Rooted in Culture. Inspired by Creativity. Growing Together. ❤️

Welcome to Ugpi’ganjig Trading Post, a proud Indigenous-owned, family-operated business dedicated to supporting creativity, preserving culture, and bringing quality beadwork and crafting supplies to artists across Canada.

My name is Carie McBain (Wapeg paqtesmesk), and I am a proud Mi’gmaq woman from Eel River Bar First Nation (Ugpi’ganjig), New Brunswick.

My beading journey began over 12 years ago as a way to reconnect with my culture, find relaxation, and express my creativity. What started as a personal passion eventually grew into an online bead supply business and later a storefront in my home community of Ugpi’ganjig.

Today, we're excited to begin a new chapter in Ottawa, Ontario, where my daughter, Bella McBain, and I will be working together to continue growing Ugpi’ganjig Trading Post.

Bella is a proud Mi’kmaq and Montagnais artist who brings her own creativity and fresh perspective to the business. She specializes in brick stitch beading and has a passion for Indigenous art and design. As our social media manager, Bella also helps us connect with our customers, share our products, and inspire the next generation of beaders.

Together, we share a love for our culture, creativity, and the importance of passing traditional skills and knowledge between generations.

A New Chapter in Ottawa.

Although we've closed our physical storefront in Ugpi’ganjig, our journey continues! Our online shop remains open, offering a wide selection of beads, beading supplies, crafting materials, and unique products for artists of all experience levels.

From our new Ottawa location, we're also leased to offer virtual and in-person shopping appointments, allowing customers to explore products, compare colours, and receive personalized assistance. Appointments can be booked through our online calendar.

While leaving our storefront in Ugpi’ganjig was bittersweet, we're incredibly grateful for the friendships, laughter, creativity, and community support that made it so special.

Ugpi’ganjig will always be part of who we are and the heart of our business, no matter where we operate.

As a mother-and-daughter team, we're excited to continue sharing our passion, supporting fellow artists, and creating a welcoming space where culture and creativity come together.

Welalin – Thank you for supporting our small Indigenous family business and being part of our journey. ❤️

Carie & Bella McBain

Ugpi’ganjig Trading Post