Melrene Saloy and Autumn EagleSpeaker, the sister duo behind Authentically Indigenous, know the power of community. For nearly a decade, they've been running Authentically Indigenous, a platform to uplift Indigenous entrepreneurs, connecting them with a wider audience through vibrant craft markets and cultural events. 

The sisters run their organization in alignment with their Indigenity—"the name Authentically Indigenous says it all," affirms Merlene. "When we're working with knowledge keepers, dancers and artists, we're also working with the event industry and serving as a bridge to bring cultural education to them." 

As their ninth holiday market approaches, the sisters sat down with us (or rather, stood outside in the snow with us) to share why choosing Indigenous and local this season goes beyond finding the perfect gift.

"It's an active form of reconciliation," Autumn emphasizes, explaining how supporting Indigenous businesses directly benefits families and communities. "It puts money back into their pockets and supports the Indigenous economy."

And the impact continues after the transaction. Melrene, a talented artist herself, understands the challenges Indigenous creatives face in a marketplace that isn't always inclusive. "I was often the only Indigenous person there," she recalls of her early experiences at markets. Authentically Indigenous was born from a desire to create a space where Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs felt supported and empowered. And it’s evident from their vendors that they’ve succeeded.

“Melrene and Autumn, I can’t thank you both enough for allowing me to believe in myself, my art, my community,” one vendor raves. “You are a welcoming safe space, paving the way for entrepreneurs. There is no force equal to the strength you have to build others up.” And while Melrene and Autumn have created a space of belonging for Indigenous entrepreneurs, they encourage Albertans to own the impact they can have.

This holiday season, they ask shoppers to think beyond the big box stores and consider the stories behind the products they purchase. "Albertans can support Indigenous businesses by not just purchasing at markets, but going to support them online, liking posts, sharing them, opening up the conversation, asking questions—getting involved," Melrene explains. 

"Show up," Autumn urges. "Going to cultural events, just being in the places that Indigenous businesses are—that's a big part of reconciliation."

Whether you're browsing the stalls at their upcoming holiday market or discovering Indigenous creators online, your choices (even the small ones) have a profound impact.

Vendors to watch for:

• My Inuvialuit Scrunchies: Inuvailuit creator Aurora, based on Mohkinstsis Treaty 7 Territory, offers a beautiful array of Indigenous hair accessories for everyone.
• Kwósel: Discover Indigenous artistry through Melissa’s collection of beaded and cedar resin jewelry. Her traditional home is Xwchíyò:m(Cheam First Nation ) located in S’ólh Téméxw of the Fraser River Valley. Melissa currently resides in Mohkintsis (Blackfoot, and Treaty 7) territory, also known as Calgary Alberta, Canada.
• Native Diva Creations Inc: Melrene (co-founder of Authentically Indigenous) also designs stunning First Nations beaded jewelry and accessories. She also creates couture fashion pieces that have graced runways in NYC, Paris and Milan.
• Nativez United by Dwayne Goforth: Dwayne's clothing line features his original artwork—intricate, hand-drawn designs celebrating Indigenous culture. His creations are meticulously detailed in pen and enhanced with vibrant colored pencil shading.
• Bright Swan Creations: Explore Pearl White Quills’ collection of Indigenous beadwork and sewn crafts, natural jewelry and small art pieces.
• Little Owl Creations: This collaboration between three creative sisters showcases intricate Indigenous beadwork.
• Wildbird Designs: Chanel—member of the Métis nation and based in Delburne, Alberta—crafts unique dream catchers that blend traditional designs with natural elements like moss, antlers, and bones. She also offers pyrography art with a focus on animals and nature.
• @artbyjfm: Jadyn is an Indigenous artist and illustrator who creates delightful paper goods such as greeting cards and stickers. She illustrated the children's book "Brave Like the Buffalo" and also creates beautiful Indigenous beadwork.
• Emerson’s Cree Designs: Emerson, an Indigenous entrepreneur originally from Treaty 4, Peepeekisis Nation in Saskatchewan, creates beaded earrings, hats, t-shirts, and ribbon bags.
• Little Star Artistry: Dorienne aims to bridge Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities through fashion and art that spark conversation and decolonize perspectives. They also offer sewing, beading, traditional Indigenous performances and powwow workshops.