A look around Sidmouth's 'beachy' shop, Sunkissed & Salty

It’s owned by Dean and Tasha Oliffe, who said they wanted their shop to provide an opportunity for local artists and craftspeople to sell their work.

Their plan was to sell a range of gifts, jewellery and home décor items, all with a natural, seaside theme; items made of driftwood and seaglass, along with T-shirts, sunhats and natural sunscreen.

Having chatted to Dean and Tasha in the run-up to their shop opening, I decided to pop in a few weeks later to see how they were getting on.

With big smiles on their faces, they told me: “It’s going really well," adding that they now have a waiting list of craftspeople wanting Sun-kissed & Salty to stock their wares.

Browsing around the shop, I could see all sorts of ‘beachy’ products, beautifully displayed on simple shelving. Each collection includes details of the maker so that customers can find out more about their work and contact them, if they wish to.

Among those selling from Sun-kissed & Salty is local photographer Kyle Baker, who has a range of framed photos, his latest 2024 calendar and a range of tote bags decorated with his images of local scenery.

There’s also a display of beautiful jewellery made of seaglass collected from the beaches of Sidmouth and Lyme Regis and crafted by Sidmouth silversmith Sarah of Recycling The Sea. I’m a big fan of seaglass jewellery, and these creations were some of the loveliest I’ve ever seen.

Also on sale are cards, handbags, hats, scented candles and home decorations.

Sun-kissed & Salty isn’t a large shop, and some customers might feel self-conscious about browsing under the eye of Dean and/or Tasha behind the counter. But don’t be – they’re a super-friendly pair.

So, if you love all things beach-themed, or want to buy a present for someone who does – head to Sun-kissed & Salty, which can be found at 110C High Street, Sidmouth. You’ll find something great to buy, and your money will also be supporting a local artist or craftsperson.