Allysa
owner and founder of
2 Bead or Not 2 Bead

I have been on quite a creative flow and have started getting serious about beading. It is something I never thought I would have an interest in. So naturally, I have also been going to various bead shops to find out more about what they have to offer and how to make certain pieces.

I drove to Albany, NY and had the most remarkable experience. Have you ever met someone who, in a short period of time, made a huge impact on your life? Allysa did that for me.

Read her story!

Once you read Allysa's story you will feel as inspired as I have been.

She truly knows about the Energy of Love!

"I'd like to introduce myself. My name is Alyssa M. Gorevich and I am founder and owner of 2 Bead or not 2 Bead. 2 Bead or not 2 Bead is a marriage between my great love of beads and my desire to prove that I have, and will continue to, overcome my disability. Many people are shocked to find out that I am a jewelry designer, though I do not have hands. Persistence and attention to detail allow me to make intricate beaded designs.

At the age of 16, this love was born when a friend introduced me to "beading". I was immediately hooked! I am unsure whether my attraction is jewelry-making or "beadaholic syndrome" but I suspect the latter. In either case, this fascination brought me to the web. I am glad to share this passion and to be a part of this great revolution. You see, for me, getting from place to place has always been a challenge. The internet age allows me, and others like me, to enjoy life from the comforts of home. Because I had always been frustrated by the bead retail industries' insistence upon large quantities, it has become my passion to provide quality beads and findings in small affordable amounts.

Although I was born missing all four limbs from my knees and elbows, I have never allowed it to slow me down. As an infant, I walked and later ran on artificial legs when doctors said it was impossible. As I grew older, the artificial limbs proved too cumbersome, and, oddly enough, too limiting. People now call me "Zip", because I can nearly outrun anyone with my speedy electric wheelchair. Many of you who are already my customers, know that my disability does not limit your customer service. My reputation for speed has carried over into 2 Bead or not 2 Bead. I take great pride in offering you the very fastest order processing available.

Throughout my life, my strong will to succeed has been well noticed by the national media. Stories were written about me in such distinguished publications such as "The New York Times" and "Daily News". When I was 12, I was featured on a prime-time National television show made for CBS called "Alyssa's World". Since then I have won numerous awards through volunteer work and community service. Now, I wish to share my cumulative experiences and creative ability with the beading community. I have received national recognition because I overcame a disability through persistence and a strong desire to succeed. Now I believe that the effort I put into 2 Bead or not 2 Bead will soon earn world-wide respect as well.
Through life struggles I have learned what it takes to succeed, and more importantly, what it takes to make you, my customer and friend, pleased. Please take the time to write us or call if you have a question or concern. Perhaps you need an item shipped more quickly. Perhaps you have a need for an item that I do not have on my website. Whatever may be the case, my staff and I are here to help!

This is a great time in my life. Not only has 2 Bead or not 2 Bead been growing by leaps and bounds since it's inception in 1999; I have also just been married. My husband, John, and I live in our first home in Albany, NY with our beloved cats, Lancelot and Rudy."