Bloom Where You Are Planted - Book
Description:
A celebration of fifty talented, creative, passionate people (forty-nine
women and one nonbinary person) working in the fields of visual art, dance,
photography, music, design, comedy, storytelling, food, fashion, beauty,
wellness, and advocacy.
Bloom Where You Are Planted is a collection of interviews and photography that honours a group of innovative, hard-working, diverse people, whose creative and business ventures inspire, support, and infuse others’ lives with purpose and positivity.
These are people who are passionate about work, community, and giving back.
The forty-nine women and one non-binary person featured in this book have established a strong community of supporters and followers in their respective sectors. Among those featured are: Haida and Cree artist and entrepreneur Erin Brillon; singer-songwriter Julianna Laine; dancer Erika Mitsuhashi; nonbinary model and writer Lydia Okello; storyteller and entrepreneur Samantha Reynolds; cosmetic chemist Veerpal Sdihu; sculptor Marie Khourie; artist Athena Bax; pastry chef Kiko Nakata; Hip Hop/R&B recording artist Kia Kadiri; and author/illustrator Emma FitzGerald.
After a decade of writing and interviewing fascinating people, author Beka Shane Denter realized that the true stories of women and nonbinary people are often left untold or presented in an overly polished way. In this collection, she explores the story behind the person, the movement, the voice, the words, the images, and the brand. Bloom Where You Are Planted infuses positivity into a world in need of inspiration and brings to life the stories of a phenomenal group of people.
BEKA SHANE DENTER is a Canadian features and content writer, who has used her
knowledge, passion, and nomadic lifestyle to fuel her writing career. Her work has appeared in Elle Canada, Fashion, NUVO, Montecristo, LUXE, Ottawa Wedding, BUST, Women’s Surf Style Magazine, Today’s Parent, and The Inertia. She holds a bachelor of arts in English, a master’s in education, and a certificate in web writing and social media communication.
FAQ
Where do you ship to?
We ship from Canada throughout North America and internationally. International customers are responsible for any import duties, tariffs, or customs fees charged by their country. Learn more in our full Shipping & Returns Policy
Who pays customs fees, duties, or tariffs on Totem Design House orders?
International customers may be required to pay import duties, tariffs, or customs fees based on their country’s regulations. These charges are not included in our product or shipping prices and are the customer’s responsibility upon delivery. If an order is refused due to unpaid customs fees, any refund will be issued only after the returned items are received in their original condition. Please note that return shipping costs and any loss or damage during return transit will be deducted from the refund.
Are Totem Design House products authentically Indigenous-made?
Yes. Totem Design House is proudly 100% Indigenous-owned and operated. All of our designs are created by Indigenous artists, including award-winning Northwest Coast artist Andy Everson, and the majority of our products are made in-house at our studio on K’ómoks First Nation territory. By purchasing from us, you are directly supporting Indigenous artists, cultural revitalization, and sustainable business practices.
Are Totem Design House products sustainably made and eco-friendly?
Yes. At Totem Design House, we prioritize eco-friendly materials and sustainable production practices. Whenever possible, we source organic fabrics, recycled metals, and locally produced materials. Most of our products are designed and made in-house to reduce our environmental footprint and ensure exceptional quality. Supporting Totem Design House means supporting Indigenous artists and a business that values sustainability, cultural integrity, and ethical production.
About us
Indigenous Woman-Owned
Totem Design House is a proudly Indigenous-owned and operated lifestyle brand founded by Haida and Cree entrepreneur Erin Brillon. From our studio on K’ómoks First Nation territory, we create products that blend traditional stories with modern design. Every purchase directly supports Indigenous artists, cultural revitalization, and sustainable business practices.
Guided by Indigenous Values
Totem Design House is more than a lifestyle brand — we’re a social enterprise. A portion of every purchase supports Copper Legacy Indigenous Empowerment Society, funding initiatives that uplift Indigenous communities and cultural revitalization. Through our products, we share the stories, teachings, and traditions of our ancestors, creating opportunities for education while celebrating authentic Indigenous artistry. Our work is grounded in sustainability, reciprocity, and respect for the land and culture.
About Our Artists
Our designs are created by award-winning Indigenous artists, including Andy Everson of the K’ómoks First Nation & Jesse Brillon of the Haida & Cree Nations. Each piece carries a story — celebrating our connection to the land, the ocean, and our ancestors. When you shop Totem Design House, you’re supporting real artists and helping to keep Indigenous traditions alive.