CITY BUZZ: Celebrate shops unique to out city

The aptly named Uncommon Nonsense – a line from the Lewis Carroll classic – was opened by entrepreneur Kirsty Wilkinson just two months ago and offers customers a beautiful range of shabby chic and vintage-inspired products.

Before opening the shop, Kirsty had spent more than 13 years working in immigration, but decided she wanted to turn her passion for homeware in to a business.

“I have no previous experience in retail, so my decision to open a shop was just as much of a shock to myself. My ex-boss was ssupportive.

“I’ve always loved buying household accessories and decorating and therefore wanted to do something that incorporated this passion.

“My sister suggested opening a shop and it kind of went from there. I spent a year initially doing pop-up stalls across Yorkshire, until I managed to source a suitable retail unit.

“I am eager to make people aware of its presence. I am trying every day to promote the business and make people aware of what I offer.”

Kirsty, aged 35, sources her unique gifts from designers across the UK, but she also makes some items herself – meaning her items are one-of-a-kind and can only be found in Sheffield.

She said: “I make a few of the items myself in the shop, mainly cards and personalised flower letters.

“The majority of the items are sourced from a variety of wholesalers across the UK.

“I also stock a few items from a friend who does upcycling on items such as furniture and jewellery boxes.

“The main thing I sell is shabby chic-themed home accessories like clocks, candle holders, picture frames, ornaments and gifts. I also make personalised flower letters.”

As well as managing the shop, Kirsty, of Waterthorpe, organises and hosts themed tea parties.

These can be booked for a variety of occasions, including baby showers, birthdays and anniversaries.

Kirsty, whose husband Gleln is in the Royal Navy, offers a variety of discounts throughout the year but she always offers a 10 per cent discount to all members of the armed forces and their immediate family.

There will be an Uncommon Nonsense pop-up shop at the Christmas market at the British Oak Ale House, Mosborough, on Saturday, November 26 between 11am and 4pm.

To find out more about the store, or to book a tea party, search Uncommon Nonsense Ltd on Facebook or @KirstyWilkins10 on Twitter.

Opening times and location:

Uncommon Nonsense is in Staniforth Works, which is on Beighton Road and opposite Hackenthorpe Post Office. It is open Monday 9.30am to 2pm, Wednesday 4pm to 7pm, Friday 12pm to 4pm, Saturday 9.30am to 12pm. It is open on the first Sunday of every month from 1pm to 3pm. It is closed Tuesday and Thursday.

New light product line

A creative collaboration between a Sheffield blacksmith and a potter has led to the launch of a new product range combining their traditional crafts.

Ironworker Nigel Tyas and ceramicist Sarah Jones-Morris have put their heads together to design and create wrought-iron lamps and pendant lights with porcelain and stoneware shades.

The new products are now available via Nigel Tyas Ironworks online shop and via the company’s showroom at Millhouse Green.

Nigel said “We are committed to authentic, high-quality craftsmanship and it’s been wonderful to work with Sarah to bring new handmade products to market.”

The Oxspring wrought- iron desk lamp incorporates an arched stand with punched or radial detail at its base, and Sarah’s textured stoneware shade at the top.

Evening of pampering at beauty salon certain to be a festive treat

As we start to look forward to the festive season, we also start to think about all the Christmas presents we have to buy.

It’s easy to forget about ourselves, but one hair and beauty salon is offering a way for beauty lovers to get some great gifts for their loved ones and treat themselves.

Randle and Randle, Ecclesall Road, is having a Christmas event next Friday between 7pm and 8.30pm.

Gift vouchers will be available and there will also be a raffle, lucky dip and a glass of fizz for everyone to get the party started.

Luxury Dermalogica skin care products will be available to buy and you will get a free Flash Glow skin treatment.

A stylist will demonstrate the new GHD range of curling and straightening tools, available for pre-order for delivery in time for Christmas

If you wish to attend, register your attendance by visiting the events page on the Randle and Randle Facebook.

Vintage fair returns

Lou Lou’s Vintage Fair, winner of Best Vintage Fair in the UK three years running, will return to Sheffield tomorrow.

Held at City Hall, the popular event will attract hundreds of vintage lovers with an abundance of vintage treasures.

The fair brings together 40 of the best traders from both Sheffield and across the country, with an eclectic range of clothing, homeware, collectables, jewellery and accessories from the 1920s to the 1980s.

Founder and organiser Lou Lou Glover said: “We always love holding our fair in our hometown of Sheffield.”

Artisan food fair

Handmade gifts from the region’s best artists, designers and food producers will be showcased at Welbeck’s popular Christmas Art and Food Market and Harley Open Studios this month.

Visitors attending the event, which takes place between November 25-27, can look forward to traditional crafts and cutting-edge design, plus a selection of artisan food focusing on low food miles – beer, cheese and bread are all produced on the Welbeck estate in North Nottinghamshire.

Susan Sherrit, The Harley Gallery Manager, said: “Once again we are showing a range of exhibitors who make unusual, fantastic Christmas gifts.”