Behind the doors of our online store is a group of creative individuals who are coo-coo for Swarovski® crystals, gaga for gemstone beads, and practically batty for all things beading—just like you.
 
Periodically, I’d like to introduce you to some of the people who keep the good ship afloat. I recently sat down with one of our team members for a little Q & A session. Goody Beaders, meet Laurie, our customer service and support maven.

 
Miss Pearl: What is your favorite part about working at Goody Beads?
Laurie: The energy. I really enjoy the positive energy and excitement of working with a fun and growing company. Everyday there’s always something new coming through the door. It’s like Christmas morning. Each box we open, there’s always something prettier inside than the one before.
 
Miss Pearl: Are you a beader? If so, what type of jewelry do you enjoy making?
Laurie: I did not start out as a beader but I make jewelry and beading crafts now. Earrings are my favorite. They’re fast and easy. I'm attracted to anything pink and sparkly, which is why I love crystals and beads with bling. Lots of bling! Most of the jewelry I make are for friends and family. When my kids were younger, we’d make bookmarks for their teachers. We had a lot of fun doing those projects together.
 
Miss Pearl: Name three beading components you can’t live without?
Laurie: Sterling Silver French Wire Earrings, Soft Flex 0.019 beading wire, and 6mm Swarovski crystal cubes in any color.
 
Miss Pearl: What’s your favorite gemstone and why?
Laurie: That’s a tough one...can I pick two?
 
Miss Pearl: Anything for you, Laurie...
Laurie: (laughs) I would choose Turquoise because of the color variations. The greener-hued Turquoise beads have the nice veins and there are some richer-hued blue Turquoise beads that are wonderful. For some reason, Turquoise seems to go with just about everything. The second would be Rose Quartz because it’s pink. (laughs) I'm not the only one, there’s a 6mm round Rose Quartz bead that is very popular on the site.
 
Miss Pearl: What inspires you to create?
Laurie: The reaction I get from people when I give them something handmade and personalized just for them. When making teacher gifts with my kids, we’d add personal touches like a magnifying glass charm for the science teacher. They'd see it and know we put effort into creating something just for them.
 
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I want to give a special thanks to Laurie for sitting down and chatting with me. Many of the beads and beading components Laurie mentioned are only a click away. Shop Goody Beads now!