A family-run shop specializing in Indigenous giftware has just celebrated its fourth year in Ile des Chenes, just ten minutes south of Winnipeg.
Shoni Cree’s opened in October 2019 in the Meadowlark Boulevard strip mall, and has seen a growing clientele ever since.
“A lot of people are making their way into the store and they're surprised that there's such a nice unique gift store located in this area. They are quite happy that we are here.”
This from Micheal Lafrenier, who owns the store together with his wife Karen.
“I'm Metis and my wife is First Nations, so it's right in our wheelhouse. I've worked in this area for most of my life. Also I'm getting close to retirement, so I wanted something that would keep me occupied close to home, that I could involve the grandkids in. The store is actually named after my oldest granddaughter,” he shares with pride.
He also takes pride in their growing selection of Indigenous and non-Indigenous giftware– making Shoni Cree’s a fantastic first place to stop when you’re out shopping for Christmas gifts.
“I have a unique collection of slippers that just came in – they're handmade by the Huron-Wendat people in Quebec, and will be very popular at Christmastime. I also have handmade children's jackets for sizes zero to 8, made by Indigenous people in Peru. I also have a unique assortment of blankets, and they come from all over Canada. The style I have right now is Buffalo Cross and those come out of Alberta. And my wife hand-makes ceremonial fans and ribbon skirts.”
Mike Lafrenier says shoppers frequently make the trip from the surrounding areas, seeking to browse and purchase Shoni Cree’s unique products.
“It’s because we have giftware you won’t find anywhere else. We have a lot of unique product on its way for the Christmas season, and are having a large sale during the month of December.”
Mittens and moccasins from Norway House. Sweetgrass and sage from Peguis First Nation. Mukluks from Quebec. Essential oils from B.C. Blankets from Ecuador. And the list goes on!
This is a great time to stop in, during their storewide Christmas Sale.
“We truly have something for everyone. We invite you to stop by!” says Mike Lafrenier. “But most of all, we have to remember the reason for the season is Jesus. We are blessed by God. He gives us love, faith, and family, and we can't forget that during this season.” Visit Shoni Cree’s on Facebook, or in person in the Ile des Chenes strip mall on Meadowlark, a stone’s throw from Highway 59.
Shoni Cree’s is open 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday.