Bears Ears Monument Souvenir Shop
How it Happened
Tamy Jaramillo, owner and chef of Yak's Café, had a dream. This website and its exclusive products are the result of that vision. Building on over thirty years of experience in the hospitality industry, and the success of her business for twenty-one years (as of March 2025), Tamy introduced a new line of Bears Ears products. These offerings not only celebrate the local heritage but also enhance the longstanding reputation of Yak's Café.
Tamy racing professionally.
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In her own words, it happened like this:
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"A little history. I had a vision/dream.
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I was coming home from a barrel race, thinking about how to enhance the cafes business. I thought about extending hours. But that would benefit only me. Then, this idea appeared.
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Due to its recent designation as a National Monument, Bears Ears has sparked much interest. Visitors frequently seek information, directions, and insights about this remarkable site. We recognized a gap in the availability of souvenirs and products that authentically represent Bears Ears and its deep-rooted Native American heritage. With careful research and dedication, we've curated a selection that truly captures the essence of this unique area.
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Inspired by a dream, we decided to collaborate with local Navajo artists and long-time friends, Chris and Leo Blackhorse, from Bluff, Utah. With their incredible talent and deep cultural connection, we've created a line of authentic and exceptional Bears Ears souvenirs that truly capture the spirit and heritage of this magnificent National Monument.
Chris Blackhorse's Limited Edition Red Clay Bear
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Inspired by a dream, I reached out to Chris Blackhorse, a visionary local Navajo artist. He brought my vision to life, surpassing all expectations. Together, we created a unique, hand-crafted line of one-of-a-kind Bears Ears National Monument souvenirs. As demand grew, Chris faced health challenges, and we enlisted the help of his brother, Leo Blackhorse. With their combined talent and dedication, we proudly offer authentic souvenirs that capture the essence and heritage of this magnificent landmark.
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Our collection features pottery bears, paying tribute to the wildlife and Bears Ears Buttes, along with t-shirts showcasing hand-drawn artwork by Chris Blackhorse. Additionally, we offer water bottles, drink koozies, coffee mugs, hats, and much more. Due to high demand, Leo Blackhorse has also contributed his artistry to the pottery items.
Our most popular products, the pottery bears and t-shirts, are all produced locally in San Juan County, Utah. This not only enriches our local economy but also creates more job opportunities for our community.
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We initially collaborated with a local t-shirt shop, Bears Skins Custom Ink, to create Yak's Cafe's Bears Ears t-shirts. Due to overwhelming demand, we also partnered with a Native-owned company in New Mexico to ensure timely production.
On January 15, 2019, our dream to market worldwide became a reality. Our products are now available in-house and online at Yak's Cafe, Etsy, Amazon, and eBay.
All designs are exclusive to Yak's Cafe, copyrighted and trademarked to us. This ensures we can continue employing Chris Blackhorse and Leo Blackhorse and protect the hard work we've invested in creating this unique line of souvenirs.
We take immense pride in offering authentic Native American Bears Ears National Monument souvenirs, proudly representing San Juan County, Utah.
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We are so proud and excited to be offering local authentic Native American Bears Ears National Monument souvenirs, in the San Juan County, Utah.
