Our History

The Bead Hive began a little over 8 years ago as an outlet for the passions of four avid beaders.  The small venture found space at Bittersweet Farm - a craft village that had been a Branford landmark for many years.  This quickly became a haven for local bead seekers and somewhat of a 'club-house' where beaders could gather and trade ideas and techniques.  After about 2 years at this location, the property was sold and the Bead Hive needed to re-evaluate their position and decide the future.

The partners decided to venture out into Guilford and found the ideal location at 115 State Street.  Around the same time, various life circumstances emerged that reduced the partnership to three of the original founders.  New plans were initiated and it was determined that The Bead Hive would become noted as a source for an incomparable variety of glass beads.  This has held true as anyone browsing can readily see.  However, this by no means overshadows the array of semi-precious stones, seed beads, or findings that fill every imaginable space.  Each partner has a specialty that is reflected in the stock that abounds in the shop.  Classes, Beading-Bees, and participation in local and regional events keep the partners and the shop in tune with current trends.  This, along with the desire to spread the love of beading and beads, is at the heart of all The Bead Hive ventures.

In 2008 the New Haven and Guilford stores were combined into a new location at 1250 Boston Post Rd, in Guilford.

The web-site is the most recent attempt to bring The Bead Hive closer to our loyal customers and students. We want it to be an interactive forum and we welcome your input whatever it may be.  Thank you for your loyalty and interest.