Hettie Jago has become a familiar face to antiques enthusiasts worldwide, thanks to her captivating appearances on BBC’s Antiques Road Trip and her expertise as a jewelry specialist and auctioneer. Born on June 16, 1989, in London, England, Hettie’s journey from a young girl fascinated by her father’s antique furniture collection to a celebrated television personality and businesswoman is nothing short of inspiring. Beyond her professional achievements, Hettie’s personal life—particularly her marriage to Tom Jago and their family—adds a layer of warmth and relatability to her public persona. This article delves into Hettie Jago’s life, career, and the love story that has supported her rise to prominence, while exploring how she balances her high-profile career with her roles as a wife and mother.
Early Life and Passion for Antiques
Hettie Jago’s love for antiques was ignited in her childhood, growing up in a London household steeped in creativity and history. Her father, a collector and trader of antique furniture, introduced her to the world of auctions and fairs, where she developed an early fascination with gold and silver jewelry. Her mother, a florist with a passion for gardening, fostered a creative environment that nurtured Hettie’s appreciation for beauty and craftsmanship. These formative experiences shaped Hettie’s career path, blending her love for history, art, and tangible treasures.
Hettie’s academic journey further honed her expertise. She attended St Paul’s Girls’ School in London, excelling in painting and history. Her passion for art history led her to the University of Cambridge, where she graduated with honors in History of Art in 2011. In 2012, she earned a gemmology certificate from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A), solidifying her credentials as a jewelry expert. These educational milestones provided Hettie with the knowledge and confidence to pursue a career in the competitive world of antiques.
A Stellar Career in Antiques and Television
Hettie’s professional journey began at Bonhams, one of the world’s most prestigious auction houses, where she worked as a junior expert in the jewelry department from 2011 to 2015. This role allowed her to immerse herself in the intricacies of jewelry valuation and auctioneering, sharpening her eye for quality and historical significance. Her time at Bonhams was a crucial stepping stone, establishing her as a respected figure in the industry.
In 2016, Hettie launched Hettie Jago Jewellery, an online boutique specializing in high-quality, pre-owned silver jewelry, with a focus on mid to late 20th-century statement pieces. Her curated collection of bold necklaces, chunky chains, and gemstone-set designs reflects her passion for timeless style and exceptional craftsmanship. The success of her business showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and her ability to connect with collectors and jewelry enthusiasts worldwide.
Hettie’s television career took off with appearances on popular British programs such as BBC’s Bargain Hunt and ITV’s Dickinson’s Real Deal. However, it was her debut on Antiques Road Trip in October 2023 that catapulted her to wider fame. As an expert on the show, Hettie travels across the UK, sourcing antiques and competing with fellow experts to achieve the highest auction profits. Her charisma, knowledge, and knack for uncovering hidden treasures—such as a fairground carousel horse or a Chinese ink drawing—have made her a fan favorite. Her ability to share the stories behind each item, combined with her infectious enthusiasm, has endeared her to audiences and solidified her status as a rising star in the antiques world.
Currently, Hettie serves as an auctioneer and valuer at Arthur Johnson & Sons Auctioneers in Nottingham, England, where her expertise in statement silver and vintage jewelry continues to shine. Her multifaceted career, spanning auctioneering, television, and her online business, has contributed to an estimated net worth of $1.5 million as of 2025, a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Meeting Tom Jago: A Cambridge Love Story
At the heart of Hettie Jago’s personal life is her marriage to Tom Jago, a software developer and fellow Cambridge graduate. Their love story began during their university days, where shared interests in academia and intellectual curiosity brought them together. Both hailing from Cambridge, Hettie and Tom connected over their passion for learning and exploration, forging a deep bond that would shape their future.
Tom, born in 1988, pursued a degree in computer science at Cambridge, graduating with honors. His analytical mindset and problem-solving skills complement Hettie’s creative and historical expertise, creating a balanced partnership. Their relationship blossomed through shared experiences, from late-night study sessions to exploring Cambridge’s historic streets. In 2015, after several years of dating, Hettie and Tom exchanged vows in a heartfelt ceremony surrounded by family and friends, marking the beginning of their life together as husband and wife.
A Life Built Together in London
Since their marriage, Hettie and Tom have built a vibrant life in London, where they reside with their two children, Arthur and Matilda, and their beloved cockapoo, Bertie. Their home is a haven of warmth and creativity, reflecting Hettie’s love for antiques and Tom’s modern, tech-savvy perspective. Despite their differing career paths—Hettie in the public eye and Tom in the private tech sector—the couple shares a strong partnership grounded in mutual respect and support.
Hettie often shares glimpses of their family life on social media, particularly through her Instagram handle, @hettie_jago, where she has over 10,000 followers. Her posts showcase cozy family moments, from city adventures with Arthur and Matilda to playful antics with Bertie. These glimpses reveal Hettie’s down-to-earth nature and her commitment to nurturing her family, even amidst a demanding career. Tom, while maintaining a low-profile presence, is a constant source of encouragement, managing household responsibilities and supporting Hettie’s frequent travels for Antiques Road Trip and auctioneering.
