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Learn how-to make a Druzy Tassel Necklace, Simple Drop Earring and use crimp tubes in #ShopShowcase with Cherry Tree Beads in Asheville, North Carolina.
How did you get started?
Cherry Tree Beads was started by Bill and BeBe Edwards. BeBe had been into beading for many years, and they would often attend local wholesale shows to buy supplies. As BeBe’s orders increased, they started dabbling in eBay sales. Bill and BeBe’s first attempt at importing was a batch of glass beads from India. The sales went so well that he booked a trip to Tucson for their first big buying trip where he loaded up on semi-precious gemstone beads. Over the past 15 years Bill has traveled to China 2-3 times each year to source new items and keep in contact with our many suppliers.
Jenn started making her own jewelry at the age of 8, and started selling her designs in boutiques when she was 16. While attending UNCA she worked at a Bead Store in downtown Asheville, where she was propositioned by an importer to work for him and travel around to sell at different bead shows. It was at one of these shows that she met Bill and made the connection that would lead to her working for him doing shows for Cherry Tree Beads. Jenn and her husband Mitchell purchased Cherry Tree Beads website from Bill in 2012. Now Jenn and Bill take yearly trips to China to look for new amazing beads to sell here on the website and at gem shows across the United States.
Where are you located?
We have a warehouse and showroom in Asheville, North Carolina
Which products do you specialise in?
We started out specializing in high quality gemstones, and have expanded into pewter beads and findings, sea glass, crystals, lampwork beads, tassels, and more. While searching for new products we try our best to accommodate our customer requests.
Do you have a particular favorite product that you sell?
At the moment it’s the bezeled gemstone drops and links. They come in so many different stones and shapes and are so versatile and easy to design with. No matter what you do with them they always add a look of elegance.
What's on the stereo?
We have a lot of different genres of music on shuffle, anything from Classical, 80’s pop, 90’s alternative, today’s hits, and if Melissa gets her way even a little Kpop.
Where else should we visit in your area?
We are very close to the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest historic home, which is always worth a visit. A drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway is quite awe inspiring with amazing mountain views. Asheville is also known as “beer city” so if you are into craft beer you can tour a plethora of local micro-breweries.
Do you host any workshops, classes or special events?
We host a monthly Bead Night where people are invited to come and bring whatever project they’re working on, socialize with other creative designers, learn tips and tricks from each other, and enjoy snacks.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know?
We love what we do! Everyone who works here has a love of jewelry and a creative eye. We all look forward to new shipments as we are always ready to be inspired by new products and trends. Being surrounded by so many pretty beads, and working with people who love them, makes Cherry Tree Beads a great environment to be in.
Cherry Tree Beads also travels for gem and jewelry trade shows. If you aren’t able to come visit us in Asheville, check our show schedule to see if we are ever in your area.
Do you have a favorite craft, art or supply shop in your town that we should feature? Send us a message!
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