“We need beautiful little shops like this instead of chain stores or big stores, we need beautiful little places that people can come in and enjoy.”
Smith’s store is nothing less than a gallery, with items carefully grouped and exhibited for maximum effect.
Most of it has been hand-picked by her, whether through auction houses, thrift shopping, or online.
“I love reloved items, I love the concept of not buying something that’s just been cheaply made and mass-produced,” she said.
Helen Smith's store in Parua Bay has a mixture of clothing, art, homewares and coffee to meet the needs of both tourists and locals. Photo / Brodie Stone
“I love the thought of beautiful things with history behind them ... I just wanted to share that with people because I thought, surely if I love them, other people are gonna love them too.”
So what are her tips for those looking to bag a bargain this Boxing Day?
Search far and wide, including online and at auction houses
“If I go on a road trip I’ll be looking through thrift stores and always hunting for the treasures.”
Never buy anything damaged
“If it’s chipped, its value is gone.”
Utilise Google Lens to save money and investigate pricing
“If you’re out thrifting and you see something that you’re like ‘That’s a bit expensive, is that worth it?’, use Google Lens on your phone.”
Use it, love it, or lose it
“Anything that you don’t love or need is not a bargain.”
“Like anything in life, it’s not the destination, it’s the journey. Just enjoy it, take some time.”
Get inspired
“You can get some great ideas on the likes of Pinterest, so get inspired. Come into my store and get inspired, and realise that it’s not just individual items that make a vibe, it’s the love that you’ve put into putting them together.”
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.
