Written by: Cassi Smith
With the entrepreneurial spirit in her blood and a deep desire to help others, Métis business owner, built a company that allows her the freedom to do what she loves most: create something meaningful and bring new ideas to life.
Hitched Haven Rentals & Décor operating out of Herbert Saskatchewan, takes the stress of wedding planning and makes it simpler, efficient, and less expensive, so couples can focus on the magic of their day, and not the logistics of rentals and décor. “The idea came while I was planning my own wedding,” explains Mataya. “My husband and I got married in June 2024, and during the planning process I realized how limited the decor options were in our area. It was difficult to find rental options that were both affordable and convenient.” Seeing a gap in the market, Mataya knew she could build something to help others faced with the same dilemma. “I wanted to create a local or alternative option that offered stylish, cohesive, and accessible rentals for couples who wanted their dream wedding without the stress or extra costs.” What started as an idea during her own wedding planning, has since grown into a busy and rewarding business.
Despite earning a degree in Social Work and working full time for the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Mataya says she always knew she would own her own business someday. “I love the idea of being my own boss and having the freedom to grow, evolve, and bring new ideas to life,” she says. “My parents were a huge influence in inspiring me to become an entrepreneur. Not only have they always encouraged and supported me, but they are also successful business owners themselves. Growing up around that entrepreneurial environment showed me firsthand what hard work, innovation, and determination can achieve.”
Mataya’s parents were also the inspiration behind her partnering with Clarence Campeau Development Fund. “My mom was the first one who passed on CCDF’s information to me,” she says. “After taking a look at what they offered, I was immediately drawn to the level of support they provide. From what I read on their website and through my initial phone calls with the staff, it was clear that CCDF is truly passionate about helping Métis entrepreneurs across the province.”
Being a Métis woman and new business owner, Mataya knows firsthand how intimidating the entrepreneurial world can be. “Starting a business is always a financial risk and can be difficult to navigate without the right supports in place,” she explains. “Having CCDF’s help at the beginning of my journey was incredibly important and gave me the foundation I needed to start confidently. Their continued encouragement and willingness to offer advice or assistance whenever needed has been such an amazing part of my experience as a new business owner.”
With the support of her parents and her husband, Derek, Mataya says the assistance from CCDF allowed her to turn Hitched Haven from a hopeful idea into a full-blown business. “The guidance, resources, and financial support CCDF provides has made such a difference in helping me get Hitched Haven off the ground.” But more than the individual support CCDF provided her, Mataya says it’s the impact the organization is making on the world of Indigenous business as whole that matters most to her. “Working with an organization that supports and uplifts Indigenous-owned businesses is incredibly valuable. Programs like CCDF play a vital role in helping entrepreneurs access the guidance, resources, and support they need to succeed, which can be especially important for communities that have historically faced barriers to business opportunities. I think it is so important that programs like this exist to focus on empowering Métis entrepreneurs. Knowing that there are people and resources dedicated to helping these businesses grow not only provides practical support, but also sends a strong message that Indigenous entrepreneurship is valued and celebrated.”
Just over a year into running her own business, Mataya already has big ideas for the future of Hitched Haven. “In the next five years, I hope the Hitched Haven will be recognized as a go-to wedding décor rental business in the region, known for convenience, creativity, and personalized service,” she says. “I also hope to expand the business into other areas, such as wedding, engagement, and/or anniversary apparel and accessories, creating more ways for couples to celebrate and for my business to meet a wider variety of needs.” And to get there, Mataya says she will lean on her own advice for other entrepreneurs: “Surround yourself with supportive people, whether that’s family, friends, mentors, or organizations like CCDF, because having guidance and encouragement makes a huge difference.”