Impactful Women of the 918: Susanne Barnard

For 35 years, Susanne Barnard has been helping people buy all types of beads, findings, cord and everything necessary to fashion their own creations, whether at home or at The Bead Merchant on South Harvard Ave.

Barnard loves the connections she’s made over the years. “I have gotten to know so many people, and see them through different stages of their lives,” she says. “I love that. It just makes those connections really sweet and rich.”

She calls the shop a “third space” where people from different backgrounds can share ideas, learn new skills and create something beautiful.

Looking back at the span of time she has been a business-owner, Barnard says that Tulsa is finally realizing how cool it really is. “I feel like we have our own unique personality. Tulsa is a really amazing place to live right now. There is so much talent here. I’m super proud to call myself a Tulsan.”

She, her husband and friends particularly enjoy the music scene. “Check out the Colony, Thelma’s Peach and The Mercury for live music any day of the week.”

Barnard also has a long list of favorite places to grab a bite: Chimera, Tina’s, Oren, Cow and Cabbage, Pure Café, The Vault, El Seme – all fresh and local.

“The Circle Cinema is also amazing!” she says. And don’t forget First Fridays.

If you’re catching a theme here, it’s all about keeping it in the community. “Let’s keep shopping local and keep up the good work, Tulsa!” Barnard says.

Barnard continues to create community with the next generation. She says that kids who had birthday parties at The Bead Merchant are now bringing their own kids for birthday parties.

“We had eight second-generation parties here last year,” Barnard says. “It’s about the sweetest way to be told you’re getting old!”