Launched in July 2025, the Norman & Vera Garden Emporium offers a range of gardening related products, encompassing growing, birds & wildlife, home & lifestyle, clothing and accessories.
A regular on the BBC Gardeners’ World stage at events, the founder of the new emporium, David Hurrion is a trained horticulturist, teacher, and journalist, with experience working on nurseries, teaching at colleges, and editing gardening magazines.
Hurrion credits his uncle and aunt, Norman and Vera for nurturing his passion for gardening and love of the natural world. “Born over 100 years ago, their generation lived through World War II which meant growing their own food and having a practical, make-do-and-mend attitude. We aim to offer up-to-date versions of things which Norman and Vera, and any of their generation, would find useful and attractive, were they still alive today,” explains Hurrion.
Adhering to Norman & Vera’s distinctive style, the range includes a diverse selection of items that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, whilst maintaining that strong connection to gardening. “Norman and Vera’s taste in gardening, home furnishing and fashion had a typically ‘mid-century’ style to it, mixing the practical, traditional with modern post-war design,” he said.
Living up to the ethos of Norman and Vera, Hurrion explains that his online enterprise has a conscience, sourcing items responsibly and supports UK businesses and suppliers. “Supporting UK businesses is hugely important to me. I also keep unnecessary plastics to a minimum and avoid, low-cost, short-life items.”
“I’ve been a gardener all my life and I’m always on the look out for practical solutions to make my hobby easier and more enjoyable, as well things that I’ll enjoy using day-to-day or can give as gifts to friends and family. Sharing my knowledge and the products I find is important to me, plus it’s a great way to remember the love of gardening and nature which Norman and Vera gave me. All of that is what makes it particularly special to me…”
