From Ceremony to Style
My name is Terri Younger, and I’m a proud citizen of the Cherokee Nation. I grew up in Ponca City, Oklahoma, where my love for sewing and creating began at a young age. Today, I specialize in one-of-a-kind enhanced ribbon jean jackets—handcrafted pieces that blend vibrant design with deep cultural meaning.
The inspiration for my work came after attending a ceremonial dance with a friend. Experiencing the beauty, movement, and meaning behind the regalia moved me to create wearable art that honors those traditions in a modern way. My heritage plays a significant role in everything I make—attending ceremonial dances and powwows continues to influence my creativity and helps keep me connected to the community and the stories behind the designs.
Each of my jackets is genuinely unique. I’m drawn to bright colors and bold combinations, and I let that inspiration guide me as I design. I’m self-taught, and I’ve always been drawn to crafting things that feel special and one-of-a-kind. When I work, I pray over my pieces, putting love and intention into every stitch. Creating is a spiritual and peaceful process for me—it’s where I find joy, comfort, and connection.
Sewing has always been part of who I am. It brings me happiness, and I’m grateful that I get to share that joy with others through my art. My hope is that when someone wears one of my jackets, they feel the care, purpose, and heritage woven into it.
About the Indigenous Artisans Collective
Etsy and Nest are proud to support the Indigenous Artisans Collective, the latest cohort within the Etsy Uplift Makers Program, featuring shops from Indigenous makers affiliated with 27 tribes across the United States and the First Nations of Canada.
Many of the makers practice craft skills that have been inspired by or passed down from family and community mentors. Product collections include meticulously handcrafted home goods, jewelry, and other accessories, in honor of the maker’s culture and heritage. Amongst many Indigenous communities, traditional handcraft continues to hold significant cultural value, as well as economic opportunity.
Through the Uplift Makers: Indigenous Artisans Collective, Etsy and Nest are helping to create digital market access and economic opportunities for Indigenous makers while also providing artisans with resources and tools to help run a successful online business. From expert-led digital marketing training, onboarding support, and a custom resource library, the program delivers a comprehensive suite of programming to participants. Additionally, the program addresses key barriers new business owners face such as providing professional photography to capture the creative content needed to showcase their talent and reach new customers in today’s digital era.
