Izzie Balmer Partner – BBC Antiques Expert’s Private Life

Izzie Balmer Partner – BBC Antiques Expert’s Private Life in 2026

Zay Cole
20 Min Read

Discover everything about Izzie Balmer partner Will Hawley, her relationship status, BBC career on Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, and her journey as a jewellery expert. Complete guide to the antiques star’s private life.

Quick Facts About Izzie Balmer

DetailInformation
Full NameIzzie Balmer
Birth Year1989
Age36 years old (as of 2026)
BirthplaceDerbyshire, England
EducationGeography degree from Durham University; Gemmology and Diamond Diplomas from Birmingham School of Jewellery
ProfessionAuctioneer, Valuer, Television Presenter
SpecializationJewellery and Silver
TV ShowsAntiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, The Travelling Auctioneers, Flog It!
PartnerWill Hawley (reported, not publicly confirmed)
Current ResidenceBristol, England
HeightApproximately 5 feet 6 inches

Who is Izzie Balmer Partner?

The question of Izzie Balmer’s partner continues to intrigue fans of the beloved BBC antiques expert. According to various entertainment sources, Izzie Balmer’s partner is reportedly Will Hawley, though the television personality maintains exceptional privacy regarding her romantic life.

The antiques specialist has chosen to keep personal relationships away from public scrutiny, a decision that distinguishes her from many contemporary television personalities who share intimate details on social media. This discretion has only heightened curiosity among devoted viewers who admire her work on daytime television.

Unlike his television personality partner, Will Hawley maintains a considerably lower public profile. He does not appear in the spotlight alongside Izzie and has no prominent television presence, preferring to support her career from behind the scenes. This balance between public recognition and private support creates an intriguing dynamic that many fans find admirable.

Izzie Balmer and Will Hawley: The Relationship Details

Multiple sources suggest that Izzie Balmer and Will Hawley share a partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. According to one report, the couple may have married at St. Alkmund’s Church on November 16, 2016, in an intimate ceremony attended only by close family members. However, this information has not been officially confirmed by Izzie herself.

The relationship reportedly thrives on a foundation of understanding, particularly regarding the demands of Izzie’s television career. Her work involves extensive travel across the United Kingdom, long filming schedules at auction houses, and numerous public appearances—commitments that require a supportive partner who understands the entertainment industry’s unique pressures.

Sources close to the couple describe their partnership as one characterized by steady encouragement. Will reportedly provides grounding support in Izzie’s personal life, allowing her to pursue ambitious professional projects with confidence while maintaining stability at home. This modern dynamic celebrates individuality, with each person’s career flourishing alongside their relationship.

Both Izzie and Will reportedly share an appreciation for art, heritage, and creativity. These common interests may have naturally brought them together, whether through mutual professional circles or shared social connections. Their partnership reflects how successful relationships can balance public careers with private contentment.

Understanding Izzie Balmer’s Privacy Choices

Understanding Izzie Balmer's Privacy Choices

In an era when celebrities frequently share relationship updates, couple photos, and personal milestones on social media, Izzie Balmer stands apart. She deliberately maintains boundaries between her professional achievements and personal relationships, ensuring that public focus remains on her expertise rather than her private choices.

This approach demonstrates emotional intelligence and long-term thinking. By protecting her relationship—whether with Will Hawley or any partner—from media attention, Izzie ensures it remains authentic and unaffected by public opinion or scrutiny. Many successful public figures follow similar principles, recognizing that maintaining privacy preserves the integrity of personal connections.

Izzie rarely posts anything about romantic relationships on her Instagram account, where she instead shares glimpses of her professional world—photos of antiques discoveries, auction events, and behind-the-scenes moments from television filming. This selective sharing allows fans to connect with her work while respecting her personal boundaries.

Izzie Balmer’s Journey on Bargain Hunt

Izzie Balmer’s television career began unexpectedly when she stood in for her boss, Charles Hanson, on BBC‘s popular show Bargain Hunt. Charles was forced to pull out of an appearance to be with his pregnant wife in hospital, and he passed the opportunity to Izzie. This single chance appearance would change her life dramatically.

On Bargain Hunt, Izzie discovered her natural talent for television presenting while maintaining her professional expertise. The show requires experts to guide amateur collectors as they purchase antique items at fairs and then sell them at auction, hoping to make a profit. Izzie’s warm personality, quick wit, and genuine enthusiasm for discovering hidden treasures made her an immediate hit with producers and audiences alike.

She has described Bargain Hunt as an experience filled with risks, ups and downs, laughter, and competitive contestants. According to Izzie, she learns something new every day due to the uniqueness of every fair and team. The most profitable item she discovered on Bargain Hunt was a Charles Horner brooch, demonstrating her sharp eye for valuable pieces.

Izzie officially joined Bargain Hunt as a regular expert in 2022 and continues to appear on the show, guiding contestants through the exciting world of antiques collecting. Her approach combines professional knowledge with accessible explanations, making antiques appreciation enjoyable for viewers of all backgrounds.

