10 Tips for Curating a Successful Stall at a Second Hand Market

If you’re not sure how to maximise your profits when selling second-hand clothing, this blog post is for you. In preparation for our Pre-Loved Pop-Up Market this Sunday, we’ve put together some tips on curating a successful stall that your customers (and your piggy bank) will love!

CURATE, CURATE, CURATE!

It’s really worth thinking about how you set your items out and how they will look together either on a rail or a table. For clothes, consider arranging them by colour palette for an immediate visual hook that will draw customers towards your stall. For table displays, consider lifting some items higher than others by using boxes beneath a table cloth to add height.

THINK ABOUT THE SEASON WE’RE IN

It’s almost spring, so your chunky knitwear and Borg coats may not spark as much interest as your summer dresses and sandals. Homeware, decorations or party supplies for upcoming seasonal holidays (Mother’s Day, Easter etc) are also worth putting in the spotlight.

ENSURE YOUR OFFERINGS ARE CLEAN AND WELL-PRESENTED

There’s nothing that’ll put a customer off faster than browsing a stall and noticing rips, stains and/or odours. Ensuring your clothes are all washed, ironed and presented nicely will keep your customer browsing. It’s also worth making one final check for broken zips or pulled threads when your stall is ready to go.

DON’T ‘OVERSTUFF’ YOUR STALL!

Think about approaching your stall as a customer - does it look cluttered? By making sure your items are all presented well, you avoid the customer feeling overwhelmed and they are more likely to stay and browse. Think about creating the sort of environment you’d like to shop in and going from there.

DON’T FORGET YOUR FLOAT

Card payments are not the norm at a second-hand market, so ensure you have plenty of cash in your float in the form of pound coins and notes. Think about your pricing when it comes to putting your float together. For example, if you’re pricing things around the £5 mark, ensure you have lots of £1 coins as well as £10 notes and £5 notes. If you have lots of £1 toys or books, having a handful of 50p coins and 20p coins will be useful.

BE PREPARED FOR HAGGLERS

It’s a thrifters right to haggle, so be prepared on what you’re willing to offer them. Do you have high-end items that are non-negotiate on price? If so, consider putting them on their own separate rail. Sticking to your guns is fine, just remember to be respectful! And if you’re willing to negotiate then have an idea of these prices before the customer asks.

NO PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT

It’s important to strike a good balance between not being too pushy but being around if your customer has any questions. I always find that it’s best to hover nearby with a smile and let your customer know you’re there if they need you.

LABEL, LABEL, LABEL!

Do you have a wide range of clothes in multiple sizes? Labelling your items with a size will help customers make quick decisions. Ensure everything is individually priced with a label for any additional information that may not be immediately available.

TELL YOUR FRIENDS

Tell all your friends where you’ll be setting up a pre-loved stall so that they can make arrangements to come and browse. The more shoppers browsing, the more money you’ll make! So tell your best friends and your loved ones to meet you there.

MAKE NEW FRIENDS!

Get to know your neighbours when setting up and throughout the day. Events at The Cattle Yard always have a big community feel, so be prepared for lots of friendly faces and the possibility of new friendships.

We are so excited to welcome 25 different stalls to the market as well as Poke Nom Adventures who will be setting up with their mouth-watering Hawaiian-inspired Poke bowls! Coffee, tea and cake is being sold in aid of the King’s Lynn Men’s Shed too. So come hungry - grab some lunch and get involved in this exciting community event at Happy Valley Norfolk! See you there this Sunday the 23rd March 11am - 3pm.



Spring into Easter with a Stay at Happy Valley Norfolk

Easter Holiday Stays at Happy Valley Norfolk: A Springtime Escape

As Easter approaches, there's no better time to plan a relaxing countryside getaway, and Happy Valley offers the perfect retreat for families, couples, solo travellers and nature lovers alike. Nestled in the heart of Norfolk’s stunning countryside, this tranquil haven is the ideal place to celebrate the joys of spring and Easter with a blend of outdoor adventure, cozy accommodation with luxury hot tubs, and seasonal festivities.

Easter Sunday does not have a fixed date but falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. This means it typically occurs between March 22 and April 25.

