Just when you think you've planned the ultimate party, Beaded and Pursenal X'Pressions enters from stage left. This new business provides a one-of-a-kind design in which women can design their own handbags to express their uniquely "pursenal" style. It's the first of its kind in the state, and it's in Pewaukee.

Owner Michelle Strunsee, a Brookfield native, started Beaded and Pursenal X'Pressions three years ago, designing jewelry out of her home studio in Delafield. Word spread quickly through in-home parties, open houses and fashion shows. As Strunsee's business was growing, she realized her workspace needed to do the same.

"I saw the need for a studio," Strunsee says. "The jewelry sells itself, but I knew there was a better way."

She found a spot in Pewaukee and quickly put together a design studio that features talented on-site designers and caters to social get-togethers.

"We are excited to have created a place where women can come to socialize and have an interactive experience doing something totally unique and fun," Strunsee says. "I really enjoy helping women find or express their 'pursenal' style."

According to Strunsee, it's all about the experience at Beaded and Pursenal X'Pressions, which provides a chance for the hostess and her guests to share a night out. From velum invitations to the bar and buffet tables to alluring ambience, the studio has everything required for a successful party.

"At the heart of the studio are the handbags," Strunsee adds. "We have eight different bags, with two in the engineering stage right now. There are new styles, new fabrics and new options to try out. And best of all, they are very affordable."

Strunsee's jewelry is also on display during studio parties.

"Accessories are small things that make a big difference," she says. "You don't have to invest a fortune in a closet full of clothes, just invest in a few essential pieces ... then accessorize."

When it comes to style, Strunsee knows her stuff. Since childhood, she's had a passion for fashion, playing dress-up and staging runway shows for friends and family. Now, her childhood fantasy is a reality and it has been a sound investment so far, too.

The design studio is booked every weekend for the next two months and word has spread to the Madison area, from whence many are making the trip.

"It's convenient," Strunsee adds. "We can have up to 20 women, and we've got a private parking lot and no special hours, like a mall would have. We can do weekends and evenings and even during the day. Birthday party or just a regular party, we can do it."

Beaded and Pursenal X'Pressions is a lot of things, but there is one thing it isn't.

"We're not a boutique," Strunsee says.

To experience Beaded and Pursenal X'Pressions -- W228 N727 Westmound Dr., suite B in Pewaukee -- visit during the regular studio hours: Monday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday,10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Beaded Expressions' phone number is (262) 544-4440 and the Web site is beadedxpressions.com.