Tag: Stall Profile

This one is for the sweet toothed folk amongst us who appreciate organic, ‘no nasties’ ingredients – with cute packaging to boot. If you haven’t yet experienced Dolce Organico then…

This one is for the sweet toothed folk amongst us who appreciate organic, 'no nasties' ingredients - with cute packaging to boot. If you haven't yet experienced Dolce Organico then head to TVM this Sunday 2 June.

Dolce Organico was founded by Nutritionist and food enthusiast, Dianne Doyle in 2017.

Dianne has a passion for creating food that is wholesome and inclusive for all dietary types. She found that finding 'guilt-free' treats that were allergy friendly and not full of 'nasties' was really hard for her clients so she decided to try some recipes out herself.

After trialing many different recipes Dianne perfected her Plant-Based Meringues, her clients loved them. Her organic vegan meringues are free from gluten, lactose, egg, animal products, nuts and fat. Dianne's meringues are designed to be a guilt-free treat and only have 1 teaspoon of raw organic sugar per serve of 3 meringues.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

As a nutritionist, I wasn't sure about starting another brand but my clients (and family, friends, neighbours and pretty much everyone I knew) kept raving about my meringues. So in November 2017, I finally made the plunge and launched Dolce Organico!

What does your brand consist of?

Dolce Organico has 5 core flavours; vanilla, hazelnut, coffee, bubblegum and raspberry, that come in two sizes (large & small), currently there are 2 'special flavours', Pink Champagne and Bake-A-Wish Unicorn.

All of the ingredients in our meringues are cruelty-free and sourced naturally. Our meringues contain no artificial colours + our colourings are sourced from organic superfoods such as; Blue Spirulina, Pink Pitaya, Black Goji Berry and Cacao.

Where possible our flavourings are naturally derived from their original source.

It's important to us that each ingredient is ethically sourced.

Where is the label designed and made?

Dolce Organico is a Gold Coast business that's worked hard to try and source it's ingredients and packaging locally. All of our products are made and packaged on the Gold Coast.

What inspires you?

I draw inspiration from foodies such as Jamie Oliver, Sarah Wilson & Lola Berry. Each of these amazing foodies are trying to change the way we look at eating healthy, real food and make cooking (and eating right) 'sexy' again.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

I would really love Dolce Organico to become a go-to food for people with and without allergies to make eating and sharing more inclusive for everyone.

I would also like to keep adding new flavours and, down the track, new products to the Dolce Organico line and eventually use the brand as a platform to help educate others on how eating real foods doesn't have to be boring.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

One of the biggest hurdles that I had to overcome is the perception that organic and vegan food is bland or tasteless and not as good as the 'real thing'.

Another challenge has been sourcing and learning more about sustainable packaging. And what the pros and cons (and true impact) of various preparing, shipping and packing methods actually are.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

One of the best things about running Dolce Organico, has been being able to meet and work with some of our favourite brands, such as a recent collab with Edible Beauty and Soulara.

Another amazing opportunity that's come from running a business, has been having the opportunity to make a real impact on things that matter. For example, I have recently teamed up with the Make a Wish foundation for her Bake-a-Wish Unicorn meringues ($1 of each jar sold gets donated), which has been really cool.

But the absolute best thing is having the ability to invent and create new flavours and 'play' in the kitchen!

Connect with Dolce Organico online, here.
Or find them this Sunday at TVM 2 June 2019, Burleigh Heads.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: One Fable

Marissa

04/04/2019 3:13 pm 04/04/2019

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We love getting to know our TVM community and this week we spoke to Natasha Knight, creative and founder behind inspiring fashion and lifestyle brand, One Fable. What does One…

We love getting to know our TVM community and this week we spoke to Natasha Knight, creative and founder behind inspiring fashion and lifestyle brand, One Fable.

What does One Fable stand for and how did the label come about?

Here at One Fable we stand for simple, natural and uncomplicated style.

The label began as my Graduate project at UNSW Art and Design in 2015, where I studied Textile and Product Design, with a focus on Artisan made goods. My husband and I spent 6 months living in India, working with various Artisan groups (weaving, block printing, leather craft, & bell makers ).

The project was originally a documentary, with a small textile collection, it was a bit of a behind-the-scenes look at the textile industry and the role that sustainability plays within a consumer society. The project was really well received and we won a few Awards, so we decided to take things a step further and create a brand based around our passion for simple and authentic craft objects and fashion.

When did you launch?

At first, we sold our designs at local markets around Sydney where we were living but we officially launched at Life In-style in Feb 2017. We then had two beautiful babies and decided to move to Byron Bay to live the dream and get a little closer to nature.

What products does the label include?

We are a lifestyle brand, so our products are quite varied. We cover the full spectrum of needs, for a beautiful and laid-back home and wardrobe, such as home decor, fashion, and accessories. At the moment, we create limited edition capsule collections out of natural fibres, as well as Artisan made decor objects - always simple, and always natural. We believe each piece should compliment your lifestyle, by being easy to wear and beautiful to look at - nothing more and nothing less.

Where are the products designed and made?

All of our products are designed by myself, here in Byron Bay. We have a beautiful Studio by the beach, where we conceive and shoot our product ranges. We work with various Artisan groups in India, as well as Bali to bring our designs to life.

We travel with our 1 and 2 year old in tow, because its important for us that they understand the beauty and variety that this world has to offer.

In the future we plan on exploring Latin America and Europe (I am originally from Canada and my husband is from Italy), so I have always wanted to get back to that side of the world and see what magic we can create.

What can we expect to find at your One Fable market stall this Sunday at TVM?

As usual, we will try to curate a beautiful world of objects and fashion for you to choose from.

Our main focus is on helping others to achieve a bit of effortless calm and style in their lives, by focusing on form, texture and material. We believe surrounding ourselves with natural beauty has such a positive impact on your frame of mind, and consequently how you carry yourself in the world.

Do you have one piece of advice for anyone who might be starting a creative career, based on your own personal experience?

My only advice is, do it for the love of it - period.

If your heart is invested in what you are doing, everything else will eventually fall into place. Stay true to your passions and don’t be afraid of making mistakes (that is often where the magic is!)

Thank you so much Natasha!

You can find One Fable this Sunday 7 April at TVM (and most other TVM events) from 8:30am – 1pm at Burleigh Heads, or shop online here.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Bam Loves Boo

Marissa

03/27/2019 12:46 pm 03/27/2019

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This week we introduce you to Hannah Holmes, founder and creative behind children’s label Bam Loves Boo. TVM: How did your journey into running your own business begin? BLB: Prior…

This week we introduce you to Hannah Holmes, founder and creative behind children's label Bam Loves Boo.

