate, Melissa, and Morgan took over in 2018. They have expanded the store’s selection of books, gifts, and cards while remaining true to the store’s original focus on the recently-published boundary-pushing literature.

The Store

We keep a circulating stock of Pride supplies on hand throughout the year. From flags representing all identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum to dog- and cat-themed rainbow stickers. We also maintain a thriving queer literature section (see photos!), where we keep classic gay, trans, lesbian, and ace titles in stock. Readers can find everything on our shelves from LGBTQIA+ children’s books and YA fiction to queer graphic novels and LGBTQIA+ non-fiction. We also get regular issues of Sinister Wisdom and RFD as well as the latest lesbian romances from Bella and Bold Stroke Books. Whatever we don’t have in stock we’re happy to order for our customers at no extra charge! You can place orders in our store, over the phone, or online and we can get most titles in within a week.

Though our events program is on hold indefinitely due to COVID-19, pre-pandemic we were home to seven local book clubs and we featured regular book signings, author readings, and we had just begun to host Drag Queen Story Hours. We look forward to supporting our community with these and more exciting options in the near future; keep an eye on our website for updates! We also run a local authors consignment program for Tucson writers whose books are self-published or not available through major book distributors. We’re always looking for new voices, so definitely reach out if you’re interested after checking out the “Consignment” page on our website. In addition, we proudly carry local free periodicals of the Tucson queer community such as the 55+ LGBT newsletter Senior Forum and the Tucson Pride guide. Whether you’re new to town or a regular search for that perfect book, we’re excited to welcome you!

REVIEW:

“LOVE Antigone Books! This is generally my first stop if I’m looking for gifts or a physical book. Love their selection of adult coloring books, blank journals, cookbooks, and local authors. Their feminist and LGBTQ+ selection is also pretty impressive. And, they host a few book discussion groups. The staff is always friendly, and I like the sense of community.”

-Ginger, ***** Google Review

STORE INFO:

Company Name: Antigone Books

Office Address: 411 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705

Phone (s): (520) 792-3715

Website: www.antigonebooks.com

Office hours: Tues-Sat 10-5; Sun 11-4; closed Mondays

The Tucson Museum of Art

the Tucson Museum of Art
Kasser Family Wing of Latin American Art exterior
The Tucson Museum of Art has been a leader in the fine arts and education in Southern Arizona for nearly a century. It was established in 1924 and is in Tucson’s historic downtown and moved to its current location in 1975. TMA features permanent and traveling exhibitions of Modern and Contemporary, Indigen
Patrick Martinez work at the Tucson Museum of Art
Patrick Martinez’ neon signs on view in the Kasser Family Wing of Latin American Art
ous, American West, Latin American, European, and Asian art. The museum resides on a four-acre campus, and its exhibits and arts education programs are central to its mission. In addition, the museum hosts events serves as a steward of five historic properties and has a 6,800-square-foot art education center and research library. It has a permanent collection of over 12,000 works spanning continents, centuries, and media.
TMA
View of the gallery for Latin American Folk Art
The museum will take you on a journey through art, history, and culture and with artwork ranging from ancient to contemporary, there is something for everyone! Thousands of lives have been enriched by the museum’s programs and exhibitions including: an award-winning outreach program serving Tucson’s refugee community, robust k-12 programs, one of the state’s longest-running biennial exhibitions, public programs, and lifelong learning programs like TMALearn! Docents. The museum provides numerous opportunities to connect and engage with the arts and local community, such as free First Thursday and Second SundAZe, lecture series, annual spring and fall artisans market, youth studio programs, K-12 field trips, and more!
The Tucson Museum of Art Summer Camp Class
Teacher leading a group of students during summer camp

Reviews 

“This place is a quiet gem. It was so much more than what we expected. Masterful artworks on careful display. I’m no art expert but I found this museum to be an excellent way to spend a relaxing few hours. Although as an introvert I found myself exhausted after exploring the many displays. Go if you haven’t been!  We also enjoyed salad for lunch at the attached café.” Paul H on Yelp 9/27/2021 “The Tucson Museum of Art was a great stop. We took three generations of our family to visit it. The layout of the museum is expansive. We covered a lot of ground (not all of the buildings were open, so we didn’t get to see everything) over a two-hour period. The exhibits on display were definitely thought-provoking and got us talking about topics that may not have come up otherwise. I’m glad we made the trip there for the discussions it invoked. Wear comfortable shoes and plan enough time to really soak everything in!” Karl A on Yelp—1/11/2019
Tucson Museum of Art
North Entrance to TMA
Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block Office Address: 140 North Main Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701 Contact Name (s): Marianna Pegno Phone (s): 520-624-2333 As of July 1, 2023 the following will go into effect for hours and pricing related to admissions: HOURS Wednesday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm First Thursday of every month 10 am – 8 pm ADMISSION General $15 Senior/ Educator $12 College Students $10 17 and under/ Veterans and Military/ Members – Free TOURS PreK – 12 Student $7 Art-making $5 ($12 total) NOTE: Discounts for College and Senior tours will no longer be offered.

