| The Bearded Oysters Parade Club The most shuckingly fabulous menagerie of slick chick tricks ever disorganized. |
What is the Bearded Oysters?
The Bearded Oysters is an organization devoted to
sisterhood, fun, art, and personal growth. Over 500 women
have participated throughout the years. The Bearded Oysters have
paraded in countless parades in New Orleans and are ready to
prove that the world is their oyster as they step into the future.
New chapters are forming currently in cities coast to coast.
How do I become a Bearded Oyster?
Call,.text, or email the Mother Shucker and schedule a fitting.
When you come in for the fitting, various sizes of costume pieces
will be available for you to try on and take home.
Becoming a Bearded Oyster for life is $250.
This includes your uniform and invitations to many parades and
events throughout the year and beyond. As a member of the
Bearded Oysters, you will receive newsletters via email anytime
we have something fun coming up.
Mother Shucker: Katrina Brees 504-905-2830 call/text or
email thebeardedoysters@gmail.com.
It is not too late to join us for Muses, 2012.
When is a good time to join Bearded Oysters?
Anytime. Bearded Oysters have opportunities to parade throughout the year.
Now, Carnival season in time to march for Muses, is truly the most spectacular.
Who is the typical Bearded Oyster member?
The only similarity among the Bearded Oysters is their love
of parading including getting attention, revelling, and spreading smiles
with their many creative talents. Women of all ages, backgrounds
and paths have found friendship, personal growth, and tons of fun
marching with us. The typical member enjoys attention, costumes,
crafting, music, community and sisterhood.
What do we do during a parade?
Parades offer an opportunity for you to share your talents
with an enthusiastic audience. The parade route is an excellent
place to hula hoop, ribbon twirl, juggle, blow bubbles or hand out
throws. Smile, wave, and pose for photographs with the crowd.
Enjoy laughing, dancing and strutting with old and new friends.
Experiment with performance arts such as burlesque, improvisation,
street theatre, comedy and dance. Or just come for a walk and do
what you feel.
How long are parades?
Parades vary in length. Some can be as short as a mile while
others are up to 5 miles. Parades can take from 1-5 hours.
Muses from line-up to totally finished can be up to 4 hours.
There can be a lot of waiting for the parade to move as well.
Muses is about 4.5 miles.
How long have the Bearded Oysters been parading?
The Bearded Oysters began with 40 members in August, 2004 for the Krewe of OAK Midsummer Mardi Gras Parade.
In that time, the Bearded Oysters have participated in over 75 parades and events.
Who can be a Bearded Oyster?
Any woman can become a Bearded Oyster.
Women must be over 21 years of age to join although special permission can be given to younger women on a case by case basis.
Can men be Bearded Oysters?
Yes and No. Although Bearded Oysters is an all female troupe devoted to sisterhood, a few guys to get us going and assist us can be helpful.
If you think you have something special to offer us please contact the Mother Shucker and plead your case for being a Shucker in our next
parade.
How can I participate between parades?
As a Bearded Oyster, there is always something you could be doing to advance yourself and the troupe. Making a connection with a
neighborhood oyster restaurant is a good start. Restaurants are typically psyched to give you their discarded oyster shells for decorating.
Oysters can be fun to decorate with friends and sometimes even with children.
If you're feeling crafty but painting isn't your thing, you could elaborate your uniform. Its fun to decorate a pair of sneakers with tinsel,
spray paint, glitter, costume jewelry and more. Adding fringe or a feather boa to your skirt is an easy hand-sewing project for a lazy
afternoon.
If you are feeling social, get on our facebook page and round up some fellow Oysters for a good time. Plan a tubing trip, a spa day, a
luncheon, a stilt walking practice, build a small float...the world is your oyster.
Do I need throws?
No. You are welcome to make or purchase throws however, it is not necessary. If you choose to pass out throws, please be respectful to
Mother Earth with your choices. A great, cheap throw is decorated oyster shells. Boil some oyster shells, let them dry and get creative with
markers, glitter, collage, etc. The streets will be covered in brand new beads along the parade routes. Its easiest to just pick up beads
and toss them to the crowd. That way you don't have to carry heavy beads too.
