Bristol Business of the Week - Rhubarb Jumble
Posted on: 07 Sep 2015
Born out of a passion for all things vintage, Rhubarb Jumble is a delightful boutique full of high quality items individually chosen and reasonably priced. On hand is an eclectic mix of vintage clothing, shoes, sneakers, accessories, kitchenalia, homewares, furniture and more.
Time is taken to asses each individual piece and the fruits of that labour are there for all to see. After years in the burgeoning market scene, the plunge was taken and a fantastic shop now resides in at 52 North Street in Bristol (BS3 1HJ). Oddities, rarities and homewares sit beside classic clothing from all eras and draw you in. Just browsing is an experience in itself and well worth a trip. Be warned though, you'll be hard pushed to leave without at least a small trinket.
By the very nature of the store, stock changes regularly so no two visits will ever be the same. We thinks that's a great way to do things here at 365, we're huge fans of our wonderful independent stores and businesses in Bristol, so we've award them our Business of the Week. We spoke with owner Amy Hamilton to find out more...
When did you set up Rhubarb Jumble?
The shop has been open for just over a year, but we traded doing markets and fairs for about 5 years before, just as a hobby. I started selling a few items of my own vintage collection, now this has escalated to a shop full of wonderful vintage pieces.
Are you from Bristol?
No but have lived here for 9 years now and it feels like home. There are some of the most wonderful people in Bristol, I love it!
How's business?
Pretty good, there are peaks and troughs but I'm really pleased by the way the first year has gone. We have great regular friendly customers who are always a pleasure to have in the shop. I love being part of the regeneration of the lower end of North Street.
Tell us about your business?
In a nutshell we sell vintage clothes and homewares.. but everything is very carefully curated to create a joyful shopping experience. We display everything to show it in the best light. I handpick everything, and am especially drawn to the more unusual items I can find. People often get reminders of their childhood when they come in here and evoking memories for people is a very pleasurable experience!
How do you find running an independent business in Bristol?
Generally customers are pleased to support local businesses so I get a lot of encouragement, this makes it all so much easier.
Where do you like to eat out in Bristol?
Zero Zero in Easton does a blooming great pizza. I love eating out around North St especially at The Old Bookshop and Margot May.
What's your favourite place in Bristol?
It's an odd one, but probably Greenbank cemetery. It's peaceful and a great place to collect a few pine cones.
Where do you see Rhubarb Jumble in 5years time?
I'd love to have a second shop... Looking for a good destination though.
What advice would you give to any aspiring Bristol small business owners?
Do your research and try before you buy. Love what you do.
If you were Mayor of Bristol for a day which one thing would you change?
The colour of my trousers.
Rhubarb Jumble, 52 North Street, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 1HJ
Tel. 07870 159764
Web. www.rhubarbjumble.com or Follow on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.
Tags: Store, Shop, Vintage, Retro, Reclaimed, Shabby Chic, Kitchen, Clothing, Shoes, Sneakers, Accessories, Kitchenalia, Homewares, Furniture, Independent, North Street, BS3, Business of the Week.