Tell us a bit about OpahStore?

Launched in 2019, OpahStore is an online retail store selling garments and household goods. Our aim is to help others find the perfect balance of beauty and practicality, form and function. We source products from independent makers with a keen sense of principle, who share our idea of beauty and quality. The products we offer are carefully curated items you should want to use and that over time will become essential to your daily routine.

What inspires the store?

Growing up in a creative environment I developed an appreciation of beautiful things from an early age. My father taught me how to find contentment and inspiration in the recognition of simple objects and in the value of minimalism. He encouraged me to fill my life with objects of beauty and that has carried with me all my life. I guess at the end of the day, it’s all about knowing that when you get home and step through your front door, you will be content and inspired by the beautiful things that you have chosen to have around you.

What’s your earliest memory of dogs being in your life?

I remember going to friends houses as a child and being more exited to spend time with their dog! My family decided to get our Slovakian Rough Haired Pointer, Dennis in 2007. He was a gentle giant, long legs and huge paws but completely full of love and he brought many years of happiness into our lives. My elder brother and his partner had a Miniature Schnauzer, Inga, who I adored and this confirmed that when I had a dog, it had to be a Schnauzer

Tell us about Opah and how he came into your life?

After finishing university and missing my family dog Dennis back home, I somehow managed to convince my partner Alex within a year of us being together that what we needed most in our life was a dog. We spent months deliberating if it was the right time or not, but we knew we wanted a Miniature Schnauzer. We fell in love with Opah the first time we met him, he was last of a litter and had a wonky ear but he was just perfect for us. He can be shy when he first meets new people, but is very kind and calm. He’s 7 now and has brought us so many happy memories and continues to do so!

How does having a dog fit into your general working day?

Every morning Opah jumps on the bed first thing. We start the mornings slowly, as I have a coffee and catch up on emails Opah normally goes back to bed for an hour or so before his long walk. His walks along the coast are my favourite part of the day as it give us time to relax and take in the air before going home for a full days work. Opah is very well behaved which means I can easily get a lot of work done in the house, whether it’s on my laptop, wrapping orders or dying fabrics, Opah is always there, my constant companion.

Favourite all time place to go for a long walk?

We live along the coast in East Sussex so I am lucky to be surround by beautiful countryside and beaches. One of my favourite places we visit is Pett Level beach, about 15 minutes drive from Hastings. It has amazing coastal cliffs and if timed right, you can walk on fresh sand for miles and miles. We feel very fortunate living by the sea, it never seems to get old and luckily Opah likes to sit and watch the waves with me, although he doesn’t like swimming.

If you could be a dog for the day which breed would you be and why?

I would probably choose a larger breed, like a Irish Wolfhound or a Slovakian Pointer. Both breeds are gentle, full of character and have a very kind temperament!

You can follow Eliza-lee and Opah adventures together on instagram and check out OpahStore website here.

Photo credits Syd Farrington