Beads, Inc.,

339 Circle Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28207

"After visiting bead stores all over the country, I have to say that Beads, Inc. is one of my favorites. The staff are always helpful in assisting me when I have a question, and they've had some really great recommendations. They have a pretty vest array of all types of beads -- gemstones, pearls, glass, gold-filled, sterling silver, etc. Beads, Inc. is my go to place when I need something quickly, and they always go above and beyond what is necessary to accommodate my needs. Thank you for being a great partner!"

"The store seems to be well stocked, though, as other reviews point out, it's disappointing that the majority of the bead strings I looked at did not indicate what they were -- glass, semiprecious stones, etc. I was seeking aged cooper and silver wire, chain, and findings. While the staff was helpful (in a way that was less friendly than, I felt, designed to quickly get me out of the store), they didn't seem friendly or particularly welcoming. Ultimately, I spent over $100 and didn't really get what I needed or wanted, but stuff that'll do ... and I settled for that because I was in a hurry. I feel like I get a much better deal on silver chain (I didn't find silver findings), of which they had very limited options, and copper wire and findings via online wholesale sellers. The beads I saw are things you'll find at Michael's. Perhaps if I felt like I could look around more I might have found something unique, which is really what I expect from stores like this, but I didn't. Had I seen semiprecious stones, I probably would have purchased some. But, again, I have an online source that I'll stick with for semiprecious stones. The parking lot is behind the building. It appeared to be a one-way entrance, however I did not feel safe exiting via what I think was the appropriate entrance due to an overgrown bush and people speeding on the main road. So, I backed up and ended up scratching my car on a diagonal metal electric wire that looks like it's been hit multiple times. So, add all of that up and I'll stick to online shopping for my jewelry making supplies. I lived in Charlotte for 20 years before we hit the road and much prefer Beadlush, which has been closed for a while. So, if you're looking for that same cool kid vibe you won't find it here. This place gives "auntie who only tolerates you" vibes."

"So glad I found this place! The store is so clean and organized making it a dream to peruse. I assumed this meant sky high prices but I found them very reasonable. The strands especially. I would say prices are on par or sometimes better than beads at Michaels especially because the strands are much longer here."

"This has an very amazing and inviting atmosphere for creators and craftspeople. The space is beautiful, clean, well organized. The staff is knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and family owned. 20 yrs of experience with 8 yrs in this location. A large variety of materials in stones, crystals, coral, wood, bone and the list goes on. Many sizes, colors, cuts and shapes available. Plenty of available parking as well. Great experience today!"

"I love this shop. It is the only bead store I know of in Charlotte and I always find a wonderful assortment of beads and findings. My 2 issues with the shop are: 1. Not every bead states what material it is composed of and 2. It is a bit elitist. I hate being negative, so this is not something easy for me to say. Every time I have visited the store over the past few years, there is at least one customer in the store who has a sales representative seemingly assigned to to them as they are obviously a customer who spends a great deal of money in the store. This can be off-putting to other customers. Just because a store representative does not know how much each customer is 'worth' does not mean they do not all deserve equal attention. Possibly there is enough staffing to assign a personal shopper to anyone who would like assistance. That could be the case. I have always been asked if I needed help and I do decline as I like to shop alone. But, it does seem like this store caters to the wealthy. If I am incorrect, then I apologize, this is simply my perspective, from the multiple times I have visited the store."