Easter Traditions

While Easter has deep religious significance, it is also widely celebrated with various cultural traditions, including:

  • Church Services: Many Christians attend special services on Easter Sunday to commemorate the resurrection.

  • Easter Eggs: Symbolizing new life, eggs are often decorated and exchanged. The tradition has evolved to include Easter egg hunts for children.

  • The Easter Bunny: A popular folklore figure that delivers eggs and treats to children, blending Christian and pagan traditions.

  • Easter Feasts: Many families gather for a special meal, often featuring lamb, ham, or other festive foods.

The Connection to Spring

Easter coincides with the arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, reinforcing themes of renewal and rebirth. Many Easter customs, such as egg decorating and celebrating fertility, have roots in ancient pagan festivals that honored the changing seasons.

Overall, Easter is a time of joy, reflection, and celebration, whether observed as a religious event or a cultural tradition filled with fun and family gatherings.

Why Choose Happy Valley Norfolk for Easter?

What better place can you enjoy all of the Easter traditions than at Happy Valley. Renowned for its rural location, breathtaking landscapes, unique and comfortable hand crafted cabins, wildlife and peaceful surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a woodland hideaway, a luxury cabin, or a quirky glamping experience, just a stones throw from some of the best Norfolk eateries, landmarks and beautiful coastline there’s something for everyone. The charming accommodations blend seamlessly with nature, offering a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

During the Easter holiday, Happy Valley truly comes to life with blooming flowers, budding trees, and the gentle sounds of wildlife. It’s an excellent time to enjoy long walks, scenic bike rides, and even a spot of birdwatching. The crisp spring air and the warmth of the season create the perfect setting for outdoor exploration.

What about gathering a few families, sharing the childcare and taking over the whole site for your Easter staycation? See availability HERE -

Easter Activities for the Whole Family

Easter at Happy Valley is packed with fun-filled activities for guests of all ages. Some of the highlights include:

  • Easter Egg Hunts: Just down the road at Creeke Abbey Easter wonderland, where little ones can embark on an exciting Easter egg hunt through the site

  • Springtime Picnics: With lush green spaces and picturesque backdrops, guests can enjoy leisurely picnics surrounded by the beauty of nature.

  • Wildlife Spotting: As spring arrives, the area becomes a haven for local wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, birds of prey, bats, hares, and a huge variety of bird species.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Whether it’s paddleboarding on the sea, exploring hidden trails, or enjoying a sunset stroll, there’s no shortage of adventure.

  • Relaxation & Wellness: For those looking to unwind, Happy Valley’s air source heated hot tubs and peaceful atmosphere make for a rejuvenating escape.

Local Easter Festivities

Beyond the comforts of Happy Valley, Norfolk is brimming with Easter events and attractions. Guests can visit local markets, historic sites, and even take a trip to the nearby coastline for a breath of fresh sea air. Local attractions like Sandringham Estate and Holkham Hall often host special Easter activities, adding even more charm to your holiday.

Book Your Easter Escape Today

With its enchanting woodland setting, cozy accommodations, and a variety of Easter-themed activities, Happy Valley Norfolk is the perfect destination for a springtime retreat. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-packed getaway or a peaceful escape, you’ll find everything you need to create unforgettable Easter memories.

Don’t miss out—book your Easter holiday stay at Happy Valley Norfolk today and embrace the beauty of spring in one of Norfolk’s most idyllic locations!

Is it true that we get quieter as we age?

Is it true that we get quieter as we age?

American writer and author of,Quiet’, Susan Cain suggests that we all become introverts as we age in a process scientists call, ‘intrinsic maturation.’ Is this true? Are our personalities really changing as we get older or are we simply quieter because we are mellowing into old age like a fine wine? I’m no scientist but I’m tempted to suggest it’s the latter.

Maybe we are quieter because we have finally learnt to listen - to ourselves, to our loved ones and to the rhythms of the world we live in. At Happy Valley Norfolk we’ve created accommodation that fits perfectly with this conscientious way of living. Within Toad Hall, with its treetop balcony and sunset terrace, the sounds of nature are all-consuming. In Keeper’s Cabin, our hand-crafted log cabin in the woods, a wraparound veranda with rocking chairs, outdoor seating area and fire pit turn listening into an art. Let loved ones tell stories as you dine in award-winning bistros nearby or take a short drive to the Norfolk Coast, where the sounds of nature are sure to fill you up.

