Encyclopedia Dubuque
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O'ROURKE, Amy
O'ROURKE, Amy. (Dubuque, IA-- ) Amy O’Rourke launched Bead and Board out of her Dubuque home during the PANDEMIC and then relocated to a new workshop at 2606 University Ave. The business sold a variety of home decor and jewelry, as well as some holiday-themed items. Inspiration came from her childhood experiences accompanying her mother and grandmother to farmers' markets, where the two women had a booth that sold afghans and Christmas ornaments. “I wish they could both be here now to see it,” she said. “They would love what I am doing.”
While O’Rourke has explored crafting for years, it was the pandemic that gave her the final push to turn her hobby into a full-time business venture. She previously worked as a paraprofessional at IRVING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL in Dubuque. It was her fear of the virus that finally convinced her she needed to be doing something else.
O’Rourke designed the signs, generally using computer software to experiment with different concepts and pinpoint the style that suited her clients’ needs. She then placed the design onto a wooden sign using a variety of techniques. She often painted the design onto the wood. Later she started using a laser that allowed her added versatility in her creations.
O’Rourke also crafted jewelry, crocheting the cord, making the beads and, in some cases, creating a pendant. She also made Christmas ornaments.
The products she made proved popular at local farmers markets, helping the company establish a following among customers in the tri-states. Sales on online platforms such as Etsy and Facebook helped bring the products to a national audience. The creation of a workshop promoted the business as did opening it up to walk-in customers letting them shop in person, pick up pre-made products, or view the selection of other offerings she created.
Beginning in the fall of 2022, Bead and Board began selling at the Galena (IL) Country Fair.
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Source:
1. Reese, Kayli, "Made in Tri-States: With Inspiration from Family, Dubuque Resident Launches New Business," bizTimes, February 22, 2022, Online: https://biztimes.biz/made-in-tri-states-with-inspiration-from-family-dubuque-resident-launches-new-business/