Discovering Smith Street: Stories behind Warwick's independent businesses - PART TWO
Warwick's Smith Street is lined with independent businesses that bring character, creativity, and community spirit to the heart of the town. But how well do we know the people and stories behind the shopfronts?
At the end of July, the Smith Street party will be held once again, bringing together a host of businesses for a day of community celebration.
As with previous years, it will see the street pedestrianised for the day and lined with stalls, with live music on the stage throughout the day.
Ahead of the event, we reached out to every business along Smith Street and asked them to share a little about who they are, what they do, and why they do it.
We will be showcasing the businesses that responded to our questions.
Did you spot part one of our three-part series?
The Craftsman Cafe Bar
The Craftsman is headed up by father and son team Paul & Harvey, and supported by mum Jacqui and Harvey's brother Regan.
What is your favourite thing(s) about running your business in Warwick?
We love the community in Warwick. Everyone is so friendly. We have lived here for over 25 years, and love the place, and now we own a small family business on the amazing Smith St which is full of independent artisan businesses! We really feel we are contributing to the facilities for the people of Warwick.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments and biggest challenges you've faced as an independent business?
We were fortunate to avoid the pandemic, but many weren't. But Smith St and Warwick in general has been very resilient. Our biggest challenge was coming into the crazy hospitality business without any background in it, and having to learn from the ground up. We must be mad! Lots of dramas, especially in the cellar with beer going everywhere, and the air turning blue!
Encore Clothing Agency
Jan Hutson opened Encore Clothing Agency on Smith Street in September 2013.
What is your favourite thing(s) about running your business in Warwick?
Hi, my name is Jan and I started Encore Clothing Agency over 11 years ago with the idea that we all love a bit of luxury, be it clothing or a designer bag, but why should it cost the earth….literally, and so my pre-loved journey began on Smith Street. I love the community feel that comes from running my shop on a street of independent businesses; it's like a little family where we support and help each other. Warwick is such a picturesque and friendly place to be, my business has grown with regular local customers who have now become firm friends.
The Smith Street Party is an integral part of our street community and a great way for the locals and visitors to support us. We have been very lucky to have help from the town council and CJ's Events to put on a great family-friendly event.
Each year, more and more people come to enjoy the music, shopping and food provided by the lovely shops as well as other independent stalls selling on the street.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments and biggest challenges you've faced as an independent business?
Who doesn't love a bit of retail therapy right? And what Encore brings you is so different from the normal retail experience. Also if you sell with me, you might make some money as well….bonus. My aim has always been to provide a safe space for people to come and shop in comfort with no pressure.
Moreover, I love the fact that each day brings something new, it could be a vintage piece with a story of its own or a designer bag that is looking for a new home. Another day I could be supporting a family with sorting treasured pieces during a difficult time and this gives me the greatest satisfaction knowing I have helped in some small way.
Don't get me wrong, starting a business was such a big challenge and believe me there were times when I really did question what I was doing. However, even through those tougher times the feeling of belonging from the other business and local community really did help me get to where I am today.
I think the challenges for any business come with needing to meet the changing demands of your customer base, and in this digital world,that means having an online presence. I have to put my hands up and say this is not my greatest forte, and a challenge I take on with a grimace most days, ha ha. But I would not change what I am doing as I love it, clothing is not something we simply wear but becomes part of our personality, our past and our (hopefully) greener future.
Get in touch via [email protected]
The Concept Beauty Academy
The Principal tutor at Concept Beauty Academy is Katie Garratt. Katie has been in the beauty industry for over 22 years and has a wealth of experience.
What is your favourite thing(s) about running your business in Warwick?
The people! We have had so many of our wonderful clients support us over the 22 years of being based on Smith Street.
We are lucky to be in such a beautiful area with so many historic buildings making this a lovely town to work in.
The location is also perfect for our students to reach us from all over the UK with the M40 and A46 on our doorstep.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments and biggest challenges you've faced as an independent business?
Our most rewarding achievement was last year when we celebrated our 21st birthday on Smith Street.
We have survived not only the COVID pandemic but also the financial crisis in 2008.
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