Mobility Plus

Mobility Plus

Mobility Plus Tucson Showroom

Mobility Plus

(520) 225-0415

Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00, Saturday 9:00-3:00

Locations:

Mobility Plus
245 S Tucson Blvd Ste 2
Tucson AZ 85719

Mobility Plus
10861 N Mavinee Dr Ste 155
Oro Valley AZ 85737

Mobility Plus
9140 N Silverbell Rd Ste 120
Marana AZ 84743

Mobility Plus is a locally owned small business and it is operated by Gary & Dan Ross. They are proud to be part of Tucson’s LGBTQ community and Gary is a veteran with over 25 years of service. Mobility Plus is a franchise that offers sales, repairs, installations, and rentals of scooters, ramps, lifts, and more. Gary & Dan opened their first location in Central Tucson, and they plan to open a location in Oro Valley and in East Tucson.

Gary was a Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy and Dan was a Flight Attendant at US Airways when they met in 2000. They were living in Tucson when they made headlines in 2011 by becoming the first same-sex military couple to legally marry following the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Gary & Dan also successfully challenged the constitutionality of the so-called “Defense of Marriage Act” when it comes to military spousal benefits.

Gary received new military orders, so they moved away from Tucson. However, Gary and Dan left their hearts in Tucson, and they dreamed about returning. Their dream became a reality when they purchased a Tucson home in 2019 and moved permanently in 2020. They have enjoyed reuniting with old friends and making new friends. Gary and Dan adore the Old Pueblo because of the sunshine, warmth, history, and culture—not to mention Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy!

Gary and Dan researched several business opportunities before they decided to open Mobility Plus. “We improve people’s lives by consulting with them to find the right solutions for their mobility needs,” says Gary Ross. “We help people maintain their independence and age in place in the homes they love,” says Dan Ross. Mobility Plus is committed to exceeding its client’s expectations by offering internet pricing along with personalized service, delivery, and installation.

Mobility Plus Storefront
Mobility Plus Storefront

The Window Covering Company

Modern Tucson living room with custom Hunter Douglas blinds and draperies, filtering natural sunlight for a warm and inviting ambiance.
Enhance your home’s style and comfort with custom Hunter Douglas blinds and draperies from The Window Covering Company.

The Window Covering Company

📞 Del DiLorenzo
📲 (520) 907-6742

If you’re looking for the perfect window treatments in Tucson, you need someone who truly cares about your home, your style, and your budget. That’s why I always recommend Del DiLorenzo and The Window Covering Company. I’ve known Del for years, and he consistently exceeds my clients’ expectations. Whether you’re updating one room or dressing every window in a new home, Del provides an unparalleled level of service that you simply won’t find at the big box stores.

What makes Del different? It’s more than the high-quality Hunter Douglas products or the custom designs tailored to your space—it’s the start-to-finish personal service. From consultation to installation (and even repairs down the line), Del is there for you every step of the way. And the best part? His pricing is often lower than the superstore chains!

Let’s dive into what makes The Window Covering Company your go-to source for window treatments in Tucson.


A Personalized Touch – More Than Just Window Coverings

The Window Covering Company - Logo
The Window Covering Company – Logo

When you choose The Window Covering Company you’re making an investment in your home’s comfort, beauty, and functionality. Unlike chain stores where you’re left to measure, choose, and install your window coverings yourself, Del handles it all.

Here’s how the process works:

  • In-Home Consultation: Del takes the time to understand your vision, décor, and specific needs. Whether you’re looking for energy efficiency, privacy, or just a fresh new look, he’ll help you choose the perfect solution.
  • Expert Measuring & Custom Fit: No more worrying about whether you measured your windows correctly! Del personally measures each window to ensure a flawless fit.
  • Professional Installation: Once your custom treatments arrive, Del and his team handle the installation, making sure everything is perfect before they leave.
  • Ongoing Support: If a blind breaks or needs adjustment, Del is there to fix it—no extra charge. He personally guarantees his work, something you won’t get from a chain store.

With over 30 years of experience, The Window Covering Company has built a reputation for top-tier customer service and expert craftsmanship. No pushy sales tactics, no middlemen—just Del, taking care of you from start to finish.

