‘Nostalgia is priceless but at Romantiques it’s free’

Writer: Phillip Parsons

Most people are familiar with Romantiques, the one-of-akind vintage collectables store in Hermanus. The name itself carries a certain charm, recalling a time when the pace of life was slower, artefacts were made by hand and manners were altogether more refined. It conjures up things extravagant, wild and fantastic, as a visit to Romantiques itself bears out.

James Ludick is excited to be taking over as the new owner of Romantiques on 1 January – a business that he calls “a living museum in the heart of Hermanus.

PHOTOS: Hedda Mittner & Taylum Meyer

The story of Romantiques itself is a fascinating one. It was started in 2006 by a girl who needed work after school; friends joined and the shop grew and developed through the years. In 2010 Romantiques was recognised nationally in a feature in the Afrikaans newspaper, Rapport, and was also featured in many other renowned magazines as well as on Top Billing.

The shop soon outgrew its original premises and in 2011 moved to its current location at 14 Aberdeen Street. From humble beginnings it has developed into a landmark shop in Hermanus, with customers travelling from far and wide to browse the wide selection of stock available. The owners decided to sell more than a year ago already, but it took some time finding the right person who shared their passion and who would continue to respect the values and principles that have underpinned the business.

Click below to read more. (The full article can be found on page 5)