Vanessa's journey began with a capsule collection crafted from Icelandic fish leather, a material she had discovered during her time living in Iceland. It was during this festival, amidst the vibrant arts scene and cultural exchange, that she had an epiphany. The realization struck her: working with fish leather would mirror the artistry involved in working with tanned furs—a world that had become accessible thanks to her now-husband, George.
Fuelled by inspiration, Vanessa reached out to George in the late hours, inquiring if he had tanned furs on hand. His positive response was all it took for her to make an immediate request to purchase everything he had. And so, the journey of our fur jewelry collection began.
Starting with the iconic copper cone styles of earrings and matching necklaces, Vanessa sought to tastefully and respectfully honor George's Tlingit culture. Copper, an essential element symbolizing wealth, held profound significance in George's heritage. As the collection gained popularity, Vanessa hosted a few pop-up sales at a friend's café, igniting the spark that would soon set her business on an extraordinary trajectory.
With nerves and anticipation, Vanessa signed a one-year lease for a modest retail space in Downtown Whitehorse during the fall of 2018. That first holiday shopping season surpassed her wildest dreams, propelling her business forward. Today, nearly six years later, she has expanded into a larger space and employs an incredible team who manages the store while she channels her creativity in the production studio.
The growth and recognition of Vanessa's work have been nothing short of remarkable. Featured in Vogue, Esquire, and other prestigious publications, her talent and dedication earned her a full-profile feature in Forbes. Additionally, she and George now own a second seasonal store in Skagway, Alaska, catering to adventurous cruise travelers.
From humble beginnings, crafting fur earrings at the kitchen table and hosting occasional pop-ups, Vanessa's artistic journey has evolved into a thriving business. Thousands of pairs of fur earrings are now made and sold each year, reflecting the incredible transformation she has undergone.
Today, Vanessa stands busier than ever, fueled by a deep sense of satisfaction in her work. She eagerly looks forward to whatever the future holds, embracing every step with excitement and anticipation.
Join us as we continue to celebrate the remarkable story of Wild Yukon Furs—a testament to passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of creativity.