The Meaning Behind the “Oteimi^” - Strawberry Collection

The Meaning Behind the “Oteimi^” - Strawberry Collection

Tribalure is embarking on a transformative journey, guided by the sole ownership and vision of Denyse Nadon. As part of this new chapter, Denyse felt deeply called to honor berries that hold profound personal and cultural significance to her. This journey began with her first creation, the Red Cosmetics Collection, which she has now beautifully renamed “Oteimi^”—the Algonquin word for "strawberry."

For Denyse, using her language in this collection is not only a celebration of her heritage but also an act of preserving and sharing her Algonquin ways of knowing and being through her business. The choice to name the collection “Oteimi^” is deeply symbolic, weaving together the cultural, spiritual, and personal threads that define her vision.

The strawberry, often referred to as the "heartberry," holds a sacred place in Algonquin teachings. It represents the heart, the center of love, healing, and connection. In this context, the strawberry beautifully mirrors the essence of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), as women are the heartbeat of the nation, carrying strength, resilience, and the lifeblood of community.

By naming her cosmetics line the “Oteimi^” Collection, Denyse lovingly pays tribute to the women whose stories have shaped the world, blending the beauty of cultural teachings with the transformative power of self-expression. Every product in the collection is infused with this intention, honouring women as the hearts of their families, communities, and nations.

The “Oteimi^” Collection is more than makeup—it is a statement of identity, remembrance, and empowerment. It symbolizes love, protection, and the deeply rooted connections that bind us all.

Through this heartfelt collection, Denyse ensures that her language, traditions, and teachings continue to thrive, creating a legacy of beauty that is as bold, sacred, and enduring as the women it honours.