Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DOES PRICING WORK?

My pricing reflects the time, skill, and materials that go into each piece, grounded in over four years of beading experience. Every item is handmade with intention and no two pieces are ever exactly the same.

I deeply appreciate my customers and community for recognizing that beadwork is not just adornment — it’s a form of cultural expression and luxury. Your support helps sustain this practice with integrity and care.

For too long, Native art has been dismissed as cheap or unskilled, undermining our culture, history, and ancestors. By charging equitable prices, we are reclaiming the value of our labor, uplifting each other as Native artists, and sustaining our creative practices for future generations.

DO YOU OFFER REPAIRS?

I pride myself on creating quality beadwork, and I hope that with proper care, you’ll never need to read this disclaimer. But if you find yourself here, I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.

I’m happy to accept repair requests, but please keep in mind some supplies may no longer be available. Your first repair is free, though I ask that you cover the cost of shipping your item to me for repairs. Any additional repairs will be a flat fee of $30.00. I’ll do my best to accommodate your request :)

To request a repair please use the contact form.

DO YOU OFFER CUSTOM ORDERS?

Custom pieces are offered at the artist’s discretion. Full payment is required upfront to begin your order. If you need to arrange a two-part payment plan, please reach out to Ellissa to discuss options.

Please allow up to 4 weeks for completion. We appreciate your patience and support of slow, intentional art-making.

CAN ANYONE WEAR BEADWORK?

Yes! My beadwork is created with traditional values and deep care, but it is not regalia—so it can be worn and appreciated by anyone. If a piece is specifically intended for Native relatives or for cultural use, that will be clearly noted in the item description.

I ask that all customers wear their Ihoo Taloowa pieces with respect and understanding of the cultural roots they come from.

RETURN AND SHIPPING POLICY

Thank you for choosing Ihoo Taloowa Beads — I am honored to share my work with you.

Once your order has been shipped and a tracking number has been provided, I am no longer responsible for the package. Please make sure your shipping information is accurate at checkout.

All sales are final. Due to the nature of handmade beadwork, I do not accept returns or exchanges. I appreciate your understanding and support of small-scale, intentional artistry.

HOW DO I PRONOUNCE ‘IHOO TALOOWA’?

Ihoo Taloowa means “Singing Woman” in Chikashshanompa’ (the Chickasaw language). It’s pronounced:
ee-ho tah-lo-wah

I am proud to carry a name that honors language and carries the story of my first passion, music.

Do you offer consultations, workshops, or cultural presentations?

Yes! I am available for consultations, workshops, speaking engagements, and cultural presentations. My work centers Indigenous knowledge, cultural arts, and land stewardship — with offerings that may include:

  • Native American beadwork: history, significance, and design

  • Indigenous-led community gardening and land-based healing

  • Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), seed sovereignty, and herbalism

  • Culturally grounded education

  • Ethical representation of Native artists and artwork

  • Creative entrepreneurship as a Native maker

Rates are based on the type of group and scope of the session:

  • $200–$300/hour — Grassroots orgs, Native-led groups, public schools

  • $350–$500/hour — Universities, museums, large nonprofits

  • $500+/hour — Corporate consulting or specialized advising

Rates may vary for travel, group size, or extended sessions.
If cost is a barrier, a sliding scale is available.
Please inquire through the contact form.