Yes, I collect rocks
When I accidentally stumbled into the “bead world” over 25 years ago, I had no idea where it would take me. I did know the attraction was impossible to resist. I took the leap of faith and rarely have I regretted it.
Being self-employed was a dream of mine since I was a small child. After college and an English degree, I decided that I really wasn’t cut out to be a teacher, so I worked in a variety of fields: Veterinary Tech, short order cook, medical office manager, graphic artist, newspaper advertising and screen printing. The foray into self-employment was on a whim with a couple of friends while living in Historic Gulfport, Fl. We opened a small gallery focusing on handmade items from around the world. My love of ethnic crafts, musical instruments, jewelry & yes, beads, is what started it all. My collection of African trade beads was just the beginning. The shop was a huge success and as the bead selection began growing, so did my interest. One thing led to another, friends referred me to others who shared the same passion, and here I am.
I have always loved natural products and discovered those from the Philippines. Such a huge variety of wood, shell, bone and horn! I decided to make that my primary focus and began my search for a supplier. Many people questioned my sanity. “They’re only wood beads. Why would you bother?” Well, I knew what I liked and that all wood beads are not like the other. I met a wonderful group of folks in Cebu City and have been working with them ever since.
Natural products for jewelry have been my specialty, and now I've included hand selected beach pebbles, river stones & mini wood sticks / driftwood into my product line with much success.
I'm lucky to be able to work for myself and to travel as much as I do. I love product development and seeking out unusual finds for my clients!
