West Coast Wildflowers, formerly Wildflowers & Co launched during the global pandemic on Quinsam Reserve, located on the unceded traditional territory of the Ligwiłda’xw people; the We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum, and Kwiakah First Nations, whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.
Founder, Alissa Assu belongs to the Laksamshu (Fireweed and Owl) Clan from the Wet’suwet’en First Nation People located in Witset, British Columbia.
“As a child, I spent summer harvesting niwis (soapberries) on our yintah (land) during cultural clan camps with Elders. During the school year, I attended and participated in our feasting system with Skokumhylate (my grandmother) who raised 5 skak (babies) on her own. The most powerful reconnection to culture has been becoming a mother and launching West Coast Wildflowers. We are teaching a new generation of Indigenous youth that culture and roots in our communities can be embraced in anything you pursue in this life. Culture — it holds deep roots and connection with our staff, Indigenous Collective, and across communities that support us. WCW has allowed the owner and Indigenous staff to connect to culture and community through learning from and working alongside our Authentic Indigenous Collective.”
WCW’s Authentic Indigenous Collective works solely with certified Indigenous Tourism BC local independent businesses offering products in-store and wholesale.
Question: How are you supporting other local businesses?
Answer: Our team is 100% Indigenous-led and operated. We employ 6+ Indigenous women and 2 Indigenous men. Our lavender, grand fir and western red cedar essential oils are all sourced within British Columbia, which not only supports local farmers but allows for the highest quality of oils.
In addition, all of our bottles, labels, business cards, shipping boxes, and other store supplies are purchased by Canadian-owned businesses.
Totem Design House is a leader in supporting Indigenous businesses and uplifts Indigenous women where possible.
Question: What social and environmental practices are you proud of?
Answer: Our family operates two Indigenous businesses, West Coast Wildflowers and Bear Essential Oils. In our first year of operation, we collected and distributed $25,000+ worth of community donations and we have an annual Indigenous Community Engagement Scholarship for Indigenous students in British Columbia.
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Indigenous Owned