A Chain Reaction

Where Creativity Meets The Classroom

Amanda Carroll is educating both in and out of the classroom. When she isn’t discussing fractions and states of matter with her fun-loving third graders at Pageland Elementary School, she’s building a brand for her side hustle, A Chain Reaction. Amanda has discovered her creative playground of merging customary, everyday items with bright and bold beads!

Amanda graduated from Francis Marion University with a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and later received her master's degree from Coker University. Since then she has had the privilege of teaching in both North and South Carolina. “Making connections with students and showing them that I care is always my first priority,” says Amanda. “When students know you care about them, they want to do their best. This has been something I’ve tried to apply each year as a teacher. I love seeing my students blossom and become independent learners.”

When outside of the classroom, Amanda focuses on creating new, colorful items for her growing customer base. She explains how she got started, “A few years ago, I really got into painting. I’ve always enjoyed creating and felt like this was a good avenue to begin expressing that outlet. However, I quickly realized it wasn’t exactly what I wanted to do.” After diving into research on other projects, Amanda saw someone creating with silicone beads. “I thought, ‘Man, that looks like fun!’” After watching several videos and finding the perfect silicone bead suppliers, she showed her husband and he agreed that it was something she should go for. “From there, it kind of quickly became a fun way for my husband Justin and I to spend time together.”

What began as a trial and error process, quickly transitioned into sell-out products. “I originally created keychains, then pens. From there we started making lanyards, badge reels, mini keychains, mirror hangers, and more,” says Amanda. “I have a bead board where I put my ideas before stringing them together. I try to think of ways I can put prints together to make them pop and grab attention while also incorporating more neutrals so that I have something for everyone.” Amanda and Justin also encourage customers to express their ideas so they can help bring them to life.

Amanda’s unique twist on a traditional pen is a customer favorite! “There are so many endless possibilities for pens,” says Amanda. “There are more beads than I could ever have imagined. When I saw the bead suppliers offered pens to bead, I knew I had to try them!” Amanda’s beaded pens are a versatile piece that adds a bit of flare to your stationery. They also make a wonderful gift for teachers, coworkers, family, friends… really everyone!

In January of 2023, Amanda and Justin welcomed customers into their new storefront located in downtown Jefferson, South Carolina. “Being able to have my own place feels wonderful. I love that I can come to the shop and create what I want. I also love that I have a place to store everything,” she says. “My favorite part about having a storefront is being able to meet so many people who have purchased from us. I love seeing people walking around with items we’ve created!”

In addition to creating unique products, Amanda and Justin also offer “Sip and Create” events. During this time, customers can choose their favorite beads and are taught how to make their own creations. Readers can follow their Facebook page to learn about upcoming events!

As Amanda enters her tenth year in the classroom, she looks forward to greeting new students that will surely make for another memorable year! She is also eager to discover new products she can add to her store. Drop by A Chain Reaction to find the perfect gift for yourself or a friend!