Are there rehearsals?
No. We never have group rehearsals.
What if the weather is cold?
Winter parades can be very cold, so dress appropriately. Wigs, layered nylons, leggings, hats, scarves, long underwear, coats, etc can be
worn under and over your uniform. Wigs can be any color, but please wear white, grey, silver accessories to maintain consistency.
Hand-warmers can save the day from getting miserable too.
What if the weather is hot?
Summer parades can be dangerously hot. Feel free to shed uniform pieces as needed. Wigs can get very hot. Stay hydrated.
Parasols are a great way to protect yourself from the sun while elaborating your parade attire.
What if it rains?
Parades typically do not roll in the rain. Most rained out parades will be rescheduled. If a parade is cancelled it will be announced here on
www.beardedoysters.org as well as on our Facebook group. You will also be notified by email. Local news will be the first ones to
announce the cancellations.
Do I have to wear a beard?
Yes. Bearded Oysters wear beards. Don't be scared. There are endless options from a big, bushy beard to smaller sharpie drawn ones.
Lovely ladies have used fringe, glitter, rhinestones, and makeup to create magnificent beards.
Is there a facebook group?
Yes, please join.
Can I alter my costume?
Yes. You are welcome to display your creativity with your uniform. Please follow the following rules though. Please do not remove,
cut-up, or change the general shape of your uniform. You may add to it how you like with our colors of silver, white, gray.
Merkins can be made however you want or purchased from the Mother Shucker.
Footwear?
Please wear sneakers or comfortable shoes when parading. Your fur leg-warmers will cover most of the shoe.
The streets are often uneven and go-go boots and heels can prove dangerous.
What is a merkin?
A merkin is a pubic wig. Many Bearded Oysters choose to wear one to enjoy the attention they receive when they flash their audience.
You can wear one if you want. Merkins can be purchased at www.misskarinas.com or made your way.
Costs?
Bearded Oysters costs $250 to join. This one time cost includes your complete uniform and entrance into almost all of our events and
parades for free. Once in a while, events cost additional money to cover costs. In the past, this has been for Muses parade and was $25. If
you want to be a Bearded Oyster, and don't have the money, we are willing to work with you.
Can I wash my uniform?
The best way to care for your uniform is after each parade to inventory the pieces, clean them, and store them safely in a place you'll
remember.
Cleaning:
-Flapper headbands should not be cleaned. Do not wet your feather. You can wipe the sequence with a wet cloth.
-Mardi Bra can be wiped clean with a wet cloth. Loose beads can be repaired with a hot glue gun.
-Loose oysters should be dry when re-gluing. Use a hot glue gun to adhere. Test the oyster shell for strength once it has cooled down.
-Skirts can be cold water washed. Use stain remover to whiten stains. Steam or iron.
-Spandex sleeves can be soaked soapy/detergent water and hung dry.
-White fur legwarmers and stole can be machine washed. Spray liberally with stain remover where needed. Wash with cold water and you
can fluff (low heat) in dryer or hang dry.
What if I lose or ruin a uniform piece?
Call, Text, or Email the Mother Shucker: 504-905-2830 thebeardedoysters@gmail.com
Damaged costume pieces can be brought in to the Mother Shucker for free repairs.
Lost pieces can be replaced through purchase from the Mother Shucker.
Can I start my own Bearded Oysters chapter in my city?
Yes. Please contact the Mother Shucker with your location and parades or events in your area that you want to participate in.
Where are the Bearded Oysters currently?
Currently, Bearded Oysters is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana.
We are expanding to welcome women from New York City and San Fransisco and those who want to parade in these cities.
Do I have to live in New Orleans to be a Bearded Oyster?
No. Bearded Oysters can be from anywhere and are welcome to participate when they can.
If I live in New Orleans, can I participate in NYC parades?
