We are so pleased to announce our Stockist of the Month for May is Garsons! With an incredible family history and celebrating 150 years, we caught up with the wonderful team to find out all about their two Garsons stores..
Tell us a little bit about your shop…
Proudly celebrating 150 years. Garsons has been growing since 1871. Family run since it was born, Garsons was once a supplier of fresh produce to London’s Borough Market. Today, an award-winning destination Garden Centre, Farm Shop and Restaurant with locations in Esher, Surrey and Titchfield, Hampshire.
Garsons, Esher is also home to one of the biggest PYO farms in the UK.
Garsons two stores are built on the same philosophy; offering high-quality products delivered with exceptional customer service. We aim to set ourselves apart from the rest through the diverse range of products we offer. Our gift and homeware offering has evolved into a key department and plays a vital role in Garsons commercial success.
What do you love about being a shop owner?
Garsons is and has always been family-run, perhaps more unusual in this day and age. The current directors, 5th generation, are all descendants of founder George Henry Thompson. Although our team of over 200 people are what make Garsons. From ordering to creating displays, everybody has a role which contributes to succeeding the Garsons philosophy. All our in-store displays are created in-house by our team members, who are encouraged to show their creativity and originality.
Have you ever had any famous faces pop in?
From sporting athletes, reality-tv celebrities, daytime tv presenters to even royalty. We have many well-known famous celebrities who shop with us however, we would never disclose any names!
Three words to describe your shop...
Family. Quality. Diverse.
Tell us a little bit about the place you are located…
Garsons Esher, Surrey is located in a beautiful village called ‘West End’ Esher. The local common, woodlands and of course our farm make it a most pleasant destination to visit. Garsons Titchfield, Hampshire is located just outside a small town near the coast in-between Portsmouth and Southampton. Titchfield is also just south of the Meon Valley, a stunning area.
Your favourite time of year in the shop?
It has to be Christmas. ‘Christmas at Garsons’ is a time and season we are known for, with many generations of customers visiting year after year, we go all out. Planning starts early in January, with buying, themes and designs being worked on throughout the year ready for launch in October. Our Christmas decorations are themed and placed into carefully thought through award-winning displays, creating a theatrical experience for our customers.
Your favourite moment in the shop?
Last year marked Garsons 150 years. We are ever so proud to have achieved this momentous anniversary.
What first attracted you to Sophie Allport products?
The quality, unique designs and beautiful colour palette make Sophie Allport so special as well as the consistent newness and ever-increasing product range.
What is your favourite Sophie Allport collection?
We’ve had so many over the years but right now it must be the new Strawberry range which ties in perfectly with our Pick Your Own Strawberries, although the Giraffe is a close second. Our customer favourite is most definitely the Bee.
Finally, where can people find you?
Garsons Esher, Winterdown Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 8LS
Garsons Titchfield, Fontley Road, Titchfield, Hampshire PO15 6QX
Instagram: @garsons_esher & @garsons_titchfield
Facebook: @GarsonsEsher & @GarsonsTitchfield
Twitter: @Garsons_Esher & @Garsons_Fontley