While they may seem different, beads and books are surprisingly similar for one married couple.
“Everyone looks at jewelry the same way,” said Eric Nedrow, co-owner of Beads & Books, a store he opened with his wife, Carmen Smith Nedrow. “Just like books, jewelry is a great equalizer. They are universal.”
Extending a “Do it Yourself” attitude, Beads & Books has reached out to the community to help seasoned crafters and newbies learn how to make what they see in stores for a fraction of the price.
“Two years before we opened, we started tossing around the concept,” Eric said. The couple, who were living in Columbus at the time, relocated back to Toledo, their hometown to fill the vacancy left when Meant to Bead closed, a store where Carmen worked while in high school.
With the support of the local beading community and a network of local businesses, Eric and Carmen opened Beads & Books in October 2014, and offered a twist to the traditionally bead-store options by including books in the concept, a passion of Eric’s.
Her beads, his books
“Jewelry can make you feel powerful; history shows that,” Carmen said. “A lot of what I wear makes me feel powerful.” Her teaching gives customers the chance to feel the same way.
Carmen first started beading in high school. “I used to sew, and I wasn’t very good at it,” said Carmen, laughing. “When I found beading, it clicked. I want to pass it on to other people.” She brings her passion for the craft to the forefront, inspiring students to create their own designs. When customers struggle on projects at home, she invites them to come in for help.
To keep diverse tastes satisfied, Carmen also makes sure to stock a large assortment of items, and Eric’s passion for books complements that.
“I like weird books,” Eric said, chuckling. “I stock a lot of them here, and local books. I love over-styled 60s and 70s paperback books. I also like to include a lot of feminist and African-American history.”
The shop offers unique finds, donations, selections from Eric’s personal collection, children’s books and Young Adult literature. With prices starting at 99 cents and rarely going past $10, the focus is on an affordable, eclectic mix.
Something for everyone
Carmen offers “Skillshare Nights,” where crafters can swap talents and learn more about new crafts. To further support the local community, the duo sells the works and jewelry of local artists in the store. Beads & Books also offers Flying Rhino Coffee.
Join Beads & Books and other NW OH beading stores for free prizes, sales, and special take-away projects during the 5th Annual Bead Shop Hop, Sunday, April 19 through Saturday, April 25. ohiobeadshophop.com.
Beads & Books, 4925 Dorr St. Suite A. 419-350-1087. beadsandbooks419.com 10am-6pm, Tuesday-Thursday. 10am-8pm, Friday. 11am-8pm, Saturday.
