Introduction
The world of antiques is often associated with tradition, heritage, and long-established expertise. Yet, every so often, a new personality emerges who reshapes the narrative and brings fresh energy to the field. Irita Marriott is one such figure. From humble beginnings in Latvia to becoming a respected antiques expert, auctioneer, television personality, and business owner in the United Kingdom, her journey is a compelling story of resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Today, Irita Marriott is widely recognised for her appearances on major British television programmes and for founding her own auction house. Her rise in a competitive and historically male-dominated industry demonstrates how passion, courage, and persistence can create extraordinary opportunities.
Early Life and Background
Irita Marriott
Irita Marriott was born in March 1984 in Latvia, where she spent her early childhood on a rural farm. Life was modest and often challenging. Her family lived in a self-sufficient environment, growing food, foraging, and making use of available resources. These early experiences instilled in her a strong work ethic and practical mindset.
Following her parents’ divorce, financial struggles became more apparent. Resources were limited, and opportunities seemed distant. However, rather than discouraging her, these circumstances strengthened her determination to build a better future.
One pivotal moment came during her school years when a teacher suggested that she would not achieve much without learning English. Rather than accepting that as a limitation, she treated it as motivation. That mindset would later define her life decisions.
Moving Abroad: A Bold First Step
As a young adult, Irita took a courageous leap by applying for an au pair position in the United States. Arriving in New York City with minimal English skills and carrying only a dictionary, she immersed herself fully in the language and culture. Within a short period, she became fluent in English.
Living abroad broadened her perspective and strengthened her independence. After spending roughly two years in the United States, she returned briefly to Latvia before making another significant decision — relocating permanently to the United Kingdom.
Establishing a Life in the United Kingdom
At the age of 20, Irita moved to the UK in search of stability and opportunity. She initially worked in retail, starting with a seasonal job at a garden centre in Bradford. Her talent for organisation, customer interaction, and sales quickly became apparent.
Retail management roles followed, giving her valuable experience in buying, merchandising, and understanding consumer preferences. Although she had not yet entered the antiques world, these early professional experiences developed skills that would later become essential in auctioneering and valuation.
Her life in the UK laid the foundation for both personal and professional growth.
Discovering a Passion for Antiques
Irita’s introduction to antiques happened unexpectedly. When her mother-in-law presented her with a collection of items to sell, she accepted the challenge of turning them into profit. What began as a practical necessity soon evolved into genuine fascination.
She started attending car boot sales, fairs, and markets, researching items meticulously and learning how to assess value. The thrill of identifying hidden treasures and understanding the stories behind objects captivated her.
Eager to deepen her knowledge, she secured a part-time position at a Derbyshire auction house. Over the next seven years, she worked her way up from salesroom assistant to cataloguer and valuer. This period became her real-world education in antiques.
Through hands-on experience, she developed expertise in decorative antiques, fine art, porcelain, and collectible items. Unlike many experts who pursue formal qualifications, her knowledge came primarily from immersion and practical application.
Television Career and Public Recognition
Antiques Road Trip
Bargain Hunt
Irita Marriott’s television breakthrough came in 2021 when she approached the BBC to offer her expertise. After several auditions and screen tests, she was selected as a presenter on Antiques Road Trip. Her charisma, authenticity, and deep knowledge quickly resonated with viewers.
She later appeared on Bargain Hunt and Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, becoming a familiar face on British television. Her enthusiasm for history, craftsmanship, and discovery made antiques accessible to a broad audience.
Unlike some presenters who rely on theatrics, Irita’s appeal lies in her genuine excitement and educational approach. She combines professionalism with warmth, making viewers feel included in the journey of finding valuable pieces.
Her success on television significantly expanded her public profile while strengthening her reputation within the antiques trade.
Launching Her Own Auction House
Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers
In June 2023, Irita achieved a major milestone by launching Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers Ltd in Melbourne, Derbyshire. Establishing her own auction house positioned her among a small number of women leading such businesses in the UK.
The auction house provides services including:
- Auction sales
- Valuation services
- Estate clearances
- Specialist consignment sales
- Decorative arts and collectibles auctions
Her goal was to create a welcoming, transparent environment where both experienced collectors and first-time sellers could feel comfortable. The business reflects her belief that antiques should be accessible and engaging rather than intimidating.
Launching an auction house requires logistical expertise, regulatory knowledge, marketing strategy, and strong industry connections. Her success demonstrates both entrepreneurial courage and business acumen.
Personal Life
Irita Marriott is married and has two sons. While she occasionally shares glimpses of family life, she maintains a balanced level of privacy. Her children have sometimes accompanied her to fairs and auctions, allowing them to experience the world she loves.
Family plays a central role in her motivation. Her early struggles instilled a desire to provide stability and opportunity for her own children.
Despite her growing fame, she continues to emphasise humility and gratitude for the opportunities she has created.
Style, Personality, and Public Image
Irita is instantly recognisable for her vibrant red hair and confident presence. However, her lasting appeal goes beyond appearance. She communicates with clarity, enthusiasm, and authenticity.
Her background gives her relatability. She often speaks about starting from modest beginnings, which resonates with audiences who appreciate stories of self-made success.
Within the antiques community, she is respected for her professionalism and knowledge. On television, she brings energy and warmth. As a business owner, she demonstrates leadership and innovation.
Estimated Net Worth
While precise figures are not publicly confirmed, estimates suggest her net worth ranges between £500,000 and £1.5 million. Her income streams include:
- Television appearances
- Auction house profits
- Private valuations
- Speaking engagements
- Specialist sales
Her diversified career ensures financial stability while allowing her to continue expanding professionally.
Influence and Legacy
Irita Marriott’s story carries broader significance beyond antiques. She represents:
- Entrepreneurial courage
- Female leadership in a traditional industry
- The power of language and adaptability
- Self-made professional success
Her journey encourages individuals to pursue unconventional paths and embrace learning through experience.
By combining television visibility with genuine expertise, she has helped modernise perceptions of antiques. Younger audiences are discovering the excitement of auctions and collectibles through her work.
Conclusion
Irita Marriott’s journey from rural Latvia to becoming a respected antiques expert, television personality, and auction house founder is remarkable. Her life reflects determination, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit.
She has built her expertise through dedication rather than privilege, transforming early challenges into motivation for success. Today, she stands as a prominent figure in British antiques, admired for both her professional competence and inspiring life story.
Her legacy continues to grow, not only through her television appearances but also through the thriving auction house she leads. In an industry rooted in history, she represents forward-thinking energy and modern accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Irita Marriott?
Irita Marriott is a Latvian-born British antiques dealer, auctioneer, television presenter, and founder of Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers Ltd.
What TV shows has Irita Marriott appeared on?
She has appeared on Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, and Celebrity Antiques Road Trip.
When did Irita Marriott start her auction house?
She launched Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers Ltd in June 2023 in Melbourne, Derbyshire.
Where was Irita Marriott born?
She was born in Latvia in March 1984 and later moved to the United Kingdom.
What makes Irita Marriott’s story inspiring?
Her rise from modest beginnings to television success and business ownership demonstrates resilience, hard work, and entrepreneurial determination.
