Yesterday I set up the showroom in my new house for the first time. I haven’t had the time or money to get everything I need need yet so I was expecting it to look very incomplete but was pleasantly surprised and can already see it’s potential.

I have been toying with the idea of holding an open house event in February for the Eustratia third birthday and seeing the garments laid out has definitely made me feel more confident about the idea. I think the room lends it’s self well to this sort of roll.

Of course it is close to Christmas and I do have the tree up, which won’t be a permanent fixture but I have thought of something equally as lovely to replace it when the time comes.

Some of the drama in the room is definitely due to my new acquisition, this ornate armchair. I have dreamed of having a chair like this for years and was planning to repaint and reupholster it but I posted a picture on instagram this morning and a lot of people seem to think it should stay gold…

I like the idea of having a space that is beautifully laid out where people can browse products and try stuff on in a comfortable way, while chatting to their friends, maybe taking a snap or two. I think people like visiting boutiques but fear shop assistants asking them what they want or trying to convince them to buy so I hope that creating a more relaxed atmosphere, not so centered on direct purchase will make it a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

The space and layout still needs work and my pictures don’t do it justice but customers who live in/visit Manchester are welcome to book an appointment and come round for tea and a fitting, to see their favourite items in person or even just to get measured for their order.

Details for the upcoming open house event will follow early next month and I’d love to hear your thoughts.