Cathy Tedesco: Lamia Felicita Bead Boutique, Plaistow.

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Beads have been an expression of creativity, beauty and wealth since mankind climbed down from trees. Cathy and her bead shop and studio La Mia Felicita have captured all of those ideals. Starting with the name, which means "My Happiness," she makes a statement for the passion she has for beading but also for spreading that happiness to her customers as they learn about making jewelry.

But the happiness Cathy shares goes far beyond her studio. She has created a program where customers can create a piece of jewelry then leave it at the shop so Cathy can donate it to Dress for Success, an organization supporting disadvantaged women by offering professional attire and career development. She also encourages her customers to help create beads that are donated to Beads for Courage, helping children cope with serious illness by using colorful beads as meaningful symbols of achievement during their treatment.

Cathy also donates her time and talent to such organizations as the N.H. Food Bank, Toys for Tots, N.H. SPCA as well as many other women's and children's charities.

Cathy's expression of happiness has touched so many others, so we have named her our 2008 Excellence in Retail winner.

About the awards

The NHBR Business Excellence Awards recognize small-business owners and operators of businesses with 100 employees or fewer in 14 different categories The Awards also induct members into its NHBR Business Excellence Hall of Fame, the individuals that have made a profound and lasting impact on New Hampshire's business community and the state with their many years of service and dedication. Nominations for the 2009 NHBR Business Excellence Awards will be accepted starting April 2009. Visit NHBR.Com and click on the NHBR Business Excellence Awards link for more information.