Suffolk-based antiques dealer Natalie Smith.
1 How did you get your start?
My interest in antiques started as a child. I grew up in a household of avid antique collectors and spent many weekends and school holidays going to antiques fairs, boot sales and auctions. While studying I worked at a jewellers and later in Italy and Hatton Garden. I took space in a local antiques centre which is where I began selling silver and other antiques. I progressed to selling at fairs then opened my shop in 2007.
2 What events do you have coming up?
I am really looking forward to exhibiting at the Art & Antiques for Everyone air at the NEC later this month. I had space on the Antique Young Guns stand many years ago which I really enjoyed so it will be good to be back.
Antiques fairs are a great place to meet people who are as enthusiastic about silver and jewellery as I am.
3 What is one great discovery you have made?
It has to be the shop! Especially the location. When searching for premises, Woodbridge was the ideal place. It’s a quaint market town on the beautiful Suffolk coast and has a multitude of interesting independent shops. It has lovely places to eat and offers a very relaxed ‘on holiday’ feel. The shop is right near the train station and car park so it is easy for people to get to.
4 What is something you hope you’ll never sell?
Arts & Crafts silver tea caddy spoon by Omar Ramsden.
We have a beautiful Arts & Crafts silver tea caddy spoon by Omar Ramsden. It is absolutely stunning set with a blue chalcedony stone and has ornate vine and leaves decoration. Definitely a piece I am happy to keep for a while.
5 What is one item you couldn’t do without?
My trusty loupe. It’s been with me since I was working in Hatton Garden and I have used the same one ever since. Wherever my travels take me, my loupe goes with me.
If you would like to be featured in 5 Questions, please contact francesallitt@antiquestradegazette.com
