Brewing Community & Coffee: MiiR x Salmon Sisters x Kaladi Brothers
Alaska’s coastal communities thrive on tradition, coffee, and storytelling—and that spirit inspired the latest collaboration between Salmon Sisters, Kaladi Brothers, and MiiR. Through the Mug Up collection, these Alaskan family-founded businesses have brought back iconic artwork, crafted durable and beautiful drinkware, and supported their local communities. Here’s the story behind the design, the tradition, and the products that celebrate it.
About the MiiR x Salmon Sisters x Kaladi Brothers custom Mug Up Collection:
- Mug Up celebrates coffee breaks and storytelling among Alaska’s fishing community.
- This collaboration revives iconic Mug Up artwork across a full product collection.
- MiiR’s customizable, durable, and responsible products support both Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers’ mission-driven business goals.
- Sales from these products help fund local and global giving projects.
- Customers love the intentional design and utility of this Alaska-inspired collection.

What does “Mug Up” mean?
In Alaska’s seafood industry, Mug Up is a break for hot coffee, pastries, and storytelling among fishermen, dock workers, and cannery crews. Growing up enjoying Mug Up at King Cove and False Pass Peter Pan Seafoods canneries, Emma and Claire wanted to capture that spirit in their product line.

How did the relationship with Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers start?
Salmon Sisters was first approached by Kaladi Brothers in 2018 to create artwork for a collaborative coffee blend, giving life to the Mug Up design. From Anchorage coffee cuppings to product design, the two Alaska-based family businesses celebrated their shared values of community, quality, and giving back. Today, the Mug Up collection continues this story, with proceeds supporting the Food Bank of Alaska.

What is Salmon Sisters all about?
Founded by sisters Claire and Emma, Salmon Sisters is rooted in Alaska’s coastal heritage. Inspired by lives spent on fishing boats and a commitment to sustainable seafood, their products blend storytelling, design, and community impact. From Homer, Alaska, they create items that honor the sea, support their local community, and celebrate life on the water.

What is Kaladi Brothers all about?
Since 1986, Kaladi Brothers Coffee has been roasting beans and serving coffee exclusively across Alaska. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and local culture, their coffee reflects the people, landscapes, and traditions of the Last Frontier.

How did you find out about MiiR and what was your goal?
Emma: “I discovered MiiR while working in Seattle. Seeing the cafe’s customizable products sparked ideas for the first Camp Cups for Salmon Sisters. Since 2017, we’ve relied on MiiR for products that reflect our community and values.”
Wongi: “We wanted a better camp cup, and MiiR’s generosity-driven model aligned perfectly with our commitment to community giving. Every purchase supports global giving, making coffee taste even better in Alaska’s wilds.”
Why choose MiiR for the Mug Up launch? How did MiiR’s sustainability practices align with your values?
Wongi: “The Mug Up artwork is beautiful, and we wanted a full collection. From Camp Cups to Pourigami to totes, MiiR allowed us to create a cohesive line. We also encourage customers to bring their own drinkware with discounts on drinks. Offering MiiR products designed to last a lifetime helps us promote this habit while minimizing environmental impact.”
Emma: “Customizing our artwork across multiple products was easy with MiiR. The team supported mockups, samples, and design adjustments, helping us bring our vision to life.”
What do your customers and community think of your product line? Is this line going to be a big sales driver for your businesses?
Emma: “Our community has been asking for this design to return for years. With our coffee shop in Homer, these products now reach more hands, supporting storytelling, coffee enjoyment, and outdoor adventure.
We aim for products that are functional, delightful, and resonate with our core community. Sales and customer feedback are key metrics for us.”
Wongi: “The Mug Up collection has always been a customer favorite. The collaboration strengthens loyalty and celebrates shared values with our Alaskan community. Shared quality standards and brand ethos are critical. Sales and customer acquisition show us the impact of partnerships like this one.”
What are you most excited about for the future?
Emma: “We’re excited to expand our seafood operations while staying connected to local fishermen. Mug Up products are a natural extension of this vision.”
Wongi: “Kaladi Brothers is celebrating 40 years and building a larger roastery. Collaborations like this ensure we continue serving our community for decades to come.”
Want to share any tips for creating your own Mug Up ritual?
Emma: “Mug Up is simple: a coffee and snack break with co-workers or crew. Take a pause, share stories, and recharge.”
Wongi: “Intentional breaks for coffee and connection are valuable. Invite someone to join you—it’s an easy way to add Mug Up to your day.”
Mug Up Product Collection Spotlight
1. Camp Cup – Everyday Adventure Ready
Perfect for coffee on the go, the Camp Cup combines rugged durability with sleek, coastal-inspired design. Custom Mug Up artwork brings Alaska’s maritime heritage to life while every purchase helps support global giving initiatives. Fans love that it’s spill-resistant, insulated, and a daily reminder to pause for their own Mug Up moment.
Shop the Camp Cup at Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers.
2. 360 Traveler – One-handed Coffee, Anywhere
The 360 Traveler's push-and-seal sip top lets you drink with one hand—perfect for mornings on the dock or a quick trail-side coffee. Insulated, spill-resistant, and wrapped in custom Mug Up artwork, it turns every sip into a story of Alaska’s fishing culture and seafaring heritage.
Discover the 360Traveler at Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers.
3. Pourigami – Pour-Over Precision
The Pourigami is designed for coffee enthusiasts seeking a portable pour-over experience. Lightweight yet durable, it’s a favorite for morning coffee at the dock or mountain trail. The Mug Up artwork wraps the product in storytelling, connecting every pour to Alaska’s fishing and coffee culture.
Explore the Pourigami collection at Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers.
4. Coffee Canister – Freshness Meets Design
Store your coffee with style and sustainability. The Mug Up Coffee Canister keeps beans fresh while celebrating Alaska’s seafaring traditions. Its sleek, custom-printed design makes it a standout piece in any kitchen, cafe, or gift bundle.
Check out the Coffee Canister on Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers.
5. Tote Bag – Carry Stories Everywhere
For design lovers and community supporters alike, the Mug Up Tote is perfect for market trips, groceries, or carrying your favorite coffee essentials. Durable, eco-friendly, and emblazoned with Mug Up artwork, it’s functional storytelling you can take anywhere.
Grab the Tote Bag at Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers.
6. Mug Up Coffee by Kaladi Brothers
Mug Up Roast is a medium-bodied, low-acidity brew with notes of warming spice, brown sugar, and hints of apple. This coffee is sourced from Guatemala and roasted in Alaska, this coffee offers the perfect balance of flavor and craft for coffee lovers seeking a smooth, flavorful cup. Shop Now Salmon Sisters and Kaladi Brothers.