My bead buddies and I have made a few bead related trips together that have been a lot of fun. Visiting an out of town bead store is one way you can enjoy a day of bead shopping with your friends.
Difficulty Level: easy Time Required: 6 - 10 hours
Here's How:
- Do some research ahead of time to find information about the store you plan to visit. What do they specialize in? Do you know of anyone who has already been there? What was their opinion?
- Call the shop to find out about the area around the store so you can figure out where to park, what their hours are, and where to go to lunch (so important).
- Are there any other related shops or bead stores in the area that you might want to go to also?
- Before going, look through your supplies and make a list of any items you really need.
- If you have a particular bead you’re looking for, bring a sample to help match it up.
- In order not to buy beads you already have, take a good look at your beads before you leave.
- Consider any projects you have planned that you might need a special color of bead or type of finding for, and add this to your list.
- Use a back pack purse so your hands can be free.
- Upon entering the shop, ask if there are any specials or sales going on.
- Don’t forget to get their URL if they have a web site or to sign up for newsletters or flyers if they send them out.
- When ready to purchase items, let the shop owner know if you are part of any bead societies. You may get a discount.
- If you have a tax id number, let them know before they ring up your purchase, and a bring a copy of your tax certificate for proof.
- If you travel a good distance, make sure you’ve got a cell phone, some bottled water, and that someone knows where you are all going.
- When parking or going to lunch in an unfamiliar area, have the group stick together. Just because there’s a bead store in the area, doesn’t mean there is no crime there.
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