ABOUT US
Our Story
Bonhomie opened its doors in November 2024, with our first bricks-and-mortar shop comprising two large rooms, part art gallery, part curiosity shop. As creative thinkers, it has evolved organically from its beginnings in making and collecting as the husband-and-wife team “Bonker*s Clutterbucks”. Having originally met at Winchester School of Art, Peter came from a fine art background, and Kate specialised in woven textiles. From 2011, they began collaborating using cut paper, creating dioramas and assemblages, and running art workshops for adults and children. They exhibited work at maker’s fairs nationally but predominantly in the North West and sold sourced objects d’art at outdoor artisan markets in all elements. Unusual handmade and vintage items have always coexisted and complemented each other, forming the eclectic philosophy behind Bonhomie. They are now elated to be ‘under cover’ and to have a permanent space to express themselves alongside daughters Florrie and Heidi, who also now make and source imaginative items. It truly is a family business, and even Beanie the Bedlington has a role to play, meeting and greeting the customers.
MEET OUR TEAM
Meet the passionate individuals who bring Bonhomie to life. Each member of our team is dedicated to spreading warmth and joy through our products, ensuring that every customer experiences the true essence of Bonhomie.
Kate Caruana
Kate studied Textile Design at Winchester School of Art, where she met Peter. She specialised in woven textiles and, after freelancing in London, went on to design for a weaving mill in Lancashire. After having children, Peter and Kate began collaborating and have been making artwork, sourcing furniture and textiles, and running creative workshops since. They relocated to Lincolnshire in search of a more rural location, found the perfect property in the heart of Spilsby and opened Bonhomie in 2024.
Beanie
Beanie the Bedlington Terrier is responsible for meeting and greeting, maintaining a happy ambience and shop security.
Peter Caruana
Peter studied Fine Art at Winchester School of Art and has continued to paint in oils since. He has exhibited work across the north west at the Childwickbury Annual Art Fair and has undertaken many Arts Council projects and workshops. He enjoys renovating property and restoring old furniture and is interested in combining his love of painting and folk art through reclaimed vintage furniture and antiques for sale at Bonhomie.
Florence Caruana
Florrie studied acting and performance at UCA and has since thrown herself into creating and developing Bonhomie. As well as helping to build and manage the shop, online and in-store, she contributes artwork, vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, and window displays, and has a keen eye for unusual objects she finds at antique fairs. She also brings essential technical, photography and social media skills to the team.
Coco Merrytail
The heart, soul & inspiration.
Heidi Hop
Heidi studies illustration at NUA and contributes prints, cards, stickers, handmade ceramics and resin work to the shop.
