I’m trying to remember exactly when it was that I first stepped into Nokomis clothing, it was a little while ago for sure. I believe it was during a style transformation for me…in other words, going from having no style at all to being a little more adventurous. Nokomis aided me in this journey and I discovered the world that is Canadian fashion. Items like blouses with giant bows and dresses with ruffled pockets soon became part of my every day wardrobe, but best of all I was proud to wear clothing designed and produced exclusively in Canada. I think my childhood dream of becoming a clothing designer had a fair bit to do with this as well. The thought was something like this “If I were a Canadian designer would I want people all over the country to buy and proudly where my creations? Mmmm, yup, I would.”. And so it began.
Last week I had the pleasure of chatting with the owner of Nokomis Clothing, Jessica. It wasn’t long before I discovered we weren’t all that different. We are born and raised Edmontonians making our way as business owners in a city we have come to love. Nokomis is unique in so many ways, as you will find out as you continue to read, but I’ll fill you in on some of the details first. Nokomis is an Ojibwa word meaning ‘grandmother’ which is why you will be greeted by a wall full of photos when you walk in. Nokomis welcomes customers to bring in a photo of their grandmother in exchange for a discount, and it adds a unique feeling to the atmosphere of the store. I could say a lot more…but I think I’ll let Jessica talk for a little while. Pay the store a visit at 10318 – 82 ave and check out their website!
What kind of business do you own?
A women’s clothing store located on Whyte Ave. This is our 3rd location now, but this current location is the one that suits us best. We are located in what used to be a Canadian Imperial Bank, the building itself is over 100 years old.
What would you consider the most unique part of what customers experience when they visit you?
Exclusively Canadian designed and produced clothing. We carry about 60 different designers and for many of the designers we are the biggest retail outlet they work with. We travel to Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal to view designer’s work so it’s very curated.
Did you grow up in Edmonton, or are you a transplant? If so, what brought you here?
I grew up in Sherwood Park and moved into Edmonton at 18.
What made you stay in Edmonton?
I never had any intentions of staying…I don’t think most people who grow up here do. I was thinking of moving to Toronto and then this opportunity came up where I was working here and was able to purchase the business from the current owner. So I went for it and I’ve really grown to appreciate Edmonton a lot more. Traveling to other cities has also made me appreciate what Edmonton has.
Coffee or tea?
Tea. With LOTS of sugar.
Why is it that people are so hesitant about shopping local? Why do you think Edmonton is so “Big Box” in general?
I think it’s partly influenced by all these northern communities that come here to shop because Edmonton is the closest hub. Living in Edmonton you just get used to having those conveniences and it becomes habit. A lot of the northern communities are based around oil, which is why we get these big box stores. Having said that, there is a growing community here that is shopping local, and I am thankful for that. But we’re also a hub for unique stores that are very successful. I think people in Edmonton have really good taste.
What’s your favourite product you’re selling this holiday season?
Pyrrha necklaces and rings. They are a Vancouver based company that does replicas of 19th century seals. The idea is that in a disposable culture they want to create heirlooms.
Do you have a favourite designer or brand at the moment?
Just one? Dace from Vancouver is definitely one of my favourites. I also really love Erin Templeton, she does bags.
If you could be a colour, what would it be?
Grey. I love grey
What item could you not live without during the cold winters here in E-town?
A Rachel F. Recycled Fur hat. I appreciate that not everyone is into fur, but it’s cold here and these hats come in handy. They are made from fur coats that are no longer being used, hence the recycled part.
What are you passionate about?
I think people will assume that I’m really into fashion, and I am, but it’s not capital “F” fashion. I don’t follow big designers. I am more passionate about retailing and giving people options. I really like the idea of supporting other local retailers and small businesses owners and educating people about that. I do love clothes, but Nokomis isn’t a pretentious clothing store, it’s clothes for normal people. Fashion needs to accessible.
Chocolate or Vanilla?
Chocolate!
Is there a store or restaurant local to Edmonton that you really enjoy?
I have many favourites. Duchess is definitely one of my favourites and once again I really enjoy what they’re doing for the community where they are making a far superior product. In this case, baked goods. It’s basically modeled off a bakery in Paris and an Edmontonian who visited the original in Paris was more impressed with what she had tasted at Duchess. I also really like Luxe Beauty and Blackbyrd Music. And Eden Lily just down the street here, they do beautiful work.
Do you have any local charities you support and/or admire?
My heart always goes to the humane society. I know there are many worthy charities in this city and many who get a lot less attention, but that’s just where my heart is. We often bring pets to the store. We just really love animals.
Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?
Pffffffffffffft! (it’s true, she actually made that noise) I try, but usually what happens is when we close on Christmas Eve it’s a mad rush. Things just get so busy around here that I don’t have time.
Do you have a holiday tradition that you can’t live without?
Getting ready for Christmas and then for Boxing Day. I always fit in as much family time as I can, but it’s tough when you own a business, but I won’t complain. One big Christmas tradition we have that’s pretty fun is a karaoke party we have here. It’s just a time for us to let loose, because we’ve all been working so hard.
Any last words?
Come pop by! Support your local retailer
I’ve had such great support in this community and I’d just like that to continue for everyone.
Thanks for chatting with me, Jessica! It was awesome to find out more about you and your business!
Until tomorrow,
Amanda
2 comments