About Us
A Story of Healing, Color, & Tiny Treasures
OUR MISSION
At Bead Box California, every bead, every color, and every design has a heartbeat. I started this journey because I believe in the healing magic of creativity. When life gets heavy, I find solace in beading.. a practice that has carried me from personal darkness into a realm of passion and light. My mission is to share that joy with you: to spark happy memories, provide rejuvenating "me time," and invite you to create beauty by your own hands.
OUR STORIES
My roots begin in Japan, where I was born and raised. My life took an unexpected, yet beautiful, turn when I married my husband from California. Although our beginnings were in Japan, our hearts knew no boundaries, and our journey led us to embrace the colorful spirit of Los Angeles. I discovered my love for beading during a challenging time in my life.. when I was mentally ill, my mother introduced me to the art of beading. Even then, she knew my heart had always been drawn to art and crafts. It wasn’t long before my mom began selling my jewelry at our family bakery, and that moment when a customer’s joy lit up my world set me on a lifelong path of passion and creativity.
Cultural Roots & California Colors
My Japanese heritage is a quiet undercurrent in every piece I create, a gentle reminder of a tradition where every detail matters. Yet, arriving in California was like stepping into a vivid painting: skies more blue, colors more vibrant, and a sense of freedom in every bright hue. I blend the refined, meticulous art of my heritage with the energetic, sun-kissed lifestyle of California. This fusion influences not only the designs of my DIY kits and jewelry but also the way I view life a beautiful mix of calm tradition and lively innovation.
The Messy Reality
Not every chapter of my story is wrapped in perfection. I once tucked away my beading supplies for 14 long years, locked deep inside a closet because beads were seen as a cooking hazard while raising my three daughters and homeschooling them. Life was busy, and sometimes messy. But one heartfelt moment changed everything.. A bracelet made for a friend’s birthday ignited a spark of passion I thought had long been dimmed. Even in moments of vulnerability, whether during a panic attack or while navigating the challenges of everyday life, beading became my sanctuary. It’s a reminder that even in the mess, there is beauty and healing.
Workshops & Community
For me, the true magic of beading lies in the connection it fosters. I dream of creating spaces where people come together not just to create jewelry, but to share stories, laughter, and healing moments. I’ve already experienced this magic during a mini workshop at a local church, where one participant’s delight led her to invite me for another session. Now, I have been offered the opportunity to lead a workshop for survivors of the Eaton fire in Altadena. I long for these gatherings to be more than lessons in beading, but soulful experiences that mend hearts and strengthen bonds.
Our Philosophy
My creative process is a loving ritual. I carve out a cozy sanctuary in my workspace every day, a place filled with my favorite hot drink, a fuzzy blanket, and a soothing aroma that fills the air with calm. It is in these precious moments, free from the rush of daily life, that I reconnect with myself. I design my kits to be affordable, using hypoallergenic materials and gemstones known for their healing properties. Whether you’re crafting alone or with loved ones, I want every moment spent beading to be a celebration of self-care, connection, and the joy of making something uniquely yours.
Join the Circle
I invite you to step into the circle of Bead Box California, a place where every kit is crafted with love and every creation is a memory in the making. From the spark of inspiration found in the everyday colors around us to the personal joy of creating something beautiful, this is more than a business. It’s a heartfelt invitation to share in the wonder of beading. Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment of creativity or a shared experience with family and friends, let these DIY kits be your pathway to rejuvenation and lasting bonds. Join us, and let’s create joy together.
I purchased three items and this one is the first accessory for my son who is in a middle school. I wasn't sure how he would like it but he really LOVES it. Shipping was very fast as well. > Kei