Words: Zena le Roux | Image: Supplied
Not only does The Grey Horns Artistry sell canvas prints as its core business, but it also offers carefully selected fashion accessories, ethically acquired Nguni hides, beauty products, ceramics, wood work, linen and so much more from talented designers, craftsman, potters and photographers. Owner and founder Jacques van Rooyen tells us more:
How did your business start?
I have been in fashion retail for many years, with a little guilty pleasure for home decor of course. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to open my own little home decor store and I grabbed it. The Grey Horns Artistry opened its doors on 1 March and with the continued support of every single one of our customers, we can truly say that we’re on the road to bigger success.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
We chose 13th Street, Menlo Park for the buzz, of course. The space available and the surroundings at the time felt perfect for what we envisioned. We wanted to offer the customer something different, a store with soul… our journey has only begun.
How did you find your premises?
We lived in Menlo Park, so we frequently visited the centre only to one day find the perfect spot for the inception of our new brand, The Grey Horns Artistry.
Why are they ideally suited to your business?
Menlo Park centre and surrounds has a high LSM customer base, very similar to a few other high-end malls. The centre has a wonderful mix of tenants that really makes this centre the go-to for many customers.
Who are your neighbours?
We share our lovely side of the centre with Freedom Of Movement, The Gallery on 13th, Edumusic, Studio Silhouette and soon, a new restaurant.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
I would say it’s pretty relevant, keeping in mind that this is a strip centre (outside street view).
What is your shop footprint?
Our weekday trade is much stronger than our weekend trade, but with the new restaurant opening next door, I foresee this changing as our trading hours will also follow suit. We flourish on manic days, so the more people pop in to shop or just say hi (all the regulars and new faces of course), the better. Our outside-Pretoria footprint has also grown significantly which is why we launched the social and online platform to reach more people.
Do you have any expansion plans?
Oh yes, watch this space.
Do you operate online as well?
We definitely do – thegreyhorns_artistry on Instagram and @thegreyhornsartistry on Facebook. You can visit our online store primarily for canvas prints.
What’s your most popular item/service?
It’s definitely our canvas prints – quirky cow or serious cow always is the topic of discussion, not to mention our beautiful botanical range. We gladly share our love for kiaat framing with any of our customers as an added service in the store.
The Grey Horns Artistry
082 567 3265
thegreyhorns.co.za