The Great Bead Extravaganza is a virtual event like no other! The idea emerged as two bead friends (Sara Oehler of Soft Flex Company and Andrew Thornton of Allegory Gallery) chatted about the events of 2020 and the loss of in-person bead shows and classes. Shows were always a whirlwind of activity and buzzing with excitement, showing the latest products and techniques, creating connections that lasted beyond the actual event. Since shows were not currently possible, why not try and bring companies and bead lovers together another way?

The idea grew as Sara and Andrew asked industry friends if they would like to join in on a virtual live stream event on Facebook. Each presenter would have a time slot to share whatever content they wished; demonstrations, merchandise, chat, or a bit of all three. A date and schedule was agreed upon, a Facebook page created, and everyone hoped people would show up to the party.

And they did!! The inaugural event, held over a three-day period in early November of 2020, was a success. Viewers worldwide watched 26 hours of LIVE streams on The Great Bead Extravaganza Facebook page, with seventeen different companies presenting. The jam-packed weekend was a marathon for both presents and viewers. What a ride it was!

And now the ride continues. At the post-show meeting all seventeen presenters and companies decided the weekend was a unique and exciting event and planning began for 2021 and beyond.

Stay connected to join in on the fun. Watch replays and LIVE broadcasts and future marathon events on The Great Bead Extravaganza Facebook page and follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and sign up for the newsletter.

Thanks for joining us and let’s get beading!