This friendly, simply set-up storefront is itself a gem; it goes for quality over quantity, and its staff is outstanding in service and creativity.
I'm from Montreal and while I've seen bead places with more flash and stock, I'd go out of my way to return to Bead Heaven in Toronto because of the incredible service I received in December 2010. Owners and staff are friendly, non-pushy, quietly knowledgeable and available, and allow clients to browse beads and findings and make up their minds. I came up with a basic design and collaborated with staffer Karen to design a gorgeous necklace that she put together for next-day pickup. I'll admit I was slightly doubtful of a process that didn't include me in its assembly, but her work completely exceeded my expectations and is gorgeous, and I get constant compliments on it. While there to pick up my item I created earrings to match with the help of a co-owner, and also saw other clients creating or picking up equally gorgeous creations. Bead Heaven is dedicated to helping clients create something beautiful, and I can't recommend them highly enough for someone looking for a positive experience in creating their own look, whether it's simple or sumptuous.
The only hitch was that as I was leaving town the next day, I wish staff had let me know before I got too committed to the creation process that they would not be able to complete assembly in-store while I was there, and would only have it ready the next day. But here's perfect customer service: they made my order a priority, set the early pickup time I needed, and called to let me know it was ready.
You should see my gorgeous necklace and earrings. :)