Yes. All Bearded Oysters are permitted to parade in any parade anywhere.
The Bearded Oysters is an organization devoted to
sisterhood, fun, art, and personal growth. Over 500 women
have participated throughout the years. The Bearded Oysters have
paraded in countless parades in New Orleans and are ready to
prove that the world is their oyster as they step into the future.
New chapters are forming currently in cities coast to coast.
How do I become a Bearded Oyster?
Call,.text, or email the Mother Shucker and schedule a fitting.
When you come in for the fitting, various sizes of costume pieces
will be available for you to try on and take home.
Becoming a Bearded Oyster for life is $250.
This includes your uniform and invitations to many parades and
events throughout the year and beyond. As a member of the
Bearded Oysters, you will receive newsletters via email anytime
we have something fun coming up.
Mother Shucker: Katrina Brees 504-905-2830 call/text or
email thebeardedoysters@gmail.com.
It is not too late to join us for Muses, 2012.
When is a good time to join Bearded Oysters?
Anytime. Bearded Oysters have opportunities to parade throughout the year.
Now, Carnival season in time to march for Muses, is truly the most spectacular.
Who is the typical Bearded Oyster member?
The only similarity among the Bearded Oysters is their love
of parading including getting attention, revelling, and spreading smiles
with their many creative talents. Women of all ages, backgrounds
and paths have found friendship, personal growth, and tons of fun
marching with us. The typical member enjoys attention, costumes,
crafting, music, community and sisterhood.
What do we do during a parade?
Parades offer an opportunity for you to share your talents
with an enthusiastic audience. The parade route is an excellent
place to hula hoop, ribbon twirl, juggle, blow bubbles or hand out
throws. Smile, wave, and pose for photographs with the crowd.
Enjoy laughing, dancing and strutting with old and new friends.
Experiment with performance arts such as burlesque, improvisation,
street theatre, comedy and dance. Or just come for a walk and do
what you feel.
How long are parades?
Parades vary in length. Some can be as short as a mile while
others are up to 5 miles. Parades can take from 1-5 hours.
Muses from line-up to totally finished can be up to 4 hours.
There can be a lot of waiting for the parade to move as well.
Muses is about 4.5 miles.
How long have the Bearded Oysters been parading?
The Bearded Oysters began with 40 members in August, 2004 for the Krewe of OAK Midsummer Mardi Gras Parade.
In that time, the Bearded Oysters have participated in over 75 parades and events.
Who can be a Bearded Oyster?
Any woman can become a Bearded Oyster.
Women must be over 21 years of age to join although special permission can be given to younger women on a case by case basis.
Can men be Bearded Oysters?
Yes and No. Although Bearded Oysters is an all female troupe devoted to sisterhood, a few guys to get us going and assist us can be helpful.
If you think you have something special to offer us please contact the Mother Shucker and plead your case for being a Shucker in our next
parade.
How can I participate between parades?
As a Bearded Oyster, there is always something you could be doing to advance yourself and the troupe. Making a connection with a
neighborhood oyster restaurant is a good start. Restaurants are typically psyched to give you their discarded oyster shells for decorating.
Oysters can be fun to decorate with friends and sometimes even with children.
If you're feeling crafty but painting isn't your thing, you could elaborate your uniform. Its fun to decorate a pair of sneakers with tinsel,
spray paint, glitter, costume jewelry and more. Adding fringe or a feather boa to your skirt is an easy hand-sewing project for a lazy
afternoon.
If you are feeling social, get on our facebook page and round up some fellow Oysters for a good time. Plan a tubing trip, a spa day, a
luncheon, a stilt walking practice, build a small float...the world is your oyster.
Do I need throws?
No. You are welcome to make or purchase throws however, it is not necessary. If you choose to pass out throws, please be respectful to
Mother Earth with your choices. A great, cheap throw is decorated oyster shells. Boil some oyster shells, let them dry and get creative with
markers, glitter, collage, etc. The streets will be covered in brand new beads along the parade routes. Its easiest to just pick up beads
and toss them to the crowd. That way you don't have to carry heavy beads too.
