Help Ensure Beads of Paradise NYC Makes It To 40 (& Beyond!)

Brian Kenner is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Hello to our wonderful friends and family! We know times are difficult for everyone right now in our uncertain world, and we cherish being the colorful, vibrant, safe space you can come to again and again.

Unfortunately, times are also difficult for small businesses, including our own and we could use your help in order to ensure our ability to keep our doors open. For 39 years we’ve been honored to be a part of the important moments of your life, and we have every hope of continuing to be that little wonderland in your life for a long, long time.

To watch some wonderful short videos about our store on vimeo, please click here

Since the beginning of 2025, our business has been affected by a significant drop in income. The uncertainty of these times, and a substantial drop in day to day business has forced us to consider if being one of the last brick and mortar Cultural Bead Stores in Manhattan is still sustainable.

We have taken Loans to help pay our Rent and reduce our Debts, but despite the generosity of our Landlords and trying to get the best terms on any borrowed funds, we have fallen very far behind.

After 39 Years in Business, any donations or purchases in-store or online at https://www.beadsofparadisenyc.com would be very deeply and gratefully appreciated to keep this landmark business open and continuing to thrive.

The alternative of us closing our doors at 16 East 17th Street forever is unfathomable and will have a devastating effect on our neighborhood culture and quality of life. Even past our Flatiron Neighborhood, on the value of visiting New York City as a Capital of Cultural Expression and Awareness.

After much thought and many of our regulars reaching out to us about how they can help keep Beads of Paradise NYC alive flourishing, we have decided to set up Go-Fund-Me page. Please donate whatever amount you can feel you can spare. Please help us stay alive and serving our Community of 39 years worth of Friends, Patrons, Saints, and Family.

With your help, Beads of Paradise NYC Team will benefit from:

- a stable and secure workspace for 13 Employees

- any Funds will be used for Back Rent to prevent Eviction from our 16 East 17th Street home of 26 years.

We are hoping Go Fund Me can help make up some of the dire shortfalls in walk in neighborhood traffic, as well as a severe reduction in our Traveler Clientele we are experiencing.

Any Donations received will: FIRST: try to reconcile with our overdue back Rent with our Landlords. SECOND:, to pay outstanding Operating Debts that we have been unable to repay. THIRD: reduce the Credit Card debt we have incurred to fund Payroll, as well merchant fees that we are unable to suspend or cease during this crisis.

Any donation or purchase you feel might be possible for you will make a huge difference for Beads of Paradise NYC to stay open and operating for hopefully years to come.