WATCH: Farrarmere resident shakes up things with unusual hobby
Cher loves the thrill of hunting for new additions to her collection.
Just weeks before exchanging their vows, Cher and Markus Stienen of Farrarmere spent countless hours looking for the perfect wedding favours for their guests.
Trawling through various stores, Cher happened upon a bride and groom salt and pepper set, which, over the next decade, would ignite her passion for novelty shakers.
With a collection of 80 shakers, Cher shares how each item came into her possession and, most importantly, who gifted it to her.
Glancing over her prized possessions, she battles to identify her favourite because each pair seemingly holds a compelling significance.
“I suppose if I had to choose, it would be the one of the granny and grandpa kissing,” she said, holding the devoted silver foxes.
“Their mouths are magnetised, which ensures they are always safely in each other’s presence, always close in heart and soul.”
As the conversation moves from these ceramic creations to her daughter, Ruby, family life and health-related struggles, it becomes glaringly evident that her collection is about more than just cutesy tableware but the importance of love, companionship and balance.
“When you set a table, you cannot have salt without pepper,” she says as a smile washes over her face.
“When used alone, these spices can be overwhelming or lack depth, but when paired, the one enhances the other. The same is true in life.
“Challenges, life’s journey, growth and joy become rich in flavour when shared with those whose souls intertwine with yours. I cannot say that is the exact reason why I started this collection, but the metaphor resonates with me.”
Constantly looking to expand on her collection, Cher can often be found hunting for her next addition at local charities and thrift shops.
“Sometimes I come across some fantastic sets, and sometimes I go months without finding new treasures,” she said.
“Anyone who might have gorgeous sets they no longer cherish is welcome to contact me.”
WhatsApp Cher on 082 720 3150.
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