We have had several couples order a matching set of mala beads to use during their ceremony and as a special gift to themselves.
Tell us about yourself and what you do
My company Japa Mala Beads has been making and importing Buddhist and Hindu prayer beads since 2004. We have over 100 designs available on our site and introduce a dozen or so new malas each spring and autumn. We primarily sell retail on our website but we also offer wholesale mala beads. We also carry altar sets, mala bags and mala boxes and we ship globally.
How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The inspiration to start Japa Mala Beads happened when a set of mala beads I had broke. When I started searching for a new mala I was disappointed in what I could find locally and on the internet, so I decided to make my own.
What does your work entail?
I manage the entire company but my favorite task is seeking out new gemstone beads and designing the new malas.
Would mala beads make a good gift for a wedding?
We have had several couples order a matching set of mala beads to use during their ceremony and as a special gift to themselves. Gifting some mala beads as a wedding gift is a really personal gift for a couple who both enjoy yoga and meditation.
What are the trends this year when it comes to mala beads?
Mala beads continue to be a trendy look for fashion, especially in the yoga and meditation crowd. The matte finished beads are definitely trending in the beaded jewelry industry and most of our new mala designs incorporate these beads. We have been very successful with combining gemstone beads with unique wood beads and silver or brass spacers.
Any advice for someone looking for prayer beads?
If you are shopping for a pair of mala beads for a couple then it will be most important to find a set that works for both couples yet still matches to celebrate their union. Wrist malas are a great choice and they can easily be matched by size and color. If you are shopping for yourself consider your intentions and goals for your meditation practice as well as the style, color and design that is attractive to you. We have a vast number of gemstones available so it is easy to match up your personal intention with the spiritual and physical qualities of the gemstone mala.
