Style Q&A: Sisters Sage turns 'traditional practice' into modern body-care products
Credit to Author: Aleesha Harris| Date: Mon, 24 Feb 2020 19:00:01 +0000
There’s a beautiful mission behind a new brand being built by sisters Lynn-Marie and Melissa-Rae Angus.
The duo, who are the creators of the B.C.-based company Sisters Sage, are working to encourage Indigenous business and entrepreneurship, while also promoting traditional knowledge of natural ingredients.
Through their company they create natural self-care products that harness the power of Indigenous traditions and medicine — while also positioning themselves as valuable role models for other young girls and women in their community. We caught up with Lynn-Marie to learn more:
Melissa-Rae and Lynn-Marie Angus are co-founders of Sisters Sage.
Q: For those who aren’t familiar, what is Sisters Sage?
A: Sisters Sage is an Indigenous wellness brand started by (two sisters) from the Gitxaala, Nisga’a and Metis Nations. We use our traditional knowledge and medicines to create beautiful self-care and wellness products. Our handmade soaps, salves, smokeless smudge sprays and bath bombs are made with Mother Earth in mind.
Q: When and why did you first start the company?
Devil’s Club Salve and Cedar Smudge Spray from the B.C.-based brand Sisters Sage.
A: We started Sisters Sage in September of 2018. I was working in highrise construction, where I suffered racism and sexual harassment. I felt stuck in a toxic work environment that is not kind to women, especially an Indigenous one. I was diagnosed with PTSD and major depression caused by my workplace.
Melissa was pregnant with her first baby, and was struggling to find a permanent home in Vancouver. We both made a decision to make a positive change and go into business together. We knew our venture had to be Indigenous-inspired and promote our growth — mentally, emotionally, culturally, spiritually and financially. I gave a pitch on our business idea and won $200! This was the beginning of Sisters Sage.
Q: What makes the brand’s products unique?
A: Each product shares a unique story about our culture and traditions. We use locally harvested medicines like sage, cedar, lavender and Devil’s Club. Our Full Moon soap collection is inspired by the Indigenous full moons and tells a story of the importance of each moon
Q: And who is the target customer?
A: Everyone! Sisters Sage’s goal is to positively promote our Indigenous culture through our modern products. We seek to inspire other Indigenous women and youth to define their own financial independence through business. Our success will make us visible role models.
Q: What do you hope people take away from your company?
A: We want the world to know about Indigenous business. Supporting authentic and culturally appropriate products is vital for our economic reconciliation. Indigenous people were the first entrepreneurs of Turtle Island; Sisters Sage is actively healing and empowering our people through business.
Q: What is the price range for Sisters Sage products?
A: We are committed to keeping our products affordable for all. Our products range from $9 to $35.
Q: And where can people check them out?
A: You can visit us online at SistersSage.com, and follow us on social media.
Q: Lastly, what’s next?
A: We will be shopping around our products, finding the right venues to carry us. In order to scale up Sisters Sage, we need more exposure and support. (This) year will see Sisters Sage involved in more speaking engagements and workshops. We will also be travelling across Canada to promote our Indigenous wellness brand.