Bead Lounge/Bead Bar

12/20/07

Cute shop, bad parking, very boutique

by zillybeth at Citysearch

This bead shop is very cute, and you can tell that a lot of thought went into designing it to be welcoming and fun. It's not like any of the other local bead shops at all, but it's not perfect either. It is very much a "boutique" and the prices reflect it. If you're a novice jewelry maker or looking to have a different kind of party, this is a great place to go. This really isn't the place for anyone looking to buy in bulk or for the small business jewelry designer -- this is a boutique retail shop, and if you plan on making a lot of jewelry, I would look elsewhere because the prices are just too high. But, for the essential emergency finding , occasional project or party, this is probably the best choice in town. They have a nice selection of quality beads and charms, many you won't find elsewhere in the area at a similar type of shop.

The employees are great...very energetic and eagerly helpful, although I wonder about their knowledge of raw materials. When I asked specifically for sterling charms, one of the girls showed me a basket of pewter. Nothing wrong with that at all...but in my case I needed sterling, and the girls insisted that the only silver they carry in the store is sterling or better. I find that odd, since not 10 minutes before I was looking at their chains, and they have several spools clearly marked as silver plated, not sterling. Again, probably not a big issue for most of the target customers of this shop...but I found it annoying. And yes, the charms I bought were definitely pewter, not sterling. Perhaps the shop purchased them not knowing the content? Also, anyone entering the store about 20 or less before closing were greeted with, "Hi! We're closing!" and many of them just walked out. That struck me as odd, especially since the girls were otherwise fairly helpful and eager to help.

Over all, a nice shop worth the visit...if you can find a place to park.

• Pros: Friendly, upbeat staff, good selection of charms, nice ambience, both loose and strung beads
• Cons: Parking is pretty much non-existent, prices are a bit high, questionable knowledge of inventory by the staff

09/29/07

Comfortable and welcoming atmosphere!

by violetbyrd3 at Citysearch

I have taken my kids and my friends to the Bead Lounge over and over again! The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, and they make you feel at home. You can sit and make your own jewelry if you already know how, and if you don't, one of the staff will sit there and guide you through your piece for a minimal fee. It's also a great place to find quick ready-made one-of-a-kind gifts. There are also great boutiques on the same block - you can make it into an afternoon of shopping and making your own accessories. I highly recommend the Bead Lounge as a place to pass some time if you're ever in the area. You'll come back again and again, just like I have!

• Cons: parking isn't the greatest, but isn't a reason to stay away.