Red White Buffalo

Written By: Sarah Reish

Wyoming is home to artisans of every type. From candle makers to leatherworkers and from painters to chocolatiers and even authors. Finding the gems and a new favorite local artisans is hard - especially with the current lack of craft shows and festivals taking place. However, while we were in Lander a dozen or more people told us that we had to stop by Red White Buffalo and check out what they were doing. So we did.

We pulled up to an adorable store front where the branding screamed Americana and Wyoming - Morgan greeted us and welcomed us to the store. She also shared much of the backstory of how the two Red White Buffalo stores came to be.

The store

In a nutshell, Red White Buffalo is a store front where Wyoming artisans can rent space, at a low cost, and have their goods showcased inside a brick and mortar building. When I asked about the process I was told that there are three packages the small business owners can choose from. The artisans set their own pricing. Red White Buffalo staffs the store and manages all of the transactions. They have also just set up a website and are now offering an online store as well.

The people behind Red White Buffalo

Bonnie and Barry Tippy started Red White Buffalo because they saw a need for a store-front that shared Wyoming made products. They currently host products for 133 Wyoming artists. They have two stores - one in Green River, Wyoming and one in Lander, Wyoming - we visited the Lander location. The Tippy’s Red White Buffalo stores are also a family and veteran run business, making it an even more impactful organization.

The variety

There is a good selection of unique and high quality items in the store. We explored for quite a while. From locally roasted coffee to jewelry. Clothing to knit and crochet stocking caps. Home decor to stunning metal work. There is something for everyone. Including even the smallest of children.

Of course we had to shop while we were there! We perused and picked up a t-shirt, sweatshirt, and farmhouse sign for our home. It was hard to choose and I know we will be back for more.

The impact

As we left we were reminded how impactful this store really is. It offers small business owners, who are making their own products, a way to continually present their items to shoppers and sell them under the umbrella of Red White Buffalo. It also offers shoppers a wide variety of local products and artisans they can support. Finally, it keeps our money in the state which is a huge boost to our economy. Morgan told us as we were cashing out that we were supporting two families. What a wonderful feeling that while shopping we were able to support local families and our amazing state.

Hit the road

You can join us and help support our economy and local families by shopping Red White Buffalo or by visiting their locations in Green River or Lander, Wyoming. We thoroughly enjoyed this stop and want to thank all of our readers who recommended it - this is truly a Wyoming Gem. Be sure to share your visit or item your purchased on social media and tag us

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