Snapdragon has been a staple on Mill Street since it opened in 2013 and, although the shop has seen a great deal of change in that time, remains a firm favourite with Oakham locals for its diverse range of goods and the friendly face of owner, Debbie Oakes. 

Among other things, the shop stocks clothes, jewellery, candles and incense, bags and purses, scarves, decorations and reusable, environmentally friendly goods – and of course, chocolate! 

Chocolate, reusable items, and the books of local author, Adam Croft.

Debbie, who has run the store for 9 years, moved from North London to Oakham in 1992 when her husband's work was relocated. 

Prior to this move, Debbie also spent a great deal of time travelling, visiting a variety of countries, all of which have inspired the stock found in Snapdragon today. 

Debbie said: "My travels have taken me to India, Australia, South Africa and many parts of Europe. I seek inspiration where ever I go and if I can find excellent buys like a range of leather goods I bought in Morocco, I am even happier!"

Since 2013 though, Debbie has channelled her sense of adventure in a different direction, running Snapdragon in Mill Street and becoming a familiar face in Oakham. 

Debbie said: "We aren't just a shop. We offer a face-to-face, chatty space for people to come and feel safe. Shopping online removes that, but I think the pandemic made people realise the importance of that contact. People really come in to chat as much as they do to shop. We're like a counselling service!" 

She added: "I love colour. It is stimulating and uplifting and makes people happy when they drop in."

On top of being involved in community led events such as Oakham Pride this summer, Debbie has also been heavily involved in the organising of the 2022 Oakham Festival, which saw success this June.

Debbie is already getting started with plans for the 2023 Festival and has asked that if anyone wants to get involved, helping out with advertising and sponsorship, to please get in touch. Interested parties can do so by emailing [email protected] or via Facebook. 

The Festival will take place on the 25th June and runs for a week.

Debbie doesn't only champion local events though. She is also a keen supporter of fair trade and independent companies, stocking many affordable one off items from a range of sellers in her shop. 

Debbie explained: "I have found a few niche independent companies that I like to stock. My rucksacks for example. I found a guy who had a range of backpacks that originated from India but wasn't sure how to sell. They're fabulous, completely handmade from reclaimed materials.

"I am also very passionate about fair trade products, at a fair price. I am very aware of the struggles that people are encountering after the pandemic and with rising living costs. We have always had good prices here." 

Snapdragon can be found at 25 Mill Street, Oakham, and is open from 9:30am until 5pm Monday to Saturday. 

The price range for the store is ££, with many cheaper items on offer too, including gifts, homewares, cards and wrapping paper, bags, clothes, jewellery and much more. 

Home decor and birthday cards are some top sellers.

Find out more and contact Debbie on the Snapdragon Facebook page. 

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