Game-Day Beads: Team Colors for Watch Parties and Tailgates

A string of beads is one of the easiest ways to dress a crowd in team colors. Nobody has to buy a new shirt. Nobody has to fit into anything. You hand a guest a strand at the door, and they are on the team.

This guide walks you through three things. First, how to match your team’s colors. Next, how to mix beads with boas and other fun pieces. Last, how to work out how many to get.

How do I match beads to my team’s colors?

Start with the two main colors your team wears. Most teams have one main color and one second color. Think purple and gold, black and gold, red and white, blue and orange, or green and yellow.

Then pick beads that come in those exact colors. Look at the color in good light if you can. “Gold” can mean a bright yellow-gold or a darker, shiny metal gold. “Blue” can mean navy or a light sky blue. Pick the shade that looks closest to the jersey.

Here are a few simple ways to use the colors:

One color per guest. Give half the room one color and half the other. It looks great in photos.
Both colors on every guest. Hand out two strands, one of each color, so everyone wears both.
Two-color strands. Some beads mix two colors on one strand. These save you a step.

If your team has a third color, such as white or silver, you can use it as an extra. A few white or silver strands mixed in can make the main colors stand out more.

What kind of beads work best for game day?

Plain round beads in solid colors are the easiest choice. They come in many colors and are light to wear for a long game.

For something a little special, look at fancier beads. Some have bigger shapes, or charms, or a shiny finish. These are nice for the host, the person who made the food, or the biggest fan in the room. You can browse those in the store’s specialty beads section.

Bead length matters too. Short strands sit close to the neck. Long strands hang down over a jersey and are easy to see across a room. The store has a bead sizing chart that shows the lengths side by side, so you can pick what fits your crowd.

Can I mix beads with boas and other fun pieces?

Yes, and it makes the party feel bigger. A feather boa in a team color is bright, soft, and easy to spot from across the yard. It is a fun piece for the host, for photos, or for anyone who wants to go all out.

Some ideas:

A boa for the host. It tells everyone who is running the show.
A photo corner. Leave boas and extra beads on a table by a wall or a banner. Guests can grab them for a picture and put them back.
A prize for the best fan. At halftime, give a boa to the guest with the best team outfit.

You can look at boas in many colors in the store’s boa section.

Beads can also decorate the space, not just the people. Drape strands over chair backs, hang them from a canopy at a tailgate, or lay them down the middle of the food table.

How many beads do I need for each guest?

There is no one right number. It depends on your party. Here is a simple way to work it out.

Count your guests. Write down how many people you expect. Add a few extra for people who show up late or bring a friend.
Decide how many strands each person gets. One strand per guest is the simplest. Two strands (one of each team color) looks fuller. Some hosts like to give more to make it feel generous.
Multiply. Number of guests times strands per guest gives you the total.
Add extras for decorating. If you plan to drape beads on chairs or tables, count those spots and add them to the total.
Think about a second game. If you host every week, some beads will get lost or taken home. You may want enough for more than one game.

Beads are usually sold by the dozen or by the case, so round your total up to the next full pack.

Is game day safe for young kids with beads?

Many watch parties include little ones. Small beads and small parts can be a choking hazard for young children. Always follow the age label on the product. For small kids, a soft toy or a bigger item is often a better pick than a strand of beads.

Where can I get team-color beads near me?

Mardi Gras Beads Factory has two stores in Louisiana: Bridge City and Houma. You can order online and pick up your order at either store. That way your beads are ready before kickoff.