Celebrating 8 Years of Pretty Pineapple Bead: A Journey of Color, Confidence, and Creativity
Wow, it’s hard to believe that Pretty Pineapple Bead has been around for eight whole years! What started as a creative outlet to decompress from my retail management job has grown into something that I’m so proud of today. This post is dedicated to the journey—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
It’s been a wild ride, and I’m so grateful to each and every one of you who’s been part of it along the way. Whether you’ve been here since day one or just discovered Pretty Pineapple Bead recently, thank you for being part of this colorful community. 💛
The Spark That Started It All
Back in 2017, I was working full-time in a management position at a retail store. While my days were full of challenges, I found peace and joy in doing arts and crafts in my free time. Creativity has always been a huge part of my life, thanks to both my mom and grandfather, who inspired me to embrace making things with my hands.
But back then, it wasn’t about making sales—it was just about creating to unwind. I started with bracelets, and the very first design I ever made, the Tribal Sun Bracelet, is still one of my best-sellers to this day. I guess you could say that bracelet has been with me through the entire journey.
The Early Days: From Dreams to Reality
At first, my vision for Pretty Pineapple Bead wasn’t much more than just a creative outlet. I wanted to share my love of making things with others, but I had no idea where it would lead. I also knew I wanted a name that felt welcoming and warm—something that would make people feel like they were a part of something special. Pineapples are symbols of hospitality, and I wanted everyone who came across my brand to feel welcome, beautiful, and confident.
As time went on, I started to realize that confidence and color were at the heart of what I was doing. When I wore the jewelry I created, I felt confident and put together—and I wanted other women to experience that same feeling. Fast forward to today, and Pretty Pineapple Bead is about so much more than jewelry. It’s about empowering women to express their unique, colorful, joyful selves through the pieces they wear.
The Bumpy Road to Success
When I first started Pretty Pineapple Bead, I didn’t make any sales for the first two years. I was learning, experimenting, and building inventory. Then, in late 2019, I did my very first craft shows—and honestly, I’ll never forget that feeling. I cried tears of joy on the way home from my first event. It felt like my dream was actually coming true. But then, COVID hit, and all the craft shows shut down. I had to pivot quickly and start focusing on my website—which has been an ongoing, never-ending process ever since.
My biggest challenge? Photography. I always wanted professional-looking visuals for my products, but I couldn’t afford professional photography. So, I started learning and improving my own skills. Even though it’s not perfect, I pour my heart into every photo.
Milestones and Proud Moments
Over the past 8 years, I’ve shipped products to 16 states. And I just hit 1,000 lifetime orders—which is a major milestone for us today on our 8th anniversary! For context, it took me four years to hit my first 100 orders. 🎉
One of my proudest achievements has been the success of my DIY Bead Bar. Offering it at summer markets was a game-changer for my business, and it’s been so rewarding to see so many of you enjoying the creative process. In fact, my DIY Bead Bar Parties have really taken off, and I’m now booking parties regularly in the Twin Cities. I’m on track to book two parties per month and bring color and confidence to more people than ever before.
The Evolution of Pretty Pineapple Bead
When I started out, most of my designs were mostly one-of-a-kind pieces. But as time went on, I realized I wanted to offer more cohesive collections. I wanted to be known for my colorful jewelry that brings joy, and today I’m proud to offer rainbow-inspired designs in each piece. Each design now comes in a variety of colors, from the classic blues and pinks to more daring shades like orange and green.
A New Chapter: Going Full-Time
Though I officially went full-time in 2021, it wasn’t until recently that I truly felt ready—and supported—enough to dive back into it with full force. My mental health journey, a period of grief from losing a few family members, and a few personal hurdles made my first full-time stint a tough one. But today, I’m healthier, happier, and more confident than ever about where I’m headed.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Pretty Pineapple Bead
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing my business and reaching more women who want to express their unique selves through colorful accessories. I plan to expand my DIY Bead Bar Parties and keep offering confidence-boosting jewelry that empowers women of all ages.
In the next year, I’m hoping to ship to all 50 states (currently 16 down!) and continue building an online presence that’s as vibrant as my jewelry.
Goals & Dreams
My current goals include:
- Booking at least two DIY Bead Bar Parties per month
- Improving my website and product photography
- Continuing to increase online sales so that I can rely less on markets
- Reaching more women outside of my local area with my colorful jewelry
- Shipping to all 50 states! (16 down, 34 to go!)
Celebrating 8 Years with a Special Sale
In honor of Pretty Pineapple Bead’s 8th anniversary, I’m celebrating with a special annual anniversary sale—25% off site-wide (excluding gift cards and DIY parties). The sale runs from July 7th through July 9th, so don’t miss out on the chance to grab your favorite colorful pieces!
Thank You, From the Bottom of My Heart
None of this would be possible without you—my incredible community. Whether you’ve supported me by purchasing my jewelry, stopping by my booth at events, sharing my posts, or just cheering me on from the sidelines, you are the reason Pretty Pineapple Bead has come this far. I am beyond grateful for your love and support, and I can’t wait to see where this colorful journey takes us next.
Ready to celebrate with us? Don’t forget to check out the anniversary sale before it ends on July 9th!