Quality You Can See – Custom Hunter Douglas Window Treatments & More

The Window Covering Company - Blinds
The Window Covering Company – Blinds

One of the biggest reasons customers trust The Window Covering Company is the huge selection of high-quality window treatments. As a local Hunter Douglas dealer, Del offers some of the best window treatments available, known for their durability, elegance, and innovative designs.

Popular Options Include:

Sheers & Shadings – Soft, light-filtering options that create a warm, inviting ambiance.
Honeycomb Shades – Energy-efficient and stylish, these shades help keep Tucson’s heat out while maintaining privacy.
Shutters & Blinds – From classic hardwood shutters to modern vertical and horizontal blinds, you’ll find options to fit any décor.
Roman Shades & Roller Shades – Sleek, timeless window coverings that add a sophisticated touch to any space.
Woven Wood Shades – Perfect for adding a natural, organic feel to your home.
Custom Draperies & Cornice Boards – If you want a truly one-of-a-kind look, Del can design and install custom draperies and coordinating cornice boards for an elegant finishing touch.

With so many options, there’s something for every budget and style—and Del’s expert guidance ensures you’ll find exactly what you need.

Why Choose The Window Covering Company Over Big Box Stores?

The Window Covering Company - Shades
The Window Covering Company – Shades

Many people assume that going to a national chain will save them money, but that’s not always the case. The Window Covering Company offers competitive pricing without sacrificing service or quality. Here’s why Del’s approach beats the big box stores every time:

1. Personalized Service from Start to Finish

At the big stores, you’re on your own. You have to select, measure, and install the treatments yourself—or pay extra for limited installation services. With Del, everything is done for you, ensuring a hassle-free experience and a perfect result.

2. Better Quality for the Same Price (or Less!)

Chain stores may offer low-cost window treatments, but they often cut corners on materials. The Window Covering Company provides high-quality, name-brand products at prices that are often lower than Home Depot or Lowe’s. Plus, you’re investing in durability and style that lasts.

3. Ongoing Support & Repairs

What happens if your blinds break or stop functioning properly? At a big box store, you’ll likely have to buy a replacement. With Del, he personally guarantees his work, meaning he’ll come back and repair or replace your blinds if needed—a level of service that’s almost unheard of today.

4. Supporting a Local Tucson Business

When you work with Del, you’re not just getting great service—you’re also supporting a local business that truly cares about the Tucson community. Local businesses provide better customer service, contribute to the economy, and are invested in maintaining a great reputation.

Transform Your Space with The Window Covering Company

Whether you’re looking to update one room or your entire home, The Window Covering Company is Tucson’s best choice for stylish, high-quality window treatments. With a full selection of Hunter Douglas products, custom draperies, and expert installation, Del and his team ensure you’ll love the finished result.

Ready to get started? Give Del a call today!

📞 Del DiLorenzo
📲 (520) 907-6742

💡 Mention that you found him through GayTucson for personalized service!

Northside Barbershop

Northside Barbershop is Full-Service
Northside Barbershop is Full-Service

Northside Barbershop 
3900 W Costco Dr #184, Tucson, AZ 857415205054624
9-530 (Mon – Fri) 

After working towards getting a master’s license in Barbering I decided to move to Tucson Arizona from Boston Massachusetts a year ago. I take great pride in my work and also, I strive to make anyone feel comfortable especially those of us who are LGBT and do not always seek traditional barbershops for reasons we all can relate to. So; for that, I am here. I am skilled in any haircut that comes my way.

I am excited to meet new people and build a client base for both Men, Women, and Anyone who is looking for a haircut or beard trim. 

Feast

0

Feast Restaurant
3719 E. Speedway
Tucson, AZ  85712
(520) 326-9363
Feast Website

 
Feast Restaurant Diners

 

Locally owned and very gay friendly, this hip little restaurant packs a lot of punch.  I recommend you schedule yourself to dine in at least once a month.  You’ll love the food, atmosphere and the staff.

One of the great things about Feast is that it seems like there is always something different.  That’s because the chef /owner changes the menu each month.   And not to worry, there are a few items that stay the same for those creatures of habit.

Not in the mood to dine in?   How about a nice candle light dinner for you and that special someone at home? Tasteful takeout is Feast’s motto.

They also cater!  I have been at an event catered by Feast.  Definitely a crowd pleaser.  If you have special dietary needs, certain social expectations, a specific culinary palette in mind, talk to Cassandra and she will help you create the perfect menu at the right price.

Here’s some more punch.  Feast restaurant has won best caterer from Best of Tucson, four times.  The food at Feast has also earned accolades from the New York Times and Zagat Guide.

Okay, so go have a great lunch or dinner at Feast.  Let them know you found them on GayTucson.com.

Have fun, Tony Ray