Author, producer, and entrepreneur, Mark Grenside, has had as varied a career as any. From working with Jim Henson and The Muppets, to producing film and television, and even writing his own novel, it feels like there’s nothing Mark hasn’t already done. Today, he’s sitting down with us to discuss his favourite We Are Not A Shop pieces.
Mark, we’re so happy you took the time to chat to us today! Could you talk us through some of your favourite We Are Not A Shop pieces?
Sure thing. I have to say, it took me a while to go through everything on the website – there’s such a vast selection on there! I did manage to narrow it down eventually, though. In the end, I went with the pieces that instantly caught my eye or simply made me laugh – laughter is the best medicine, after all.
To start things off, I chose these silver cufflinks because they’re absolutely gorgeous and would make a perfect addition to my (already large) collection. Do people still wear cufflinks nowadays, or is it just me? Anyway, I think they’re fabulous.
Then, I chose this ice-cream mould because I’m quite the keen ice-cream maker. My wife and I love to try and whip up new ice-cream flavours when we have the time (prosecco and blackberry, anyone?), so we’ll definitely get some good use out of this.
These camera bookends are great, too. Film and television have been a huge part of my life which made these a no-brainer.
Despite being British, I never really got the hang of British rhyming slang but maybe this tea towel is all I need to finally get the hang of it? I mean, I can teach myself about rhyming slang while doing the dishes…sounds like a good plan to me.
I’m also drawn to odd pieces that you don’t necessarily see every day and this bottle opener is just that. Why wouldn’t you want a bottle opener shaped like a fish? It’s so unusual (in the best way).
Additionally, We Are Not a Shop have an awesome selection of pillows to choose from. This one made me giggle and was another easy winner.
Finally, I have two French Bulldogs who absolutely love their treats. I had to get this snack launcher for them – I really had no choice.
Awesome selection, Mark. Did you pick any of them with someone specific in mind?
They’re all for me! Only joking, I actually bought quite a few things for our family Christmas stockings. You see, at 65, my wife and I still give each other Christmas stockings. I’m a sucker for the holidays…
We know this is a tough question, but do you have a favourite item?
I think I’ve got to go with the flatfish bath plug, for sure. It’s brilliant. I don’t know who came up with the idea for these bath plugs, but they need a raise.
How would you describe We Are Not A Shop to someone who doesn’t know about it?
Well, there are two aspects to it. First of all, it isn’t just a shop, it’s more like an Aladdin’s cave of unique pieces. Secondly, it’s been set up to support a great cause (the heritage of Malta), so you can shop and support a local charity at the same time.
Now, what do you like about the We Are Not A Shop concept?
I obviously love the charity aspect of the shop, but I also think that all the pieces are extremely unique and of great quality – there’s really nothing not to like.
Would you recommend We Are Not A Shop to a friend?
I do, all the time!
