NIBJ NOV: Forage Folk opens online Oct. 1, pop-up shop to follow

BONNERS FERRY — Forage Folk, a locally rooted brand offering handmade, small-batch goods from the forest, farm, and garden, launched its online store on October 1.  

Forage Folk was founded by Johanna Joy Farrell, a native of Bonners Ferry, along with her husband, Ugo Okpara. After spending most of her adult life in Europe, Johanna and her family returned to Bonners Ferry, where they now live up Meadow Creek with their son and daughter.  

Forage Folk reflects both Johanna and Ugo’s deep respect for nature and craftsmanship, inspired by their European experiences and Johanna’s hometown roots in North Idaho. 

Built on a mission to reconnect people with the natural world, Forage Folk curates high-quality, responsibly sourced products. The pair said each item is a celebration of the local landscape—whether foraged from the wild, grown in small gardens, or crafted by hand—honoring the artistry of local makers. 

“We offer a sharp curation of soulful products that celebrate the luxury of nature and the hands that bring it to life,” Ugo said. “We want our products to inspire a deeper connection to the wild.” 

To complement the online launch, Forage Folk will open a pop-up shop in downtown Bonners Ferry from Nov. 1 through Dec. 2 at 7222 Main St., Suite B, between the Rex Theater and Iron Mountain Engraving.  

The pop-up will feature an expanded selection of useful, local goods, such as huckleberry honey, alpine fir oil, raw beeswax candles, and cottonwood bud facial serum, as well as unique international items. Additionally, it will include unique international items, such as Dutch sustainable sheepskin rugs—treasures Johanna brought back from her time in Europe. 

“The pop-up is a celebration of the incredible local talent and resources we have in this area,” Johanna said. “We want to create a space where people can connect with the beauty and abundance of our region, while supporting local artisans.” 

Forage Folk is built on a vision of sustainability, community, and holistic well-being. The brand sources materials seasonally and in limited quantities, working closely with craftspeople to ensure each product reflects the magic and richness of nature, the pair said. Both the online store and pop-up shop will feature small-batch, carefully crafted goods, including skincare, wellness, and home products. 

“With increased awareness of toxins in mass-produced goods, we feel compelled to bring soul back to everyday products. A big part of that is knowing who makes your products and where the ingredients come from,” Johanna said.  

Information:  online, foragefolk.com; Facebook, @foragefolk; and Instagram, @forage.folk

    Forage Folk was founded by Johanna Joy Farrell, a native of Bonners Ferry, along with her husband, Ugo Okpara and curates high-quality, responsibly sourced products.