“When I was little I was never allowed in the shop on Rye High Street that sold toy bears. I always thought one day I will have a shop selling bears and everyone will be welcome. It’s only taken me fifty years, but I’ve done it!”
Barbara Astley-Morton has now opened Treasures of Rye, the new gift shop on Lion Street in Rye, which she showcased to family, friends and former colleagues on Friday October 3.
The new shop is a big change after four and a half years working at the Mermaid Inn. A big gamble too she says. “It took a lot to decide ‘Yep I’m going to do this’ and many sleepless nights, but if not now, when? It’s been hard getting the shop ready, but seeing people coming in has been really exciting.”
“I wanted to do something a bit different. Most gift shops have lots in them. They feel quite crowded and it’s hard to find what you’re looking for. Plus I’ve tried to find different suppliers to all the other shops. It’s not just bears, it’s china, candles, cards, and glassware too. With Forget Me Not closing and the original bear shop going I hope Treasures of Rye stands out and fills a gap in the market.”
She wants the shop to be a social space too. “When I was getting the shop ready people were always sticking their head through the door to say ‘Hi’ and I really like that.”
There’s one thing not for sale though, the bear in the main picture of this article. “This is Wilkinson bear. He’s so colourful and he is mine – and Treasures of Rye is now his home too.”
Treasures of Rye is at 22a Lion Street in Rye.
Image Credits: James Stewart , Barbara Astley Morton , Kt bruce .
May Barbara and her new shop adventure flourish, and all her Bears find loving homes…
She has worked hard to fulfill her dream of having a shop where Bears will be loved.
The other products she stocks are all carefully chosen plus the Rye harbour inspired art / craft work of K.T. Bruce was a lovely surprise to see..
May this new shop prosper as locals and visitors to Rye find that perfect Treasure of Rye.