A new store offering Bermuda-made and designed goods has just opened its doors.

Artist Joanna Stapff took the plunge and opened 1609 Design in time for the Christmas rush.

And she said her range of designer cards, jewellery and tote bags were ideal festive season gifts.

Ms Stapff added she had tested the waters at Harbour Nights and markets around the Island and gauging demand before she decided to open a store in Old Cellar Lane off Front Street.

She said: “I got motivation to open a shop because I did Harbour Nights and a lot of fairs.

“I got a lot of feedback from people saying they loved my stuff and asked where my shop was.

“There’s a good vibe out there so I decided if I opened a shop, there would be a following.

“And it’s Christmas time — people like to shop.”

Ms Stapff, 34, studied art in England and took a degree at the University of Miami in art and graphic design before returning home to Bermuda.

Her designer card range includes Bermuda-themed Christmas cards with a touch of humour, handmade jewellery and canvas bags with leather trim featuring Bermuda scenes.

All her products, except the bags, are made in Bermuda.

Ms Stapff said: “People like the cards to send to friends who are away and people who used to live here.

“The jewellery is inspired by Bermuda’s nature and features a lot of pastel colours but with a modern edge.

“I’ve taken my five favourite images and created canvas bags with leather straps. It’s classic Bermuda with a modern twist.”

Ms Stapff added: “What was always missing were pieces that were more modern and appealed to a younger generation.

“There was something missing, a niche that needed to be filled and I think my pieces do that.”

And she said: “People like it when there are pieces that are made locally.

“There are other jewellers out who are blossoming, so I think there’s a good market — and I definitely think the economy is improving slowly but surely.”

Ms Stapff added: “I started making cards about two years ago and started the jewellery in June.

“I’m an artist and I’m always looking for ways to express myself.”

She added her bags had sold in AS Cooper and the bags and cards in Brown & Co for some time before she opened her own store.

Ms Stapff said: “Old Cellar Lane is a really cute little alley. There are cobble stones. It used to be an old stable, I think.

“I knew I wanted a location in Hamilton and I was walking around and saw a phone number on Reid Street with a property available.”