Celia Sawyer
We speak exclusively to Celia Sawyer about the return of Four Rooms, Marilyn Monroe's coat, Michael Jackson's toe clippings and her upcoming projects.
For those who may not have seen Four Rooms yet, can you tell us just a little bit about it?
It's a program where people from the public come in with unusual collectibles or artefacts to sell to the four dealers (myself and 3 men) who each have our own rooms. The dealers must make them an offer but the seller has to decide which order they want to see the dealers as once they turn down our offer they cannot come back!
How did you find the experience of Four Rooms from the get-go?
A bit scary to be honest. I thought everyone would be able to see my heart beating as it was thumping with anticipation. I found it a good experience though as I got some nice items for my clients.
You joined in 2012, how would you say the show has developed since then?
It's certainly improved this time. I think less dealers makes it easier for the public to connect with and they can get to know the dealers easier. Our rooms have developed and become more characterful too which makes it more fun.
What’s the best thing somebody has offered to sell you?
A coat that Marilyn Monroe wore in a movie but they just wanted too much money for my client to pay!
And what’s the worst?
Apparently the toe nail clippings of Michael Jackson from his hotel room!
The format really took off and a USA version began - how does it feel to be part of something so successful?
Really great, I hope it continues to grow worldwide.
Not only are you a dealer, but an interior designer and businesswoman - how do you find being part of that world?
Very exciting and very tiring, but there is never a dull moment and I wouldn’t change it .
Would you say it’s more difficult for females in the world of business?
Sometimes, but I like men and get on well with them and of course there are some chauvinists, but I tend to steer away from them anyway!
What advice do you have for those hoping to carve a career such as yours?
Do it… don’t be frightened to put your foot on the cliff edge (so to speak) and push yourself. You ll be amazed at what you can achieve if you go for it.
Do you have any other projects in the works you’d like to share some details about?
I have a new BBC1 primetime BBC show coming out hopefully in the Autumn which is exciting. I have a furniture range waiting to be photographed, a jewellery range.
I'm speaking to the factory this week, and hoping to have some pieces out very soon, and I'm looking at other nice ventures, but at this time won’t divulge until they’ve gone a step further.
Four Rooms returns this May.
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