2021 Mother’s Day gift guide
Surprise Shimá and Masání this year with something truly unexpected. (Even when she says she doesn’t need anything.) Honor the matriarchs in your family with Native-made gifts from Native-owned businesses. We put together our top picks for your Neinoo (Arapaho), N’aaya (Keres), Tsitda (Zuni), Shimá (Navajo), ishki (Choctaw), Beah (Paiute), Tláa (Tlingit)... you get the picture. Happy Matriarch’s Day!
Yeego Coffee, Kelvin Long, Diné
Make sure Shimá starts her day right with breakfast in bed, featuring gohwééh / ahwééh from Yeego Coffee! Founded by Diné entrepreneur, Kelvin Long, Yeego coffee beans are roasted in Arizona. You can stop by Kelvin’s shop in Flagstaff or pickup a bag online. https://yeegocoffee.com/ (Yes, that’s a Beverly Blacksheep mug!)
image via SconeOn
Scone On, Thalia Roessel, Diné
You’ve probably tried her baked goods at Hogan Espresso in Tuba City. If you’re hooked (we are!) then treat Shimá to some tasty treats. DM Thalia on her instagram to place your oder: https://www.instagram.com/sconeon/
Aconav, Loren Aragon, Acoma Pueblo
Designer Loren Aragon continues to delight us with his beautiful prints translated to masks, scarves, bags, and garments. Our Shimá’s Day favorite is this beautiful Pueblo inspired bag that will carry all of Shimá’s essentials. Bags start at $125. https://www.aconav.com/bags-1
Yahuaca Knowledge Distribution, Adrian Lerma, Diné
Is Masání’s house still without power? Gift Masání a bit of electricity this year with Goal Zero solar energy kits distributed by Navajo-owned Yahuaca Knowledge Distribution (YKD). YKD sells LED lights and 50W solar panels that can charge a portable lithium power station that powers the lights and other small electronics. Buy each separately or as a kit (one 50W solar panel, one power pack, and two LED lights) for $562.12 after tax. YKD even delivers to Masání’s house to help set up the system. https://teamykd.com/shop/
Sequoia, Michaelee Lazore, Kanien'kehá:ka
We all need some aromatherapy in our lives. So when the rain isn’t coming down and giving off that aromatic desert smell, give Shimá a candle to bring calm and peace to her life. Our favorite is from indigenous-owned Sequoia. Their Skywoman candle is a combination of citrus and floral and comes in travel sized tins, incense, and glass jars. https://sequoiasoaps.com/
Photography by Roshan, Roshan Spottsville, Diné
Diné photographer, Roshan Spottsville, can help preserve your memories with her Mother’s Day Special, which includes a photo shoot with your family, an 11x14 canvas and 5x7 photobook for Shimá, an 8x10 print for five siblings, and 10 digital images for $500. Roshan is incredibly talented and will book up fast! https://www.roshanspottsville.com/
Native Seeds SEARCH
This is a bit of a cheat since Native Seeds SEARCH is a 40% Native-controlled organization. Nonetheless, if your Shimá likes to have her hands in the dirt, this seed conservation organization has a collection representing the cultural heritage and farming knowledge of over 50 indigenous communities. Plus, Native American families can access seeds for free! https://www.nativeseeds.org/