Interview with Louise Vaessen-Walker - Visit Chesham and villages

Louise Vaessen-Walker, jewellery-maker and shop owner

We talk to Louise Vaessen-Walker who has been running her independent jewellery shop in Darsham Walk, just off Chesham High Street, since 2020.

How did you first come to jewellery-making?

I always knew I wanted to pursue a creative career, but I wasn’t quite sure what form it would take. After school, I enrolled on an Art Foundation course at West Herts College, which gave me the opportunity to explore a wide range of creative disciplines.

During the year I experimented with working in metal, and one of the technicians mentioned that his wife was a jeweller. That was the moment it clicked for me. From there, I began applying for BA (Hons) courses in Designed Metalwork and Jewellery — and I never looked back.

Louse at work – a close up of her drawing in sketchbook

Louise designs many original pieces in her shop in pretty Darsham Walk, Chesham

What inspired you to open your own shop?

Growing up, my dad ran a successful chain of furniture stores, so entrepreneurship was always part of my world. He’s been a huge influence and inspiration to me.

After graduating and completing my postgraduate studies, I produced collections for wholesale, stocked galleries and retailers across the UK, and exhibited my work both here and in Europe. But the dream was always to have my own shop — a place where I could design, make and sell my jewellery all under one roof.

Why did you choose Chesham?

I grew up in Chesham and my family still live here. I moved away for my studies and the early part of my career, but when I heard that this particular shop was coming onto the market, I knew it was the perfect space to combine a workshop with a retail setting.

Chesham also has an incredibly supportive community that genuinely champions local and independent businesses, which I’m hugely grateful for.

Exterior of shop with small white paned bay windows and bay trees in pots either side of the doorway

How would you describe your shop to someone who’s never visited before?

The shop is tucked away just off the High Street in Darsham Walk, which is a really quaint little spot. The building dates back to the Victorian era and originally housed workers for Darvell’s Bakery opposite — which is still going strong today.

It’s a small space with low oak-beamed ceilings and a blend of traditional and contemporary style. While the setting feels historic, the jewellery itself is very modern — all handmade and not what you’d typically find on the high street.

Everything I sell is either handmade on site or carefully curated from some of the best independent UK designers. You’ll also find my jeweller’s bench on view, where I work on collections and bespoke commissions.

I aim to create a calm, welcoming space — somewhere you can take a breath, browse beautiful jewellery, or explore our bespoke, remodelling and repair services.

What’s been one of your proudest moments since opening?

Reaching our first anniversary was a huge milestone. I opened the shop in October 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic — a massive leap of faith. Just a couple of weeks after opening, we went into a cycle of lockdowns and closures that lasted around six months.

So celebrating one full year felt incredibly special. With the support of my wonderful customers, family and friends, we marked the occasion with a big party — complete with a string quartet, bubbles, and lots of hats, as it coincided with Hats Off Chesham!

What would you say are the best things about visiting Chesham?

There really is something for everyone. The town centre is full of brilliant independent cafés, restaurants and coffee shops, alongside a fantastic mix of independent retailers.

There’s a weekly market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, plus a monthly local producers’ market. The town centre and Old Town are home to wonderful traditional pubs, and Vault 17 Cocktail Bar has been a fantastic recent addition, offering live music and evening entertainment.

Lowndes Park sits right alongside the town and is perfect for a stroll, feeding the ducks, or letting kids enjoy the brilliant new playground. Just outside the centre is Waterside, with its heated outdoor pool, gym and tennis courts.

Surrounding villages offer beautiful walks through the Chiltern Hills — and you’re never far from a great pub for a pint or lunch.

What’s coming up next for you?

I’m always planning ahead and dreaming up new projects to stay inspired. This year I’m working on a new collection following the success of my 2025 GRIT collection.

I’m also preparing to launch a signature engagement ring collection — alternative designs, made to order with your choice of stone and metal. And this summer, I’ll be reintroducing my popular jewellery workshops, so keep an eye on our socials for updates.

More jewellery, more creativity, and more exciting things to come!

Discover more about Louise’s creations:
Vaessen-Walker Jewellery website
📍 4 Darsham Walk, Chesham, Bucks HP5 1EP
📞 01494 794 646
📸 Instagram: @vaessen_walker
VAESSEN | WALKER

Find out more about Chesham’s shops

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Interview by Amanda Carroll on behalf of Visit Chesham and Villages project
Images © Louise Vaessen-Walker, used with kind permission.