We're excited to bring you our brand new blog series, where we introduce and interview one of our wonderful stockists. We're lucky enough to stock our items in a number of wonderful gift shops and bookstores across the globe. It made sense to share some of them with you!
This week we chatted to Olivia from Maldon Books (@maldonbooks).
What's the name of your shop and where are you based?
Maldon Books, and we're based in Maldon, Essex!
What inspired you to open your shop?
I'd been a bookseller in Kent for a while, and due to a sudden change in circumstances, I found myself back home in Essex. I love Maldon, and I knew there used to be a wonderful bookshop there many years ago. I've always loved books, they've been a huge part of my life and I couldn't imagine being without them, so after a lot of encouragement from my friends and family I decided to take the plunge and open a bookshop of my own.
What year did you set up?
I opened Maldon Books in December 2019 - just three months before the first national lockdown!
What’s your favourite thing about running your shop?
There are far too many magical elements to running a bookshop, but one thing that will always be one of my greatest pleasures is finding a customer their next favourite book. It's the best part of the job!
What piece of advice would you give to your past self at the start of your journey?
I probably would've told myself to keep my chin up, things do have a way of working out in the end.
What’s your favourite book?
Ahh, the best/hardest question! There are far too many, but I have always adored 'When God Was A Rabbit' by Sarah Winman, and one of my favourite books from last year was Caleb Azumah Nelson's 'Open Water' - a mesmerizing book.
What’s your proudest achievement since you first opened?
Honestly, I think our opening day will always be one of my favourite memories. It truly was a magical day, and one I'll never forget.
What's your favourite Bookishly product?
I love every product! How could I possibly choose one?! I'd have to go for the postcards and bookmarks, they're our customers' favourites by far!
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Go show them some love! Give them a follow, or maybe even a visit?!
