In the world of British antiques, very few names shine as brightly as Irita Marriott. A Latvian-born antiques dealer and television personality, Irita has captured public attention through her sharp eye for detail, warm personality, and remarkable rise in a traditionally male-dominated industry. From BBC One’s Antiques Road Trip to her own auction house in Derbyshire, she has steadily built a reputation as one of the most respected figures in the field.
But beyond the television appearances and her flourishing business, many fans are curious about her personal journey — her childhood, family, husband, children, and the dedication that made her a household name in antiques.
Early Life and Background in Latvia
Born in March 1984 in Latvia, Irita Marriott grew up on a rural, self-sufficient farm. Surrounded by nature and simplicity, her early childhood instilled in her a strong work ethic and resilience.
Her family life was humble, and she often recalls how her upbringing taught her the value of persistence. Interestingly, she wasn’t a top student during her school years. An English teacher once told her she “wouldn’t make it in life without English.” Instead of discouraging her, those words became a motivation.
Determined to prove herself, Irita applied for an au pair job in the United States, moving to New York with little English knowledge and only a dictionary in hand. Within three months, she had learned the language and adapted to a completely new culture.
Journey to the UK & Career Beginnings
After two years in the US, Irita returned briefly to Latvia but soon decided to move to the United Kingdom at the age of 20. Settling in Derbyshire, she worked a temporary job at a garden centre during Christmas. She quickly rose through the ranks, eventually managing the department and even becoming a buyer.
This early exposure to buying and selling would later prove invaluable in her antiques career. Though she had no academic background in art or history, her curiosity and dedication pushed her toward the antiques trade.
Discovering Antiques & Founding Her Business
Irita’s antiques journey began when she took a part-time role as a salesroom assistant at a Derbyshire auction house. For seven years, she worked her way up to become a cataloguer and valuer, gaining deep knowledge of antiques through hands-on experience.
During this time, she also began independently dealing in antiques — starting small with car boot sales and local fairs, before progressing to international fairs across Europe.
In 2020, she established Irita Marriott Antiques, specialising in decorative European antiques. Her business quickly gained recognition among collectors, interior designers, and fellow dealers. By 2023, she expanded further, founding Irita Marriott Auctioneers & Valuers Limited, making her one of the few women in the UK to lead an auction house.
Television Career
Irita Marriott’s charisma and expertise soon opened doors to television.
Antiques Road Trip
She joined BBC One’s Antiques Road Trip in 2021, where she instantly became a fan favourite. Viewers admired her approachable personality, sharp insights, and entertaining banter with fellow experts.
Celebrity Antiques Road Trip & Bargain Hunt
Her success on the show led to regular appearances on Celebrity Antiques Road Trip and Bargain Hunt, where she showcased her skills to a wider audience.
The Derbyshire Auction House
Most recently, Irita fronted her own television series, The Derbyshire Auction House, aired on Really TV. The show followed her as she helped individuals uncover hidden treasures in their homes and brought them to auction.
Other Appearances
She has also appeared on Channel 4’s The Greatest Auction, further establishing her as a trusted antiques authority in Britain.
Specialisation in Decorative Antiques and Porcelain
While Irita deals in a wide range of antiques, she is particularly recognised for her expertise in decorative antiques and porcelain. Her buying trips across Europe allow her to source rare and unique items, combining historical value with timeless style.
Collectors admire her ability to blend classic European charm with contemporary appeal, making antiques desirable for modern homes.
Irita Marriott Husband
Despite her public success, Irita prefers to keep her private life away from the media spotlight. She is married, but her husband remains low-profile. Though not directly involved in the antiques business, he is considered a supportive partner who plays a significant role in her journey.
The couple values privacy, choosing to focus on family life rather than publicity.
Irita Marriott Children & Family Life
Irita is a proud mother of two sons. Balancing motherhood with her busy career as an antiques dealer and TV personality is no small task, but she manages it with grace.
Her children often accompany her to antique fairs, showing early curiosity about the trade. She has even mentioned how they enjoy discovering unique objects and learning about history alongside her.
Work-Life Balance: Family and Fame
Between managing a business, filming TV shows, and caring for her family, Irita’s daily life is a balancing act. She often starts her mornings with household responsibilities before diving into work. Weekends are a mix of family outings and antique hunting trips.
Her social media reflects this dual life — professional success paired with glimpses of her family, without crossing into overexposure.
Irita Marriott Net Worth
While exact figures remain private, estimates suggest that Irita Marriott’s net worth is between £500,000 and £1 million. Her income comes from:
- Antique Sales: Through her dealership and auction house.
- Television Appearances: Regular roles on BBC and Really TV.
- Antique Fairs & Collaborations: Working with interior designers and international buyers.
Unlike many celebrities, she lives modestly, reinvesting earnings into her business and collection.
Influence & Role as a Female Auctioneer
Irita Marriott is among the few female auctioneers in the UK, making her an inspiration for women in the antiques trade. Her journey — from rural Latvia to running her own auction house in Britain — showcases resilience, adaptability, and determination.
She encourages young people, especially women, to pursue careers in antiques, showing that passion and persistence can open doors even in industries traditionally dominated by men.
Personal Interests & Inspirations
Outside of antiques, Irita values travel, family time, and exploring history. She often speaks about how her background as an immigrant shaped her determination and inspired her to chase success in a foreign land.
Her story resonates with entrepreneurs, mothers, and women who juggle multiple responsibilities while striving to achieve their dreams.
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Conclusion
From humble beginnings in Latvia to becoming a respected antiques dealer and TV personality in the UK, Irita Marriott’s journey is one of courage, ambition, and passion. Her thriving business, growing television presence, and role as a mother and wife highlight a life built on balance and integrity.
Whether she’s uncovering treasures at an auction, running her own dealership, or inspiring the next generation of antique lovers, Irita Marriott continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of antiques.
