INTRODUCING BOURNEMOUTH VINTAGE EMPORIUM - Breakthrough in Bournemouth?

A unique concept store hosting 50 vintage traders, styled like a department store with quality, one off vintage furniture, fashion, art, music and more. We also have a Victorian inspired Tea Rooms on site. We find out more with the BVE team!

What inspired you to start your business?

Having always had a love for antiques, vintage and quirky finds since childhood I had always wanted to open a store filled with unique items with a story to tell. Though there are other multi trader 'warehouses' out there, I wanted to offer a highly stylised shopping experience to encourage vintage shopping. No mess, no dark chilly corners — but great visual layout, and a design experience.

What has been the highlight since launching?

We have been visited numerous times by BBC and ITV for both documentary filming, and for prop buyers sourcing for shows like 'Mr Selfridge'. We have also helped design the interiors of other local businesses with stock from the emporium. We had a great opening launch party too — with live music and a road full of vintage vehicles!

What have you got planned for the year ahead?

The next year of business will include the launch of our 1940's themed events room, art exhibits and an upcoming vintage charity auction.

How would you like to see your business grow & develop over the coming year(s)?

We are keen to develop our already popular vintage tea rooms into an alfresco dining experience and widen the rage of more 'unusual' items for sale in store to keep the edge.

What is it about "vintage" that you find most appealing and what is your favourite era?

That all vintage items have their own story to tell, they have been loved and passed on for someone else to love, use or wear. There's also a thrill about finding a unique one off gem that no one else will have. Our fave era is the 60'S!

Why should the public vote for your business in this category?

Our team have worked hard to build a brand and store that gives our customers a full shopping experience, and our traders a playground to promote their excellent stock. We have really gone the extra mile to create a store that sets itself apart from others. We set high standards and have come a long way from a large empty showroom and a big dream! The emporium boasts attention to detail, from the library themed toilets to the vintage china in the tea rooms. We don't sell 'shabby chic' furnishings and label it vintage, we care about the history and integrity of our stock. This business if offering the area an alternative to high street shops, and giving numerous sellers the opportunity to have an outlet at a time when independent shops struggle to thrive individually.

To help Bournemouth's VIntage Emporium to be a finalist for Breakthrough Business vote here

For more information:

Webpage: www.bournemouthvintage.com
FB page: www.facebook.com/bournemouthvintageemporium
Twitter: www.twitter.com/BmthVtgEmporium