Introducing Emilia Bea – Barnstaple's newest store

Emilia Bea, Barnstaple's newest independent store, is set to open on Gammon Walk on Wednesday March 6. 

The shop, owned and run by Clare Mutch, stocks a beautiful range of specially-selected fashion jewellery, stunning satchels and bags and scarves unique to Barnstaple High Street and all sourced from small, family-run businesses. 

Clare says, "Our aim is to offer high quality, but affordable fashion accessories including jewellery, bags and scarves. Our items are prices from £8 upwards so there is something for everyone whether people are buying for themselves or for a gift."

Clare is no stranger to the retail trade. She has 25 years' experience under her belt and set and ran the successful Ice Jewellery with her husband Tony in Green Lanes for ten years. 

In 2010, the business branched out into party planning picking up the 2012 Party Plan award for the fastest growing party planning business.  It was a 24/7 business and Clare, a mum of two young boys, decided she wanted more time for herself and to try something new.

The couple sold the business and decided to open a new fashion accessory store on Gammon Walk in Barnstaple. From her years in the jewellery trade, Clare says more and more people are wearing fashion jewellery as gold and silver prices have rocketed over the last decade. 

When it came to choosing a name for the new shop, Clare's 14 year-old step-daughter provided the inspiration. 

"We were trying to think of a name and I've always liked the name Emilia which is my step-daughter's name. When my husband said her second name was Beatrice, the name Emilia Bea seemed just right."

With its wooden flooring and white walls, Emilia Bea is light and spacious with a fresh, modern feel. Individual items are beautifully displayed and easy to view. The atmosphere is both welcoming and relaxing. At the far end of the store, people can enjoy a coffee while they try on the items and there is even a mini-play area to keep youngsters occupied. 

"Our aim is to offer a friendly, personable service," says Clare.

But, despite her years of retail experience, she adds she will still be anxious come opening day.

"Yes, I do still get nervous. I keep thinking will people like it? Have we bought the right items? Only time will tell."

Check out Emilia Bea on Facebook for the latest information on new stock