This month marks one year since Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery opened its doors in Primrose Hill. For eight years the unit at 69 Regent’s Park Road was an empty dilapidated space, but on Saturday 3 February 2018 a unique new retail environment was revealed.
It’s been a busy year for the Primrose Hill team, beginning with an official launch party, which was a great success despite heavy snow! Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery called upon its new neighbours for help: the fizz flowed thanks to Nicolas Wines, cupcakes from Sweet Things were devoured, confetti balloons from Cacao Toys added extra sparkle and fresh flowers from Fitzroys added a touch of spring to a chilly day. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet the team of designers, led by Senior Designer Tom Wilson, and raise a glass to this exciting new addition to Primrose Hill.
2018 not only marked the opening of the company’s third location, but Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery also celebrated its 20th birthday after beginning life at Harriet’s kitchen table in 1998. Along the way Harriet married Tim, who is now managing director of the business. The couple have many connections to Primrose Hill, so it seemed natural to them to open a studio in the area; and the decision has proved to be an excellent one, as Harriet explains:
“I have felt part of the Primrose Hill community since I lived in Chalcot Square over 20 years ago, so I always knew everybody would be friendly. But I have been overwhelmed by the way everybody here has embraced us with open arms. We love it when people pop in for a chat or a coffee, even if they aren’t looking for any jewellery. We really feel part of the thriving community here already; it has been an amazing first year. Business in the Primrose Hill Studio & Shop has been building even faster than we predicted and the figures are good. Our customers from elsewhere in London have also been visiting, so it is nice to bring people to the area; and of course we are thrilled to have so many new local customers and friends. We’ve loved supporting the community here too and have been delighted to donate a sterling silver dog tag as a Pup Aid prize, as well as a pendant for the 2018 Summer Fair auction and raffle prizes for local school fundraising.”
2019 is already off to a busy start for the Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery team with lots of beautiful bespoke designs being brought to life in the company’s Hertfordshire workshop. Harriet is confident that her business will continue to thrive in Primrose Hill:
“As the chairman of the National Association of Jewellers, I know that retailers are really struggling. Recent research published in the broadsheets said that 14 shops are closing down every single day. You have to have something special to survive this difficult climate. Happily I think we have something special and have even been able to grow in this difficult climate. We have chosen an exceptionally special place to plant seeds for our creativity and bespoke craftsmanship to thrive and prosper, while intertwining with this lovely community.”
Jewellery Appraisal Day
Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery is holding a Jewellery Appraisal Day at its Primrose Hill Studio & Shop on Thursday 28 February between 10am and 4.30pm. More details can be found at www.hkjewellery.co.uk/london-appraisal-day