Mark and Lois Songer are living out their island dream after moving from Toledo, Ohio 12 years ago. “We came to Key West in 1987 for our honeymoon and fell in love with it,” says Lois Songer. “Our lives revolved around planning visits as often as possible and eventually moving here.” A big part of their planning, involved creating a source of income in Key West. Mark was working for Libbey Glass Company and was very interested in glass as a hobby. He learned to blow glass at the Toledo Museum of Art and they both enjoyed making glass beads. They started attending local jewelry shows to sell their handmade beads. “I became interested in other beads and learned how to make jewelry,” said Lois Songer. Demand for her jewelry took off and is sold through reps in Ohio.
After moving to Key West, Lois sold her Jewelry through local retailers. Mark worked remotely for Libbey Portugal and took a job at AIDS Help. Impossible Things Bead Emporium came out of the blue when the retail space became available. They designed a beautiful storefront that displays examples of their unique finished work. They have a glass bead making studio with a torch and kiln and a classroom where you can learn the craft. Strings of colorful beads line the walls and bead trays are stacked on every surface. There are hundreds of beads varying in size and composition from metals, glass, natural stones, pearls and crystals. They also sell charms and findings, like ear wires and every tool needed to make high-quality jewelry. Prices range from $3 a strand to $100’s based on material and rarity.
Impossible Things Bead Emporium offers classes for all. During season they have a regular class schedule but you can set up a class with a minimum of 3 people any time. “We do a lot of jewelry making parties for all occasions such as weddings; we drink wine and make jewelry,” says Songer. She teaches the wire and crimp method and helps with design. Everyone leaves with a bracelet or necklace and pair of earrings. “Our goal was to share the basics and always have unique beads most folks have never seen before, “says Songer. “This is where I’m supposed to be; some people were born at their homes and some have to find theirs, I’ve found mine.”
Impossible Things Bead Emporium is located at 531 Whitehead, across from the Court House. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. www.keywestbeadstore.com. Call 305-204-3500
by Susan Kochan