Their two children, Arthur (born in 2017) and Matilda (born in 2019), are a source of immense joy for Hettie and Tom. Hettie has spoken publicly about the grounding influence of her family, emphasizing the importance of creating lasting memories and instilling in her children a love for history, art, and culture. The couple’s shared values and dedication to family life provide a strong foundation, allowing Hettie to thrive both personally and professionally.
Balancing Career and Family
Balancing a high-profile career with family life is no small feat, but Hettie Jago manages it with grace and determination. Her work on Antiques Road Trip requires extensive travel across the UK, often for weeks at a time, as she hunts for antiques and films episodes. Additionally, her roles as an auctioneer and business owner demand significant time and energy. Yet, Hettie prioritizes quality time with her family, ensuring she remains present for Arthur and Matilda’s milestones.
Tom’s flexible schedule as a software developer plays a crucial role in their family dynamic. His ability to take on parenting responsibilities when Hettie is away allows her to focus on her career without sacrificing family time. This partnership exemplifies their teamwork, with Tom providing stability and Hettie bringing creativity and passion to their household. Hettie has also credited Tom’s analytical perspective with helping her navigate professional challenges, from valuing complex jewelry pieces to strategizing for auctions on Antiques Road Trip.
Hettie’s social media presence offers insight into how she juggles her roles. Her posts often highlight her ability to seamlessly transition from filming in a vintage car to cooking with her children or gardening, a hobby she inherited from her mother. This balance reflects Hettie’s commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life equilibrium, a value she advocates for in interviews and public appearances.
The Role of Family in Hettie’s Success
Hettie’s family—both her immediate family and her parents—has played a pivotal role in her success. Her father’s influence as an antique furniture collector sparked her lifelong passion for antiques, while her mother’s creativity inspired her appreciation for beauty and design. Growing up, Hettie accompanied her father to auctions, learning the art of negotiation and the stories behind each piece. These experiences not only shaped her career but also instilled a deep respect for the history and craftsmanship of antiques.
Her parents, now retired and living in the countryside, remain a source of support. Hettie frequently visits them, sharing moments of their close bond on social media. She also has a younger brother, Harry, a lawyer, who adds diversity to the family dynamic. The Jago family’s love for their cockapoo, Bertie, further unites them, with Hettie often joking about Bertie’s role as the family’s unofficial antiques critic.
Tom’s support has been equally instrumental. As Hettie’s biggest cheerleader, he encourages her to pursue her ambitions while providing a stable home environment. His tech expertise has also helped Hettie modernize her online jewelry business, from optimizing her website to streamlining customer interactions. Their complementary skills and shared vision have strengthened their marriage and contributed to Hettie’s ability to excel in a competitive industry.
Hettie’s Influence and Legacy
Hettie Jago’s influence extends beyond her television appearances and auctioneering. Through Hettie Jago Jewellery, she has revitalized interest in vintage silver jewelry, making it accessible to a new generation of collectors. Her curated selections, emphasizing quality and timeless style, have earned her a loyal customer base and critical acclaim. Her shop’s success is a testament to her ability to blend historical knowledge with modern entrepreneurship.
On Antiques Road Trip, Hettie has become a charismatic ambassador for the antiques world, inspiring viewers to appreciate the stories and value of vintage items. Her ability to articulate complex valuation concepts in an engaging way has broadened the show’s appeal, attracting both seasoned collectors and newcomers. Her debut alongside experts like David Harper and Tim Medhurst showcased her competitive spirit and expertise, earning her widespread praise.
Hettie’s philanthropy also underscores her commitment to giving back. She has been recognized for her community service, including mentoring young professionals in the antiques industry and supporting charitable auctions. In 2020, she received an award for “Best Innovation” for her contributions to the field, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazer.
Looking Ahead
As Hettie Jago continues to shine in the antiques world, her future looks promising. Her role on Antiques Road Trip is expected to expand, with fans eagerly awaiting more episodes featuring her infectious enthusiasm. Her jewelry business is poised for growth, with plans to introduce new collections and services, such as bespoke jewelry repairs and commissions. Hettie’s commitment to preserving the stories of antiques ensures her influence will endure, inspiring future generations to cherish history and craftsmanship.
In her personal life, Hettie remains dedicated to her family, with plans to create more memories with Tom, Arthur, Matilda, and Bertie. Whether exploring new destinations or teaching her children about antiques, Hettie’s love for her family remains at the core of her journey. Her ability to balance a thriving career with a fulfilling family life serves as an inspiration to many, proving that passion and love can coexist harmoniously.
Conclusion
Hettie Jago’s story is one of passion, expertise, and love. From her early days in a family of antique enthusiasts to her rise as a television personality and jewelry specialist, Hettie has carved a unique path in the antiques world. Her marriage to Tom Jago, a supportive and loving partner, has been a cornerstone of her success, providing the stability and encouragement she needs to thrive. Together, they have built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and a shared appreciation for history and culture. As Hettie continues to captivate audiences and collectors alike, her legacy as a charismatic auctioneer, devoted wife, and nurturing mother will undoubtedly endure, leaving an indelible mark on the world of antiques and beyond.
