The Pop Up Shop has seen some changes over the first six months of 2023 – some subtle, some a bit more dramatic. It never ceases to amaze us the range of ways different people use the space and how adaptable it can be. Earlier in the year we gave the well-used shop a spruce up and its new shades of grey and white have helped to brighten up the space and make it even more inviting.
When showcasing residents’ products in the shop we ask that everyone supports a charity of their choice, either by donating a percentage of their takings or raising awareness of the specific charity. This is made possible as the shop space is free to use and OSA covers all rent and utility costs. We are proud that as a small operation we can still commit to our Corporate Social Responsibility two-fold by supporting small businesses and at the same time also raising awareness of important charities. Charities which have benefited recently include Pink Ladies Guernsey, Guernsey Pride, Animal Aid, Les Bourgs Hospice, Bulstrode House, Grow, Little Black Dog (Guernsey Rescue and Adoption), The Ivy Trust, Guernsey Simba Ngoma, Guernsey Alzheimer’s Association, The Eleanor Foundation, Men’s Shed, Bali Street Mums Project, The Prince’s Trust, and more!
January
In January, we had one of our regular residents Lucy with her Forever Aloe Vera products. Lucy’s cheery demeanour can always brighten up even the bleakest of January days and her health and detox range was exactly what everyone needed following the over-indulgence of Christmas and New Year. Dorothy Smyth was a fantastic new resident with her Garden Studio Scented Candles – a fabulous collection of homemade luxury candles, which smelt amazing.
The rest of January was dedicated to a new addition to the OSA family, Barbolette the puffin. With the help of the talented Kath McClean (whose time was really appreciated) the team transformed the puffin from a blank canvas to the beauty she now is. Barbs (as she’s now known) is a strong and slightly domineering presence in the shop as part of the Puffin Parade, helping to raise essential funds for Autism Guernsey and the GSPCA.
February
February began having the lovely Maria back with Afrisey Jewellery. Her new wedding range features carefully constructed pieces inspired by her homeland South Africa. Making the most of the half term week, Dewi took up residence with her small business Braided in Guernsey which teaches and makes clever and creative braided hair styles. We then welcomed Les Bourgs Hospice who brought in some stock from the St Martin’s shop. This was a great opportunity for the charity to showcase its retail activities to a new audience and to give access to people who might not be able to get to the main outlet during a lunchtime.
March
The ever-popular Eclectic antiques and collectibles were back in with a regular clientele who are always interested in what has been restored and discovered since their last visit. GROW was next and the team was delighted to be in town for a week, especially after a cold winter in their temporary premises. A fantastic way for them to meet and greet customers and to sell lottery tickets as well as some early bedding plants. The month closed with newcomers House of Stefani displaying a lovely collection of up-cycled homeware supporting Little Black Dog, Guernsey Rescue & Adoption.
April
Next up creating an enticing, energised layout was Leo’s Locker with a carefully curated collection of second-hand streetwear. It gave Leo the chance to gauge what appetite there might be in Guernsey for this type of outlet, and judging by his success, there clearly is. Kiwi Claire brought a beautiful selection of her artwork. She had also teamed up with other local craftsmen/women who brought in handmade items such as macrame and crocheted pieces. Guernsey Sigma Ngoma filled the shop with colour from their African baskets, bags, and other products to raise money for the charity which is integral in providing a social network to people who have recently moved to Guernsey.
May
With a focus on awareness, various representatives from States Health and Social Care came in, offering information and discussing recruitment with regards to Dementia Care.
Liberation Day was then upon us with Kathy Stuart from Vintage Was who, while displaying a liberation theme, sold Guernsey memorabilia including newspapers, photos, paintings, and books.
For the rest of May into the beginning of June, it was all about clothing and shoes. First it was Sandie Rowe who has been a brilliant resident over the years, always trying to raise as much as she can by selling quality, often designer clothing on behalf of friends with the emphasis on charity. Nikki then brought her natural eye for display and an array of beautiful pre-loved clothing. Nikki really made the shop shine! The last week of May saw a truly unique collection of specially designed Yull Shoes, bringing a vibrant pop of colour to Smith Street and guaranteeing a way to add a little fun to your footwear!
June
June opened with Diamant Noir filling the space with a gorgeous assortment of textiles including oven gloves, purses, hats, and dressing gowns. The charity, that is registered in France, works to support women in Africa who have been abandoned by their husbands, helping them to find work, move into new accommodation, and reintegrate into society.
Next in was the Clean Earth Trust, running an environmentally conscious clothes swap. Alongside this they were spreading awareness for their many other projects including the Litter Picker Lending scheme, Corporate Repair Café workshops, and their Beach Clean project.
Following them was Lorna with Mineralogy, selling a collection of crystals, minerals, and incense, all at 50% discount! To end the month, Molly and the Bear filled the shelves with the wonderful homeware they normally sell online, with gorgeous painted pottery, cushions, baskets, and rugs.
We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings into our lovely little OSA Pop Up Shop!
If you are interested in booking the space sometime in the future, please contact popupshop@osa.gg