TVM: How did your journey into running your own business begin?

BLB: Prior to starting Bam Loves Boo, I was a ladies and children's wear designer in the surf-wear industry on the Gold Coast and had been a clothing designer for over 10 years.

When I started a family and went on maternity leave I felt I needed that creative outlet, so I turned my focus to starting my own babies-wear brand.

The flexibility and lifestyle that has come along with it has meant that instead of returning to work I have been fortunate enough to stay at home with my daughter and work from home.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

I started my business in January 2017 but it wasn't until November that year that I launched my website and clothing. It was when sister came to visit that it really started, until then it had just all been in my head but then it was once I started saying it out loud and had someone to bounce-off and ask questions, that it started to put the wheels in motion.

What does your brand consist of?

Bam Loves Boo is a babies and children's clothing range with clean and neutral colour palettes, coordinating prints and unisex pieces.

All Bam Loves Boo clothing is made from a unique fabrication, a perfect blend of bamboo and certified organic cottons, which means they are beautifully soft, stretchy and breathable for comfortable wear and play. It also means that they are environmentally friendly and sustainable.

We are all about making beautiful clothing that you love, for the little people you love, in an eco-friendly and socially responsible way.

Where is the label designed and made?

Bam Loves Boo is designed by myself at my home in Brisbane, I design all the prints, garments and colours myself and then the fabric is woven specifically for us to our required blend and weight instead of off the roll. This is then dyed using eco-friendly dyes, to my chosen colours.

Bam Loves Boo is made in southern China with my fantastic manufacturer that I have known for over ten years, visited and built an amazing friendship with. This year I will be going over to stay with her family and see our pieces made first hand – and she just told me she is pregnant, so now I am even more excited to go and meet her own mini muse.

What inspires you?

It is very cliche by ultimately my daughter inspires a lot of my designs, as I learn as a mother from her what I look for in babies clothing. For example, we didn't find out her gender during pregnancy, which really helped to shape my brand to be entirely gender neutral. Then when she arrived, the priority was that it had to first be soft and comfortable but stretchy and easy to wear and put on and off.

I decided early on that my formula would be one colour repeat-patterns as well as each one being unisex and timeless. Although it can be limiting, I find having a formula really helps to keep me focused and make it cohesive.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

Ultimately I hope it means I can stay at home working on Bam Loves Boo to allow me to be around my family in the early years. I have really enjoyed doing some fantastic collaborations with other local brands, where we have worked together on new products. I would really like to continue with this path.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

Definitely the ethical and eco-friendly side was most challenging and still is really. Sadly, its not an easy area to navigate, it’s cheaper and easier not to be environmentally conscious, so I felt like I was really having to go against the grain in all areas to tick all the boxes I was after.

It was very challenging to ensure my ethical standards and needs were met and also to ensure these claims were backed with certifications.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

The freedom to work from home around my daughter and the friendships I made this past year through Instagram - it’s a pretty great community to be a part of.

Find Hannah at TVM Stones Corner this Sunday 31 March and if you cannot make it to TVM, you can connect with Bam Loves Boo online:
Website
Instagram

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: 88 Fahrenheit

Marissa

02/11/2019 8:00 am 02/11/2019

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Age is certainly no barrier when you are passionate and willing to take risks. In fact, there has never been a better time to go for it. Josie Cross is…

Age is certainly no barrier when you are passionate and willing to take risks. In fact, there has never been a better time to go for it. Josie Cross is a great example of this. The 17 year old entrepreneur is a fifth generation Gold Coaster and co-founder of newly launched swimwear label 88 Fahrenheit, which will be part of the line-up this Sunday 17 February at TVM.

Today we chat to Josie about motivation, creating a brand that reflects your beliefs and the opportunities created by social media.

“Born and raised on Australia’s Gold Coast, with a family history dating back 5 generations of local Gold Coasters, I have a definite obsession with the beach. Intertwining my love for the sun, sand and sea with my passion for fashion and travel, in my senior years of highschool, at just 17, I decided it was time to live out my dreams and create a lifestyle label that incorporates all of my favourite things. With my mum and co-founder by my side together we ensure that 88 Fahrenheit offers only the highest quality fabrics manufactured ethically and with love in one of our favourite places to travel - the beautiful island of Bali in Indonesia.”

What made you pursue your creative passion?

I’ve certainly had an obsession with bikinis from a very young age and have always had a very creative mind. As I got older I started messing around with designs and discovered the concept of working for myself. Alongside my passion for acting I had my dad telling me “I would never make any money as an actor’, so I decided it was time to prove him wrong and become my own boss – and that’s where it all started.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

During my senior years of high school, I would come home after being at school all day and then acting classes at night and meet with my mum about what I needed to do to make this really happen. Together we developed my ideas and design concept to create a brand that reflected everything I believed would embody the perfect beach day.

What does your brand consist of?

Dreaming of a perfect beach day, 88Fahrenheit (or 31ºC) is exactly that - sun, surf, sand and salt. Inspired to create a brand that reflects the beauty of nature, 88Fahrenheit offers beautifully designed swimwear to beach lovers throughout the world. Create your perfect beach day and join our tribe to share your stories with us, as together we celebrate life!

Where is the label designed and made?

Our label is designed In Australia and made in the beautiful island of Bali, Indonesia.

What inspires you?

Being inspired by strong women who are willing to take risks creating the life they want, and the way that social media embraces young entrepreneurs and gives them opportunities that has never been afforded to young people before; I discovered there is no better time to take the leap of faith than now.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

The idea of travel is one that I find immensely appealing, so I aspire to create a life where the brand will allow me to travel the world and share the story of 88Fahrenheit with other young entrepreneurs who are looking to create their own pathway. I plan on expanding the brand to include everything for the ‘perfect beach day’, not just swimwear. Every photoshoot we do, every time new stock arrives, or we are showcased at a fashion show or now a market, I feel as though I have gone on a new adventure and look forward to continuing that for the brand.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

Obviously as a high school student, being categorised as ‘just a 17-year-old girl’ has a stigma that encourages some people to overlook the potential of the brand – which was certainly something I had to work hard to overcome in the development phase. However, with my mum and co-founder, Michelle, by my side we worked extremely hard to create a professional, authentic brand that is ethical, mindful of environmental sustainability and we hope to encourage growth in young entrepreneurs and promote the amazing Gold Coast lifestyle.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

Without a doubt the best part of owning your own business would have to be working your own hours from anywhere in the world. A week before we launched 88Fahrenheit (on December 16, 2018) my family and I were on a trip to the US to celebrate my graduation, however, not for one second did 88 Fahrenheit stop. Whether it be in bed, by the ocean, on a plane, train or at my dining room table I can really work from anywhere in the world to create the brand of my dreams, which is something I am extremely grateful for.