Maybe we are quieter because we’ve discovered that life is not a race, and we actually have all the time in the world. Time is our most valuable commodity. We understand that on the deepest level here at Happy Valley Norfolk, which is why we give you all the tools you need during a stay with us to revel in whatever it is that brings you joy. While away the hours in Moonshine Manor’s private air source heated hot tub. Fill your senses with the pages of your favourite book inside the domed ceiling of The Woodpecker, taking in sprawling countryside views with every page-turn.

View from a woodland cabin

Maybe we are quieter because we have earned the right to reflect; on our past years, on our greatest achievements, on our mistakes, on our relationships, on the big things and the little things. Reflection comes easily in the woods, where vistas are interrupted only by towering trees. Plush king size beds with comfortable bedding, fully-equipped kitchens and crackling wood-burning stoves make for the perfect backdrop to your thoughts. Touches of bliss are dotted around everywhere, with spa hot tubs at Toad Hall, Moonshine Manor, The Woodpecker and Keeper’s Cabin offering the chance to reflect in pure luxury.

Two chairs around a roaring fire pit

Maybe we are quieter because we’ve realised with silence comes the gift of gratitude; the ability to pause, take a deep breath and know what’s truly important. Social circles may get smaller as we focus on our most important relationships. We may seek out nature more than we seek out large social gatherings. We may have mastered how to let things go in order to make room for peace and wellbeing.

“If the task of the first half of life is to put yourself out there, the task of the second half is to make sense of where you’ve been,” explains Cain.

Find your quiet at Happy Valley Norfolk with a woodland glamping stay that feeds the soul and nourishes you on every level. It’s true - we do get quieter as we age, but we believe that with maturing years comes a maturing of spirit that should be explored and celebrated, (but not too loudly, right?!)

hot tub holidays norfolk forest

Wedding Trends for 2024! Our Favourite Top 6 Trends for 2024

Here at Happy Valley, we’re all about making your special day uniquely yours! 

We also love to see what’s happening within the industry, see what key trends are creating waves, proving popular and will provide that little something extra for your wedding. 

We are delighted to see that in 2024 the wedding landscape is looking less traditional, and is all about breaking away from the norm and creating weddings, which are exceptional and distinctive.  

We are seeing more couples making choices, which have a personal significance to create unique and memorable days – and we are definitely down for that! 

Photography by Aurora Grey

 So let us jump into the top 6 wedding trends of 2024 that have captured our hearts. 

1. Natural Venues 

 

For us, there is no better place to start than with what seems to be one of the most significant trends taking centre stage in 2024 – the rise of Outdoor Wedding Venues. 

The growing popularity of non-traditional weddings has been a noticeable trend in recent years, none more so than outdoor, natural wedding locations. Originally boosted by the pandemic, where couples were forced to look at alternative options and move their ceremony outside, thereby embracing nature and it’s spectacular backdrop. Outdoor weddings are now making a movement of their own.  

 At Happy Valley, this resonates deeply with us and we completely agree there is something magical about the changing seasons. The natural world offers us a breathtaking canvas allowing couples to paint their unique wedding day. 

 With the increase in popularity of outdoor wedding venues, the styling is also following suit, with couples embracing nature and the inherent beauty of your surroundings. Picture raw wood tables, seasonal flowers and greenery, and organic fabrics and drapes, everything is inspired by the gifts that nature bestows upon us. 

 

2. Celebrant – Led Weddings 

 

This past year has seen a remarkable 49% surge in search volumes for “Celebrant Weddings” (as reported by Hitched.co.uk) and this increase doesn’t surprise us at all here at Happy Valley – we love a celebrant led wedding. 

 Celebrant led weddings have captured our hearts and many of our couples too, for a multitude of compelling reasons. 

 First and foremost, the appeal lies in the incredible flexibility and freedom they offer.  With a Celebrant, the script is entirely customised to you, reflecting your unique loves, passions and joys. This means that your wedding can be a true reflection of your individual journey as a couple. 

