7:00am Monday 19th March 2012
AN ambitious entrepreneur has returned to Wyre Forest to open a distinctive shop dedicated to local arts, crafts and “unusual shabby chic” furniture in a historic Bewdley building.
New shop owner Diane Cadwallader, who after 22 years has returned from Spain to be near her family and friends, has opened Pretty Things in Load Street - a 360 year-old building which has housed a 17th century shoemaker, a public house and the offices of building contractor John Coldrick.
The businesswoman, who has invested her savings into the new venture, has transformed the premises into a “browsing treasure trove” among exposed rustic oak beams and the building’s original fireplaces.
As well as showcasing artwork, jewellery and handcrafts from local people, the shop also stocks one-off pieces of furniture, modern giftware and doubles as a clothing agency, which takes in and sells ladies clothes.
Ms Cadwallader said: “Before moving to Spain in the late 1980s I lived locally and always loved Bewdley for its friendliness and thriving town centre. Now I am back living in the area it’s a dream come true to open the new shop – especially in such an historic building and in a part of Bewdley which is flourishing.
“Pretty Things is a completely new concept for Bewdley. I have a passion for arts and crafts and restoring unusual shabby chic furniture.”
Ms Cadwallader, who ran two successful business ventures during her time abroad, added: “The shop is really a browsing treasure trove and a place where something old meets something new.
“Despite the tough economic climate Bewdley is starting to thrive again and it’s a great place to do business.
“I am thrilled to have opened and hope Pretty Things adds to what the town has to offer for local people and importantly, for the thousands of visitors who come to Bewdley each year.”
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