10 Indigenous-Owned Businesses You Should Know
Should the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation span two days? That’s what a friend suggested on Facebook: one to remember, reflect, and commit to action on the day known as Orange Shirt Day, and a second to celebrate Indigenous people. I love this idea and wanted to get in on it, so I asked on my Instagram and Facebook pages for suggestions of Indigenous-owned businesses I should feature. In obvious news, there are just SO MANY businesses worthy of being on this list. So, if your business (or your favourite) isn’t highlighted in the ten, the comments often act as a resource as people read so please feel free to post there.
Awasis Boutique Not only did Christine Marie found the first Western Canadian clothing line to feature the Michif & Cree languages, she also has donated a staggering amount to IRSSS from the sale of her orange shirts: over $20K!! And just the other day, she made a donation of $5500 to the Legacy of Hope Foundation. I love her Teacher shirts! VISIT INSTAGRAM
RYDEYXE The positive energy of Shaina Lyndon radiates into everything she does and certainly the spin studio she co-owns is no exception. Shaina is also a member of the Saskatoon Police Service and I’d like to commend her on her work with the SPS Indigenous Women’s Advisory Council. Important work! VISIT INSTAGRAM
Catherine Blackburn I was fortunate to get to know Artist and jeweller, Catherine during a video shoot. Not only is her beadwork exquisite, the collaborations she does with designers are unreal. Her work has been featured everywhere including Vogue. VISIT INSTAGRAM
The Charcuterie Chix YXE Leicia and Kim are the Metis women (and busy mamas) who make these gorgeous charcuterie boxes. This month, 10% of all sales are going to the Saskatoon Indian and Metis Friendship Centre. VISIT INSTAGRAM
Kennedy Eye Clinic Dr. Courtney Kennedy is passionate about eye care but just as much, customer service. It’s certainly the reason she was able to open a second location, The Eye Studio. VISIT INSTAGRAM
Wings of YXE Loch Willy lets people soar with beautiful installations of big, painted wood wings, each crafted with love. He also makes smaller wings, available for purchase. If you don’t follow, DO. VISIT INSTAGRAM
Bannock Express Rachel Eyahpaise not only brings her culture to the table, she also gives back with a Giving Wall: take a meal, give a meal. People are OBSESSED with this restaurant, which is currently raising funds for a new space. See their Facebook page for details.
Beam Paints Anong learned from her Artist parents to harvest hematite pigment in the in the LaCloche mountain range near their home of M’Chigeeng First Nations. Now, she handcrafts Beam Paints, drawing from her early education and other traditions. They are stunning and have found fans far and wide. VISIT INSTAGRAM
Truth Inside Coaching Spiritual Coach, energy worker, recovery advocate, and co-founder of the SK Indigenous Yoga Association Dawn Deguire is, at her essence, a healer. She’s a friend of mine and I confidently recommend bringing her into your life. VISIT INSTAGRAM
Hazlewood Vintage Michaela Michael owns this stunning vintage and sustainable clothing and goods store in Saskatoon’s Riversdale District. It’s beautiful, bright, and feels good to be in the space. You can also shop online with a similar feeling! VISIT INSTAGRAM
If you’re not already a member of the Saskatchewan Indigenous Market Facebook page, click here to join. I look forward to learning about and supporting other Indigenous-owned businesses so please don’t be shy about sharing in the comments. Thank-you :)
