Shop Manager Hannah buying Earlybird Cards
- Jenna Fansa
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
It’s a dream come true for Earlybird Manager Hannah Sharman as she prepares to buy the store from Heidi and Dom Early.
The couple are handing on the keys to their award-winning card shop after 22 years on Church St and they were determined the business go to someone who shared their community values.
Heidi said: “This has been a massive decision for us but one that feels absolutely right. Over the last four years, Hannah has worked closely with us to develop the shop, to help bring the initiatives we run to life, create and install stunning, eye catching window displays and most noticeably to win retail awards!
“Whilst doing all of this, Hannah has been doing the best thing about running an indie shop - connecting with the customers and community. So, it feels like the natural next step, to make the shop officially her own baby,”
Hannah, who is Stoke Newington born and bred, has been visiting the store since she was little, and is excited it’s set to be hers.
She said: “I have grown up with Earlybird so to call the card shop my own is a dream come true. I can’t wait to continue to build what is a truly much-loved local business.”
Heidi and Dom have decided to put all their passion into the design and trade side of the business (Earlybird Designs). From January, Hannah’s official new business will be called Earlybird Cards and Gifts.
Earlybird Designs will continue to supply the shop with card designs and the couple will mentor Hannah. Heidi added: “We work so well together it will be fun to pop in occasionally and get my retail fix and Hannah always has great ideas to input on our card ranges so that will continue.”
Earlybird was named Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer in London in 2021 and 2025. It first opened in Church Street in 2003. Heidi and Dom have seen many of their customers grow their families in that time, including their own.
"Our children were known by our customers before they were even born - the day the sign went up to say we were closed because Oliver had arrived was quite the talking point of the street," laughs Heidi.
Heidi is also stepping down as the chair of the Stoke Newington Business Association. If you know anyone interested in the role please email hello@seeyouinstokey.com.
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