Visit 88 Fahrenheit online, here.

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Stall Profile

Profile :: Tracey Moakes Photography

Marissa

02/06/2019 9:43 am 02/06/2019

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We had the pleasure of hosting local photographer Tracey Moakes at TVM recently with her Christmas photobooth, where she was able to capture her signature natural candid shots of our…

We had the pleasure of hosting local photographer Tracey Moakes at TVM recently with her Christmas photobooth, where she was able to capture her signature natural candid shots of our community and their loved ones.

Tracey kindly returned in January to snap a typical TVM morning and we have shared some of her images below - we love them! Here we chat to Tracey to learn more about how she turned her hobby into a business and what we can expect from her in the future. Grab a cuppa and enjoy the read.

I grew up loving art and have always enjoyed creating, often crafting cards or wall hangings, or playing with a bit of paint. I studied black and white film photography during high school and totally loved it. After high school I studied graphic design where I started to learn my way around Photoshop.

Tell us about your journey into photography?

I bought my first DSLR camera when I was pregnant with my first child. A friend had shown me theirs and I was keen to learn more. After my son was born I had plenty to photograph.

Seeing how quick my own kids were growing, I knew it was important to capture every little moment I could. I wanted to do the same for other families.

When did you decide to create a business out of your creative passion?

It kind of happened accidentally, I started taking photos for friends, and friends of friends, mainly of babies and families. I decided to turn it into a business and I have never looked back. I've learnt so much along the way and I'm pretty proud of how far my work has come.

What style of photography do you focus on?

I currently shoot mostly newborns, maternity, and families. I want to document your life. I aim to capture real moments. I want real smiles and real interactions between you and your family. Capturing your everyday moments that one day you will look back on and go, "Oh remember when (your child) used to do that!" and you will wonder how you had ever forgot.

What inspires you?

Definitely my kids, watching the funny little things they do has me running for my camera every time. And beautiful light. A beautiful sun flare coming through a tree will always make me grab whatever camera is nearby, I've been known to use friend's phones if I don't have my own handy. I'll usually come back to that spot again with my kids and my DSLR.

What are your plans for your business in 2019 and beyond?

I would love to grow my business bigger, shoot some more weddings and possibly branch out into other types of photography. One day I hope to own a studio and also have printing capabilities to be able to offer prints to clients too. But I really just want to continue my documentary approach to family photography and help capture those precious memories for families.

What were the biggest challenges when starting your own business?

Learning about running a business and learning to respect it. Learning to say no to free shoots. Letting go of what a perfect photo should look like (many of my favourite shots have imperfections that I now love).

What is the best thing about having your own business?

Freedom! I book in sessions for when suits me and my family, and I can still be there to watch my kids get an award at school etc. Also creative freedom.

Connect with Tracey Moakes Photography, here.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Loca Sportswear

Marissa

01/16/2019 3:56 pm 01/16/2019

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Former ironwoman-turned-swimwear graphic designer, Amy Nurthen and her younger sister Karlee, a professional Ironwomen and videographer created their label Loca Sportswear one year ago because they believed there was a gap in the sportwear market for fashion forward, active, fast-paced women who love street style. They wanted to let their ideas run wild and create something from the beginning. From designing styles to photography to branding and everything in between.

Talk us through the process you went through to create your business?

One year ago we decided it was time to start putting time aside to work on our dream. We had hundreds of sketches of different styles, t-shirt and textile prints across all our books. We bought the domain and business name and the past year has been the most challenging, rewarding and interesting year of our lives.

What does your brand consist of?

Loca is a movement empowering women to Be Rare. We have created bold, unique styles to allow women to make it their own. Style it, accessorise it, own it and be proud. Our first campaign consist of sports bras, shorts, tights, bags, sunglasses, hats & tees.

Where is the label designed and made?

Loca Sportswear is designed, tested and manufactured on the Gold Coast. Representing small Australian businesses and working close to our maker chain is a positive and unique aspect of our brand. From pattern making, fabric cutting, embroidery, screen print and sewing. We use regenerated fabric across all our crops & tights. By collecting discarded fishing nets from our oceans, we can make an essential contribution to the marine ecosystem helping reduce damage to the environment. Turning trash into treasure.

What inspires you?

When women connect to our brand and our message. Seeing women put on our styles for the first time and their eyes lighting up.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

Our plan is to have a summer and winter range each year, full of new styles, colours and looks. To create exclusivity to particular retail stores who would benefit from Loca. To have women connecting with our message and empowering others to be proud of who they are.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

Having our stock completed in time for the launch was a challenge, we work with small businesses and our work load was quite big for our manufacturing team.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

Being able to be creative, run with ideas, there is no barriers, its really unknown.

Connect with Loca Sportswear online, here.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Elke The Label

Marissa

01/02/2019 5:09 pm 01/02/2019

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This Sunday at TVM there’s a brand new kids label in town – meet Tegan Bryers, founder of Elke The Label. My background is in Child Care. I’m a lead…

This Sunday at TVM there's a brand new kids label in town - meet Tegan Bryers, founder of Elke The Label.

My background is in Child Care. I'm a lead educator in a local child care centre and have worked there for the last 13 years. While I was at University I worked in retail and my mum has always worked in retail. I have always been around clothes and the latest fashion thanks to mum.

What made your pursue your creative passion?

I have always loved clothing, but it wasn't until I had my eldest daughter that I realised how much I actually loved children's (in particular girls) clothing. There's just so much gorgeous stuff out there for girls, so I wanted to try and make my own children's clothing range.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

Elke the Label started off as Harper's Place 6 years ago, but I just could never really get my ideas together and make it work as a label. This year I had a complete change of idea and business name, and this time it has finally worked and I have something to show for it.

What does your brand consist of?

At the moment we have created our very first range of tween girl's clothing- its a summer range consisting of dresses, skirts, tops and shorts. We are currently working on our Autumn/ Winter Range and have so many ideas for our next Summer range. I would love to one day include shoes and accessories.

Where is the label designed and made?

The label is designed here in Australia and is manufactured in Bali. I have worked really hard to try and find a factory that has ethical and sustainable practices in place, as I want to try to ensure my brand is as kind to the people who make it as it is to the people who wear it. And I want it to be kind to the planet as well.

