Truly enjoyed learning about waist beads history and symbolism. As a mom, my body hasn't felt the same and I was looking for something to remind myself of how beautiful my body is and hold my stomach back together after stretching/splitting. read more

Duafe Designs - Waist Beads by Ayodele - Waist beads for (pink) femininity, (turquoise) transformation and clarity (purple). - Jewelry Near Me - Oakland, California

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Ayodele is incredibly kind, helpful, and creative, and her space is beyond beautiful. If you have a chance to stop by, do it! I was recommended here by a couple friends, and will also be recommending her to others for waist beads and jewelry! read more

Duafe Designs - Waist Beads by Ayodele - Waist beads - Jewelry Near Me - Oakland, California

Ayodele is an amazing person, be prepared for a wonderful experience. Embrace your inner Queen! The shop is lovely, the vibe is on point, beautiful handmade beaded adornments, created with positive, loving intention. Glass beads, charms, crystals.... I will definitely be back! read more

Ayodele took the time to explain the significance, meaning, and process behind waistbeads. She helped me to find the perfect fit, placement, and color. I appreciate her so much. This was my first time purchasing waist beads and she made the entire experience so special and positive. read more

Duafe designs jewelry and Waist Beads by Ayodele is the truth! Today is my second time ever wearing these earrings and I received so many compliments-- from a 4 year old girl to a 70 year old woman. Check out the website because she ships too! Worth it. read more

Duafe Designs - Waist Beads by Ayodele - Cowrie Hoops (mediums) Available on the website and can be shipped. - Jewelry Near Me - Oakland, California

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So grateful to be sharing this review... I made a Friday afternoon appointment for a group of ladies & l to get beaded. There was plenty street parking in front. Walking through the doors I was greeted by great energy and a friendly smile. The vibrant waist beads draped down the wall all unique in their own way. Excitement filled our eyes as we explored which colors we were called to adorn ourselves with. She also carries bags, earrings, and other adornments. Ayodele was so knowledgeable and seemed passionate to share with all. Her attention to detail really shines in her space. There is a small lounge/seating area with books, water, and snacks. This is truly a safe space for women. I am looking forward to my next visit. read more

Duafe Designs - Waist Beads by Ayodele - Love thyself sign in the lounge area - Jewelry Near Me - Oakland, California

I love this shop so much. I come here every year in February in honor of an experience I went through during that time when I was younger. Ayodele is so kind and sweet. She's helps out so much and explains everything so well. She's has a wide variety of waist beads. She has so many that's it hard for me to stick to my limit of just three when I come. Her waist beads also last long. I have some for over two years and I only had 2 break so far but that is due to my own mistakes. I do know that she does repair them so I hope to come by and get mines fixed and even grab some new ones. I recommend her to everyone who asks me about my waist beads. read more

#blackownedbusiness #blackgirlmagic Ayodele has grown so much I just love her new space. My mother and I have stated to make this an annual event for our birthdays to adorn ourselves with a strand or two of her hand made waist beads. Ayodele fits them on to your waist to where the will and can complement anyone's waist. All of her items are hand made with love and it shows. read more

I had an wonderful experience at this business yesterday. When you first walk in, the shop itself is beautifully put together with tasteful art and beautiful plants. The owner is such a delightful and kind human. She took her time to explain the process of buying the waist beads, the spiritual connection and meaning of each strand. I cannot wait to return and bring all my friends. read more

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I had the most beautiful experience today at this shop! The owner, Ayodele, took the time to answer my questions and concerns over the phone prior; and on my visit to the shop she helped to guide me every step of the way. She showed me the selection, gave additional literature, and shared extensive knowledge on my choices. I was delighted to have her install my first set of waist beads, in addition to the bead purchase! From the ambiance, to the tea, and her expertise I had an unbelievable experience. I look forward to returning for more of the good vibes and beautiful waist beads. read more

I called earlier in the morning to verfy the shops hours. I saw on IG different hours. I went for it & went out to find the store. She opened the store back up for me. I was in awe of all her beatiful work. She explained were to start & gave me a clear understanding on how to choose my waiste bead. She was very gental & sanitary when she put on my beads. She never was judgemental of the shape of my body. She made me feel safe. The young lady who worked in shop was so nice also. I only got one piece. But I will be back. Thank you for seeing me tonight. Did I mention how afforable her pieces were also. Thank you. read more

Duafe Designs - Waist Beads by Ayodele - This is the piece that spoke to me. Pearl of Wisdom. (Photo from her website) - Jewelry Near Me - Oakland, California

You simply could wear any bead on a string... But wearing duafe is like adorning your body with art

Awesome educational experience! Beautiful options and quality beads! Loved every moment of my personalized experience. Don't think just be led! read more

Some of my sisters, daughters, nieces were WAISTED at Part 2 of my birthday celebration and it was a great way to end the year and a great way to start the year off #empoweredwomen #fearfullyandwonderfullymade #blackgirlmagic #confidentwomen @waistbeadsbyayodele was such a joy, her humble and peaceful demeanor was exactly what we needed THANK YOU BEAUTIFUL!! The word got out about how great it was and I'm hosting another one next month!!! Everyone loves their waist beads and some are ready to get WAISTED again!!! read more

