Natalie Macgowan-Spencer worked in in film and TV before becoming a dealer.
1 How did you get your start?
With the mother who sold vintage beaded dresses on the Kings Road, Chelsea, in the 70s for films like The Great Gatsby. I was always surrounded by vintage clothing and antique collectables. Fun fact about me: I’m also an award-winning hair, make-up, prosthetics and creature effects designer! I moved to California in the 1990s where I worked in film, TV, music videos, commercial advertising, and fashion editorial.
2 What is one great discovery you’ve made?
Alfies Antique Market’s rooftop café! For years I have been sourcing and collecting an array of items ranging from American advertising posters to British antique furniture. The items I collect reflect all my travel, life and film set experiences.
My desire to become a dealer was strong as was my desire to return home to my roots in London. And in 2020 I left Hollywood behind me and now have a new and inspirational space to display my collections. What better place than Alfies Antique Market with its longstanding history, reputable dealers, and fantastic antiques?
Natalie Macgowan-Spencer’s space at Alfies Antique Market.
3 What projects have you worked on recently?
Project-wise it really is every day when a customer wants something cool and interesting to place in their home to make it creative and unique.
4 What is something you’d love to get your hands on - a ‘holy grail’ in your area?
Nothing like the holy grail! I would say that each and every item is an amazing find and the adventure it sometimes takes you on as a dealer is very organic and that’s what I enjoy most.
5 Do you have a collection in your home?
My house basically looks like my boutique shop, from large taxidermy pieces to advertising signs, flags and traditional family oil paintings.
