Beads & Baubles, Aiken

First of all, I'd like to say that I find it odd that all of the reviews are either extremely negative or extremely positive. I'd like to think that it's usually possible to find a little good in everything, but it seems as though those who have rated Beads and Baubles so poorly fail to recognize this. I am from Charlotte, NC and frequently visit my sister who resides in Aiken. I am an avid beader, and I must say I was skeptical when first approaching the store; we have had similar bead stores in Charlotte and other towns I have lived in but they all fizzled out because of poor service, stock, and atmosphere. I was pleasantly surprised--Beads and Baubles had none of these characteristics. Their staff was accommadating and friendly. If they did not know the answer to a question, they asked around until they found it. Once an employee made several phone calls for me! Their stock was plentiful--they have a wide variety of semiprecious gemstones, glass beads, tools, and books. There's even a table where they let you use their tools (and again, their staff is willing to help you in making whatever you want). For those yahoo! raters who were disappointed by all of the fashion jewelry, I'll say this: The store is not called Beads and Beads, but rather Beads and Baubles. The fashion jewelry is merely the "Baubles" in the store name. Call me crazy for respecting a store that actually has what it carries in it's title. Finally, I think the atmosphere and decor is the best part! Aiken is a historic town, and the building this bead store is in is historic--ask an employee and I'm sure they would tell you about it. Once again, Beads and Baubles is an excellent store. If you havn't been, stop reading Yahoo! reviews and go!!

Friendly place to shop in a great building. The staff is helpful and the selection is great. The most unique beads I know of. Plus I always get a couple pieces of fashion jewelry. WOW!!! I like it so well I make a day trip about once a month.

This is more of a costume jewelry store than a bead store. Very little selection of good quality stones. Lots of coated beads that aren't identified as such which could have caused me difficulty if I hadn't noticed it myself. Staff not helpful, totally ignored until I was ready to pay. I have asked for three months about classes and have been told that there are none scheduled at this time. However, I spoke with another customer and found out she was ATTENDING a wire class there approximately one week after I was told there were no classes being scheduled. This is disturbing because it shows poor business practices to only give classes to known customers. Doesn't seem to want to expand customer base.

This store is by far the best bead store in Aiken or the surrounding area. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and service oriented (although they do not smother or try to over-sell you). The store itself is a pleasing retreat, the stock is phenomenal, and it is an overall delight to visit. Aiken is lucky to have Beads & Baubles. Aside from a wide selection of beads and findings, there are other treasures for little gifts or just to pamper yourself.

I took a wire working class at this store and it was amazing and fun. All classes are held during the store's regular business hours so I can only assume the previous reviewer got their time mixed up. I recently found out that private lessons are also available at your convenience if there is something specific you want to learn. They are very accommodating. I moved to Aiken from NYC last year and once I found this store I was hooked. I�ve been going here for my supplies for many months now and you will not find a more knowledgeable and friendly staff. These people know their stuff, yet are not at all intimidating to talk to if you are new to jewelry making and have questions. They are wonderful to their customers, which is a huge part of what keeps me going back. They have a large selection of beads, gemstones, crystals and findings and some of the most beautiful and interesting art jewelry I have ever seen. Right now they�re running a 50% off sale of their entire stock of fashion jewelry. Can�t beat that. If you live in, or visit, Aiken this is the place to go. If you don�t live in Aiken it�s definitely worth the trip. I give Beads & Baubles the highest possible rating.

I was signed up to take a class i showed up 10 minutes early and shop was locked up with no note on window as to why. will not be back again.

It was quite by chance I stumbled across this little jewel of a store. Having been dissapointed with a previous store, I was somewhat dejected when I entered. Within a few moments all my trepidations were dispelled by the warm, relaxed and freindly atmosphere and the genuiness of the proprietor. Though I may not be back for some time (I live in Australia), if and when I do go back, I will be re-visiting it for sure.

Wow!! Beads & Baubles is a delite in every way!! The selection is wonderful and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. This lovely full service bead store also sells gifts including beautiful jewelry from several local artists. They also offer interesting classes that are very affordable, all within walking distance of the quaint restaurants and antique shops in Aiken. Highly recommended!!

I always visit Beads and Baubles when I'm in South Carolina. It's so much more than an ordinary bead shop. The jewelry they create and the beads they sell are works of art. The artists at Beads and Baubles made a fabulous necklace for me. It features crocheted gold wire and beautiful blue semi-precious stones. There's nothing else like it in the world and it is gorgeous! People stop me on the street to ask where I got it. The sales people are wonderful at this shop and the merchandise is so special and unique. Much better than any other bead shop! I love it!

This beadstore is really nice! It has many beads and supplies like and it has premade gifts aswell. It's very easy for people who are nervous about making their own peices, to get gifts for their family or friends. If you are in Aiken stop on by!