20th April 2012

CREWKERNE: Shabby chic comes to Crewkerne

TWO enterprising women are tapping into the growing popularity of “shabby chic” furniture and housewares.

Business partners Jackie Trickett and Glynnis Senior recently opened a shop with one aim in mind — helping others indulge their passion for china, furniture, glassware, accessories and curios dating from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s.

The pair hatched the idea for their aptly-named “Vintage Shoppe” when they bumped into each other at an auction in the town last year.

Jackie, who used to run an Isle of Wight gift shop, said: “We sell anything and everything — but our favourite is Art Deco furniture.”

The pair obtain their wares from auctions around the region and house clearances. They attend up to half-a-dozen sales every month when suitable period pieces are up for grabs.

And when they buy suitable furniture that is beginning to look its age, they perform some “revamping” magic with a tasteful lick of pastel-coloured emulsion. And voilà!

Jackie said they strive to keep items as affordable as possible, with the biggest price last week pegged at £145 for an 80-year-old “shabby chic” sideboard.

As well as selling interesting items from yesteryear, the pair also hire-out period crockery for weddings, celebrations and special events.

Jackie said: ”We help take guests back to a by-gone era with tables laden with vintage china, porcelain and glassware in colours to suit various wedding themes, or mix-and-match with pretty florals in Victorian elegance, art deco, or shabby chic.

“The crockery is complemented with cake stands, teapots, sugar bowls, bunting and other accessories.”

The pair currently have a booking for one big wedding with a themed reception for 150 guests.

The Vintage Shoppe is at The George Precinct, Crewkerne, and opens every day of the week, except Wednesdays.