 A rising trend we’ve observed is couples choosing to formalise their legal marriage at their local registry office ahead of the big day, or even onsite at Happy Valley the day before. This enables the day of the wedding service, led by a Celebrant, to become an exclusive reflection of your relationship, creating an experience that is authentic and meaningful to you both. 

 

3. Bold and Bright Colour Schemes 

 

2024 is going to be about embracing colour and pattern… if you love bold and bright then this is the year for you. 

Wedding prep at Happy Valley, cheerful colourful tables

Bold and Bright Decor

Vibrant shades of pink, orange, purple, or red infusing life into your tables, cake and drapes. Seasonal bouquets and flower arrangements becoming canvases for splashes of brilliant colour and personality. 

 

And, its not just the décor that is getting an injection of colour in 2024! New York Bridal Fashion Week bore witness to colour playing a significant sight on the runway, with pastel pinks, soft blues and floral patterns creating a magical and whimsical addition to many collections. (ref: Vogue

Pic Credit Above - Photographer @salsabilmorrisonphotogaphy Right - Photographer - @Lisaandneil Florals @Floralsistas.

This truly is the year to celebrate and embrace your personal style. It is time to showcase your individuality and personality, turning your wedding into a vibrant canvas of colours and patterns that reflect your inner spirit. 

 

4. Wedding Weekends and Extended Celebrations 

 

Why limit your celebrations to a single day when you can extend your wedding festivities over several glorious days? At Happy Valley we wholeheartedly embrace this trend, as standard! 

 

Most of our weddings are thoughtfully planned either mid-week Tuesday-Thursday, or as Weekend Weddings. This choice offers couples that invaluable gift of more time to bask in the warmth of their loved ones and extend that ‘best day ever’ feeling, for just a little bit longer. 

 

The day before arrival isn’t just practical; it’s a chance to take a deep breath and unwind, especially after a long journey. All the worries about making it on time, finding a spot to change or freshen up simply disappear. 

 

The evening before the big day is a golden opportunity for guests to meet and get to know each other. At Happy Valley the night prior often involves relaxed drinks and food around the courtyard fire pit. It is a time for your loved ones to bond, share stories and establish connections that will make the wedding even more memorable. 

 

As the sun rises on the day after the day before, it’s the perfect moment to gather together over morning brews, reliving the beautiful stories from the day before.  

 

Your journey with us at Happy Valley isn’t confined to just one day, it’s an enchanting voyage which extends your celebrations over several days, creating unforgettable memories. 

 

 

5. Relaxed Wedding Photography 

 

The era of the entire wedding party standing in perfect formation for extensive periods, waiting for the photographer to capture countless iterations of the ‘group shot’, is now a thing of the past. 

 

Relaxed Photography

2024 is all about embracing the relaxed, candid, and social approach. 

A wonderful opportunity for your photographer to artfully capture all those spontaneous, heartfelt moments that naturally unfold throughout the day. These photographs will not only look beautiful but will also capture genuine emotions, making your wedding unique. 

Additionally, there is an increase in the popularity of Wedding Content Creators. These skilled individuals are dedicated to producing real-time content to be shared to your socials. They capture unscripted moments that unfold, allowing your friends and family to join the excitement, even if they cannot be there in person. 

 Your wedding photos should be a reflection of your love story, your personality and your style as a couple. In 2024 it is all about celebrating the real moments, the laughter, the tears and the connections that make your wedding day truly special. 

 

6. Bespoke Cocktail Toasts 

Keeping up with the theme for 2024 of creating personalised weddings, the same is being reflected across food and drink.   

This year has witnessed a notable surge in the creation of signature cocktails for weddings, and this trend is set to continue into 2024. Couples are taking inspiration from the drinks they hold dear and crafting cocktails that truly resonate with their tastes and preferences. This is particularly the case for the post-ceremony tipple of choice.  

Amongst the top cocktail choices gaining popularity for 2024, Espresso Martini and the Paloma are set to be favorites.

These signature drinks add a touch of individuality to your celebration, allowing you to share your love for specific flavours with your guests and create a memorable and personalised experience. 