What inspires you?

My daughter is the true inspiration behind Elke the Label. She has never fitted into any 'box' and is often described as unique, eccentric and different. But she just beats to her own drum and I love her for that. When she turned 6 she really wanted to start having a say in what she wore, but couldn't find anything she liked- she was never a fan of any of the traditional 'girl' clothing- pink, purple, frills, flowers, etc,. Even as a toddler she refused to wear it. So after talking to her about what she wanted to wear, we worked together to create Elke the Label- this is as much her brand as it is mine. She had a say in every item, every colour and every print we have created.

What are your plans for Elke The Label in 2019 and beyond?

I would love to see Elke the Label stocked in our local shops- I spent so much of my youth working in and shopping at the Gold Coast shopping centres that it would be a pinch me moment to see something I created hanging in a shop window. For now I'm just happy for Elke to do well enough that I can continue to produce new ranges each season......and then one day conquer the tween clothing world.

What were your biggest challenges when launching your brand?

I had no idea what was involved- I honestly thought you just came up with some designs and then find someone to make them. But it's so much more complicated than that, especially in the start up phase. It's like a never ending list of things to organise, people to contact and bills to pay. I would liken it to building a house- time-frames and budgets go out the window pretty quickly.

What's the best thing about having your own business?

I absolutely love every aspect of it - even the parts that cause headaches. When my first box of samples arrived I nearly cried with excitement. To see and hold my products was just so amazing.

Connect with Elke The Label online, here and find Tegan at TVM this Sunday 6th January at Burleigh Heads.

Images by Jenna Agius Photography.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Trance McShady

Marissa

12/11/2018 2:34 pm 12/11/2018

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Nick Maricic is one interesting chap. Read our interview to find out more about this charismatic creative and founder of label, Trance McShady. You can find him at TVM this…

Nick Maricic is one interesting chap. Read our interview to find out more about this charismatic creative and founder of label, Trance McShady. You can find him at TVM this Sunday 16 December at Burleigh Heads.

I first studied Communication and Cultural Studies with a major in performance at Curtin University in Perth, but that was really a waiting ground until I was accepted into the renowned acting course at the National Institute of Dramatic Arts in Sydney, which I completed in 2008.

What made your pursue your creative passion?

I always had a passion for story telling, as a child my brother and I would take my Dad's video camera and make shlocky films of our own creations. In my younger years I was congratulated as a performer, so I thought this is what I'm meant to do. However later I realised through writing, directing, and producing my own play "Playgiarism", and the webseries "Felix Barbosa and the Dilettantes" (currently in post production) that I'm not the type to say the lines given to me, I have my own stories to tell, and they're bursting at the seems... there is no choice for me but to release them, and my label Trance McShady provides me that platform.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

I was writing screenplays, drawing, producing and directing short films, creating vaudeville characters, and making music, but aside from the humanitarian and environmental themes, there was no real uniformity across my work. I had dabbled with screen printing and fashion design earlier, and one day it all clicked. I'm actually telling the story of a lifestyle of ethics.

Fashion is just another form of story-telling; we dress the part we want the world to perceive us as, so what better way to change people’s consumer habits then by providing an affordable, ethical, and environmentally friendly apparel label with attitude?

What does your brand consist of?

Trance McShady is attention to detail. Every step of the process from manufacturing to marketing is scrutinised to have the smallest environmental footprint, and the biggest social impact, so when buying Trance McShady the shopper has the confidence knowing it's as good as it gets.

All garments are 100% organic cotton and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standards) certified, which unlike other certifications requires every step from harvesting the cotton to manufacturing it to be organic. All garments also have Fair Wear Foundation accreditation, a not for profit independent organisation overseeing that the makers are paid a good wage, under good working conditions. Most of the garments are manufactured solely using renewable energy (solar and wind), and I hand print each one myself with solvent free paints.

My adults only Donald Trump colouring book "Making Coloring Great Again" is printed with vegetable based inks on 100% recycled paper. All packaging is made from recycled paper, and even my business cards are made from recycled cotton off-cuts from the t-shirt industry.

The best way to understand the broad nature of the brand is to listen to the podcast I gave about it to Double Star Collective Maker and Creator:

https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/maker-creator/id1395134028?mt=2

Where is the label designed and made?

The garments are manufactured in India and Bangladesh, and I hand print them myself in Australia. All the prints are my own designs, along with the colouring book which is manufactured in Australia.

What inspires you?

The environment, global standards of living, word play, pushing boundaries, dark humour, and your mum.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

The dream of Trance McShady is to be in a position of constantly creating and getting my ideas out there in whatever medium I see fit. It's hard to define where this will take me, as I already have ideas for ethical jewellery, keep cups, a zero waste/no disposables cafe, a million movies to make, all under the umbrella of the Trance McShady brand. But looking to the immediate future, it seems my baby range is super popular, so carrying on that and a children's book about the environment seem like the next likely steps.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

Staying motivated. At times it feels completely over whelming, but you just got to take everything one step at a time, you may not get where you were expecting to go, but you'll get somewhere.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

The best thing for me about having Trance McShady is how it inspires me to do better. I've always cared about the environment, but the attention to detail of the environmental aspects of Trance McShady, along with constantly asking is this in line with the ethics of Trance McShady, has forced me to look harder at myself. I'm certainly not perfect, but I feel like since starting Trance McShady, I've improved.

Find Trance McShady at TVM this Sunday 16 December at Burleigh Heads State School from 8:30am until 1pm.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: My Qi Aromas

Marissa

12/05/2018 7:20 am 12/05/2018

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There’s a new stall in town this Sunday 9 December at TVM – meet Katie Bernays and Bianca Baker, cousins and creators of My Qi Aromas. We are cousins that…

There’s a new stall in town this Sunday 9 December at TVM - meet Katie Bernays and Bianca Baker, cousins and creators of My Qi Aromas.

We are cousins that have a love for natural living and low tox options. Katie, a Chinese Acupuncturist and Bianca, the blender extraordinaire! My Qi Aromas was a long time in the making and we were so excited to finally launch in August 2018.

TVM: What made your pursue your creative passion?

We both have young families and husbands who own/run their own businesses so we were craving a “creative outlet” to add to our busy lifestyle that really filled our cups and created more balance - something that gave back to our hearts and our souls, but that also served others. Creating and blending natural perfumes, infant roller blends and grown up roller blends that provided a natural option to common ailments seemed the most obvious, as we were doing it anyway, but now we could share our passion with others.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

August 2018 we launched, My Qi Aromas was over 18 months in the making.

