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When the coronavirus pandemic hit, twin sisters Dakota and Jesse Brant were in the middle of major expansion plans for their growing jewellery and accessory business.
Their company, Sapling & Flint, sells Haudenosaunee-inspired jewellery designed by Jesse, in gold, sterling silver and wampum, and accessories designed by Dakota, out of their gallery and studio in Ohsweken, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. Their designs are, the sisters say, conversation pieces that share the story of Turtle Island.
The Brants were ready to expand an already-thriving business further into wholesale manufacturing this year in order to reach new clients in the tourism and hospitality industries—but 2020 had other plans. The pandemic prompted them to hit pause on their hiring spree for several more silversmiths and account managers. Moreover, Sapling & Flint’s manufacturers and suppliers were forced to shut down to comply with public health guidelines, preventing them from manufacturing new pieces and replenishing their inventory for a month.
“When COVID-19 hit, we contracted at first,” recalls Dakota, the company’s co-founder and CEO. “We needed to make sure we had the money to survive at that time. I knew we weren’t going to give up, but it was disheartening to know you’re ready for growth, but you have to put the brakes on.”
Similar to many small businesses across Canada, they’ve adapted to the times. Facing the reality of limited inventories, Dakota and Jesse—a...