After more than 20 years in Barrington, Grasmere, “a lifestyle store” has moved to downtown Bristol. 

Owners Beth Siqueland-Gresh and her husband Peter Gresh made the decision to move to a new location in a different town last year when the opportunity fell into their laps.

“We were at a party with Steve and Julie Brigidi who own Bristol Workshops Photography. They mentioned they were moving their business and the space at 6 Franklin Street would be available. The circumstances were perfect for us to make the change and come to Bristol,” Mrs. Siqueland-Gresh said.

The new Grasmere opened in March.

Although they felt very much at home at the 40 Maple Ave. location in Barrington, the move will enable the business to grow in ways that were not feasible in the past.

“We would like to branch out and have an interactive space with music, and with time get involved with gallery night and visiting artists. We have a reputation as floral designers, and carry antiques and accessories but there is more we want to do,” Mr. Gresh said.

“Like any good play, it becomes stale after awhile and you need to shake things up with new energy. This move gives us the opportunity to do that,” he added.

The new location has a similar feel to the prior spot ... warm and inviting. In Barrington they had seven parking spaces, now parking is a non-issue.

There is plenty of parking in Bristol compared to Barrington and an array of businesses that draw people to town.

“With the Beehive (Cafe) on one side and Jackie’s Loft on the other, we get a lot of walk-in traffic. In the past we were more of a destination business. This allows us to have a bit of everything for any age group, especially with Roger Williams University right up the street,” he said.

The couple want to dispel the notion that they are strictly a high-end shop.

“We have a broad range of items starting at $5 and up. We have affordable jewelry and gift items in any price range. It’s easy to get pigeonholed and that is not our desire,” Mrs. Siqueland-Gresh said.

“What is nice is that there is so much for people to do in Bristol. They can come see us, have lunch, stroll the waterfront…the options are many,” Mr. Gresh said.

The couple attends trade shows in both Northern Europe and locally to curate artists and products in keeping with the mission of the store.

With a love of vintage and antique items, they offer pieces that they would be happy to have in their home in Warren.

A few of the local artisans they support include artist Laurel Porter Gaylord and jewelry designer Carol Furlich.