This month, épanoui is celebrating 10 years on Mill Street, and we caught up with owner and jewellery designer, Hannah, to find out what’s changed, what the challenges are and what’s coming next at her beautiful shop and studio in the heart of Bedford.
“Over the last decade we have found that our space has become more than just a shop, it’s a place where the community comes together, where connections are made, and that’s the joy of having a physical space – it gets tough, but it never gets old,” she told the Bedford Clanger.
“The drive to get up, be creative and bring something different to Bedford is always there.
“Whether you’re coming in to shop our handmade jewellery or just popping in for some inspiration, it’s a calming place to be – a space that sparks joy and holds new discoveries.
“We have wonderful loyal customers that have been returning for many years and who come to us to find personalised gifts to really treasure”
“Not only does Mill Street house our shop and working studio it also is home to the artisan brands that we love, especially local creators which we are a huge champion of.”
épanoui is a proud member of the informal Bedford Indies crew (“I’m proud to be part of the club,” said Hannah) and says she’s forever recommending and sending customers to other indie shops in the town centre to spread the love.
“We have seen a lot over the last 10 years, but the fact that we’ve weathered a global pandemic, Brexit, a worldwide recession and cost of living crisis is quite an acheivement” said Hannah.
épanoui Maison
Hannah attributes the longevity of épanoui to its ability to adapt and evolve, from the pre-COVID days of creative meet-ups and workshops, to the next phase – épanoui Maison.
“épanoui Maison is a curated collection of antiques and vintage homeware that I’ve personally sourced on my travels across Europe and the UK,” revealed Hannah.
“If you’ve ever been enticed by our signature mix of heritage display and furniture pieces in the shops, then this new piece of the épanoui puzzle is just for you.
“It’s born from a decade of customers wanting to buy our fixtures and fittings – and now they sort of can!”
However, despite being open for a decade, Hannah says that people are still only just discovering the shop.
So, this is your cue to take a wander to Mill Street. With their signature handmade jewellery collections, dried flowers, homewares and cards you will find yourself stepping into an oasis of calm and curiosities – just the antidote to the world outside.
Happy birthday, épanoui, here’s to the next 10 years…