Tray of cocktails at wedding

Jeremy James Photography

Cheers to a wedding day that’s truly unique and reflects your one-of-a-kind love story! 

The overall takeaway trend for 2024 is definitely looking like it’s going to be the year for weddings to be unique, unconventional and personal. We can’t wait! 

Half Term escape to the Forest at Happy Valley

As Autumn closes in we couldn’t be more excited for living in a country where there’s seasons and nothing quite beats an Autumn Escape to the forest. Our reviews speak for themselves and it is like living in a painting at this time of year. The smells of the forest, the star gazing from the hot tubs, cosying up by the log fires with a hot choc or glass of wine. Hygge at its best.

Experience a little laid back luxury in the wild.

Autumn in north norfolk

Book your mini break staycation in the woods HERE

Autumn is the perfect season to reflect on the learnings of the year and evaluate our accomplishments however big or small.

If you’re looking to get back to nature, rediscover your inner child and need a little inspiration on finding art in nature using materials found in the forest or beach then look no further - forage along the woodland paths and you’ll find the perfect ingredients for a leaf mandala or find created cone ideas - HERE

If you’re traveling with your little ones then you can check out what’s on in Norfolk this October half term HERE

We love The Real Halloween (28th & 29th October) where you can book workshops 3- 8 yrs and under 3s enjoy Real Broomsticks, Halloween Lanterns, the Pixie Post Office, Halloween Games, Witches’ Kitchen,  the Fairy King & Queen, Musical Toadstools, plus lots of walkabout entertainers, live music, storytellers, Popcorn Wizards & bonfire, The Real Halloween story plus the dusk lantern parade. Created by the Fairyland Trust this was a firm favourite of ours when the children were little and it’s just 10 minutes down the road - Find our MORE

If you’d rather soak up the forest and create your own mini adventures on site then Leaf or barking Rubbing or you can get creative Pumpkin Carving which are firm favourites on site. Marshmallows and hot chocolate by the campfire after a nice dip in the hot tub and some star gazing. Just divine.

You may just want to come solo and enjoy the simplicity, perhaps have an autumn cleanse or just cuddle up by the fire and we welcome you with open arms.

We watch and learn from nature as the trees show us how good it is to let things go.

Autumn glamping in north norfolk

Next to the tire swing at Happy Valley

winter glamping with private hot tub in the forest
Cabin the woods with hot tub
Autumn in the woods
autumn in the woods

woodland walks go on for miles around Happy Valley

forage and you’ll find the most magical of ingredients for your nature art

Road to Happy Valley - Look out for the Heart Tree

Roydon Common is just down the road from Happy Valley and has spectacular scenery in the Autumn

Year round Woodland Weddings in North Norfolk

Are you looking for a Woodland Wedding Venue surrounded by natural beauty and plenty of undercover areas just in case? Then Happy Valley Norfolk may be the perfect venue for your wedding. Surrounded by woodland, a secluded island on the water and a selection of barns to choose from, Happy Valley aims to make your big day one to remember. As a venue, we provide a range of six cabins and two bell tents in the summer months exclusively for you and your guests to stay in over the course of two nights (the night before and the night of your wedding), as well as a camping meadow for additional guests to stay. Our newest addition to the property is the Marshall bar where we provide our own bar staff.

Take a glimpse into one of the many stunning weddings we have hosted in 2023 to give you a better idea of what your wedding could look like.

A HUGE shout out to the couple and all the suppliers that made E & Js day so special!

Ellie Gillard Photography - Photographer

Florentina Catering

Banqueting Hire Service

Tomas’ Jimenez

Hot Waves

Hayley Clarke MUA

Flamingo Amy

We are forever grateful to be able to share this space with you X

FAQ’S

Q -Do you offer a Coordination service?

A- Yes, we do for an additional fee.

Q- Where can you get married on-site?

A- You can get married anywhere on site and use as much or as little of the site as you wish.

Q- How many can you accommodate for a wedding?

A- From 2 to 250+. Our Dutch barn can seat 200 & our Haybarn seats 74 for dining. You can have more guests seated in the surrounding undercover areas should you want to. Standing, the capacity is higher. We tend to offer the Hay Barn only for smaller, intimate Weddings and all of the barns and areas for larger weddings.