Are there rehearsals?
No. We never have group rehearsals.
What if the weather is cold?
Winter parades can be very cold, so dress appropriately. Wigs, layered nylons, leggings, hats, scarves, long underwear, coats, etc can be
worn under and over your uniform. Wigs can be any color, but please wear white, grey, silver accessories to maintain consistency.
Hand-warmers can save the day from getting miserable too.
What if the weather is hot?
Summer parades can be dangerously hot. Feel free to shed uniform pieces as needed. Wigs can get very hot. Stay hydrated.
Parasols are a great way to protect yourself from the sun while elaborating your parade attire.
What if it rains?
Parades typically do not roll in the rain. Most rained out parades will be rescheduled. If a parade is cancelled it will be announced here on
www.beardedoysters.org as well as on our Facebook group. You will also be notified by email. Local news will be the first ones to
announce the cancellations.
Do I have to wear a beard?
Yes. Bearded Oysters wear beards. Don't be scared. There are endless options from a big, bushy beard to smaller sharpie drawn ones.
Lovely ladies have used fringe, glitter, rhinestones, and makeup to create magnificent beards.
Is there a facebook group?
Yes, please join.
Can I alter my costume?
Yes. You are welcome to display your creativity with your uniform. Please follow the following rules though. Please do not remove,
cut-up, or change the general shape of your uniform. You may add to it how you like with our colors of silver, white, gray.
Merkins can be made however you want or purchased from the Mother Shucker.
Footwear?
Please wear sneakers or comfortable shoes when parading. Your fur leg-warmers will cover most of the shoe.
The streets are often uneven and go-go boots and heels can prove dangerous.
What is a merkin?
A merkin is a pubic wig. Many Bearded Oysters choose to wear one to enjoy the attention they receive when they flash their audience.
You can wear one if you want. Merkins can be purchased at www.misskarinas.com or made your way.
Costs?
Bearded Oysters costs $250 to join. This one time cost includes your complete uniform and entrance into almost all of our events and
parades for free. Once in a while, events cost additional money to cover costs. In the past, this has been for Muses parade and was $25. If
you want to be a Bearded Oyster, and don't have the money, we are willing to work with you.
Can I wash my uniform?
The best way to care for your uniform is after each parade to inventory the pieces, clean them, and store them safely in a place you'll
remember.
Cleaning:
-Flapper headbands should not be cleaned. Do not wet your feather. You can wipe the sequence with a wet cloth.
-Mardi Bra can be wiped clean with a wet cloth. Loose beads can be repaired with a hot glue gun.
-Loose oysters should be dry when re-gluing. Use a hot glue gun to adhere. Test the oyster shell for strength once it has cooled down.
-Skirts can be cold water washed. Use stain remover to whiten stains. Steam or iron.
-Spandex sleeves can be soaked soapy/detergent water and hung dry.
-White fur legwarmers and stole can be machine washed. Spray liberally with stain remover where needed. Wash with cold water and you
can fluff (low heat) in dryer or hang dry.
What if I lose or ruin a uniform piece?
Call, Text, or Email the Mother Shucker: 504-905-2830 thebeardedoysters@gmail.com
Damaged costume pieces can be brought in to the Mother Shucker for free repairs.
Lost pieces can be replaced through purchase from the Mother Shucker.
Can I start my own Bearded Oysters chapter in my city?
Yes. Please contact the Mother Shucker with your location and parades or events in your area that you want to participate in.
Where are the Bearded Oysters currently?
Currently, Bearded Oysters is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana.
We are expanding to welcome women from New York City and San Fransisco and those who want to parade in these cities.
Do I have to live in New Orleans to be a Bearded Oyster?
No. Bearded Oysters can be from anywhere and are welcome to participate when they can.
If I live in New Orleans, can I participate in NYC parades?
Yes. All Bearded Oysters are permitted to parade in any parade anywhere.
| Frequently Asked Questions |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |