Wendy Jones
Wendy Jones - Renaissance, Dartmouth
Trade Secrets - Renaissance (bespoke curtains and blinds)
Who are you?
Wendy Jones of Renaissance - I produce bespoke curtains & blinds.
What type of blinds & curtains and other soft furnishings do you make?
I make all sorts. There is a wealth of different types of dressing for windows from roman blinds to triple pleated pelmets and I try to accommodate whatever the client is looking for and advise accordingly. Soft furnishings can include anything from cushions to seat covers.
How did you come about starting this business?
A friend visited our house (when we lived in Oxfordshire) and very much liked the curtains and cushions that I had recently made for our newly decorated living room. She asked if I would make some for her too. I reluctantly agreed but felt that I needed to give her more choice than just the option I had chosen. So I enrolled on a City & Guild correspondence course on professional soft furnishing and Renaissance was born.
How does the process work with a client?
I visit you in your home with samples of previous finished work and fabric books. Through discussion we would decide on your individual needs and how best I could accommodate them using the many types of curtains and soft furnishings available. I then provide a free, no obligation quotation
What range of curtains & blinds etc can you provide?
A full range similar to most department stores but with that personal touch and complete made-to-measure fitting service. My prices are very competitive and if a client cannot provide their own material, I do have a source of very competitively priced fabrics.
What’s the current trend in curtain types?
Roman blinds are very popular at the moment, using a blackout lining with a variety of different pulls from wooden to brass. Trends come and go, but personal choice is always different – that and the type of window to be dressed along with fabric price will always dictate the type of curtain etc that’s finally chosen. I can help with recommendations on what type of curtain will best suit a particular type of window.
What makes your service different to other suppliers?
I would hope that my personal visits and the advice I give will make the difference. Careful planning and the correct choice of design forms the basis of all successful window treatments. I am able to supply simple or sumptuous curtains, traditional or contemporary blinds or drapes, pelmets or valances, almost anything to suit all tastes, styles and budgets.
How long have you lived in Dartmouth?
I have lived in Dartmouth since 2003 and moved here with my husband and family when he was offered a job at the Naval College.
What do you like about living in Dartmouth?
Everything. I love the sea, the views, the history and the people.
What do you do to relax?
I enjoy walking and having coffee at the Castle café. I love to spend time with my family going to the beach or on the river. In the winter, if I have time, I like to knit and sew for myself.
Are your own curtains/furnishings special?
I think so, yes. I’m like my clients. After each window has been dressed in the way the client has asked and they smile, that, ‘this looks great’ smile, I feel that I have created something special that can be admired and enjoyed.
First published September 2009 By the Dart