Irita Marriott: Antiques Expert, TV Star, and Auction House Founder

Irita Marriott is a Latvian-born antiques expert, television personality, and entrepreneur who rose to prominence through her appearances on BBC programs such as Antiques Road Trip and Bargain Hunt. Known for her expertise, charisma, and unique story of resilience, she is the founder of Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers in Derbyshire, England. Married with two children, Irita has become one of the most recognizable modern figures in the antiques world, balancing her family life with a thriving business and media career.

Introduction

The antiques industry has traditionally been dominated by established names and long-standing dealers. Yet, in recent years, one name has cut through with remarkable energy and charisma: Irita Marriott. A Latvian-born expert who carved her path into the world of British antiques, Irita has captivated audiences with her knowledge, charm, and passion. Her rise has been far from conventional—marked by resilience, reinvention, and an ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Today, she is not only a celebrated antiques dealer and auctioneer but also a household name thanks to her regular appearances on BBC television.

In this in-depth article, we explore every aspect of her life and career, covering her age, family background, net worth, and growing presence on television and online platforms.

Early Life and Background

Irita Marriott was born in March 1984 in Latvia, a time when the country was still under Soviet influence. Growing up in a rural environment, her early years were shaped by simplicity and self-sufficiency. The family relied on what they could forage, farm, or trade. Life was far from easy, but these formative years gave Irita a strong work ethic and resourcefulness—qualities that would later serve her well in the demanding world of antiques.

Her parents divorced when she was young, and financial struggles became a defining challenge of her upbringing. But rather than accept limitations, she sought opportunities beyond her homeland. This drive led her first to the United States as an au pair, where she quickly mastered the English language, and then on to the United Kingdom, where she would eventually settle.

Journey to the United Kingdom

At the age of 20, Irita left Latvia and moved to the UK. Like many immigrants, her first jobs were far from glamorous. She initially worked in a garden centre as a temporary Christmas employee. However, her determination and natural leadership skills saw her rise through the ranks quickly, eventually managing departments and overseeing buying responsibilities.

While this career was stable, it was not her ultimate calling. A chance opportunity introduced her to the world of antiques—a moment that would change the course of her professional life forever.

Discovering the World of Antiques

Irita’s entry into antiques came through her mother-in-law, who introduced her to the trade. At first, she knew very little about auctions or valuations, but she immersed herself in the craft. She spent hours studying items, attending fairs, and watching seasoned professionals.

Her dedication paid off when she secured a part-time position at a Derbyshire auction house, starting as a cataloguer. Over the years, she worked her way up to become a trusted valuer, learning not just about items but also about people—the buyers, sellers, and collectors who make the industry so fascinating.

Rise to Television Fame

Irita Marriott’s big break came in 2021, when she was invited to join the team of experts on BBC’s Antiques Road Trip. Her combination of deep knowledge and engaging personality resonated instantly with viewers. She quickly became a fan favourite, praised for her ability to explain complex antiques in an accessible way and her warm interactions with the public.

Following her success, she appeared on several other shows, including:

• Bargain Hunt

• Celebrity Antiques Road Trip

• The Greatest Auction (Channel 4)

• The Derbyshire Auction House (Really channel)

Her presence on screen is not only entertaining but also educational, inspiring a new generation to take an interest in antiques.

Founding of Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers

In 2023, Irita achieved one of her proudest milestones by launching her own auction house: Irita Marriott Auctioneers and Valuers, based in Melbourne, Derbyshire.

This venture marked a historic achievement, as it is among the few female-led auction houses in the UK. The business combines traditional values with a modern approach, offering both in-person and online auctions. Its opening coincided with the Melbourne Arts Festival, highlighting Irita’s commitment to community engagement as well as her professional ambitions.

Irita Marriott Age

As of 2025, Irita Marriott is 41 years old. Her relatively young age compared to many long-established antiques experts highlights her extraordinary accomplishments. In just over two decades since leaving Latvia, she has built a reputation that takes most dealers a lifetime to achieve.

Irita Marriott Family

While Irita is open about her career, she keeps her family life private. She is married and has two sons, both of whom sometimes accompany her on antique-hunting trips. Despite her television fame, she prioritizes protecting her children’s privacy and ensures that her family life remains grounded in Derbyshire, where they reside.

Irita Marriott Net Worth

Estimating net worth for TV personalities and entrepreneurs can be challenging, but Irita’s multiple income streams contribute significantly to her financial success.

Television appearances on BBC and Channel 4 bring her both income and visibility.

Her auction house provides a growing business platform.

Antiques dealing and valuations remain a steady source of income.

As of 2025, her net worth is estimated to be in the range of £1 million to £2 million, reflecting her successful blend of entrepreneurship, media work, and industry expertise.

Irita Marriott Wikipedia

Currently, there is no dedicated Wikipedia page for Irita Marriott, despite her rising popularity and recognition in the antiques world. However, information about her is widely available across media interviews, auction house websites, and TV program biographies. It is likely only a matter of time before her achievements are formally documented on the platform.

Inspiring Story of Resilience

What makes Irita Marriott’s journey remarkable is not just her professional success but also her personal resilience. From being told by a teacher in Latvia that she would “never make it in life without English,” to becoming a celebrated BBC expert in a foreign country, her story is a testament to determination and adaptability.

Her journey resonates with many who face doubts or obstacles, showing that passion and persistence can transform lives.

Achievements and Highlights

Some of the standout moments in Irita’s career include:

Selling a spoon at auction for £3,300, proving that even small items can hold immense value.

Establishing one of the few female-owned auction houses in Britain.

Becoming a regular face on some of the UK’s most-watched antiques programs.

Inspiring audiences with her knowledge, warmth, and relatability.

Conclusion

Irita Marriott is far more than an antiques dealer—she is a role model, a businesswoman, and a television star. Her journey from a small Latvian farm to the heart of the British antiques industry embodies resilience, ambition, and authenticity. Whether through her auction house, her television appearances, or her role as a mentor to her children, she continues to make an impact.

As her career grows, so too will her influence, ensuring that her name remains synonymous with expertise, integrity, and inspiration in the antiques world.