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Sheena O’Sullivan’s store, George & Charlotte Children’s Fashion, brings a slice of the British high street to Ōrewa.
Named after the late Queen Elizabeth’s grandchildren, the store focuses on quality British brands of children’s wear and toys from Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Next. There is also a section of carefully chosen NZ items.
Originally from Cheshire, Sheena has lived in NZ for 29 years – now in Red Beach. She proudly declares herself a Kiwi, having brought up her two daughters here. She now has four Kiwi grandchildren – two of them feature on the store’s bags.
“When the children were little, I used to get family in the UK to send me clothes because the quality and variety just wasn’t here in NZ,” she says.
She focuses on keeping things affordable, and also looks for environmentally friendly options, with as little plastic as possible. This means cuddly fabrics such as brushed cotton, soft toys (including original Paddington Bears) and wooden toys made by local craftsmen.
Items for parents, such as nightware, aprons and tea towels, are good sellers, along with classic baby wear such as stretch and grows.
Her stock is imported direct from the UK but Sheena also travels there regularly. Last time she returned weighed down with five suitcases of items for her shop. One of the stars of George & Charlotte Children’s Fashion is Sheena’s puppy Freedom.
“Lots of repeat customers started visiting to see the dog,” she says. “She lifts their spirits.”
Sheena’s children, one a midwife and the other a Kindergarten teacher, keep her up to date with Kiwi brands.
“Parents are more aware of natural products now,” Sheena says. “Good for baby and good for the environment.”
Business Directory: George & Charlotte Children’s Fashion
