New independent business set to open in Nottingham City Centre
A new independent business is set to open its doors in May with the launch of its shop meets studio in Sneinton Avenues.
Owner and illustrator Emmy Smith will design at the new studio and customers will be able to purchase her work in the shop. The bright and colourful designs are available as posters, cards and candles. She is expecting to open on May 20.
Emmy, 31 years old, has just moved back to Beeston after living in London and launched her company, Emmy Lupin Studio, five years ago. Alongside her online shop and Etsy, she still does a lot of magazine, editorials and book cover work. She shares her work online and through social media sites like her Instagram.
“I am a freelance illustrator for about five years now and full-time for about three. I used to work in advertising but I started an Etsy shop which blew up from there. I started to get commissions from brands and for books from that so I managed to quit my full-time job to work on illustration,” she explained, speaking with Nottingham World.
When it came to looking for a place to locate her new business, Sneinton Avenues was the perfect fit. The Avenues have been a haven for independent, creative and alternative businesses which have been booming. The design of the shop means it is split in two between the studio and the shop.
“I did a few of the markets in the summer and at Christmas so I liked the vibe around here. There are so many other amazing independent businesses and it’s a supportive community. I thought it would be a really good place for me in terms of the people who are around here as it’s a nice independent hub,” she said.
“I’m excited to get to know everyone and hopefully work with some of the other businesses here. I figured it would be nice to have it as an open studio meets shop. I have split it in two so I have a retail space you can walk in and shop for everything. You can also see into the open studio to the creative space where I make everything I do.”
Far from being on her own, Emmy will be joined by her small fluffy companion, Dotty who will be around to welcome customers. When it comes to her designs, her distinctively colourful decorative items have a playful and empowering feel.
The Avenue units leave a lot to be played with as they start as plain white walls. Emmy is midway through decorating but has managed to repaint the entire unit. They have also put shelving up to give the shop a new look and a refresh that works for her. She has also tried to keep some of the original features incorporated into the layout.
When it comes to leaping into her first bricks and mortar store, Emmy is feeling excited ahead of the launch at the end of May. While there is still lots to do, she is feeling positive about opening day.
“I’m excited as it’s a dream come true for me to have a space that’s open to the public. I think it’s the perfect time to open as well in Spring although it still feels like I have a lot to do before then. It’s good to have a deadline to work to.”