• Waistbeads are body adornments that originated in ancient West Africa
• Waistbeads are worn anywhere between the true waistline or down to the hip
• The placement of a waistbead is based on intention and/or personal preference

Waistbeads are for everyone, though some may hold more limited views. We welcome all who approach with an open mind and a deep respect for the culture and traditions they represent.

Absolutely not. We offer two base sizes:

• Size One strands are 48 inches long, which typically fits up to 3x or size 22 in pants
• Size Two strands are 60 inches long, which typically fits up to 5x or size 34 in pants.

Please measure your waist before purchasing to ensure accuracy. If you need more than 60 inches, please let us know by entering your exact waist measurement in the comment section in the cart.

In the spirit of inclusion, we've tried to steer clear of the terms 'plus size', 'straight size', 'regular size', or 'standard size'--the sizes and shapes of our bodies vary for many reasons, sometimes outside of our control. All body shapes and sizes are welcome here!

We've witnessed debates and often critical feedback of wearing waistbeads as a Christian, but it is often personal opinions presented as "instructions" or "rules." TL;DR, it's between you and God.

We offer a couple considerations below:

#1: We do not praise or give glory to waistbeads. Our waistbeads are not some magical talisman that we believe will "do something" for you just for wearing it. In short, it is not idolatry or witchcraft unless the wearer or seller intends and practices it as such. BERRIESEED has no affiliation with either of those practices. If it is something you have a spiritual conviction against, we encourage you to do as you feel led. We extend you well wishes on your journey regardless of your decision. 🩵

#2: We have witnessed comments stating that "Christians shouldn't associate with crystals or gemstones." Our response points back to our previous response in #1 above, as well as the information below.

Precious stones and gemstones are actually in the Bible. A few example passages are below:

• Exodus 28: 15-21
• Isaiah 54: 11-12
• I Chronicles 29:2
• Revelation 4:3
• Revelation 21:11
• Revelation 21:18-21

The decision rests on your personal convictions, intentions, and relationship with God.

No, waistbeads are not demonic. They’re essentially a cultural necklace for your waist. Just as a necklace isn’t inherently demonic, waistbeads aren’t either. That said, anything can be used in any way — good or bad. It’s important to understand the source and the intent behind anything you consume or purchase.

Uses for waistbeads include but are not limited to:

• Weight management
• Tactile reminders for specific or personal goals
• Body awareness: e.g. aiding with body dysmorphia or reactions to certain foods
• Reconnecting with oneself: e.g. encouraging self-love or celebrating the skin you're in
• Sensuality or intimacy
• Rites of passage or tracking growth in newborns and children
• Did you know: our founder has six permanent abdomen scars from surgery; multiple waistbeads currently adorn those scars as a reminder of faith, healing, and facing fears head-on

Traditionally, waistbeads were not removed once tied onto the body. Our waistbeads follow this practice: they are intended to be permanent until either you decide to remove them, they fall off due to weight loss (if that is the goal), or if a child's growth requires removal for their comfort.

We do not attach clasps to our strands. They are crafted with two anchor beads which are manually removed during installation.

If removable beads are your preference, we encourage researching brands that specialize in those. We're here when you're ready to give the centuries old tried-and-true tradition a try!

No. We do not force our personal beliefs onto any of our products.

Although our strands may 'represent' certain ideals--which will always be listed in their individual descriptions--everything is left to the freedom of our customers for their goals and beliefs.

We process all orders within 5-7 business days and initiate the shipping process during that timeframe. Please allow up to 10-12 business days to receive your order.

We ship with USPS Ground Advantage, which includes a $100 insurance policy they include with each package. If your order is lost or damaged during transit, please contact the mail carrier directly and file a claim online following the instructions on their website.

We are not responsible for shipping-related issues once the package is in their possession.

You are welcome to email us at hello@berrieseed.com for support.

We do not accept returns or exchanges due to the personal and handcrafted nature of our products.

All sales are final.

We understand that extenuating circumstances may arise, and in such cases, please reach out to us directly at hello@berrieseed.com, and we will review your situation on a case-by-case basis.

Please review our "Meet the Owner" page for a few details!

As a Black/African-American owned and operated company, we are part of the African diaspora.

While we may not currently know the specific details of our ancestral African origins, we have a deep respect for the rich cultural heritage that connects us to the collective.

Historically, glass beads were used as one of the forms of currency utilized during the transatlantic slave trade, to which our personal ancestry is directly tied. These beads now symbolize the strength and resilience of those great-great-greats who paved the way for us. The waistbeads we create, which are made primarily with glass beads, are a way of honoring and bringing a piece of our history full circle. We stand on the proverbial shoulders of our ancestors.

Our founder's parents' names are Barry and Sherrie. A testament to the fruit of their labor, we represent their wildest dreams: purpose, faith, healing, and success.

Our main logo connects the letters B and S as a visual homage to their union - physically disconnected by Barry's passing in 2020, but eternally connected through memory.

Although Barry's passing prevented him from seeing our company come into fruition five years later, we carry his torch of quiet confidence and determined resilience, just like he taught us.

We are joyful that our dear Mother is able to bear witness to our entrepreneurial journey.

We thank God for them both daily.