in the world of British antiques and collectible treasures, few names shine as brightly as Irita Marriott. Known for her expertse, charm, and down-to-earth personality, Irita has carved a niche for herself as one of the leading female antique dealers in the UK. Her appearances on popular television shows and her own successful business have made her a respected figure among collectors and viewers alike. But behind the success story is a tale of hard work, passion, and dedication to craftsmanship and history.
Early Life and Background
Irita Marriott was born and raised in Latvia before moving to the United Kingdom, where she would eventually build her thriving career. Growing up, she developed an appreciation for art, culture, and objects with historical value. Latvia’s deep-rooted cultural heritage and craftsmanship traditions influenced her early perception of beauty and authenticity. When she moved to the UK, Irita found herself drawn to the world of antiques — a field that combined her love of history with her keen eye for design and value.
Her background gave her a unique advantage: she brought a European sense of style and quality to the British antiques market, allowing her to recognize and appreciate items that others might overlook.
Entry into the Antiques World
Irita’s professional journey began with working for one of the UK’s leading antique dealers. This experience gave her the opportunity to learn about various historical periods, furniture styles, ceramics, and decorative arts. She spent several years working in the industry before deciding to branch out and start her own business.
Over time, Irita gained a reputation for being a sharp and trustworthy expert — someone who not only understood the value of objects but also the stories they carried. Her passion for antique discovery was evident in every piece she handled, whether it was a Georgian silver teapot, a 19th-century painting, or a mid-century Scandinavian chair.
Establishing Her Own Business
In 2020, Irita founded Irita Marriott Antiques, an independent antique dealing business based in the Cotswolds — a region known for its charm and connection to British heritage. Her business focuses on sourcing and selling high-quality antiques, decorative pieces, and collectibles that appeal to both traditional and modern tastes.
Through her website and social media presence, Irita shares her finds with customers across the UK and internationally. Her inventory often includes furniture, sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and unique vintage items that tell stories from the past. What makes her business special is the personal touch she adds — she handpicks every item, ensuring it reflects quality, authenticity, and artistic beauty.
Her brand stands out for its elegant curation, reflecting both her expertise and her aesthetic sense. Irita’s followers admire her ability to combine timeless pieces with contemporary living spaces, showing that antiques can enhance modern homes with warmth and history.
Television Career and Public Recognition
While Irita was already well-respected in the antiques trade, her public recognition skyrocketed when she joined popular TV programs such as BBC’s “Antiques Road Trip” and “Bargain Hunt.” Her appearances on these shows introduced her to millions of viewers who admired her professionalism, knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm.
On these shows, Irita competes or collaborates with other antique experts to buy and sell items at auctions — with profits going to charity. Her calm confidence, friendly smile, and sharp eye for valuable pieces quickly made her a fan favorite.
Audiences appreciate how she explains the history and craftsmanship of each item in an engaging way, making the world of antiques accessible to everyone — not just seasoned collectors. Through television, Irita has inspired many young people, especially women, to consider careers in art, antiques, and heritage preservation.
Expertise and Style
Irita Marriott’s expertise covers a wide range of antiques and decorative arts, but she is particularly known for her taste in European furniture, ceramics, and fine art. She often describes antiques as “time capsules” — objects that carry the memory, style, and spirit of their era.
Her approach to antique dealing is rooted in honesty, integrity, and appreciation for beauty. She believes that buying antiques is not just a financial investment, but also a way of preserving culture. For her, every piece has a story, and understanding that story gives it true value.
Irita’s personal style combines classic sophistication with modern sensibility. Whether she’s presenting on TV or curating an exhibition, she brings elegance and confidence that reflect her passion for her craft.
Challenges and Achievements
Like any entrepreneur, Irita faced challenges when starting her business. Building a reputation in the competitive antiques market required persistence and strong relationships. The COVID-19 pandemic also posed difficulties for in-person sales and fairs, but Irita adapted quickly by focusing on her online platform, allowing her to reach collectors around the world.
Her adaptability and commitment to quality have paid off — today, Irita Marriott Antiques is recognized as one of the leading independent dealers in the UK. Her success story highlights how hard work, innovation, and love for heritage can lead to remarkable achievements.
She has also been praised for breaking barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men, proving that women can lead, educate, and excel in the art of antiques dealing.
Personal Life and Values
Beyond her professional achievements, Irita is known for her humble personality and family-oriented lifestyle. Despite her busy schedule, she remains grounded and often shares glimpses of her personal life with her audience. She has two children and values balancing her career with family time.
Her values reflect authenticity, education, and inspiration. She frequently emphasizes the importance of learning — both about art history and the practical side of running a business. Irita’s story encourages others to follow their passions and trust in their instincts, no matter where they come from.
Social Media and Online Presence
Irita is active on social media platforms, where she shares her daily work, restoration projects, and antique finds. Her followers enjoy her educational posts about different historical styles and artistic movements. Through her content, she has created a bridge between the traditional antiques world and the digital age — bringing historical art into modern homes through storytelling and visual presentation.
Her ability to blend education, entertainment, and entrepreneurship has earned her a loyal online following and expanded her customer base globally.
Legacy and Future Goals
As her career continues to flourish, Irita Marriott’s influence extends beyond the antiques trade. She represents a new generation of dealers who value transparency, sustainability, and cultural preservation. By encouraging people to buy antiques instead of mass-produced décor, she promotes a more eco-friendly and meaningful approach to interior design.
Irita’s long-term goals likely include expanding her business, hosting more TV projects, and possibly writing about her experiences in the world of antiques. Her story continues to inspire countless individuals who appreciate craftsmanship, authenticity, and history.
Conclusion
Irita Marriott’s journey from Latvia to becoming one of Britain’s most admired antique experts is a testament to passion, perseverance, and purpose. She has proven that true success comes not just from talent but from dedication and love for one’s craft. Through her business, television appearances, and educational work, Irita has made antiques exciting and relevant again for a modern audience.
Her name now stands for expertise, elegance, and integrity — qualities that ensure her lasting legacy in the world of antiques. Whether on screen or in her shop, Irita Marriott continues to remind us that every object has a story worth preserving and that beauty truly stands the test of time.