As press stories abound about who will be walking Meghan Markle down the aisle on Saturday, and who is and isn’t going to be there to see her marry her Prince, one thing’s for certain. savvy gift shops are pulling out all the stops to make the most of a Royal Wedding that has really captured the public’s imagination.
Emma Paisey, owner of Daisy Park in South Molton confirms: “Wedding fever is building nicely. We’ve had our window display for Harry and Meghan’s wedding ready for a couple of weeks now, and have almost sold out of items such as the ‘must have’ commemorative tea towel! Many of our other items, such as mugs from Emma Bridgewater and bags from Cath Kidston, are going really well too. A Royal event always gives us a boost and the country a feel good factor.”
At Aspire, which has gift shops in Warwick, Stratford upon Avon, Solihull, Earlsdon and Oxford, the lifestyle stores are also making the most of Harry and Meghan’s big day. “The Royal Wedding is perfect for creating plenty of in store theatre,” confirms co-owner Emma Woodward. “We’ve put up balloons and bunting, we’re going to have kids trails, and will be making a bit of room in the shops for a Royal Wedding tea party on Saturday, where we’ll be offering customers tea and cake. It’s an excellent way to build real relationships with our customers.”
Meanwhile, department store Barkers Northallerton’s front window will feature Harry and Meghan having a garden party/afternoon tea with the Queen’s Guards. “Our colour theme is pink and gold with Union Jack bunting,” confirms Julie Poyton, Barker Home’s gifts and homewares buyer. “The marketing is aimed at our Bistro, where people will be able to celebrate the Royal Wedding with a free glass of prosecco with every afternoon tea purchased.”
Top: Daisy Park’s Royal Wedding window.