What does your brand consist of?

My Qi Aromas ha there ranges:

Natural Perfume Oil (My Empowerment Qi, My Love Qi, My Balanced Qi)
Infant Roller Blends (Mini Sleep, Mini Airways, Mini Peaceful, Mini Immune, Mini Teething, Mini Tummy, Mini Growing, Mini Warrior, Mini Focus)
Grown-Up Roller Blends (Relax, Happy, Immune, Sleep, Headache, Pain Free, Sinus)

What inspires you?

Helping others to add chemical free options into their homes and daily living - especially for the little ones! The less chemicals we are exposed to the better our health can be.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

We are currently in the process of getting Australian Certified Organic and would love to reach people Australia wide.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

Deciding on a name (Qi - pronounced “Chee” means ‘life energy’ in Chinese)

We are still working on best ways to market our brand as we are not experienced in this area at all!

What is the best thing about having your own business?

The chance to be creative and also the flexibility with a young family is great!

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Shawnee Made and Found

Marissa

11/24/2018 3:00 pm 11/24/2018

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A painting degree, teaching art and English in India and establishing a love for well-made fabrics and materials lead Shawnee Dean to create beautiful handwoven wall-hangings, cushion covers, pouches and accessories, with care and intention. Coupled with a 'found' collection of vintage ceramics and other curated vessels, the brand Shawnee Made and Found was born.

Tell us about your background, were you always creative?

I graduated with a Bachelor in Fine Arts majoring in painting at Queensland College of Art in 2016, before this though I spent 3 months teaching art and English in India. I've always been drawn to well-made and handmade fabrics and materials, and India is so huge on textiles, so these inspirations coupled with my desire to constantly learn new ways of making things and share that with people I think led me quite naturally to fibre arts and hand-weaving.

When I learnt about the art of loom weaving and saw some of the things people were making with it I became obsessed and eventually made my own loom and taught myself to weave. It's been about 2 years since I started weaving now and I feel like I've evolved a lot but I am continually learning new things about this process and where it can take me.

What made your pursue your creative passion?

I think the biggest driving force was my own need to be doing something creative with my life, and then when I started making the things I am now, the comments I got from people about how much they liked it or how unique my products were really solidified my beliefs that I was on the right track with this and I could take it somewhere.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

For about the last year I have been working on things that had a customer or audience in mind, rather than just making them for myself, but having a part-time job and studying full time at university was distracting me from really focusing on turning this creative outlet into a business and a way of life for me. So in October this year I was at a point where I felt like I was really happy with the things I was creating but didn't have the time to invest in it properly, so decided to quit my retail job and take the plunge into working on my business full time. So far it's been a great decision, but I still have so much more growing to do.

What does your brand consist of?

Handwoven goods and art pieces, fibre based earrings and other accessories, handmade baskets and original artworks.

I also have a found collection that I hand select items I feel resonate with and compliment the items I make.

Where is the label designed and made?

Everything handmade is designed and created by me (Shawnee) on the Gold Coast, Queensland.

Being a one-woman show means I limit the amount of things I can make and how quickly they are made, but I think it adds value to my products that they all have evidence of the hands that made them and are all original in their own way.

What inspires you?

I am extremely inspired by the Australian natural environment, so far as colours, shapes and materials. I use a lot of things from nature, and try to source as much of my materials as I can from within Australia, as well as hand dying some of my yarns and fibres with plants I can find locally. These processes of foraging and utilising the the environment around me continually inspires my work and design process.

Also, as weaving is such an ancient art form, I also get a lot of inspiration from textiles and tapestries from throughout history and across cultures.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

My main goal for this brand was to prove to myself that I could support my way of life by making things with my hands and using my skills. I like the idea of sharing my creativity with the community to enrich it rather than keeping it to myself. Long term plans are to be creating bespoke woven art pieces for people's spaces all around the country, as well as teaching workshops to share my knowledge and skills.

I am currently in the process of making a website and an online sales point as well, so that is my short-term plans for the brand.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

I think my largest challenge is time, and the pressure of a consumer culture that wants things fast but still to an excellent quality. By choosing to pursue hand-weaving, the qualities that I value in my products can't be achieved quickly, and the idea of making enough products and on a frequent basis is daunting when thinking about the slow nature of my process. But I think more and more people are appreciating the extra time and often higher quality of hand-made and slow-made, artisan products these days, and I think are more willing to wait longer and pay more for something truly original and high standard that supports an individual artist, rather than a large corporation.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

I have only just begun the journey of owning my own business and being my own boss, and I have a lot of space to evolve and master the art of it, but so far I have found the work I do is so much more fulfilling and I am proud of what I am doing. Being able to dictate my work life and be in control of the direction I take is extremely satisfying.

Connect with Shawnee Made and Found online, here.

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Designer Profile

Dive in :: Seamone Swimwear

Sarah Schoeller

11/12/2018 3:40 am 11/12/2018

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We chat to local designer Simone Ainsworth prior to her debut at The Village Markets this Sunday, 18th November 2018, about her eco-luxe cozzie label Seamone, the inspiration behind the…

We chat to local designer Simone Ainsworth prior to her debut at The Village Markets this Sunday, 18th November 2018, about her eco-luxe cozzie label Seamone, the inspiration behind the brand and what makes her tick.

Tell us about your background?

I had a fantasy childhood, literally raised on the beaches of Sydney. Inevitably finding comfort in the salt and sand while learning life's greatest lessons from the sea. As a young girl I was able to understand the importance of nature and discovered I was a deeply visual person while traveling around Australia's entire coastline in a caravan my surfing father, beautiful gypsy mother and adventurous brothers. Our family then settled into a idyllic 70's beach house in Coolangatta, simply because the surf was consistent and the weather forever perfect. My late teens and early adulthood was an exploration in discovering new tropical destinations, traveling around Australia Solo, uncovering the layers of my spirituality, and experimenting with undeniable creative desires. Now with several years experience in the fashion industry... my free spirit, obsession with romance and strong sense of nostalgia plays the role of expressing the alluring femininity and sentimental emotion of the unique swimwear designs for Seamone. I am currently back living in my family's Coolangatta home, of now 20 years... Im very lucky and grateful to have the people I love around me and supporting me on this new chapter of my life... right now the world is my oyster and I'm so blessed to be in a position to welcome love and success into my life with arms wide open.

What made your pursue your creative passion?

