Retro-inspired store aims to bring "something quirky" to town

Monday 19 August 2024

A new vintage shop aiming to "promote individuality alongside sustainability" is set to open later this year bringing a curated collection of items including retro clothing and vintage books to the St Helier high street.

Quirky Retro Vintage will open in October under the ownership of brother-and-sister duo Nate and Sophie Quinlan, and Sophie's fiancé Ethan Rosseau.

Sophie explained that the idea of starting a vintage shop together came about after "wanting to fulfil a dream we've all shared for years".

"The name 'Quirky Retro' uses our initials [Quinlan and Rosseau] and speaks to our brand, promoting individuality through vintage style," she explained.

"Ethan and I first came up with the idea for this business back when we were in University together in Portsmouth.

"We worked for a small vintage shop run by a lovely older gentleman who took us under his wing and mentored us both, knowing that one day, we wanted to follow in his footsteps and create a successful vintage store.

"Nate and I have been talking about starting a company together for as long as I can remember, and when Ethan and I brought our business idea to him, he eagerly joined the project."

The trio found that, when trying to start a business, their biggest problem was deciding when to launch.

However, Sophie, Nate and Ethan soon decided that they needed to "stop waiting for a good time and make it the right time" for their business to finally begin.  

Sophie explained: "Very quickly we had our business plan and a viewing for a shop space, which we loved and we were accepted soon after. After that our following has grown exceedingly quickly!

"Five days after launching our social media's we already have over 100 followers and loads of people asking about our grand opening! We could not be more excited!"

She continued: "All of Quirky Retro's owners grew up in Jersey, we know our island and what our customers want to see more of, plus we have the ability to personalise and tailor your shopping experience by helping you find the vintage article your are looking for and so much more!

"Small businesses bring a personal touch to shopping as they have a strong connection to the community, by buying from our store it means that you are not contributing to the fast fashion industry." 

Quirky Retro Vintage will be selling an array of items from high fashion clothing to vintage books. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind item hand-picked from a selection of vintage re-sellers across eras ranging from the 1920s to the 2000s.

Sophie concluded: "By supporting small businesses, you help to ensure that unique, sustainable products made by people who love what they do, remain at your doorstep!"

Quirky Retro Vintage is set to open at the beginning of October at 9 Francis Street, La Colomberie, St Helier.

You can reserve a spot at the shop's opening event – which promises "a fun-filled day of shopping, music, and nostalgia" – HERE.