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The founder of a quirky local homeware store is preparing to open a coffee shop next to her shop on Halkett Street after deciding that the recently-refurbished area needed "something extra".
Michelle O'Connell is hoping to open the coffee shop, which will adjoin Amélie, at the start of next month.
Amélie sells colourful and collectable homeware gifts and accessories and was initially based in Bath Street, with Michelle moving to her current location at 22 Halkett Street around three years ago.
"I feel we're unique – I don't think there's another Amélie over here, or anything like it," Michelle said.
"It's basically about creating a place where people can come and just enjoy, they pick up something for themselves, or they pick up something for a gift and they have a great experience – because that's what we're trying to do."
Pictured: Amélie sells colourful and collectable homeware gifts and accessories.
Noting the recent refurbishment of Halkett Street, Michelle continued: "I decided with the beautiful new precinct that's been made, and it's such a gorgeous street now, that I just felt it needed something extra."
She added that there were many "lovely businesses" in the area and that the coffee shop would be open from 8am as not to miss those on their way to work.
The shop will also change its hours to open at 9am, as it normally opens at 10am.
Pictured: Michelle O'Connell will soon be opening a coffee shop adjoining her homeware store in Halkett Street.
Michelle said: "People love coffee, and it's a treat every day to get coffee, a good coffee, and it's a ritual. I just think that's something I can relate to.
"So it'll be very colourful, super friendly, just a really nice experience."
She added that she hoped to open the coffee shop at the start of next month.
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