After working in the fashion industry for different companies and labels for sometime, having studied Business and also gaining Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Web Design and IT qualifications, it just felt like the right time to put all my passions into one. It feels like all the pieces of the puzzle have finally come together to create the bigger picture. Now looking back on my life I can appreciate all the life lessons I have learnt and all the experience I've accumulated that has brought me here running an entire business completely on my own. Beacuse of my creative passion, I just woke up one day and just started working on Seamone and just haven't stopped since.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

I began working on Seamone last year in 2017 and launched the label and website site just before Christmas last year, So the business is still within its first year being available to the public, it's still very small and new indeed. I have developed 2 annual collections so far 'Black Rose' and 'Surrender' and currently making plans to begin the design process of my third collection, that will include RTW apparel as well as swimwear.

What does your brand consist of?

The second swimwear collection SURRENDER, Crafted in premium Italian fabrics and introducing an exciting new technology that microencapsulates skin-nourishing antioxidants including Vitamin E and Aloe Vera.... works as the body activates the material, allowing the skin to be hydrated, soft and luminous. SS19 Is a simple collection with thoughtfully placed panels, quality handmade trims and romantic lingerie inspired tailoring. These limited edition separates spread over a romantically luxe palette including our new Antioxidant Infusion 'Sea Black', our gorgeous 'Sea Blue' magically made from recycled fishing nets and of course our much anticipated exclusive print 'Sea Jungle' that visually depicts our story of Surrender. Designed for those in an uninhibited and fearless pursuit of liberation and love.

Where is the label designed and made?

Seamone Swimwear is designed on the glorious Gold Coast. The patterns are all original and expertly cut in-house, fitted and refitted until the most superior shapes are achieved. The exclusive prints are either designed by myself or commissioned through artists I personally admire the most. The collections are then meticulously handmade in the peaceful, nature based island of Bali. Committed to ethical business practices, I truly value my role in the employment and well-being of my team and artisans. It is my goal to contribute positively to the staff and the communities in the area so that I can be involved personally as well as professionally in Bali when I am there. The journey to create each Seamone piece defiantly takes patience and dedicated ‘island time’.

What inspires you?

This is defiantly the hardest question. Because if I say 'everything', it still won't feel like enough...maybe its limitless topic on what inspires me. I guess all the usual suspects on the surface... art, culture, religion, nature, music, fashion are always fluctuating with offerings. I always try to widen my perspective on a lot of things... knowledge, understanding and appreciation must always come first. Right now in life I'm inspired by people who are brave, I'm totally inspired by technology and for some reason lately I'm finding myself completely obsessed with swimming pools! ( I even had to start a private "pools" moodboard on Pinterest to fuel this... ha!)

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

I have only just embarked on this remarkable journey and I'm so inspired to learn more about this industry and continue to slowly grow. I founded Seamone only after I had researched and sourced the worlds most eco-conscious fabrics, eco-conscious operations and eco-conscious team of people. I hope to collaborate with like minded businesses and individuals to make a positive change in the fashion world. The plans for the label are to stay slow, exclusive and boutique, create beautiful, luxury, timeless resort wear pieces for women around the world... 'sustainability', not just in an environmental sense but also in regards to longevity of the label. Personally I hope this all leads me to a place where I'll meet my mystery forever person, I'm single and my dream is to have my own family to come into my life soon. Everything I am doing now with Seamone is for them, with the future in mind. Maybe I'll meet the man of my dreams at the markets! 😉

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

The biggest challenge for me is defiantly the emotional roller-coaster, I'm naturally a very soft/watery person...very sensitive, very shy. I run the label completely solo, so to stand up and take the role as a boss woman is a huge 180 for me to step out of my comfort zone. I have also felt this struggle to keep the fashion and my spirituality seperate... I've felt a collision, and been on a quest to find balance and merge the two... I have to mediate alot on certain things, the intention for what I am doing has to be from the heart. I like to be a very private person in all aspects of my personal life... so putting something out there to the world that deeply reflects who I am... has been a really scary thing to do.

Seamone Swim

What is the best thing about having your own business?

The best thing about having my business, is the creative control and having the freedom to express what I think is beautiful. Combining all my passions into one. My favourite part is shooting the content, that's when I push myself and can let my imagination run wild. As a start up its hard to know if your on the right path or not, and I'm really just trying to let go and enjoy the lessons and the process as much as I can. I think the most positive thing I have noticed... are the changes with in myself... I've become stronger in the sense of my values, using my voice and taking control in reaching my goals.

Connect with Seamone Swimwear

@seamone.swimwear

seamone.com.au

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Designer Profile

Tales from the Sea by Weave and Willow

Marissa

11/10/2018 9:15 pm 11/10/2018

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We’re always inspired by creative entrepreneurs doing their bit for Mother Earth so when we were told about the latest campaign Tales from the Sea by our friends Michelle and…

We’re always inspired by creative entrepreneurs doing their bit for Mother Earth so when we were told about the latest campaign Tales from the Sea by our friends Michelle and Jess at Weave and Willow we had to share it.

Weave and Willow are the makers of a beautiful and conscious collection of 100% pure linen beach towels. The label has decided to highlight the importance of ocean conservation by encouraging all customers to ‘take the pledge’ to stop the use of single-use plastic bags and straws. They are doing so by gifting each customer with two bamboo straws and two organic cotton re-useable string bags with purchase. The brand also donates 1% of profits for the planet.

You can shop with Weave and Willow and make the pledge at TVM this Sunday 18 November 2018, and online here.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Halcyon Daze

Marissa

10/31/2018 4:29 am 10/31/2018

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Meet Sally and Elke, mothers to a tribe of boys, surfers and creators of Halcyon Daze – the brand new swimwear label you need this summer. As well as being…

Meet Sally and Elke, mothers to a tribe of boys, surfers and creators of Halcyon Daze – the brand new swimwear label you need this summer.

As well as being a mother to three young boys, Sally has an environmental science background as well as working as a town planner and project manager for the last 10+ years. She was very much in need of a creative outlet when the idea to create Halcyon Daze came about.

Elke is a mother of two young boys and has a background in fashion and design, having worked in sewing and alterations for years.

What made your pursue your creative passion?

The story of Halcyon Daze is one that begins with friendship. Two women connecting over a shared love of the ocean, a passion for surfing, avid bikini collecting and motherhood.

We are the type of women that seem to live in our swimwear year round, as you never know when the opportunity to sneak in a surf or a quick dip in the ocean may present!

