Helen & Douglas House 1st birthday ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ celebration

Hard on the heels of the success at the WOW award for best charity shop interior the success Marlborough’s Helen & Douglas House shop celebrated their first birthday on 8 August with a big splash. Or to be more precise, a ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ day for its customers.

Staff and volunteers dressed up in their little black dresses Aubry Hepburn style and welcomed customers to the shop for chocolates, birthday cake and a glass of fizz.  They had lovely ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ themed displayed including some beautiful pearl jewellery.

Janeta Keuser and her daughter Sienna came along to the 1st birthday at the shop to celebrate because Sienna officially opened the shop one year ago. Janeta and Sienna are regular visitors to the shop and Sienna will be starting as a volunteer at the shop in September.

Sienna is a vibrant 16-year-old girl living with Dravet’s Syndrome, a particularly severe and life-limiting form of Epilepsy characterized by frequent seizures and a variety of challenging complications. 

Janeta Sienna’s mum said “In a world where challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, finding a support system that understands, care and uplifts can make all the difference. For our family, that support has come from Helen & Douglas House children’s hospice

“The Helen & Douglas House Hospice Shop in Marlborough is far more than just a retail space — it’s a vibrant hub of community resilience, support, and hope. This year marked a special milestone: the shop’s first anniversary, a moment that was particularly meaningful for Sienna.

“As a child supported by Helen & Douglas House and a proud resident of beautiful Marlborough, she was thrilled to be invited to cut the ribbon at the grand opening a year ago.

“Since then, the shop’s stunning interior has received national recognition, winning the Charity Retail Association National Award for Best Charity Shop Interior.

“A heartfelt thank you goes to Jodie, the shop manager. Her vision and unwavering commitment have transformed the space into a warm, welcoming, and inspiring environment for customers to enjoy.

“The Helen & Douglas House team has gone above and beyond to support Sienna, kindly providing her with the opportunity to volunteer from September as well as her friend with special needs. This creates the opportunity for Sienna to have a wonderful experience, helping her develop new skills, build confidence, and sharing her lovely personality with the local community. The charity has ensured she feels included, accepted, and supported.

“Next time you’re in Marlborough, why you don’t stop by and experience the warmth, sophistication, and beauty of this shop and meet the incredible people who work and volunteer there, knowing that your support helps Helen & Douglas House continue providing vital care for local children like Sienna.”

Jodie Berry Manager of the shop said “We would like to thank all the wonderful customers who came along to our 1st birthday celebrations. It was such a fun day enjoyed by everyone. We are so glad to be part of the Marlborough community.

“Pop in to our Helen & Douglas House charity shop on Marlborough High Street to help more local children like Sienna and take a look at our award winning interior.”