Famed for selling quirky and colourful one-off gifts and homewares, Oklahoma is closing the doors of its Northern Quarter shop for good, with its online store expanding.
In an Instagram post, owner Nicola Payne, said: “The last three years have been ones of upheaval and change for Oklahoma with Covid bringing many problems and opportunities. Mainly it made me focus on our online offering which was exciting for me and allowed time for new creative focus and ideas. As a result, we were able to reach lots of new customers all over the UK and abroad and share a little of the Oklahoma magic.
“Since the bricks and mortar shop reopened I have been juggling two business and now feels like the perfect time to close our physical shop and focus all my energy on our
website offering, exciting new products and collaborations.”
The owner conitnued:”At 52 yrs of age I hope to also find more time to garden, travel, take up yoga again, relax with friends and family and to get a bit of well deserved head space. I am excited about this next step for me, and for the business. I can’t wait to bottle all the best colourful bits of Oklahoma and continue to showcase our brand along with all the great finds on okla.co.uk.”
Established in 1997, the ‘home of fun‘ has stood on High Street in the NQ for years, and has never really been upstaged. Oklahoma is truly unique and has brought smiles to the faces of every customer through the door, with its bright and cheeky products and atmosphere. From gnome lamps and plant accessories, to intricately embroidered cushions and Mondrian-inspired scarves, there has never seemed to be a limit as to what Oklahoma can provide, and as an independent, nowhere else has such a recognisable brand.
Whilst we will definitely miss their Frida Kahlo and Cher inspired items, making sure we always had special presents for friends and family, it seems the right move for a shop owner who has given so much of herself and her life to her beloved Oklahoma. Her creativity and bright personality will still shine through her online store, and perhaps flourish even more when she’s able to take it easy, so we will really be in for a treat!
The bricks and mortar shop on High Street will remain open until Tuesday 31st January, so do pop down to say your final goodbyes to this independent gem that is Oklahoma whilst you can before closing.