June has felt like the month where summer properly started to settle in.
Brixham has been getting busier, the days have been longer, and this past week especially has brought some lovely, very warm weather. It is the kind of weather that changes the mood of the town quite quickly. More people out and about, more talk of beach days and garden plans, and more customers looking for things that feel useful for the season ahead.
In the shop, we have felt that shift too.
This month has not been about one big change or dramatic announcement. It has been more about the everyday rhythm of Porridge moving into summer. Deliveries arriving, shelves being restocked, new products finding their place, coffees being made, customers popping in for refills, snacks, gifts and everyday essentials.
It is easy to overlook those quieter parts of running a small shop, but they are what keep everything going.
One thing that has definitely stood out this month has been our French market baskets. We knew they were lovely when we ordered them, but they have sold even faster than we expected. Each one is slightly different, full of character and perfect for this time of year.
They feel useful and beautiful at the same time, whether you are using one for shopping, beach trips, picnics or simply carrying all the bits and pieces that come with summer. They are currently available in store only, and once a style has gone, it may not come back in exactly the same way.
Alongside the baskets, we have continued adding lots of new products across the shop and online. June has brought a real mix of pantry staples, snacks, wellbeing products, natural body care, eco home items, drinks, treats and a few unexpected extras too.
That variety is one of the things we love about Porridge. One delivery might bring organic grains and cupboard basics, another might bring skincare, supplements, chocolate, eco cleaning products, chilled food, pet toys or something new for the café. There is always something being unpacked, priced, added to the website or squeezed onto the shelves.
As the weather has warmed up, the café has had a different feel too. Iced coffees and colder drinks have been especially popular during the warmer days, alongside the usual Voyager coffee, organic teas and something sweet on the side. It has been lovely seeing people pause for a drink while out in town, especially as Brixham gets busier for the summer season.
We have also noticed the usual seasonal shift in what people are looking for. Lighter food, easy snacks, natural skincare, picnic bits, cold drinks, refills and everyday wellbeing products all start to come into focus at this time of year. It is less about a big seasonal reset and more about finding useful things that fit into real life.
Behind the scenes, the team have been busy keeping everything ticking over. Restocking, tidying, ordering, making coffees, helping customers and generally trying to stay one step ahead. It might not always look exciting from the outside, but it is the bit that makes the shop feel full, welcoming and ready for another busy week.
And that is really what June has been about.
Not one big headline, but lots of small, steady moments. A basket finding a new home. A shelf freshly filled. A customer discovering something new. A much needed cold drink on a hot day. An online order packed and sent out. A quick chat that makes the day feel a little brighter.
Those are the things that make a month in the shop.
Thank you to everyone who has visited, shopped online, picked up one of our French baskets, stopped for a coffee, browsed the new arrivals or simply popped in to say hello. We really do appreciate every bit of support.
If you enjoy these monthly updates, you can also sign up to our newsletter where we share new arrivals, seasonal favourites, shop news and the occasional update from our small team. We usually send one thoughtful email each month, keeping you up to date with what is happening both in store and online.
— Cal and the Porridge team x
Disclaimer: The information provided on the Porridge website is for general guidance only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any illness. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any natural health regimen.
