If you're a fan of op shops like me, finding a brand new one always makes the heart flutter with excitement. The A-frame signs on Boundary and Russell Streets in West End alerted me to Serendipity Op Shop, almost next door to the local post office.
Serendipity Op Shop - the entry is down that driveway. (Photo by writer.)
Without those signs, one could easily walk right past. But simply follow the cheerful floral wall down the driveway and you'll find the entry at the back of the two-storey building. You may be lucky enough to be greeted (as I was) by Sierra, the friendly Labrador.
Sierra is sometimes around to welcome shoppers. (Photo by writer.)
As you walk in, you'll notice the coffee, cookies and muffins counter - great for those who want to meet with friends or just sit and read a book from the store. Eva Heyward, who owns and runs Serendipity, wants it to be a relaxing haven in which to linger.
A limited selection of muffins and cookies may still tempt you. (Photo by writer.)
Pleasant place to catch up for a coffee and chat. (Photo supplied by Serendipity Op Shop)
As it isn't a charity op shop, Eva privately sources her pieces through her community network, buying some items, doing swaps or issuing vouchers. With a keen eye for beautiful fabrics and patterns and always looking to rescue unique and classic objects, Eva has curated a lovely collection of clothing, homewares, small pieces of furniture, books, children's toys, vintage items, jewellery and accessories.
Vintage and unusual clothing can be found on the racks. (Photo by writer.)
Serendipity Op Shop opened its doors on 22 November 2018 to encourage "slow fashion" and out of the desire to help reduce the enormous waste going into landfill. Eva said there were 6,000 kilograms of clothing being dumped every 10 minutes in Australia alone.
Toys and unique homewares waiting to be discovered. (Photo by writer.)
With the shop still in its infancy, you can watch its progress via the website
www.serendipityopshop.com or follow the feeds on Instagram and Facebook. In addition, selected items can be purchased from the online shop if you aren't able to visit in person.
The shop is air-conditioned, has ample room to browse with ease and is well-lit. Parking is available and there are no steps to be negotiated.
