About the Company:

Blue Girl Beading Co. is a Gulf Shores Original Arts & Crafts Store. We have a fully stocked bead shop with thousands of beads, findings and other materials to design and create your own beautiful jewelry. We teach classes and have everything you need to get started on your own. A great place to visit especially on rainy beach days!

Interview with Tara:

How was the company started?

My company was started after a lay-off with a corporate job in 2003. Beading was my hobby, so I made it my full-time job and have had my little shop for 17 years.

What do you love most about jewelry?

I love the evolution of it all including my skills. When I first started my business, I knew how to string beads and that was about it. I have learned so many new skills over the years and am quite smitten with the torch and hammer!

Who or what inspires you?

I am constantly inspired by my mentor and friend Tracy. We both love all types of stones and the hunt for the stones. To find the best quality you can't just order online, you've got to go find them at trade shows and such. I'm also inspired by just what is sitting on my bench, my creativity is somewhat messy. I'll pull out stones, findings, wires, found objects and see where it takes me. 

Do you have a mentor?

When I first started my shop, I went to a wholesale bead show and quickly made friends with a lamp work artist/silversmith, Tracy Nelligan of Turtle Moon Arts. We don't live close to each other but we do love to travel to each other's studios throughout the year. She inspires me to keep learning and practicing new skills, I would not be the jeweler I am today without her!

Make sure to check Blue Girl Beading out on Instagram and Facebook!