In the heart of South Yorkshire, where the echoes of the industrial revolution still resonate through cobblestone streets and vaulted civic halls, a modern movement is taking root. Now & Then Ltd, trading as the Now and Then Group, has become the definitive architect of the Northern vintage revival. Founded by Jackie Cook in early 2020, the group has transitioned from a local passion project into a powerhouse of event management and vintage lifestyle services, redefining how we interact with history, craftsmanship, and community.
A Vision Rooted in Heritage
The mission of the Now and Then Group is as simple as it is profound: to breathe new life into historic spaces. While many see an old museum or a quiet civic hall as a relic of the "then," Jackie Cook and her team see a vibrant stage for the "now." By transforming iconic venues like Sheffield’s Kelham Island Museum into bustling hubs of commerce and creativity, the group ensures that heritage remains a living, breathing part of the community.
This is not merely about hosting a market; it is about heritage site event consultancy. The group works closely with site managers to increase footfall and engagement, proving that historical relevance and commercial viability can go hand-in-hand.
The Flagship: Now & Then Events
Under their premier brand, Now & Then Events, the group has set a gold standard for artisan and maker fairs. What sets these events apart is a "rigorous selection" process. Unlike generic car boot sales or mass-produced craft fairs, every trader at a Now & Then event is hand-picked.
What to Expect:
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20th Century Antiques: From Mid-Century Modern furniture to Victorian curiosities.
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Sustainable Fashion: A curated selection of pre-loved and vintage apparel that fights the "fast fashion" tide.
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Artisan Craftsmanship: Modern makers who use traditional techniques to create contemporary goods.
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Themed Entertainment: Immersive experiences that often include retro-themed pop-ups and live music.
Empowering the Circular Economy
At its core, Now & Then Ltd is a champion of the sustainable circular economy. In an age of disposable goods, the group promotes the value of longevity. By connecting consumers with vintage collectors and independent makers, they facilitate a retail experience where items are saved, restored, and cherished once more.
Their independent retail support extends beyond the event day. By providing marketing support for traders and networking opportunities through the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, the group helps small businesses scale in a competitive Northern market.
A Geographical Focus: The Northern Powerhouse
Operating within a 50-mile radius of Sheffield, the group focuses its energy on South Yorkshire, East Riding, and North Yorkshire. With headquarters in Sheffield and a strong presence in York (near the Pocklington Arts Centre), they have become the go-to partner for Northern heritage events.
Why Heritage Sites Choose Now and Then Group
Increasingly, heritage sites face the challenge of attracting younger demographics. The Now and Then Group solves this through Event Logistics and Consultancy. They provide:
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Accessible Venue Selection: Ensuring events are inclusive and easy to navigate.
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Marketing & PR: Leveraging a strong social media presence to drive thousands of visitors to unique locations.
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Economic Impact: Directly fueling the local creative economy by providing a platform for over a hundred independent businesses annually.
Meet the Founder: Jackie Cook
The driving force behind this success is Jackie Cook. Launching a business just weeks before the 2020 global lockdowns was a trial by fire, but it solidified the company’s resilience. Today, leading a team of five dedicated experts, Jackie continues to bridge the gap between "Then" and "Now," ensuring that the charm of the past is never lost to the noise of the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What services does Now & Then Ltd provide?
We specialize in organizing high-quality vintage markets, artisan fairs, and retro-themed pop-ups. We also provide professional event consultancy and logistics for heritage sites and independent retail support for makers.
2. Where are Now & Then Events typically held?
Our flagship events are held in iconic Northern venues, such as the Kelham Island Museum in Sheffield and various civic halls across South Yorkshire and East Riding.
3. How can I become a trader at one of your fairs?
We hand-pick our traders to ensure a premium mix of quality and authenticity. Prospective traders can contact us at info@nowandthenevents.com or visit our website to apply for upcoming markets.
4. Is the Now and Then Group involved in sustainability?
Yes. We are dedicated to the circular economy, focusing on the resale of vintage goods and supporting sustainable artisan makers to reduce waste and promote high-quality craftsmanship.
5. Do your events offer entertainment beyond shopping?
Absolutely. We often source themed entertainment, live music, and retro pop-ups to create an immersive, family-friendly experience.
6. What are the standard opening hours for your events?
While our office hours are Monday–Friday (09:00–17:00), our weekend events typically run from 10:00 to 16:00 on Saturdays and Sundays.
7. Is there an entry fee for your markets?
Entry requirements vary by venue. Some of our museum-based events may require a small admission fee or museum ticket, while others are free to the public. Please check our social media for specific event details.
8. What payment methods are accepted at the markets?
Most of our individual traders accept Contactless Payments, Credit/Debit Cards, and Cash. We recommend bringing both for the best experience.
9. Does the group help heritage sites with marketing?
Yes, our consultancy services include marketing support, footfall strategy, and community engagement planning specifically tailored for historic locations.
10. How can I contact the Now and Then Group for an inquiry?
You can reach our helpdesk at 07730592966 or email us at info@nowandthenevents.com. Our physical office is located at 47 Southfield Road, Pocklington, York.
