Twig and Squirrel's Wild Goods, a distinctive Saskatoon retail establishment, has recently transitioned to a substantially larger new location on 20th Street, marking a significant expansion for the business that originally opened its doors 13 years ago.
A New Chapter for a Community-Focused Enterprise
Partners Jackie Jenson, the owner, and Kevin Rattlesnake, the manager, have successfully relocated their specialty shop to a space that now spans approximately 3,000 square feet, a dramatic increase from their previous 600-700 square foot location. This move represents a major milestone for the business that began somewhat spontaneously in 2013 and has evolved organically over the years to meet the diverse needs of the local community.
An Eclectic Array of Quality Products
The shop offers an extensive and carefully curated selection of merchandise that defies simple categorization. Twig and Squirrel prides itself on providing high-quality materials for various creative pursuits, including:
- A remarkable 40-foot wall dedicated exclusively to beads and beading supplies
- Traditional crafting materials such as fabric, leather, and ribbons
- Indigenous-related goods including moccasins, handbags, and jewelry
- Natural products like beeswax, sage, honey, essential oils, and furs
- Herbs, toys, and puppets
The business maintains a firm commitment to quality, with Jenson emphasizing that they "don't have room for mediocre junk." This dedication to excellence has earned the appreciation of customers who recognize the value of the carefully selected merchandise.
Evolution from Humble Beginnings
The business originated with a simple question: How do we serve the community? Starting in a small space on 20th Street, Twig and Squirrel gradually expanded into adjacent areas as demand grew. A pivotal moment occurred around 2015 when the shop acquired a substantial bead inventory from a retiring downtown trading post, establishing itself as a primary destination for beading supplies in the province.
"The beads showed up, which really then anchored the store as a retail place," Jenson explained. This acquisition allowed the business to continue serving the local Indigenous community's beading and crafting needs while expanding its offerings based on customer requests and referrals.
A Sensory Shopping Experience
Visiting Twig and Squirrel offers customers more than just shopping—it provides a complete sensory experience. The shop's distinctive aroma, created by the combination of natural beeswax, sage, honey, essential oils, and other organic materials, welcomes visitors as they enter. Jenson describes the establishment as "a modern-day little trading post with beads" that promotes creativity, community, and care through its carefully selected inventory.
The new, larger location now accommodates all product categories in one centralized space, including the recently expanded herb wall and toy area. This consolidation allows customers to more easily explore the diverse offerings that have made Twig and Squirrel a beloved destination for artists, crafters, and those seeking unique Indigenous goods in Saskatoon.
