6 Indigenous-Owned Brands We Love (and shop!)

6 Indigenous-Owned Brands We Love (and shop!)

At Birch Babe, we're committed to supporting local brands that share our values of sustainability, quality, and community.

On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we’re honoured to spotlight six Indigenous-owned brands that inspire us with their craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural roots. We invite you to learn about their work, and to support, shop, and follow them as well!

1. Clothing: aaniin

We met and discovered aaniin at a pop up we shared with them at Totum Life Science fitness and wellness space in Toronto! aaniin retail inc. is "Canada"'s favourite Indigenous retailer housing dozens of Indigenous brands and businesses. They sell their own inclusive, gender-neutral clothing made from sustainably sourced materials as well as jewelry, accessories, and more from other Indigenous brands.

A word from aaniin...
"We go beyond our own designs. We are committed to supporting Indigenous creators by stocking and showcasing their products. Most importantly, 100% of profits from these products go directly into Indigenous hands. We proudly feature over 20 incredible Indigenous brands, creators, and artists creating thriving systems of reclaiming the Indigenous economy through the vehicle of fashion and commerce."

2. Drink: Heartberry Soda 

We discovered Heartberry Soda at a local alcohol free beverage shop in Vancouver and then again at the Turtle Island Music Festival. They offer incredible tasting low sugar and low cal soda's made utilizing local plants.

All flavours are amazing and we're currently loving the Ginger and Raspberry & Fireweed. 

In their words:

"We prioritize low-sugar and low-calorie options—mindful of the prevalence of diabetes in native communities. Whether you’re sober-curious or seek a low-sugar, low-calorie cocktail mixer, our sodas offer a nutrient-rich refreshment meant to be enjoyed on your own terms.

Every small batch reflects the culture and region from which its ingredients originate, with our product packaging featuring translations of key ingredients."

 

3. Beauty: Cheekbone Beauty
We've been following Cheekbone Beauty for a while as well as their founder Jenn Harper and we're obsessed! We admire the brand is not only dedicated to giving back to Indigenous communities but also offer cruelty-free, sustainable and refillable beauty options. The quality is incredible and the pigments and names of each product are rich and inspiring.

In the words of Cheekbone Beauty:

"Drawing from Indigenous teachings and Jenn's Indigenous roots, our products are sustainable, high-quality, clean, vegan, and cruelty-free. From the ingredients to the packaging, we make every effort to use only what's needed for the least amount of environmental impact and maximum wearability."

4. Hair Care: Jack 59
Let's all take a moment to appreciate Jack 59 and how incredible their Shampoo and Conditioner bars are (this is coming from us, and we used to make Shampoo Bars). These are by far the best shampoo and conditioner bars we've ever used and we can't get enough.

They're biodegradable, ethically and sustainably made and also salon grade and pH balanced. The plastic-free products are perfect for all hair types, including curly and textured hair, and are infused with high-performance ingredients that nurture both hair and scalp. 

In Jack59's words:

"Not only are all of our products perfectly pH balanced, they are also Canadian made with ethically sourced ingredients, and a zero waste production process.

Based in Edmonton, Alberta, we hire local women and provide all of our staff with flexible working hours, so they can provide for their families and prioritize the most important things in their lives."

5. Body Care: Sisters Sage

Sisters Sage is a Indigenous brand that hand-crafts wellness and self-care products inspired by their culture and traditions. From smudge sprays to bath bombs, their products are crafted with love and respect for ancestral knowledge.

We met Sisters Sage at the Turtle Island Music Festival and purchased the Smokeless Smudge Spray and a beautiful soap bar. 

The Smokeless Smudge Spray is an amazing alternative to traditional smudging and a beautiful way to wake up, and cleanse the space. We love it so much we've gone to their East Vancouver location to purchase more as gifts. 

In Sisters Sage's words:

"We strive to create meaningful products worthy of the stories they'll tell. And there's no greater satisfaction for us than knowing they've found a place in your home, helping you and your family feel better."

6. Art: Miigwan Feather Reine

Miigwan Feather Reine is a 26-year-old award winning First Nations Artist ( @feather_queen on instagram). In addition to being an Indigenous Artist she's also a Life Coach, Wellness Facilitator and also teaches women's self defence and boxing class lessons.

Miigwan’s ancestral name is Ogimaa Miigwan Ikwe, which translates into Boss Feather Woman. She fully embodies this name and so does her art. Read more in a recent article from Nimmo Bay here

 

Be sure to follow her art account @miigwan_reine.art where you'll see stunning pieces that celebrate Indigenous culture through vibrant, intricate artwork. The Award Winning Mother Earth painting from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada is available for purchase. 

We hope you enjoy learning more about, following (and shopping) these brands and artisits as much as we do.

 

With respect,

The Birch Babes