A creative haven in the heart of Warkworth
Not just a store but a reflection of the owner's passion and creativity. Pretty Useful is a sweet little shop, born from a desire to infuse a touch of beauty and humanity into our lives.
The woman behind Pretty Useful, Antonia de Vere, is no stranger to design and creativity. With a successful homeware company, started with husband Mark Sweeney, already under her belt, you’ll find a lot of the design aesthetic of Mark Antonia, known for their dried floral arrangements and scented candles, reflected in the Pretty Useful store; which also serves as Antonia’s studio.
Hoping the store can fill a gap she noticed in the town's offering, Antonia has focussed her product range on interesting and reasonably priced gifting options. Her previous experience in retail, combined with a deep appreciation for the person-to-person aspect of customer interactions, served as the catalyst for Pretty Useful. "There's nothing like that human experience of helping inform in-person rather than over an email," she emphasises.
Customers can expect to find a delightful array of items that, as the name suggests, are both pretty and useful. From her one-of-a- kind floral arrangements and Mark Antonia designs to a selection of homewares, teas, soaps and candles. She also showcases knitted cloths and bags made by her mother and handmade jewellery by her cousin Sophie Divett; there really is something for everyone.
Pretty Useful is more than just a store; it's a haven for creativity and inspiration. Antonia offers workshops for those interested in learning the art of floral design. These classes can be booked individually or as a fun group activity, offering a unique way to spend your time. With an online store you can easily purchase the majority of the in-store range to be delivered right to your door and book workshops directly.
Not to be missed, the in-store experience of walking into Pretty Useful is like stepping into a calm and serene oasis. The colour palette, soft peaches with royal blue highlights, sets the tone for a relaxed visit. Soft lighting and playful music add to the delightful ambiance. "I want my customers to have fun and enjoy their time inside," Antonia notes. The store's interior, though compact, is thoughtfully designed. Every inch has been maximised to ensure efficient use of space, with hidden storage solutions and versatile furnishings transforming the shop into a dynamic, beautiful space.
So, if you find yourself in Warkworth, be sure to pop into Pretty Useful; have a chat with Antonia, explore unique items, and learn something new. Pretty Useful is a testament to the power of human connection and the joy of making the everyday a little prettier and more useful.
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