Q- Can we bring our own booze?

A- For the day before and the day after your wedding you are welcome to bring your own booze with no corkage. Mid-week weddings can bring their own alcohol with corkage on the day of their wedding. Weekend weddings on the day of the wedding we ask you to use our bar and/or drinks packages.

Q- Can we choose our own suppliers?

A- Absolutely! We do have a recommended suppliers list but you are welcome to choose whichever suppliers you wish to have.

Q- What happens if it rains?

A- The venue has been designed with this in mind. We have lashings of indoor and undercover spaces for you to enjoy your wedding day and we always like to make sure our couples have a wet weather plan to help their day go as smoothly as possible.

Q- Can you accommodate Autumn/Winter Weddings?

A- We have made the Hay Barn much more winter friendly with an indoor bar area, 2 log burners - The weather can also be surprisingly good in the Winter months. The beautiful Autumnal Colours can make for some of the most romantic Weddings - Max numbers are around 70 for the meal and up to 185 for evening dancing during the Winter Months - Oct to March and Summer Months we can host up to 250+

Easter Staycation in Norfolk

For all you guys looking for a family getaway this easter in an idyllic woodland setting in the beautiful countryside of Norfolk, head on down to Happy Valley! From treehouses to cabins in the woods we do our best to cater for everybody’s needs. Please keep an eye out for late availability as we do not release dates until closer to the time. Take a look at our cabins below and the current availability we have this April for each property.

Please note that we have a minimum of a two-night stay during the week and a three-night stay at weekends and that availability is subject to change due to the number of bookings we receive.

Toad Hall

Toad hall sleeps six with a kingsized bed downstairs, a double bedroom upstairs and extra sleeping space available. This open-plan treehouse property is great for larger families for a place to be at one with nature. Imagine relaxing in the hot tub and watching the sunset with a glass of bubbly!

April 2023 availability for Toad Hall CLICK HERE

The Woodpecker

The perfect cabin for people with young children! The woodpecker sleeps four with a kingsized bed and two bunk beds all on one floor. Equipped with its own kitchen, bathroom and hot tub along with a fold-out cot and highchair.

April 2023 availability for The Woodpecker

The 14th, 15th, 16th, 24th, 25th and 26th.

Keepers Cabin

Keepers cabin is the perfect place to kick back and relaxed by the roaring open fire. This cabin has two floors with a kingsized bed on the ground floor and a kingsized and a single bed on the top floor. Also, with a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and hot tub to enjoy.

April 2023 availability for Keepers Cabin

The 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 24th, 25th and 26th.

King Nutkin

For a cosy getaway for all you lovely couples out there! King Nutkin sleeps two with one kingsized bed and its own kitchen. A great place to sit outside and relax while toasting marshmallows under the stars.

April 2023 availability CLICK HERE

Denver Rest and Tawny Hut

Please also keep an eye out in the future for our other cabins which can be booked as a pair or individually through the warmer months. Denver Rest has its own outdoor kitchen which they share with Tawny Hut. Both cabins sleep two people each, with a Double bed in Denver Rest and a Super kingsized bed in Tawny Hut.

Things to do with the family in the area:

-Sandringham

Just an 11 minute drive from Happy Valley. On Tuesday the 4th, 5th and 6th of April Sandringham have a variety of Easter activities guided by Nana Lavander. On Sunday 9th of April Sandringham is hosting an Easter egg trail in aid of the East Anglian air ambulance from 10:30am until 2:30pm. Suitable for all ages.

-Bawsey county

Again, an 11 minute drive from the site. On Saturday 8th of April between 11am and 5pm Bawsey Country Park is hosting an Easter fair.

-Castle Acre

With merely a 14 minute drive from Castle Acre enjoy a family picnic and walk this Easter in the beautiful setting of Castle Acre with some stunning castle ruins.

-Beaches

With Hunstanton beach only a 26 minute drive, Wells-next-the-sea a 34 minute drive and Holkam beach only a 42 minute drive from our site, enjoy fish and chips by the sea with the family this Easter.