3 minute read
Hidden Treasures
en Bailey may not be a native Buddie, but the locals have taken him and his Aladdin’s cave of treasure, Bailey’s Antiques, to their hearts in the place he’s now happy to call home.
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“I moved to Scotland from England about 13 years ago, firstly to Edinburgh, then across to Glasgow and finally Paisley,” says Ben. “In that time, I met my partner Victoria and we now have a two year old daughter called Ramona so Paisley very much feels like home and I love the town and the people. “I have always had an interest in vintage and antique items and, as a child, my parents and grandparents always took us to charity shops and car boot sales. I’ve had about a million jobs over the years and never really been very good at any of them so I have always had a dream to have my own wee shop. “My Dad had a vintage market stall for a bit and my Grandad had a vintage shop in Leicester before I was born so I suppose it’s in the blood. Family are the real inspiration and that’s why I wanted to call the place Bailey’s. My Grandad passed away a few years ago and he was one of my heroes so it feels like a nice way to celebrate him. “I sell a bit of everything, some higher end, antique items and some vintage oddities. I love antiques and old things but I sometimes find antique shops a bit stuffy or exclusive. So, I wanted Bailey’s to be a place where everyone felt welcome and where you could find things that wouldn’t break the bank and where people felt comfortable to browse and touch things and basically enjoy it. “My home town of Burton is famous for Marmite and I suppose the shop is a bit like that. It’s not to everybody’s taste but those that like it, love it! It’s like a time machine really. “We sell everything from vintage Star Wars figures to antique pocket watches and we’ve also recently opened up a vintage clothing section and upstairs my colleague Ania sells upcycled and vintage furniture. “I basically buy things that make me smile. I know it’s a cliché but there really is something for everyone. I would say that 80% of the stock comes from antique auctions. The rest I buy from other dealers, vintage shops, car boot sales, etc. I’m always on the lookout wherever I am.”
With such a real enthusiasm and passion for the business, is Ben ever tempted to take his work home with him?
“Yes, every day!” laughs Ben. “I do take quite a lot home with me and
Victoria usually leaves with a bag full of stuff every time she comes in. My home looks a little bit like the shop but not quite as crazy! “Personally, I like a lot of the 80s vintage stuff as it reminds me of my youth and I’m a big fan of jewellery and watches and we’ve had some lovely Victorian pieces come through the door too.
“However, the most popular item ever in the shop would have to be Dave the Dalek. He’s a handmade, 6 foot replica Dalek who stands in the window – I get offers for him every day but for now, he’s not for sale. I plan to maybe auction or raffle him off at some point though so watch this space!”
