🌞 Retired, Re‑Inspired & Loving Every Minute

Hi, I’m Paula — the designer and maker behind SunshineBeads. I’ve been creating jewelry since 1999, all while spending more than 30 years as a foster parent. In 2021, I retired, packed up life in Ontario, and moved to Edmonton, Alberta… only to discover just how cold Alberta winters can be. So now I follow the sunshine and spend my winters in Nevada, living the snowbird life and loving it.

When we sold everything, I thought I was closing the jewelry chapter for good. But creativity doesn’t retire — it taps you on the shoulder and says, “We’re not done yet.” Before long, I found myself right back where I belong: making jewelry, learning new techniques, and falling in love with the craft all over again.

A New Chapter in Silver & Creativity

Today, my passion has grown into something even richer. Alongside my original jewelry skills, I’ve added:

• Silversmithing — shaping, soldering, and creating pieces with intention

• Fine silver clay (.999) — sculpting pure silver from clay and firing it into beautiful, wearable art

• Chainmaille — weaving intricate patterns that feel both timeless and modern

• Glass cabochons — exploring color, depth, and light while learning how to fire glass and create luminous, one‑of‑a‑kind pieces,

  A blend of old and new techniques that let me create jewelry with heart, texture, and personality

Retirement has become a time of discovery, learning, and pure joy — and I couldn’t be happier.

Thank You for Being Here

I hope you enjoy exploring my shop as much as I enjoy creating for it. If you ever have questions or want to chat about a piece, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to connect.