In recent years, the name irita marriott has become familiar to lovers of antiques, television viewers, and those who appreciate stories of passion and perseverance. From her early beginnings in Latvia to becoming one of the United Kingdom’s most respected antiques experts and television personalities, irita marriott represents a modern success story rooted in hard work, curiosity, and dedication.
This article explores who irita marriott is, her professional background, her rise to television fame, her entrepreneurial ventures, and the personal values that have shaped her career.
Early Life and Beginnings
Irita Marriott was born in Latvia and grew up far from the antiques markets and auction houses that now define her career. At the age of around 20, she made the bold decision to move to the United Kingdom in search of new opportunities. Leaving her homeland was the first step in a life marked by resilience and adaptability.
Initially, irita marriott took on various roles in the retail sector, including working as a temporary employee and later as a manager in a garden centre. These early experiences gave her practical skills in customer service and business operations — skills that would later serve her well in the antiques industry.
Discovering the World of Antiques
While working in retail, irita marriott began exploring antique fairs and markets. What might have started as casual curiosity quickly grew into a deep passion. By 2012, she decided to turn that passion into a profession by becoming a full‑time antiques dealer. She learned the trade through real-world experience, spending early mornings sourcing items, travelling across the UK and Europe, and studying the history and craftsmanship behind each piece she found.
In time, irita marriott gained a reputation for her keen eye and ability to identify valuable decorative antiques and collectibles. Her natural talent and tireless work ethic soon led her to new opportunities within the antiques trade.
Building Expertise in the Auction World
Before stepping into the spotlight, irita marriott gained invaluable experience working as a cataloguer and valuer at a well‑known auction house in Derbyshire. Here, she learned the technical aspects of valuation, documentation, and client communication — all essential skills for a professional in the auction industry.
This period allowed her to work closely with a wide variety of objects, from ceramics and glassware to furniture and period pieces. It also deepened her understanding of how auctions operate, from sourcing consignments to guiding buyers and sellers through the bidding process.
Television Career and Public Recognition
The name irita marriott entered many households when she joined the BBC’s beloved show Antiques Road Trip as one of its expert dealers. Making her debut on the program brought her antiques expertise to a nationwide audience, and viewers quickly responded to her warm personality, clear explanations, and thoughtful evaluations of historic objects.
Her television career didn’t stop there. Irita marriott also appeared on shows such as Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, and The Greatest Auction, each giving her further opportunity to share her knowledge with audiences across the UK.
On screen, irita marriott is known for her calm professionalism and ability to make complex antiques concepts accessible. Viewers often see her explaining why certain pieces are valuable and offering insights into history and craftsmanship in a way that is both educational and engaging.
Entrepreneurial Achievement: Own Auction House
A major milestone in irita marriott’s career came in 2023, when she launched her own auction house: Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers. This venture stands as one of the few female‑led auction houses in the UK and reflects her ambition to blend traditional auction values with a modern approach to the antiques business.
Located in the historic Derbyshire town of Melbourne, her auction house offers a platform for buyers and sellers to engage with antiques both in person and online. This business not only showcases irita marriott’s valuation expertise but also her commitment to community and accessibility in the antiques world.
Professional Style and Expertise
One of the defining characteristics of irita marriott’s professional approach is her emphasis on honesty and transparency. She values careful research and accurate valuation over sensationalism, which has helped her build trust with clients, viewers, and fellow professionals.
Her areas of expertise include decorative antiques, period furniture, ceramics, and European collectables. Her European background, combined with years of hands‑on experience, gives her a unique perspective on stylistic differences and historical significance that many collectors find invaluable.
Balancing Career and Personal Life
Although irita marriott is a well‑known public figure within her field, she maintains a relatively private personal life. She is married and a proud mother of two sons, often sharing that her family inspires her work.
Her ability to balance family life with the demands of running a business and appearing on national television speaks to her discipline, resilience, and grounded personality. These qualities come through in her work, making her relatable as both a professional and a person.
Influence and Legacy
The influence of irita marriott extends beyond her television appearances and auction house. She has helped bring a new appreciation for antiques into mainstream culture, showing that objects from the past can still hold meaning, beauty, and value in modern life.
Her success also highlights the growing diversity within the antiques industry. As a woman and an immigrant who has risen to prominence in a traditionally male‑dominated field, she serves as an inspiration for others pursuing careers in antiques, valuation, and related creative trades.
Conclusion
The journey of irita marriott is a powerful illustration of how passion, persistence, and a commitment to learning can lead to remarkable success. From her early days exploring markets and fairs to becoming a trusted antiques expert and business owner, her story resonates with anyone who values craftsmanship, history, and authentic expertise.
Today, irita marriott continues to connect people with beautiful objects, educate audiences through television, and build a legacy that bridges tradition and modernity in the antiques world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Irita Marriott?
Irita Marriott is a Latvian‑born antiques expert, television personality, and founder of her own auction house in the UK.
What TV shows has Irita Marriott appeared on?
She has appeared on Antiques Road Trip, Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, and other antiques‑related programs.
Where is Irita Marriott originally from?
Irita Marriott was born in Latvia and later moved to the United Kingdom in her early twenties.
What business does Irita Marriott run?
She runs Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers, an auction house based in Melbourne, Derbyshire.
Is Irita Marriott married?
Yes, she is married and has two sons.