Born from a desire to create unique, comfortable, flattering and functional swimwear......it seemed like a no brainer that we put our creative passion into use creating our own swimwear range.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

We took the plunge mid 2017, learning the ropes along the way. Our first range "Love Song" was launched in October 2018.

What does your brand consist of?

Our swimwear embodies the slow fashion ethos in the swimwear landscape, focusing on using Vita lycra- a high-quality Italian lycra made from recycled post-consumer plastics, making this beautiful swimwear not only environmentally conscious but more durable and longer lasting to ensure that you can wear your favourite pieces for many summers to come. Our styles and prints are vintage inspired and include one pieces, mix and match bikini sets and surf suits.

We also have capsule collections of resort wear, including 70's style jumpsuits and slip dresses on their way.

Where is the label designed and made?

Our clothing and swimwear is designed by us, in Byron Bay. We have also designed our own prints too.

Our manufacturing is done in Bali.

What inspires you?

Our daily life in Byron is a constant source of inspiration. We are surrounded by incredibly talented and creative friends who help drive our startup business and inspire us to chase our creative passion. They have shown us that running a successful business and juggling a family life can be done with style and grace.

Our love for everything summer, surfing and our environment are our main source of inspiration.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

We hope to be running a successful swim and resort wear label, scouring the world for exotic tropical locations to shoot (& surf) and seeing women around the world in our swimmers.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

Our biggest challenge has been learning the production process and time-frames, however we have a great team and loads of support, so this will get easier.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

The best thing about owning our own business has been working together as friends and creating a product that we both love and are passionate about. Work has never felt like a chore, as we are doing something we both love.

The other perk would be our never ending bikini supply!

Find Halcyon Daze at TVM this Sunday 4 November and check them out online here.

@halcyondaze_byronbay

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Zero Waste Earth Sisters

Marissa

10/16/2018 4:17 am 10/16/2018

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Meet sisters, earth warriors and founders of Zero Waste Earth Sisters, Zoe and Jasmine. What made your pursue your creative passion? We found it was difficult to find affordable products…

Meet sisters, earth warriors and founders of Zero Waste Earth Sisters, Zoe and Jasmine.

What made your pursue your creative passion?

We found it was difficult to find affordable products that were supplied by a company who held the same values as us. Earth Sisters was ignited through a combination of Zoe's entrepreneurial attitude and Jasmine's immense passion and drive.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

We started designing, planning and creating about 6 months ago! On the 15^th September we launched our website and on the 16^th of September we held our very own stall at TVM! We couldn't be more honoured.

What does your brand consist of?

We sell zero waste products that promote the methods of reducing, reusing and recycling! Think beeswax wraps, reusable material snack bags, produce/bread bags, bamboo cutlery and much more. We are more than our products page, we are a community hoping to provide people with the power, knowledge and tools to make sustainable choices and reduce their waste.

Where is the label designed and made?

Our products are sourced locally and internationally. We love that all of our products have a story. For example our bags are made in a small country town, near where we grew up, by people with disabilities. By using this small business we are providing disabled people with a fair paying job and safe working conditions.

What inspires you?

Our enormous passion for the environment! I truely believe the quote "be the change you want to see in the world".

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

Our plans are to spread our message far and wide! We hope to inspire people to make small changes that make will add up to make huge differences. We would love to travel and teach courses, speak on behalf of the earth and create a #newnormal!

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

A lot of things to be honest! We are just two small town gals that had an idea and went all in! We didn't have any experience in business, web design, marketing etc., however that didn't matter to us. We are both extremely hard workers and we took something our Dad used to say into our stride, there is no such things as challenges, just new approaches.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

Being able to work on my laptop while soaking up some vitamin D!

Connect with Zero Waste Earth Sisters, here and find them at TVM this Sunday 21 October 2018.

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New to TVM

New to TVM :: The Miniature Treasury

Marissa

09/11/2018 9:04 pm 09/11/2018

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New to TVM this Sunday 16 September is Kate Lardner and her homewares stall, The Miniature Treasury – a collection of beautiful pieces for the nursery, designed to be passed…

New to TVM this Sunday 16 September is Kate Lardner and her homewares stall, The Miniature Treasury - a collection of beautiful pieces for the nursery, designed to be passed on for years to come.

TVM: How did your business come about?
KL: Before The Miniature Treasury, I studied Interior Design and worked for a designer/online furniture retailer. I learned a lot from my mentor who taught me all things to do with design, the world of online business and websites and importantly, how to be a business woman with kindness.

What made your pursue your creative passion?
I've always been creative but was terrible at painting and art! I never knew how to channel my creativity until I started studying Interior Design. It just flowed naturally and the passion for beautiful objects grew; constantly admiring and finding unique items. Throw in the mix of motherhood and the concept of furniture design flowed even more naturally.

What does your brand consist of?
The brand consists of cane baby change tables, clothing racks, baby mobile and child's chair. These pieces, especially the change tables, are designed to be heirlooms; pieces that have accumulated love stories of childhood, memories represented in a change table, so when they are passed down to the next gen and the next, all the memories that go with it will be remembered too.

Where is the label designed and made?
Everything is hand-drawn and designed by me here in Burleigh Heads, then are made by local families in a community just outside of Java, Indonesia.

What inspires you?
Love inspires me! To pass down the memories of love, to be the owner of a piece that tells stories of people past, of FAMILY past... it brings us all closer and instills the importance to treasure these heirlooms that actually mean something.

Things that have a story are dear to my heart. If you can point at something in your home and tell a story of where it's been and what it represents... that's pretty special.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?
The Miniature Treasury will hopefully continue to grow and while our change tables will be our main focus, our range will also continue to grow. I hope that we speak to people's heart and designer eyes and our range will bless the nurseries of mums all over Australia.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?
How to start! How to brand, how to speak consistently, how to get us known.

What is the best thing about having your own business?
Something to put passion into besides my family; something for me.

Kate and The Miniature Treasury will be at TVM on Sunday 16 September and you can connect with the brand online, here:
Instagram
Website

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Designer Profile

Stall Profile :: Ghost & Lola

Sarah Schoeller

08/13/2018 10:38 pm 08/13/2018

3 Comments

Meet Wendy Powitt, founder and creative behind jewellery label Ghost & Lola. Read on to find out more about this experienced fashion powerhouse who handcrafts bespoke pieces from her rainforest…

Meet Wendy Powitt, founder and creative behind jewellery label Ghost & Lola. Read on to find out more about this experienced fashion powerhouse who handcrafts bespoke pieces from her rainforest home set on 100 acres.

