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If you’re looking for gifts, collectibles and items of pure gorgeousness for the home, Melanie James’ beautiful shop in Cowbridge is a must. Step inside and discover...
THE LINEN CUPBOARD
When did you first open?
September 2005.
Who are your customers?
Our customers are varied from lovely ladies in their 80’s to yummy mummies and sophisticated teens - all wonderful and 100% feminine. Then there are the fab chaps who come in looking for a gift for the ladies in their lives. Whether it is for their wife, mum, sister or a female member of the team at work. There is always someone on hand at The Linen Cupboard to offer friendly advice and assistance.
Are your customers local?
Our customers come from as little as 150 yards up the road to anywhere along the M4 corridor. I have regulars from Swansea, Cardiff, Newport, Cheltenham, Bath, even London and as far away as Ireland.
What do you think is so special about The Linen Cupboard?
There are many things that make The Linen Cupboard really special. You only have to walk through the door to know that you have discovered a spa for the senses. From the Lexington bedding, antique American patchwork quilts, Jan Constantine cushions and wall hangings to all the gorgeous Cath Kidston products. She has an amazing way of producing modern vintage and items for all budgets, even if it’s just a treat for yourself. The list goes on and on. Then there is, of course, Stella the shop dog and official mascot. A Pettie Basset Griffon Vendeen, also know as ‘the happy hound’ in the dog world. People come in to the shop just to see her because she is so wonderful. I have considered giving Stella her very own page on Facebook! She sleeps most of the day but if I’ve been to the butchers she will follow me around the shop and rummage through the shopping if I leave it unattended. Everyone loves her!
Why do you think customers shop at The Linen Cupboard?
Again, there are so many reasons. I think the shop has built up quite a creditable reputation over the four years that we have been there for being different. A wonderful emporium... country chic at its best. Someone once said, “walking into the Linen Cupboard was like getting a big hug from your mum.” I know what she means. It’s a lovely shop. What makes it so special is a bit of everything I suppose.
Any recent developments?
There’s always something new at The Linen Cupboard. If you’ve not been in for a while you will be delighted to find I’ve added a Tea Shop serving home - made cakes, scones and refreshing tea or coffe, all served on vintage miss matched china and silver tea pots. It has taken months to collect all the china and teapots but there’s nothing better than drinking out of a fine china teacup. The china has been so popular that I’ve been asked if I’ll hire it out for christenings and weddings. I’m looking into it so watch this space.
To all of you knitters and sewers out there, you might be interested to know that we now hold a sewing circle at the Tea Shop. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings 10am -12 noon. It’s great fun, all girls together chatting over a cup of coffee or tea with knitting or sewing in hand. There’s no charge for the morning all I ask is that you arrive with enough room in your tummy, for a slice of cake or scone and a cup of coffee. Space is limited, so if you are interested in making new friends and enjoy some form of needlework, please contact the shop and let me know what day you would like to attend.
We have had loads of new things in over the last few weeks, the shop is brimming over with loveliness. I’m so excited to be launching the Cath Kidston Jewellery. Stunning and based on some of her own vintage pieces, all designed and hand finished in the UK. Only available in Wales from The Linen Cupboard.
Do you do gift vouchers?
Yes, £5, £10 and £20. We also have Tea Shop gift vouchers at £5 per person.
Are you offering anything special for Mother’s Day?
After Christmas, it’s is our next busiest time of year. We are making an extra special effort and opening on Mother’s Day for a delicious Afternoon Tea. Homemade cakes, scones and all the teatime favorites, served on a vintage cake stand with a pot of tea or coffee, for £7.50 per head. Space is limited so book early to avoid disappointment.
THE LINEN CUPBOARD
This pretty shop has many fans!
“I like Cath Kidston so come here for that. I think the sewing group is a great idea as I get to meet different people and share ideas.” Chris Dobson, Cowbridge
“I love this shop! I love it for the little things like candles, soaps, cook books. Melanie has a really good eye for all things beautiful. I think the sewing club is an excellent idea. It’s not just sewing. Some ladies come in with knitting and other crafts. Once I’ve done the sewing, I think I might like to try something new.” Lana McLaggan, Merthyr Mawr
“This is a very pretty shop with a great ambience. I love the beautiful china. The cakes are terribly tempting too!” Margaret Picton-Jones, Dinas Powys
“I love to come here and be able to just sit and enjoy a cup of tea whilst having loads to look at.” Helen Ellis, Cowbridge
“The Linen Cupboard ticks all of the boxes. It suits all age groups. My daughter is thirteen and loves Cath Kidston. The shop is quite unique for Cowbridge. I also think the sewing club is a lovely idea. I moved away from the area thirty years ago and now that I’ve moved back, it’s lovely to have the chance of meeting new people whilst gaining new skills.” Miranda Dickson, Gileston |
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