Irita Marriott
(Expert)
How do you find life on the road?
Life on the road has two sides - one of excitement seeing new people and places, having adventures, and one of simply being away from home, missing my loved ones and lots of commuting, but when you look at it as a whole it’s an incredible opportunity to build memories - and I sure love that!
What is the favourite part of your role?
Every time I am paired with someone I just want one thing - for them to walk away and be in love with antiques more than ever, and if I can be just a little influence in that by making them feel at ease, sharing my knowledge, then I am one happy lady!
Why did you choose a career in antiques?
It’s a world that I didn’t know existed until I was, so to speak, ‘dropped in the deep end’! I didn’t choose it, it chose me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
What would you do for a living if you weren’t working in the antiques trade?
I would be still working in a garden centre as a giftware/Christmas buyer and manager. It’s a department that makes people happy; finding that perfect something special for someone and the magic of Christmas. It just makes my heart happy!
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to work in antiques?
Buy and learn what you like and buy the best quality you can afford! Quality always sells!
How did you get involved in Bargain Hunt?
I actually appeared as a seller on Bargain Hunt quite a few times in my early dealing career. Then one day, many years later, I was approached to be an expert and of course I had to say YES!
Who has been your most memorable Bargain Hunt team?
I have loved every single one of my teams! The people I meet is part of why I love this job! But I have to say it’s probably the first ever team I had! I will never forget it - my first team, my first ever episode as an expert and my first golden gavel, all in one!
Which fairs do you particularly like shopping at when Bargain Hunting?
I have to say sometimes the smaller fairs are easier to navigate and there are better priced goods. I would pick Uttoxeter Racecourse as my top pick.
What’s the most profit/greatest loss you’ve made at auction?
There have been plenty of both! But the ones I remember are the ones when I have bought something that the seller didn’t quite know what it was and it felt like I’ve uncovered a hidden treasure. That’s more satisfying than the profit to me.
What is your biggest guilty pleasure?
A cruise! The best kind of holiday there is! You can stay in the same room for weeks, yet you wake up in a different city each day. It’s a win win for me, and the food on there isn’t bad either. Ha ha ha.
How do spend your free time?
Hunting for antiques with my two boys in tow. They are developing a love for it and I love watching the excitement of them finding things and learning about them.
Do you collect anything?
I collect exhibition frames (the gilt wood carved frames within a solid glazed frame). Half of my house walls is covered in them with family photos. Other than that, I am very random at collecting… if I like it I keep it, and when I stop noticing it I will swap it for something else.
Why do you think that Bargain Hunt has such appeal?
Because as experts we let all our contestants be themselves and just have fun with it! It’s not about money, it’s about memories and laughter, and it comes across when you’re watching the show. It just makes you smile whether you want it to or not!
Why would you encourage anyone to appear on Bargain Hunt?
Where do I start and how long do you have! Let me just put it this way… it’s a once in a lifetime experience like no other and you will never forget it!