I studied Fashion and Textile Design at Sydney College of the Arts and worked in the Fashion Industry in Australia and USA as a Fashion Designer, then Illustrator and then Creative Director before deciding to move up North to Byron Bay. In Byron I studied Fine Arts Sculpture at Southern Cross University and started making jewellery. Ive always been fascinated with vintage fashion and I had been collecting the pieces long before I started to make jewellery. Once Ghost and Lola was born there was no turning back. It is the perfect combination of fashion and craft. I love the hands on artisan making and also meeting with people who get the label and understand the vision of making something new from something old.

What made your pursue your creative passion?:

I have always been creative and I always believed in making things. It was how I was brought up. Dad was building the house around us and mum was always creating. It was just a normal way to be.

We all have a creative spark, the trick is to believe in yourself and allow it to shine.

What does your brand consist of?

I make Ghost and Lola jewellery from vintage components. I source the pieces from all over the world through vintage and antique dealers and also travel and explore to find precious pieces.

Where is the label designed and made?

Everything is designed and handmade by me in Northern NSW. I have a studio in my house that I work from. My house is surrounded by 100 acres of beautiful rainforest so it provides endless inspiration.

The pieces that I collect connect me to a past once vibrant and now largely forgotten. I am inspired by Mythology, Alchemy and tales of the past when the world was interpreted as less scientific and more spirited and creative. And I like to connect that to our contemporary lifestyle because I believe that we all need a little more meaning and to feel special.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

I am hoping to share Ghost and Lola with a larger audience. I find that my style attracts customers of all age groups and people are fascinated with the product because it is so unique. The marriage of old with new is immediately apparent when you see the pieces. I love hand-making the pieces and want to retain that aspect, so it will always be an artisan brand and each piece will be limited and special.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

I am committed to working full-time with Ghost and Lola, so sometimes the unpredictability of cash-flow is daunting. Also learning to navigate a fresh world of digital Marketing is a 'thrill'. I have learnt so much since launching the brand, from my customers and I truly want them to feel special that they are wearing something unique and handcrafted that is sustainable in its use of re-purposing what is already existent in the world.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

Freedom! Creative freedom, and freedom in each day. I love what I do so nothing is an effort!

Find Ghost and Lola online, here.
And follow on Instagram, here.

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Art Designer Profile

Stall Profile :: Allure Art

Marissa

07/11/2018 2:21 pm 07/11/2018

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New to TVM this Sunday is Allure Art, by Cassandra Ashton Thomas. Founded in her studio at Runaway Bay in May 2018, Cassandra a graphic designer, works with alcohol ink,…

New to TVM this Sunday is Allure Art, by Cassandra Ashton Thomas. Founded in her studio at Runaway Bay in May 2018, Cassandra a graphic designer, works with alcohol ink, ink and watercolors to create original art pieces.

TVM: What inspires your work?
CT: My inspiration comes from the colours and forms found in nature. Living on the Gold Coast I am surrounded by a never-ending wonderland of oceans, lush green forests and a bounty of colourful flora. Using colour as language, my work is alive with emotion through the movement of inks and luscious layers. Each painting is filled with layer upon layer of ink, building a rich history into each piece.

What do you find to be the biggest challenge in having your own business?
For me one of the biggest challenges in being a full-time artist is the pressure to compete with big box stores and items made cheaply in other countries. Also reserving uninterrupted creative time in amongst busy days! It is the cornerstone of growth and success for my business since its vibrant nature is what differentiates it from others.

If you were to offer any advice to other emerging artists, what would it be?
To listen to what others have to say—friends, family, experts, even yourself. When it comes to things that have to do with your entrepreneurial goals, be a sponge. As you learn, start to work out the idea in your head. Write things down. Keep notes from all the resources you come across to develop a detailed plan. Don’t go it alone! Call on your trusted advisers and contacts to help work through and get you back on track.

You can find Allure Art at TVM this Sunday 15 July.

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Stall Profile

Stall Profile :: Bowl de Coco

Marissa

05/26/2018 4:00 pm 05/26/2018

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We’re all a little crazy for the coco! So we were excited when Cat Wyman swung us an application to join the TVM lineup with her brand Bowl de Coco….

We're all a little crazy for the coco! So we were excited when Cat Wyman swung us an application to join the TVM lineup with her brand Bowl de Coco. We chatted to Cat about her journey from hairstylist to the stars (hello Kate Moss!) in the big smoke of London-town, to coconut bowl entrepreneur on the sunny shores of the Gold Coast.

Tell us about your background, what field did you work in prior to starting your business?

I was a hairstylist living a busy life in London travelling every week doing hair for people such as Kate Moss and doing Campaigns for brands such as Calvin Klein. It was a crazy busy life.

What made your pursue your creative passion?

I didn't want to do school anymore so at age 15 I had the choice of an apprenticeship or staying in school so I chose an apprenticeship in hairdressing.

When did you take the plunge and start your own business?

I decided I didn't want a crazy busy London life anymore last September, so at the end of December I moved back to Australia and set up the business at the beginning of the year. I didn't anticipate it doing well, it was more of a project I suppose... and it ended up being a hit.

What does your brand consist of?

My brand is currently just Coconut Bowls however we are currently in the process of expanding to be more of an 'Eco-Friendly store' Soon you will be able to get spoons and also even more Eco-friendly bits that everyone should have in their Eco-friendly kitchen.

Where is the label designed and made?

I work closely with a beautiful woman named Mai and we work together picking what the store should have and engraving my logo onto each piece, she is based in Thailand and I am here in Brisbane.

What inspires you?

The beauty of the world inspires me to try and influence others to keep the earth and oceans as plastic free as possible.

What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?

The sky is the limit with the brand, I hope we evolve into being a really big Eco-Friendly store and supply to all the cafes and retail stores around the world. We have just launched world wide shipping and already we are flooded with orders so I think there is no limit to where this business will end up.. I am just hoping to make a change and influence people to be more waste conscious and have more Eco-friendly and sustainable items in their lives.

What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?

The biggest challenge is trying to create change in the communities, to try and stop cafes using plastic bowls and have coconut bowls instead, however most people are becoming more aware of the waste we create and are wanting to make a change.

What is the best thing about having your own business?

I can work anywhere...I get to go to the beach almost when ever I want. That was a huge highlight of the summer after living 4 years in London all I wanted to do was be at the beach.

One piece of advice for someone hoping to start their own small business that you wish you’d been told?

'Whether you think you can or you think you cant you're right' - Henry Ford

Find Cat and Bowl de Coco at TVM on Sunday 3 June and connect online via Instagram and the online store.

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