The success of an original pop-up shop venture inspired Annie Reed to establish the Sansom Reed shop in Marlow in the spring of last year as a permanent base for her ever-evolving collection of green and offbeat clothing, jewelry, and homeware.
Because Annie was raised in Marlow and still resides in Hampshire despite having moved away at the age of 18, her love for her home has n’t diminished, Number 52 on the High Street seemed like the ideal location for the start of her fledgling company.
The business owner, who is now in her 50s, is getting ready to take part in one of Marlow’s most significant winter calendar events—the annual Christmas lights turn-on event tonight ( November 23 ). She has been pleasantly surprised by the shops ‘ popularity over the past 18 months.
In addition to Sansom Reed staying open late for the masses swarming the town’s High Street this evening, Annie also intends to phase a number of brief in-store fashion shows starting at 4:30 p.m., something she has tried before with success.
” We can only meet so many people in the store, but we’re looking forward to demonstrating what we really do to those who do come.” We teach people how to dress to their structure and select items that fit their characters, so it’s more than just selling clothes.
For three days, Bucks High Street will shut so that the Christmas lights can be turned on.
” When my father was ill, I started the business because I needed to do something original to keep my mind occupied and prevent worrying.
” When I had been operating pop-up stalls at markets, it was essentially a kitchen table start, there was no money or investors, and the only thing that got me through quarantine was maintaining my social media presence.”
Annie added,” I do intend to open another unit in London at some point, but this will always be the premier business, no matter what,” that she had found Marlow appealing because of the city’s unique appeal to town dwellers, travellers, and visitors alike.
Marlow sets the standard in a way that other small towns ca n’t. You have this incredible High Street, all these fantastic restaurants, and the town’s layout is thus cramped rather than sprawling.
” I ca n’t imagine having a base in somewhere else.”
Sansom Reed may remain open until late this evening, with trend shows starting at 4:30 p.m. Due to the limited store space, any cheerful attendees really email Annie at [email protected] to let her know when they intend to visit before the event.