"We want to open people's eyes to all the possibilities with beads," says Country Beads owner, Sue Gill. "We want you to be inspired, to realize that you can make something yourself and enjoy the process of choosing and creating. We want you to feel empowered that you've made something for yourself or as a gift that has meaning and value."
Sue opened Country Beads in Vancouver in 1994 and has had loyal customers who have shopped with her since the very beginning. "We see university students coming in and they used to come shopping with their mom when they were seven or eight years old!" laughs Sue. "I have a personal connection with many of our customers."
The craft industry, particularly when it comes to beads, has changed over the years, Sue has noticed. "There's been a movement away from the hippie stereotype to more sophisticated jewellery. There's so much wonderful creativity in the city and the Pacific Northwest in general." Customers of Country Beads make earrings, bracelets, necklaces and even home décor items. "We sell a lot of semi-precious stones and high-end options," notes Sue.
