It’s been 25 years since Annie Sloan revolutionized decorative painting by inventing her now internationally known and loved, Chalk Paint™.
Hundreds of Annie Sloan stockists from around the world will be descending on Oxford, England, this weekend, to celebrate this important anniversary with a huge soiree. Regrettably, I couldn’t make it. We’re busy getting ready for the October 3rd Pop-Up shop, and couldn’t squeeze in a trip to the UK.
And besides, I was lucky enough to go to Oxford this past April…
I feel very grateful to have spent some very memorable moments with Annie Sloan over the past 4 years, over 6 different trips. We first met in Boston in Spring 2012, then in New Orleans in 2013 & 2014, plus Toronto & Montreal in Fall 2013.
I even got a shot of her bare toes! Here’s a pic of us together with my Florence painted Adidas.
This last visit, however, was incredibly special. Being in Annie’s Oxford shop, plus being taught by her, in HER own space, was a dream come true. The workshop was held at her headquarters in an Oxford warehouse.
Arriving at her shop on Cowley Road felt a bit like a pilgrimage! Annie still has the same shop she opened 20 years ago. Although most of her staff now work out of her warehouse, the shop is still her only retail location. It’s small, inviting, and charming — completely, absolutely Annie.
And here’s the back room, where Annie held her workshops from the beginning…
It’s an incredible story, about a very talented lady who — in her words — was a 20-year overnight success! As we often hear from Annie, Chalk Paint™ wasn’t an instant hit, and instead she had to work many long, hard years to gain the recognition she truly deserves.
As all those stockists party and celebrate with Annie and her family this weekend, I’ll also be raising a glass to her, and this incredible 25-year journey she’s been on.
Congratulations, Annie!
Kx