Shop Talk: The Bead Shop

My first word after “Mama” and “Dada” was “beads.” In any other city, this might be a fluke, but in New Orleans, not a chance. I don’t know the actual origin story, but I imagine my fresh, baby eyes locking on a parade-goer, their beads clink-clacking around their neck, causing me to shout out the word for all to hear! Who knows… but equipping myself with the word early now seems like some strange New Orleans evolutionary trait.

That said, since the time I first uttered the word, Mardi Gras beads have become less coveted. Once cherished, now often dodged in favor of snagging larger, more exotic throws. This trend has sparked a growing movement towards more valuable, personalized specialty throws, particularly for walking krewes. I spoke with Georgia Wilson, owner of The Bead Shop, about this cultural shift and her appreciation for the local creative community that allows her business to thrive.

When did you start the Bead Shop?

My mom Nancy Campbell (an artist in her own right) opened a shop on Magazine Street to sell her pottery as well as beads back in 1992. After graduating from college (about 20 years ago), I decided to get more seriously involved. I could see that the potential for the shop to become even more dynamic.

How has your business changed over the years?

We have seen a marked increase in customers coming in to prepare for festival celebrations. More and more, people want to stand out by creating one-of-a-kind pieces for celebratory events. It’s nonstop; Taylor Swift, Christmas, Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, French Quarter Fest, etc. There is always something our customers want to look special for. 

How do you get involved with Mardi Gras?

It’s funny, tourists often mistake us for a Mardi Gras store, but we are far more than that. We are a year-round creative space for those who want to play with beads, charms, rocks and gems. We offer regular classes and also host private parties or workshops, (ideally for up to 7 people) but we can squeeze 18 people into 2 separate rooms if we really need to. During Mardi Gras, we offer themed workshops that you can sign up for on our Eventbrite page (info below). In the past, groups have come in to make everything from krewe favors to one-of-a-kind throws.  We have also been working with the Mardi Gras Indians for years, providing them with discounted, bulk beads for their stunning suits. 

What does local customer support mean to you?

We are so grateful for our supportive, creative community. We know our customers carve out extra time to park and physically come into our store, so we try and make the experience as welcoming as possible. Amazon won’t ask how your kids are doing or if you can support their child’s fundraiser, but we always will! We can help with so many things. We fix jewelry, help create a new piece from an old piece or just sell you the tools to create at home.   

Visit the Bead Shop at 4612 Magazine Street or beadshopneworleans.com.
To book an upcoming Mardi Gras workshop go to eventbrite.com/o/the-bead-shop-7366844445.