We speak to Alice, owner of Botanica Studio on Union Passage.
Tell us a bit about your business…
Botanica Studio started as a market stall at Green Park station in 2017. John who used to run the Vintage and Antiques market and Laura who runs the Bath Farmers Market were both kind enough to give me a running pitch and from there I was able to establish a customer base and enough money to take on the shop in the Autumn of 2020. Three years later I now have a magical team who help me run the shop, enthusiastic customers who keep coming back and a great foothold in the community. I’m super proud of our Mini Markets which we hold upstairs at Botanica in our Studio space on the second Saturday of each month- it’s nice to be able to showcase small local businesses and return the opportunities I benefited from.
Why Bath?
I really enjoy how many female owned businesses there are in Bath. Just near our spot on Union Passage alone, most of our neighbours are female founded businesses, GoodDay, Sweet Little Things, Cascara, Abs Vintage and Nook. Online you have inspiring businesses like Vegan Relish and Sleepydoe- and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! This is really exciting and something that needs to be celebrated and encouraged.
What would be your perfect day in Bath?
Bath is not only beautiful it also is spoilt for fantastic places to eat, so my ultimate day would revolve around eating, drinking and walking. A fun walk up to Kelston Roundhill, a wander through Victoria Park, brunch at a café such as Green Bird Café at St Margaret Buildings and dinner somewhere fun like Corkage or Pintxo.
Your top indie recommendation in Bath?
I’m a big fan of Electric Bear at Locksbrook, there is always great music and food there on a weekend and it’s very family-friendly. Chelsea Road is my local high street and always has a lovely buzz about it – Consciously You and Paprika are brilliant for gifts. You will also always find something special at Found on Argyle St, Julia Davey in Bearflat and Hidden Store on Pierrepont Place.
What are you most looking forward to in the city over the next few months?
Bath always has a great offering of events in winter. I hear there is going to be a little artisan pop-up shop on Queens Parade featuring talented local markets- aptedly called the ‘Bath Artisan Christmas Pop-up’ which I’m looking forward to visiting.