Poor Shelley Panton has been emailing me for like, a YEAR, asking me to pop in and visit her gorgeous little store in Middle Park. Aghh the guilt. Last week I finally got around to it - and I have to say it was totally worth the wait! What a hidden treasure! Occupying the cutest little shopfront in an otherwise entirely residential street, Shelley's shop is stocked to the brim with gorgeous locally crafted homewares, textiles, books, gourmet treats and the star attraction - Shelley's own beautiful handcrafted stoneware tableware.
Around two years ago, Shelley spotted this unique shopfront whilst looking for a home to rent in the area. It was one of those fortuitous moments where the universe conspires to send you in a certain direction - Shelley had no plans to open a shop, but something just 'felt right' about this space, so she took on the lease and the rest is history! Since then Shelley has created a truly special little space, drawing on experience from her previous career as an events stylist and co-ordinator.
Shelley's stoneware is now highly sought after by stylists and often commissioned by local restauranteurs... there really is something so special about eating from a handcrafted vessel! Amazingly, she has her pottery wheel set up in the shop and creates all her ceramics right here on site - after hours of course! In addition to her own pieces, she sells gorgeous products by many local designers including TDF faves Greg Hatton, Best In Park, and of course those infamous Hookturn BYO Coffee Cups!
JUST in CASE you are not already enthused by this sweet story and picture-perfect retail space... Shelley has a little treat for one lucky Design Files reader! She has offered a fabulous Easter-inspired giveaway - a handcrafted stoneware breakfast set including egg-plate (perfect for a soft boiled egg and soldiers!), a cup, bowl and little salt dish, valued at $180.00 total.
To be in the running for this wonderful handcrafted prize, simply leave a comment on today's post before 10.00pm this evening, Melbourne time. The lucky winner will be selected at random and contacted tomorrow by email!
*Update - thanks so much for all your entries! A winner has been selected at random - congratulations to Jo / comment #98, hope you enjoy your new stoneware goodies!
Big thanks to Shelley for this lovely giveaway! Do pop in and pay her a visit next time you are in the area - you won't be disappointed!
Shelley Panton 88 Park Road Middle Park VIC 3206
Ph. 03 9537 0737