A New Era: A New Theme: A New Pop Up
- Anne-Marie Carswell
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
If there is one theme for this year, it’s embracing change. You might have noticed a fresh look around here. After years of operating as Gift It 2, I’ve officially transitioned to Anne-Marie Designs.
While I’ll always love the art of gifting, this change is about more than just a new logo -it’s about reflecting who I’ve become as a creator. I am no longer just a retail business; I now design my own products. This shift to a design-led brand means every item you see has been crafted with a specific vision, intended to bring a touch of unique character to your home.
Where to find me
As the business evolves, so does the way you can shop my collections. I’m currently balancing three exciting ways to get Anne-Marie Designs into your home:
• Online: My full collection is always available right here on my website.
• Trade Partners: I now supply a select number of independent shops. I love the community of small businesses, and it’s a thrill to see my designs on their shelves.
• Pop-Ups & Events: There is nothing quite like meeting you all in person and seeing which textures and patterns you gravitate toward.
Currently Popping Up: Oakham
I am thrilled to announce that I am currently part of The Little Collective in Mill Street, Oakham! It is a wonderful pop-up space dedicated to small independents, offering a beautifully curated mix of lifestyle and home gift ideas. I am very much enjoying being part of such a creative collective and hope to call Mill Street home for a little while yet. If you're in the area, please do stop by and say hello!
2026 Event Calendar
Beyond the shops, you can find me at various events throughout the year. I love the buzz of a busy showground, and I’m excited to be returning to some of my favorites while trying something completely new:
• RHS Sandringham Flower Show (July): A new venture for me! I’m so excited to try an RHS summer event and see how my designs fit into the beautiful floral surroundings of Norfolk.
• Burghley Horse Trials (September): A classic staple in my calendar -I can’t wait to be back amongst the equestrian action.
• The Cotswold Christmas Fair (November): Always a highlight of the festive season.
• Wealden Times Mid-Winter Fair (November): The perfect place to get ahead of the Christmas rush with some handcrafted treasures.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
As much as I am an e-commerce business, I have always loved physical retail, and my enjoyment of it continues as different opportunities present themselves. Such as the month I spent at The Curated Store in Stow-on-the-Wold a couple of years ago. That was my first pop up experience for me, and it was a turning point for me; the atmosphere and the face-to-face feedback from customers was invaluable. I’m definitely hoping to return to Stow in the not-too-distant future, but I am always on the lookout for different places to try.
Moving from Gift It 2 to Anne-Marie Designs is my way of leaning into growth and committing to a future of original, thoughtful creation. Thank you for being part of this journey!
Will I see you at any of our 2026 events, or are you planning a visit to the Oakham pop-up?
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