We've all enjoyed browsing our favourite shops since they reopened in April, as well as finding hidden gems. This month we've caught up with the lovely team at Inspirations, our stockist of the month for May.
Tell us a little bit about your shop…
The shop has been owned by Janet Campbell for 22 years and is set in the Victorian village of Sunninghill, close to Ascot Racecourse. Inspirations offer a wide range of gifts and shopping indulgence, including homewares, books, jewellery, children’s toys, and luxurious body and bath products. With outdoor living much needed at present, Inspirations has plenty to offer, from the perfect garden host present to comfortable and practical accessories for our picnics and walks. Dogs are also welcome!
What do you love about being a shop owner?
We love meeting customers, old and new, and helping with the last-minute party gift and birthday card. It’s great being part of the community, chatting with those coming into the shop, and keeping up with everybody’s news.
Have you ever had any famous faces pop in?
Being close to both Ascot Racecourse and Coworth Park, we have had several famous faces visit us, as well as many well-known locals.
Three words to describe your shop...
Personable, welcoming and enchanting.
Tell us a little bit about the place you are located…
Located on the high street of the bustling village of Sunninghill, nearby are many ideal places for a picturesque walk, such as Virginia Water Lake and Windsor Great Park. Nestled behind the shop is The Courtyard café, which is the perfect place to have breakfast, lunch or a coffee and cake to complement your shopping trip.
Your favourite time of year in the shop?
This has to be the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! We love planning, buying and displaying our eclectic seasonal ranges, as well as helping our customer’s find the perfect gifts for all.
Your favourite moment in the shop?
Our manager would say her recollection of some members of a well-known national rugby team popping in and completely filling the shop, however, our proudest moment was our 21st birthday celebration where we were visited throughout the day and evening by customers and friends from over the years.
What first attracted you to Sophie Allport products?
The beautiful combination of fine bone china and the same pattern carrying through to fabric, as well as the designs being exquisitely linked to nature.
What is your favourite Sophie Allport collection?
All of the Inspirations team have a favourite Sophie Allport collection, however for Janet it’s a close call between the black Labrador range (one of our original lines), having always kept black Labradors herself, and more recently she is delighted with the safari ranges which take her back to her days under the African stars and her involvement helping African Painted Dogs.
Finally, where can people find you?
54 High Street,
Sunninghill,
Ascot,
SL5 9NF
Follow Inspirations on social here:
Instagram: @inspirations_sunninghill
Facebook: @inspirationssunninghill