MegaBead Store
I was introduced to MegaBeadStore a few months ago via eBay.along with their online store, they have a strong presence on the online auction site. I was pleased with my purchase via eBay and left positive feedback. When I wanted to reorder some toggles I'd gotten, I decided to check out their online store AND eBay to see if there was a difference!
MegaBeadStore is chock full of Vermeil, Bali, and Swarovski beads as well as various findings in sterling, vermeil and Bali. Prices on beads are reasonable, and are discounted for dollar volume. MegaBeadStore accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express as well as PayPal payments through a secure web site. In comparing the prices at the store front to eBay, I found no difference in the cost of the beads or findings. However, ordering through the web site does provide you with the ability to chose FREE SHIPPING (US orders only, via USPS). eBay auctions will cost you for shipping.
When selecting items, it appears that the inventory is "real time" - (i.e., if only 5 dozen of a color of Swarovski beads are available, the pick list only goes up to 5). Good for planning if I don't want to have back orders, and I would hope it's kept very up-to-date. Overall, the web site is very easy to navigate, has good, clean photos and descriptions.
Outside of the good selection of beads and findings, there's little fluff on the MegaBeadStore site. A very small gallery (two pieces at time of this article) and project instructions (one project) section are about it.
I am pleased with the quality of the products from MegaBeadStore, but what really set them apart in my book is the incredibly fast service and excellent communication. After signing up for an account (which means I don't have to re-enter my shipping information every time I visit the store), and ordering my toggles, I received 5 emails confirming my sign up, my order, and the shipping of my products. Overkill? Not in my eyes. I like to know without a doubt where I stand with a retailer! In addition, I placed my order on a Saturday morning.lo and behold, my toggles were in my hands on Monday afternoon! The toggles were packed professionally and with care, which is also important to me.
Bottom line, I'd highly recommend MegaBeadStore for your precious metal bead and finding needs. Use the online store versus the eBay seller to increase value through free shipping!