Izzie Balmer on Antiques Road Trip

In 2019, Izzie Balmer joined the cast of Antiques Road Trip, one of the BBC’s flagship daytime programs. The show features antiques experts travelling across the United Kingdom in classic cars, visiting antique shops, fairs, and markets in search of valuable items to purchase and later sell at auction.

Antiques Road Trip showcases Izzie’s expertise in jewellery and silver while revealing her adventurous spirit and sense of humor. The competitive format, where experts try to make the most profit from their purchases, allows her to demonstrate both her valuation skills and strategic thinking.

Izzie Balmer on Antiques Road Trip

Izzie has developed warm friendships with her Antiques Road Trip co-stars, including Mark Hill, who described her as “effervescent and sparkling (and terrifyingly good)” after filming episodes together. These genuine connections contribute to the show’s appeal, as viewers enjoy watching the experts’ camaraderie alongside their antiques adventures.

The show has taken Izzie across England, Wales, and Scotland, from Cardigan in West Wales through Gloucestershire and into Oxfordshire. Each journey presents new opportunities to uncover forgotten treasures and share fascinating historical stories with the audience.

She also appears on Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, where famous personalities team up with antiques experts for charity. These special episodes combine entertainment with education, introducing new audiences to the world of antiques collecting.

Izzie Balmer: The Jewellery Expert

Izzie Balmer’s specialization in jewellery sets her apart in the antiques world. After completing her geography degree at Durham University, she felt uncertain about her career direction. Her mother suggested work experience at a local auction house—a suggestion that would define her professional path.

Following just two weeks of work experience, Izzie received a full-time job offer. Recognizing her passion for jewellery, she pursued formal training at Birmingham’s School of Jewellery, earning both a Fellowship in Gemmology (FGA) and a Diamond Diploma (DGA) from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain.

These qualifications represent the highest level of professional expertise in gemstone identification and valuation. The rigorous training equipped Izzie with the technical knowledge to authenticate precious stones, identify treatments and enhancements, and accurately assess jewellery value—skills essential for her television work and auction house career.

Izzie spent four and a half years at Hansons Auctioneers in Derbyshire, progressing from saleroom assistant to valuer and auctioneer. She then moved to Wessex Auction Rooms in Wiltshire, where she served as Head Valuer and Auctioneer from 2018 to 2023, specializing in jewellery and silver.

The most expensive item she ever sold was a painting by George Turner, a Derbyshire artist, which achieved £22,000 at auction—approximately ten times its usual selling price. This remarkable result demonstrated her ability to recognize quality and present items compellingly to potential buyers.

In early 2024, Izzie transitioned to working as a freelance auctioneer, valuer, consultant, and television presenter. This move reflected her growing reputation and desire for greater autonomy within the antiques sector. She now offers jewellery and antiques valuation, insurance assessments, probate valuations, and professional training.

The Travelling Auctioneers and Other BBC Shows

Beyond Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, Izzie co-presents The Travelling Auctioneers, a BBC daytime series that sees experts travelling the country to hold pop-up auctions for members of the public. The show combines the excitement of discovering valuable items with the drama of live auctions.

Izzie has appeared alongside various co-presenters including JJ Chalmers, with whom she shares excellent on-screen chemistry. Filming for the show takes the team across diverse locations, from bustling towns to quiet villages, where locals bring treasured possessions hoping to discover their value.

The series showcases Izzie’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life, explaining complex valuation concepts in accessible terms while respecting the emotional connections people have with family heirlooms and personal collections.

She has also appeared on Flog It!, Street Auction, Curiosity, and Make Me a Dealer, building an impressive portfolio of television credits. Each show highlights different aspects of her expertise while demonstrating her versatility as a presenter.

Working with STV Studios, the producers of many BBC daytime antiques programs, Izzie has become one of the most recognized faces in British antiques television over the past six years. Her ability to balance professionalism with humor has made her a favorite among viewers who appreciate both her knowledge and her approachable manner.

Career Achievements and Professional Recognition

Izzie Balmer’s career trajectory illustrates how dedication and expertise can create remarkable opportunities. From uncertain graduate to celebrated television presenter, her journey inspires those navigating unexpected career paths.

As one of the few prominent female experts in the traditionally male-dominated auction world, Izzie has become a role model for young women interested in antiques. She has spoken openly about being underestimated by men, especially older men, in the industry—challenges she overcame through demonstrated competence and unwavering professionalism.

Her regular appearances on multiple BBC programs have established her as a trusted authority on jewellery and silver. Audiences value her honest assessments, clear explanations, and genuine enthusiasm for discovering quality antiques. This reputation extends beyond television into her consultancy work and freelance valuation services.

Izzie’s professional memberships include the National Association of Valuers and Auctioneers (MNAVA), recognizing her standing within the industry. Her skills encompass jewellery authentication, antique valuation, public speaking, broadcast presentation, event hosting, and client liaison—a comprehensive toolkit for success in this multifaceted field.