I love my waist beads!!!! The shop is beautiful, the owner is super sweet and knowledgeable. The beads are not only beautiful but good quality. I will be back!! read more

Yes yes yes to this place!!!! My friend and I brought our daughters here to learn about waist beads and body autonomy. This was an amazing experience for our girls. They got to pick out their beads and we helped them set their intentions. They loved every moment. The atmosphere is great and she did an amazing job a teaching our girls. I especially love that we were able to turn the left over beads into bracelets and anklets. We will be back! read more

Ayodele makes the most beautiful waist beads. Very high quality and long lasting materials. Additionally, the service she provides is top notch. She operates with integrity, she's super responsive and so kind. Another key factor is Ayodele is highly knowledgeable about the history and meaning of waist beads. She is a master expert - if you are looking for REAL AFRICAN WAIST BEADS, she is who you need to see. I have 3 beautiful waist beads and 3 ankle beads. She's the only person I trust for waist beads. I will be back for even more!! read more

Amazing service!!! Thank you so much for taking the time out to explain the different waist beads and what the colors meant. You had an amazing selection to pick from which made it hard for me to decide. Thank you for making me feel totally comfortable and I look forward to getting more waist beads soon!!!! read more

I am so pleased with my waist beads. This has surely been my best purchase of the year. They make me feel so secretly sensual and my husband loves them as well. Ayodele made me feel comfortable and was very knowable, answering my questions while elevating any concerns I may have had. I plan on booking her for a party when I get all my ladies together next year. read more

What a wonderful experience. Ayodele was very knowledgable and patient in helping me pick the perfect set of beads. I feel so empowered leaving her studio. Studio is in a cute area of berkley, clean with parking. Looking forward to my journey! Thank you read more

Awesome service,cute environment in Berkeley..Ayodele is super nice,educating,knowledgeable and great customer service.Beads range from $10-18,I got 6 for my waist,they sit right below your waist line which makes it perfect for them to be discreet..even when I wear tight jeans they seem to work comfortable fine!The bead rope is pretty long and if you like she can add the rest of the rope to your ankle..in which I did and it looks super cute..she has so many different color beads and colors that represent different meanings!! Ive had my beads for a month now and I am absolutely in love with them!! read more

What can I say? Keeper of the flame. Thank you for a wonderful experience that I would repeat without thinking. You are true to your name bringing joy with this gift. Asante. read more

This was the greatest experience getting my waist beads! The owner is so kind, helpful, and knowledgeable! A beautiful soul. I felt great after wearing my waist beads just 24 hours. I never thought I would keep them on long but now it has been months and I can't imagine not wearing them! I have even gotten more since my first time. Getting "waisted" with Duafe is a special experience that you won't soon forget. My daughter and I got to share this experience together and it is now an extra bond we have! All waist beads are not created equal so if you want a little history and meaning with your purchase you have to go with Duafe Designs. read more

I had the pleasure of meeting Ayodele yesteday at a party hosted by a friend. She was very informative about all her products. She worked very fast and as she beaded our waist, ankles and wrist in a reasonable amount of time while still being able to explain what each charm, color of the beads as well as the history of waist beads. I was very impressed and will working with her again very soon. read more

Ayodele is such an amazing person who is absolutely awesome at her craft! She was so kind and so knowledgeable about everything she is doing. Thank you Ayodele for doing such a great job of explaining the cultural meaning behind the waist beads I am so happy for the start of my collection and look forward to growing it with you in the future! read more

This woman is a sweet heart. I called Ayodele on a Saturday moring. while I was at Peet's chillin. I had been thinking about getting waist beads for a couple of months. The Ashby Flea Market in Berkeley was the only place I could think of that did waist beads. Then I remember I had a bad experience the last time I was there. Words for the wise if a waist beadier has a bad attitude or entertains, hires people who do then you might want to consider somebody else. Energy is transferable and if your are getting beads just for the look you should look again into the spiritual aspects of associating colors and beads around your waist. Especially for women who are child bearing age/ woman in general. The womb, stomach, and waist area is very scared. Ayodele is a patience, kind, and wise healer. She was so considerate in scheduling me and my daughter in for a early morning appointment. My daughter works morning on the weekends and we wanted to do it together. Ayodele got up extra early to meet us before my daughters job started. I found out she the night before she had a waist party but she was committed to us getting an appointment. She continued to communicate with me by phone and text for good time for us to meet .The location is in a industrial part of Berkeley kind of of out of the way in the cut. The actual studio is in a secure building and when she opens the door to her space it is light and welcoming. I felt like I was in a Skittles candy bin. It was a kaleidoscope of colors everywhere!!! She is amazing to work with and I would highly recommend her for parties or a private appointment. She is very professional and considerate. She is patience got right down to business. read more

I had a wonderful experience getting my first set of waist beads done by Ayodele! She had a wonderful personality and was very knowledgeable about the history of her art. Looking forward to getting more beads from her! read more

My first time at the boutique and I fell in love with all of the different colors and charms to select from and I want more. I we'll be back. See you soon. read more