THE owner of a new spiritual retail store in Dovercourt has said she has been “overwhelmed” by the support received from the community.

Christina Sutton opened Meraki, in High Street, alongside fellow mums Samantha Coleman and Rachel Rowsell at the end of July.

The shop sells a variety of items from crystals, candles, oils and herbs while serving trendy alternative drinks and food.

Christina, a phlebotomist, is also hoping the workshop space within the unit will be a popular hotspot for hosting family activities, meditations and other workshops.

She said the trio’s journey to get their dream shop had been a “whirlwind”.

“We started this venture by starting a sabbat festival box filled with journaling tips, affirmations, festival celebration ideas, rituals, treats and tools back in January,” she said.

“Although this was our side gig we decided we loved creating together and would love to have a space where we could continue to create and share with our community.

“We were lucky enough to find the perfect venue and it has been a whirlwind ever since. We have designed the branding, interior and exterior ourselves and have upcycled just about everything in sight.

“Our partners have been amazing and supportive, decorating and making displays while fitting all hours to help us.

“It really has been a family affair and there were times when we thought we would be stuck with paintbrushes in our hands and dust in our hair for eternity.”

The space within the store is divided and used as a plant-based café serving all vegan foods and drinks, a retail space selling homeware, incense, healing gemstone jewellery and more.

The trio’s aim is to eventually run workshops including crystal healing, meditation, family workshops, and henna designs – to name just a few.

They will also be running a weekly parent and toddler group where families can explore an activity or subject in a calm and welcoming environment.

The talented mums make about 80 per cent of the items sold in the shop - from the jewellery and candles to the baked goods.

Christina added: “We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received so far and have been made to feel so welcome on the high street.

“We hope to be an asset to the community and look forward to teaching and welcoming many more people into our awesome space.”