If you’re the kind of person who enjoys the niceties in life, then Nicola Holmes, the owner of Miss Holmes on Barry’s High Street has opened just the shop for you.

IDEAL HOLMES

Beautiful items for the home stunning gifts for loved ones, it’s all here for you. Buying gifts for Christmas or any other occasion has never been so enjoyable.

Congratulations on the opening of Miss Holmes, how are you doing?
Amazingly well! I’ve had such good feedback from fellow businesses in the High Street and customers alike that I know I’ve made the right choice opening here.

Why did you choose High Street?
Being local, I’ve always liked the High Street. It has some fantastic shops like Bryl’s Boutique, Food for Thought deli, Giorgio’s, great gift shops, restaurants and cafe’s – all you can ask for really for a good morning or afternoon’s shopping. However, I thought that there was a gap in the market here for tasteful gestures and beautiful things for the home, for customers who appreciate the niceties in life.

What’s your background?
I worked as a florist for twelve years and, whilst I enjoyed that work, I enjoyed giving advice and selling the accessories that went with the flowers even more. I’ve always had a real passion for interior design, working with fabrics and colour and drawing inspiration from all around me. To be able to pass this creative flair to others give me the greatest pleasure.

With Christmas so close now, do you have something for everyone?
Definitely! A customer said recently, “I just love coming in here for a browse and know that I can find a gift for every member of my family and my friends.” I’ve got beautiful gifts here to suit all tastes and budgets. My prices are affordable. I always say, “If I won’t pay it, I don’t expect my customers to.”

What brands are you stocking?
Most people will have heard of Cath Kidston and it sells very well here. I also stock a similar brand called Greengate, which is a more classic version of Cath Kidston. Nougat products are beautifully decadent make excellent gifts. Et Moire has amazing Christmas products that are ladylike with a boudoir/chic look. Powellcraft make gorgeous French bedding and nightware with a nostalgic feel. Their products are hand sewn with embroidery. Just stunning! Customers like the lettering by Posh Graffiti, which are perfect for hallways, lounges and kitchens – just about anywhere in the home really. They’re also popular for weddings as couples often display their names at the head table.



Kat Aromatherapy potions are popular too as they use essential oils – perfect for relaxation and relieving any stress, and from £2.50 to £15, they make an affordable gift too.

How do you know which products to stock?
I go to all of the shows and do a lot of research so that I know the products inside out and can pass that knowledge on to my customers.

Are you offering anything extra special for Christmas?
Yes, as I’ve been asked a few times already by customers and I’ll be offering hampers to suit all tastes and budgets. I’ll work with the customer to find out about the person’s lifestyle and tastes and then devise a hamper to suit them perfectly. I’m expecting a big call from men for this service! I’m also offering a gift wrapping service and gift vouchers. Shopping really couldn’t be more enjoyable!

Miss Holmes 11 High Street, Barry 01446 732456