The Journey

The Full Story

Welcome to Needle and Quill, where every product tells a story and every creation is born from a journey of self-discovery and cultural rebirth. My name is Bree Lepine Woodward, a proud nte?képmx woman from the picturesque Nicola Valley in British Columbia. As a member of the Coldwater Band, I’ve always felt a deep connection to my roots, but it wasn’t until a pivotal moment in 2024 that I truly began to explore what that connection meant for me.

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After competing in Miss Indigenous Canada 2024 and receiving an award of excellence from HRAwards Canada, I found myself at a crossroads in life. Having recently undergone a divorce, I embraced the opportunity for new beginnings, feeling a surge of energy that needed to be channeled. It was in this spirit of renewal that Needle and Quill was born—an expression of my creativity and a means to reconnect with my heritage.

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What started as a simple desire to create bath salts and body scrubs quickly evolved into a full line of wellness products. Each item was inspired by my journey of cleansing and healing, reflecting a deeper commitment to fusing traditional Indigenous medicines with modern convenience. The idea for my beloved smudge spray emerged from a personal need, and it soon became a crowd favorite, symbolizing the importance of wellness and mindfulness in our daily lives.

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As I continued to explore my cultural identity, I reconnected with the nɬeʔképmx heritage that had been a part of me, yet somewhat distant during my formative years. This reconnection was fueled by my sister's new job and the chance it presented to delve deeper into our culture. I applied and was fortunate enough to be hired into a role that allowed me to immerse myself in the traditions and values I held dear. It was during this time that I realized my passion for human resources could be interwoven with a desire for decolonization and advocacy, not just in my workplace, but for the community as a whole.

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The journey of Needle and Quill took an even more enriching turn when my mother, Alana Aspinall, joined me as a creator. Collaborating with her has not only strengthened our bond but has also highlighted the beauty of shared experiences and growth. Together, we’re navigating this new adventure, learning and creating in a space that honors both our past and future.

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At Needle and Quill, we believe in the power of self-care as an essential part of personal growth. Each product is crafted with intention, designed to provide moments of respite and reflection in our busy lives. My hope is that through these natural creations, you find something special that resonates with you, just as each step of this journey has resonated with me.

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Thank you for being part of this story. Together, let’s celebrate connection, healing, and the vibrant tapestry of cultural identity.

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Welcome to Needle and Quill.