From Valuations to Vintage Finds: Izzie Balmer on Freelancing, TV Fame, and Finding Focus at Origin Workspace

If you’re a fan of Bargain Hunt or Antiques Road Trip, chances are you’ve seen Izzie Balmer in action; cool-headed under the auctioneer’s hammer, effortlessly combining deep knowledge with infectious enthusiasm. But behind the TV appearances and centuries-old curiosities is a refreshingly honest story of career twists, self-discovery, and the unexpected joy of casual coworking connections.

Now a Lounge Member at Origin Workspace, Izzie shares her journey from uncertain graduate to sought-after valuer, and why this Bristol coworking space has become her unlikely professional anchor.

Finding Her Way into a Niche World

“I fell into it, really,” Izzie admits. After studying Geography at university and ruling out the usual career routes (teaching, accountancy, consultancy), she found herself back home in Derby without a plan. “I went on Job Seeker’s Allowance for about three weeks. I was lucky that I could live with my parents; it gave me time to think.”

A part-time job in a vintage shop sparked her love for old objects and their stories, eventually leading her to a two-week stint of work experience at a local auction house. “I ended up accepting a full-time role packaging and posting the items. That grew my interest because I would read up about the items and how much they were worth.”

Packaging and posting then turned into opening and organising packages for the cataloguers, running valuation days, and gradually building the confidence to hold her own in a male-dominated industry. “At first, I put on a mask and blagged it.” To deepen her knowledge, she completed her Gemmology (FGA) and Diamond (DGA) diplomas in Birmingham’s iconic Jewellery Quarter. “It made me realise I’ve always loved gems and minerals. I remember going to the Natural History Museum when I was seven, and I was obsessed with the cabinets of gems and jewels. My dad even got me a Rock & Gem magazine as a reward for good behaviour once!”

From Behind the Scenes to Centre Stage

Despite never enjoying the spotlight – “I hate being the centre of attention” – Izzie soon found herself performing in the most unexpected way: as an auctioneer. “When the sale room is jam-packed, it’s like a musical performance. I knew I needed to perform.”

Her big break on TV was accidental. While working full-time and juggling a demanding schedule, a filming day with Bargain Hunt was underway at the auction house. Her boss was unexpectedly called away, and Izzie was thrust into the spotlight. “I didn’t expect to be on camera. I was wearing a strappy dress, they clipped on a mic, and suddenly the adrenaline kicked in.”

Fast forward 18 months into freelancing, and TV appearances are just one part of her work, which also includes valuation work, probate reports, consultancy for auction houses, supporting retailers, helping clients with downsizing, and managing estates. “There’s no typical week – last week, I was filming in Barnard Castle in County Durham! I prefer seeing people and being out and about. I enjoy meeting people.”

The Objects That Tell Stories

With such a wide-ranging practice, Izzie has seen her fair share of fascinating finds. One of the most memorable? A metal detector discovery dated to the 1480s – a gold brooch with white enamel and an inscription in French. “It’s been linked to the inner circle of Edward IV, since it was found on grounds that once belonged to William Hastings, the King’s best friend.”

Izzie lights up as she tells us the speculated links one piece of well-preserved jewellery could have to the monarchy 500 years ago – a reminder that her work is often about preserving pieces of history, one story at a time.

Why Origin Workspace Just Works

As a freelancer, Izzie quickly realised that working from home didn’t suit her. “I was struggling. I’d half started thinking about coworking spaces when I met Giles Watkins, who told me to try Origin Workspace. On my Taster Day, I did the most work I’ve ever done in a single day!”

What was supposed to be a short-term solution quickly became her base. “I thought I’d stay three months. It’s been seven, and I’ve never looked back.”

Origin Workspace’s Lounge Membership provides Izzie with the flexibility she needs: a professional yet relaxed environment, fast Wi-Fi, and an open-plan coworking lounge perfect for solo work or spontaneous chats. “There’s a positive and energising atmosphere here. Everyone is choosing to be here, and that makes a difference.”

Coworking for More Than Just Work

Beyond the practical perks, Izzie highlights the mental and emotional benefits of casual networking at Origin, not just to sell or pitch, but to connect.

One of her first Origin memories was pushing herself to speak to another member at a Christmas event. “I felt really shy but I knew I had to introduce myself. Now, we’re good friends.” Another moment came while queuing for a members’ lunch. “I left my phone at the table on purpose and set the intention to talk to someone. I ended up connecting with two new people!”

When asked, she says it’s “impossible to choose” her favourite thing about Origin Workspace. “If I really had to choose… it’s being a part of a friendly, professional environment where you’re supported to really thrive and be your best. Origin simply has that little extra sparkle.”

Looking Ahead

Now well into her freelance journey, 2025 is about growth. “I’m focusing on building my personal brand, getting my website up, and continuing to make meaningful connections.”

Origin Workspace, it seems, is more than just a stylish place to work; it’s become a key part of Izzie’s evolving story. One that proves success in niche industries isn’t just about what you know; it’s about who you meet, how you work, and where you choose to be.

Thinking of switching up your workspace?

Find out more about Lounge Membership at Origin Workspace, perfect for freelancers, creatives, consultants, and anyone who values flexibility, productivity, and community.

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