I'm starting a new series called 'Indie of the week' celebrating the best independent stores around. These places sell interesting and varied collections of design-related things you don't see everywhere else. They may support young or local designers or be great at finding unique things from around the world. By thinking a little more creatively about what they stock they are fighting the bland homogenisation of so much of the high street. And since I'm down with the realities of modern life, online only stores count too, because a beautiful and easy to use website is just as delightful an encounter in cyberspace.
Do you you have a favourite store? I'd love to hear from you.
I was in Brighton recently and stumbled across Lavender Room, a little gem in the North Laine which sells a feminine, but not too girlie, collection of homes stuff, clothes and jewellery. It had a very personal feel, the kind of place where if you like one thing, chances are you'll like the rest - and it smelled lovely too.
Who are you? We are Jenny Atherton & Nicky Sanderson and we run Lavender Room.
Describe your store in five words: Boutique, fashion, home accessories, gifts.
What makes you different? Our lifestyle concept of fashion and home accessories under one roof
How do you decide what makes the cut? If we love it, then it's in.
What were you doing before you did this? Jenny: I was a fashion buyer for high street retailers, Nicky sourced and sold products to the high street retailers.
If you were starting again, what advice would you give yourself? Always keep a tight reign on financial planning and cash flow.
What are you most proud of? Hearing customers say that we are their favourite shop. And reaching almost ten years in business.
Do you have a favourite thing in the store right now? Our Woop Studios artwork, especially "A Murmuration of Starlings", very Brighton.
What's hot for 2013? Our ten year anniversary in March, we'll be planning a party to celebrate.