Life Beyond the Cameras

When not filming or conducting valuations, Izzie maintains diverse interests that enrich her life and inform her work. She continues to play the viola, an instrument she began learning in childhood. As a former member of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain at age 16, music remains an important creative outlet.

Izzie performs with several orchestras in Bristol and participates in a string quartet that plays at weddings and events. This musical background contributes to her stage presence and comfort performing before audiences—skills that translate effectively to television presenting.

Living in Bristol, she enjoys socializing with friends, exploring new places, and attempting to grow flowers and vegetables in her garden. She has mentioned aspiring to become a beekeeper, reflecting her connection to nature and sustainable living.

The Relationship Between Izzie Balmer and Charles Hanson

Travel features prominently in Izzie’s life, both professionally and personally. She has shared photos from trips to Cornwall, France, and the Netherlands, expressing particular affection for Cornwall’s restorative qualities. In one reflective Instagram post, she described how Cornwall provides courage and reassurance during challenging times.

Physical activity and outdoor exploration help balance the demands of her career. She enjoys walks, discovering new locations, and occasionally finds rare moments to sit outside with coffee and a book—simple pleasures that maintain perspective amid her busy schedule.

The Relationship Between Izzie Balmer and Charles Hanson

Fans often wonder about the connection between Izzie Balmer and Charles Hanson, another prominent antiques expert frequently seen on BBC programs. While they share strong professional ties and on-screen chemistry, they are not romantically involved or related as siblings—a common misconception.

Charles Hanson played a pivotal role in launching Izzie’s television career. As owner of Hansons Auctioneers, he employed Izzie early in her career, providing mentorship and opportunities to develop her skills. When he needed to withdraw from a Bargain Hunt appearance, he recommended Izzie as his replacement—a decision that proved career-defining for both the BBC and Izzie herself.

Their professional relationship continues through appearances on Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, and Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. The mutual respect and friendly rapport between them enhance their on-screen collaborations, though their connection remains purely professional and collegial.

Public Interest and Media Speculation

The fascination with Izzie Balmer’s partner reflects broader cultural curiosity about television personalities’ private lives. Several factors contribute to this interest:

Television Familiarity: Regular viewers of BBC daytime programs feel a personal connection with presenters they see frequently, naturally wanting to know more about their lives beyond the screen.

The Mystery Effect: Izzie’s deliberate privacy creates intrigue—the less she shares, the more people wonder about her personal circumstances.

Relatability: Her warm, accessible presenting style makes viewers feel they know her personally, prompting questions about her relationships and daily life.

Modern Celebrity Culture: In an age of social media oversharing, Izzie’s discretion stands out as unusual, making her personal life more intriguing by its very absence from public discourse.

However, this curiosity must be balanced against an individual’s right to privacy. Izzie has clearly communicated through her actions that personal relationships remain off-limits for public consumption—a boundary that deserves respect regardless of public interest.

What Makes Their Partnership Work

According to sources familiar with the couple, the relationship between Izzie Balmer and Will Hawley succeeds through several key elements:

Mutual Support: Will provides steady encouragement for Izzie’s demanding career while pursuing his own professional interests, creating a balanced partnership where both individuals flourish.

Shared Values: Common appreciation for art, heritage, and craftsmanship provides intellectual connection and shared experiences that strengthen their bond.

Complementary Personalities: Izzie thrives in the public spotlight while Will prefers privacy, creating a dynamic where each person’s preferences are honored and respected.

Understanding Demands: Having a partner who comprehends the unique pressures of television work—irregular schedules, travel commitments, public attention—helps Izzie maintain work-life balance.

Privacy Protection: Both partners value keeping their relationship away from media scrutiny, preserving intimacy and authenticity in their connection.

This partnership model demonstrates that successful relationships can exist at the intersection of public life and private contentment, with clear boundaries protecting what matters most.

Conclusion

Izzie Balmer has established herself as one of Britain’s most beloved antiques experts through genuine expertise, warm personality, and dedication to her craft. From her unexpected start in the auction world to her current status as a BBC television regular, her journey reflects passion, perseverance, and professional excellence.

While questions about Izzie Balmer’s partner Will Hawley continue to generate interest, her deliberate privacy choices deserve respect. She has successfully separated her professional achievements from personal relationships, ensuring public focus remains on her contributions to antiques appreciation rather than her private circumstances.

Whether evaluating jewellery on Bargain Hunt, discovering treasures on Antiques Road Trip, or conducting auctions for The Travelling Auctioneers, Izzie brings enthusiasm, expertise, and authenticity to every appearance. Her success proves that professional reputation can stand independently from personal disclosure, and that maintaining boundaries enhances rather than diminishes public appreciation.

As Izzie continues her freelance career, consulting work, and television presenting, audiences can look forward to more years of learning from one of the industry’s most knowledgeable and engaging experts. Her story reminds us that behind every public figure exists a complete human being entitled to privacy, dignity, and the right to choose what aspects of their life to share with the world.

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