The holiday season is in full swing, and many of us will still be on the hunt for some gifts for friends and family. This December, consider buying from Indigenous-owned vendors for unique offerings from across Turtle Island and beyond. 

This list includes picks straight from the Animikii team, plus companies that we love for their social impact focus and innovation in the Indigenous economy.

Enjoy our picks and support local Indigenous economies! 

1. Boreal Heartland

The native flora of the boreal forest can be used to make a great cup of tea with some serious natural health benefits. But not all of us have a connection from up North who can get us the “good stuff”. Thankfully, Boreal Heartland ships their 4 signature teas and a limited edition holiday gift box Canada-wide. 

This northern Saskatchewan-based company creates sustainable income for harvesters working on their family traplines and traditional territories.

Try their Relaxation Blend of labrador tea, nettle, and goldenrod, perfect for bedtime or de-stressing during a busy day.

2. Sequoia Soaps

Sequoia is a “proudly Indigenous”  soap company 100% owned and operated by Indigenous women in Kahnawake, Quebec.

With a wide range of bath, moisturize, candle, and oil products, you can find a stocking stuffer for anyone on your list. 

We like the Sweetgrass and Skywoman travel candles, which are made from a soywax/beeswax blend. 

3. Mother Earth Essentials

Founder Carrie Armstrong (Cree) created Mother Earth Essentials based on the teachings of elder Francis Whiskeyjack (Cree, Saddle Lake First Nation) rooted in the sacred plants of the medicine wheel. 

Their soaps and soy candles are popular, and the Peppermint Sage Body Lotion is just the right mix of the cleansing effect of sage and soothing properties of mint.

4. Sisters Sage

Indigenous wellness brand Sisters Sage was founded by East Vancouver-based sisters Lynn-Marie & Melissa-Rae Angus (Gitxaala, Nisga’a, and Métis). Using traditional Indigenous ingredients, their soap, smudge, salves, and bath bombs are perfect for anyone who loves self-care.

Partnerships Manager Samantha loves the sage bath bombs and smokeless smudge  (a portable, convienient solution for someone who is unable to smudge in the office or at home).

5. Manitobah Mukluks

Manitobah Mukluks keep your feet happier than they have ever been. Digital Communications Strategist Coleman says “if I’m awake and I’m not outside, those moccasins are on my feet.” 

This Winnipeg-based company creates mukluks and moccasins that are functional and beautiful, with beadwork and designs from a long list of Indigenous collaborators. 

6. Raven Reads

Raven Reads takes the hassle out of gift-giving by bundling products from Indigenous authors and entrepreneurs and delivering them right to your door. Their boxes can be made for adults or kids, and either as a gift or a subscription service. 

By giving the gift of Raven Reads, you are investing in Indigenous businesses and authors and offering an opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures from Turtle Island and around the world. 

7. Cheekbone Beauty

Cheekbone Beauty is making a splash in the cosmetics world by creating quality, cruelty-free beauty products designed for low environmental impact and maximum wearability. 

UX/UI Designer Nicole professes that she is “obsessed with lipstick” and says the SUSTAIN liquid lipstick in Ashley is her go-to. 

8. Trickster Company

Trickster Company is a design shop focused on Northwest Coast art founded by siblings Rico and Crystal Worl (Tlingit Athabascan) in Juneau, Alaska. 

They sell something for everyone, from skateboard decks to apparel and art prints.

We love their home goods, especially their festive Christmas ornaments. 

9. Spirit Bear Coffee Company

Coffee lovers rejoice! Spirit Bear Coffee Company has the beans for every taste, like their “Raven” espresso and “Frog-Breakfast Blend”. Their products are certified organic and fair trade, plus they support several nonprofit organizations in conservation, community safety, and sports. 

Their Sampler Pack is a great choice to help friends and family to find their favourite blend.

10. Colouring It Forward

Social enterprise Colouring It Forward was created to advance education on Indigenous issues, art, language, and culture through a grassroots approach. They stock notebooks, puzzles, prints, mugs, and more with designs from Indigenous artists.  

Their sketch and colouring books make great gifts for the artist on your Christmas list, and their beautifully-designed mugs are a sure pick for coffee and tea-lovers.

Need more inspiration for the perfect gift? 

Check out our recent Indigenous authors feature for National Authors Day or find other certified B Corps to support.

Happy holidays from the Animikii team! Stay safe and enjoy your time with those who matter most to you.