Locals combine for new venture

Umina resident Jan Abberton and Ettalong business woman Elizabeth White have combined to expand their interests in a new venture at East Gosford.

Trading as Elizabeth Anne's Antiques and Abby's Tea Shoppe, they have moved beyond the traditional antique shop and added the tea shop to encourage visitors to remain longer and enjoy an "old world" atmosphere.

Jan and Elizabeth worked together at Elizabeth Anne's Antiques at the Ettalong Markets on weekends and soon realised that people wanted to get a feel for the antiques that they were looking at.

They also felt that the longer that customers remained in the shop, the more they noticed and in some cases, purchased.

Jan Abberton had previously owned a cafe on the South Coast and the new concept seemed a perfect fit.

The new business opened on May 12 and is trading seven days while the Ettalong business continues to trade on weekends only.

The business in Ettalong has been trading for two years and because of its location within the markets does best selling small items such as collectable dolls, china and small interesting antique furniture pieces.

"We buy most of our antiques from Sydney and it's amazing how many finish up back there," said Elizabeth White.

"We buy stock every week and our range in both shops is constantly changing."

Elizabeth is keen to keep the Ettalong business going as she sees a great deal of potential there.

She sees interest in antiques growing as the population base changes and as more visitors arrive from Palm Beach each week.

Cec Bucello, May 29