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Where: In previous years, it was held at the Manning House Mansion. UPDATED LOCATION in 2009 and 2010: Doubletree Hotel, 445 S. Alvernon Way.
Exhibitors: According to To Bead True Blue, there will be approximately 500 exhibitors.
2009 update: Okay, be prepared to walk to the various vendor areas: the registration lobby holds several; upstairs to the left of the lobby yet others; back around to the Grand Ballroom are many more; outside in two covered tents are yet more. The show organizer has a printed map to help you. If you liked this show at the Manning House, you'll like it here and you'll recognize your favorite vendors. The only disappointing aspect of the show is that there aren't more people shopping the show!
(Anna Konya of Anna Konya Designs. If you're local and love Maya Palace, stop by this public show!)
What: [2008 review when this show was located at the Manning House, but will give a flavor of the vendors; Arizona Bead Dog will update after visiting the show.] This is a show where one can linger a long time, and still not feel that she saw everything. While the venue layout is maze-like and somewhat distracting because of that, the Mansion's charming, warm atmosphere more than makes up for it. And if you’re adventurous, the layout and atmosphere is an excuse to discover a delightful surprise around every corner. Moreover, unusual items can be found here: beautiful lampwork; lots of interesting clothes--linen, woven, and leather; findings; sterling silver (one vendor was selling for .89 per gram, and a Hill Tribe silver vendor was selling for .75 per gram); bead strands of natural stone, semi-precious, some vintage, and glass; several unique hat purveyors; dichroic glass; Venetian glass, fabric cord; metal clay; unique clasps; brass findings; tools; closeout bead strands; Afghan beads, rugs, seed beads, and many other beautiful finished jewelry and bead artisans. There's even a chocolatier and a start-your-own bead store vendor. So you can find innovative, one-of-a-kind giftables, beads, and findings here.
Tip: If you have an extra day, or extra half-day, this is a show to fit into your schedule.
Parking: The Doubletree Inn has an ample, paved lot that can fill up depending on the number of buyers attending.
(Some of the To Bead True Blue tents at the Doubletree.)
Food: Javelina Cantina and the Cactus Rose.
Restrooms: In the hotel.
2011 show
dates: Sunday, January 30th through Friday, February 4th. One of the shows open only 6 days, so plan accordingly.
Show hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. except for the last day, on which the hours are 9 a.m. to noon.
2009 Shuttle routes:
For additional information: www.tobeadtrueblue.com.
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