#shopscandismall Vanil

Nicola Capper of @nordicnotesblog calls in on Vanil, an independent store brimming with passion and personality in Woodbridge, Suffolk and chats to owner Mandy Leeson.

With its beautiful views, riverside location and picture-perfect shopping streets, there is a distinctly Scandinavian feeling to the Suffolk market town of Woodbridge. It was here back in 2011 that Mandy headed, leaving her life in London, as well as a 20-year career in the design industry, behind. Mandy continues…

What is the story of Vanil?

With the need for a lifestyle change and a passion for beautiful things, Vanil gave me the opportunity to draw on my past experiences working as a designer in Amsterdam, Stockholm, London and Singapore to create a unique space to both live and work in.

Thanks to our carefully curated Scandinavian-inspired accessories, furniture and home décor, our communal garden space, as well as our much-loved workshops and events, Vanil has become much more than a shop. It is a destination for locals, tourists and makers to meet and make lifelong friendships.

What do you look for in the designer brands and independent makers that you stock at Vanil?

Whether it’s recognised names such as Skagerak and Muuto, long- established businesses like Afroart or pioneering products from Pappelina (who was one of our first finds to stock), we only select brands and makers who align with Vanil, both in style and origins. We are passionate about pieces that are created with care and hope they will be cherished for years to come.

What advice would you give anyone looking to start their own #shopscandismall brand?

Your customers are everything. At Vanil we like to build relationships with each and every one. Woodbridge is a lovely community and although we get a lot of holidaymakers, it’s our local customers who keep coming back. Retail isn’t just about sales; it’s about creating an experience people will love.

What can we look forward to seeing next at Vanil?

We continually champion authentic, local and responsibly sourced products. Along with our growing collection of renewed Danish mid-century furniture, recent discoveries include Finnish family-run brand Verso Design and The Basket Room in Oxfordshire, who work with talented local female weavers across Africa to produce incredible homewares.

Tre brands Mandy loves

Muuto Kink vase, £165, vanil.co.uk

“I’ve loved this leading Danish brand for years and their modern, minimal products never fail to make a house feel like a home.”

Skagerak Coquo oiled teak spoon, £12, vanil.co.uk

“The perfect everyday essential; beautifully made, stylish to look at and super practical too. No Scandi-style kitchen should be without one.”

Verso Design Lastu basket, £95, vanil.co.uk

“These incredible woven birch baskets are true classics. Fill them with books, toys or firewood. Made to be used and enjoyed every day.”