We have had quite a busy - and eventful - couple of weeks at French & Wilder!
A Surprise on the Doorstep
Those of you who follow us closely will know that we recently shared the story of our shop renovation: the freshly painted shopfront, the hand-painted signage, and our wonderfully Parisian new Fragrance Bar. What we could not have anticipated was what happened the very next day after we reopened...
Dick and Angel Strawbridge - presenters of Channel 4's beloved series Escape to the Chateau - made a surprise visit to the shop with their children Arthur and Dorothy while they were in the area visiting family.
The Strawbridges and their fairytale château are a key part of French & Wilder, and have a personal connection with Nathan and Michael. They were themselves featured in the series, first when they got engaged, and later when they married at the château.
Having Dick and Angel walk through the door was a complete surprise, and to see them genuinely love what we've created was a special moment. They've been part of the story of French & Wilder, even if they didn't know it.
In the News
The visit - and the renovation - caught the attention of the Hexham Courant, who published a feature on the shop this week. It was a lovely piece, and we are grateful to the Courant for telling the story so wonderfully. You can find the article here: https://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/26175710.tvs-escape-chateau-presenters-northumberland-shop/
It is a reminder of why all of this matters. The collections we curate, the suppliers we work with, the care we put into every corner of the shop - all of it is in service of creating something that feels genuine, considered, and worth travelling to find.
Come and See Us
Whether you are a regular visitor or yet to discover us for the first time, we would love to welcome you to our renovated shop. The Fragrance Bar, our range of exclusive homewares and all of the new pieces that have arrived this season are waiting for you at 25 Market Place, Hexham.
And if you cannot make the journey just yet, our collection is available to explore online at frenchandwilder.com - with new arrivals added regularly. We hope to see you soon!
