Beloved taxidermy and antique shop, The White Heather Co., have announced the decision to open an in-person store in the coastal town of Helensburgh.
This comes after the owner, Gemma Courage, has gained a dedicated following through her attendance of alternative markets around Scotland. Namely, the Noir Night Market and the Witchy Wedding Fayre.
She said, “This is a dream come true for me. I’ve had some serious (boring) jobs in the past, I’ve always been a bit of a black sheep and never really fitted in anywhere.
“It’s taken a long time but I’ve finally found a career which never gets boring and that I’m passionate about, thanks to all of the amazing customers who have made this a reality.”
The shop is set to open from the 5th April 2025, running from Wednesday to Sunday each week.
Gemma explained, “We will be stocking our taxidermy as well as all our luxury fragrance products which are made in-house. We are also thrilled to announce that we have collaborated with some local artists and suppliers, which include The Curious Casket, Zombiecazz, Veles Crafts and Madame Culpeper.”
Items from these cooperating businesses include alternative jewellery, pottery, leather wares and body care products,
She continued, “We wanted to support businesses who we have had the pleasure of meeting and networking with during events such as Noir Night Market. “
Image Credit: The White Heather Co. Via Instagram
The shop will have a gothic and baroque aesthetic, with most furniture being upcycled to fit the room’s theme, all thrifted by the owner herself.
Gemma hopes that bringing the shop to Helensburgh will have a positive impact on the community, especially the alternative community that already exists there.
“A storefront means an exciting opportunity for The White Heather Co. to grow and expand. It’s the next step for us to grow roots and showcase our wares. We love the markets and events but sometimes it’s hard to display our large items of taxidermy.
“It will be amazing to create arrangements that don’t have to be dismantled and loaded into a car. We love our items and feel they deserve to have a permanent location to live in, until they find their forever home.”
Gemma continued, “We are really hoping The White Heather Co. will be advantageous to Helensburgh and the local community as we are the only taxidermy forward shop in Scotland. We hope this will draw and encourage people to visit the town as there are some other fabulous businesses there.”
You can visit The White Heather Co. and check out their fascinating range of products in early april, following their launch.
Featured Image Credit: The White Heather Co. Via Instagram
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