EARTHCRAFT, the long-established gift shop in Priory Road, Wells, will soon be closing its doors.
A closing down sales starts in early September as owner Julie Romeo prepares to retire after 45 years of running the shop.
She said: “I started Earthcraft, my little gift and craft shop in Wells, in 1979 with just £500. Now I have chosen the milestone of 45 years running the shop as a good point at which to retire.
“At my sister’s suggestion, I initially specialised in ethnic gifts and jewellery, soon adding craft-making items like sequins and buttons. Young Saturday assistants would bring in their friends as customers and the ball started to roll. Later I found interesting suppliers of Fair Trade products, which have been a great success.
“My patient, reliable and wonderful staff have also loved helping to run the shop. Customers have often called Earthcraft ‘An Aladdin’s Cave’, some of them seeking us out from a distance, sying ‘We wish we had a shop like this near us…’
“My lovely customers have appreciated finding something unusual, and can see the value in supporting independent shops. Despite online competition, our range of greeting cards still has a large and loyal fanclub. Talking and advising seem to have been my forte, so I’m grateful to discover – often years later – how much of a positive influence I have had on my customers and young staff. Now those same youngsters are bringing in their grandchildren.
“I’ve worked long past the usual retirement age and I’d like to do some creative projects of my own – using colour in textiles or art has always interested me.
“At last I’ll be able to say ‘yes’ to friends who ask me to join them for lunch, and perhaps I’ll find new ways to pass on my skills and knowledge.
“Thank you so much to my loyal customers – I’ll miss our chats, let’s meet up for a coffee sometime?
“Earthcraft’s closing down sales starts in early September. Check the window and online. Come and wish me a Happy Retirement.”