After seven years living in Canada and Europe, I have settled in Canberra to launch Histoires. Literally meaning 'stories', the concept behind Histoires is to offer 18th, 19th and 20th century European antiques including furniture, lighting, mirrors, decorative items and garden furniture.

My passion is searching for original, authentic pieces that will not only add beauty and a unique touch to a home but that can also be used in everyday life. The functional element is important in my selection process. The pieces chosen clearly have a history or stories behind them and display this through their wonderful patinas. It seems a shame not to continue that tradition.

You don't need to have a whole house full of antiques either. My interest in antiques started when I wanted something vintage to give my lounge a unique look and feel. I was the proud owner of new sofa set from Freedom but I didn't want my lounge looking like their showroom. I found a 1930's chrome and mirror side table in an Art Deco Antiques shop in Wellington and it created that essential point of difference I was looking for. And of course it was always that piece of furniture and not the sofas that got commented on!

My interest in antiques developed into a real passion whilst living in Switzerland. My husband and I would go on recon missions to France, coming back with our treasures strapped to the roof rack. When we moved to Canberra in 2006, there was nothing to fill that void in my life. So last September, I went back to Paris to buy my first shipment for 'Histoires'. My Parisian antiques buyer, Jean-Pierre, helped me find some unique pieces at great prices and keeps me informed of new pieces as they become available.

With Jean-Pierre's help and many hours spent scouring local markets and fairs, the Histoires range is expanding all the time. If I don't have exactly what you are looking for, I can help you find it! Or come with me on my next buying trip to France!