Inspiring Spaces for Children
Issue 14
It's Good to Give Stories that Celebrate the Joy of Giving Level Up Trends for the Tween Years Design by the Stars
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Publisher and Editor Nicole Ray editor@mintymagazine.com.au Partnerships Hayley Ruby sales@mintymagazine.com.au Submissions Minty welcomes submissions for our magazine and blog. editor@mintymagazine.com.au Front Cover Stylist – Madeline McFarlane Photographer - Françoise Baudet Design Annika Weller & Cara King Contributing Writers Celine Barnes, Dr Kathryn Bown, Jacqui Greig, Brooke Macqueen, Kate Rabbitt Contributing Photographers Françoise Baudet, Andy MacPherson, Kate Pascoe, Melissa Tonkin, Jade Warne Contributing Designers and Stylists Jo Anderson, Melissa Bonney, Natasha Dumais, Cat Gerke, Elise Grossman, Talie Jordan, Madeline McFarlane
We would like to acknowledge the First People and Custodians of the Eora and Wajuk Nations, on whose land Minty Magazine was produced and published. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, past and present. Proudly printed in Western Australia on environmentally responsible paper produced from FSC® Mixed Sources Chain of Custody certified pulp from well managed forests. ISO 14001 / 9001
Minty magazine is an annual publication. Views expressed by the author are not necessarily those of the publisher. Copyright is reserved meaning no part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher, Minty magazine. The publisher accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions within.
Editor’s Letter
Editor’s Picks
IT’S ALWAYS GOOD TO GIVE.
Linen Playmat by Warren Hill $154.95 www.mywarrenhill.com Washable, neutral linen baby play mats that look beautiful in your home. Made from 100% French flax linen with luxurious padding, stone washed to give them a worn, comfy feel from the first time they’re used. Warren Hill is family run business, who plant 10 trees for every play mat sold.
When it comes time to consider what we will publish in each edition of Minty, I always look for visually interesting spaces for children that I hope will inspire us all, of course. But I also look for equally inspiring stories. For this issue I wanted to celebrate women who give so much of themselves in so many different ways. Founder of Confetti Rebels, Amy Clarke, has created a brand that empowers women through positive and inclusive messaging. The giving continues with a percentage of revenue going to charity, and the absolute joy of her famous ‘Shake your tits it’s Friday’ videos on Instagram.
Juno and Ace Kinetic Mobile $240 www.junoandace.com Juno and Ace kinetic mobiles are popping up in all the rooms we love. A must have piece that will transition through the years as your children grow. Their brand new zodiac range is perfect for subtle personalisation.
Leah Williams is using her Instagram influence to share the daily highs and lows of motherhood. The gift of stories of personal experience that resonate with so many women. Dr Kathryn Bown gifts us a chance to reflect on how we can break free of limiting messaging in our kids’ rooms. It is a thought provoking read that is not to be missed. In perhaps the most selfless act of all, Elise Grossman shares with us her journey into surrogacy. A fascinating insight into the process of surrogacy in Australia, as well as an open-hearted discussion into her experience so far.
Charlie in the Woods Print $100 www.charlieinthewoods.com We love these Aussie friends and the feeling of calm they bring. Perfect for any space, this artwork is hand painted in acrylic before being carefully reproduced and printed using the highest quality.
Of course, because it is Minty after all, we share our favourite spaces for children from around the country. From gorgeous nurseries to a dedicated tween special showcasing tween rooms, trends and where to shop.
Various Friends Birth Chart Book $129.95 www.variousfriends.com A children's astrology natal birth chart reading presented a stunning book. It is a beautiful overview of your child’s journey through the early years of their life that can be used as an insight to your child's personality based on their birth data. A gorgeous keepsake.
And, in a Minty first, Astrologer Brook Macqueen takes us through designing a room for your child in line with their star sign. As a star gazer at heart, this is one of the most fascinating design perspectives we have published to date. So, as we continue to take on whatever 2020 throws at us, let’s take a minute to consider the positives, celebrate the good, and rejoice in the act of giving.
Sophie The Bear $28 www.happygoducky.com.au Oh Sophie, you have my heart! Made from FSC certified wood and painted using non toxic, water based paints so she is safe for your child and kind to the environment, Sophie is the cutest little addition to any children’s space.
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P Fine jewellery. Sustainably made. www.thepoetfinejewels.com.au
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A heartfelt thanks to our wonderful regular Minty contributors.
A SHOUT OUT TO OUR
MINTY TEAM Francoise Baudet @francoisebaudet Françoise is a freelance interiors and architecture photographer. She is passionate about photography, health and wellbeing. She is a perfectionist who particularly loves to support local, small and authentic brands and designers. Françoise has a soft spot for architects and interiors designers as they can take a space beyond imaginable. When she’s not working or with her two small children, you can find her at a yoga studio, on a bush walk or in the ocean.
Kathryn Bown @lifelonglearningfamily Prior to having children, Kathryn was an early childhood teacher and researcher, and holds a PhD in early childhood education policy. These days Kathryn home educates her three children and documents their unschooling lives via blogging and Instagram. She is also a freelance copy and proof/ editor, and is a board member of the Social Justice In Early Childhood Foundation. Kathryn lives in Sydney with her partner, three children, four goldfish, three chickens, two brush turkeys and a puppy.
Madeline McFarlane @madelinemcfarlanestylist With a foundation in fashion design, Maddie began her styling career working as a fashion stylist in London. In 2012, she followed the sunshine and relocated to Sydney, making a natural extension into styling Lifestyle and Interiors. A greenie at heart, Maddie finds creative inspiration in the great outdoors. She’s working hard to advocate for stylish living that minimises harmful impact on the environment.
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Céline Barnes www.scribewise.com.au Céline runs her own consulting business Scribewise Pty Ltd and specialises in business writing, process improvement and strategy. For her creative outlet (aside from writing for Minty) Céline teaches tap dancing to a merry group of tappers each week and hopes to help turn around the declining interest in tap. Céline lives in the Adelaide Hills with her husband and two children where they are slowly resurrecting a neglected plot of acreage and enjoying their own free-range eggs.
ISSUE 14 IT ' S G O O D TO G I V E
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At Home with The Clarkes The larger than life founder of Confetti Rebels and her family
Design by the Stars Astrologically inspired spaces for children
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Level Up Trends for the tween years
Remember When Nostalgic toys from our childhood
P40 P22 The Golden Era Redefining fashion with Goldie + Ace
Tropical Boho Nicole Rosenberg’s stunning teen room
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Radical Love Breaking free of limiting messaging in our children’s spaces
Styling up a Tween Storm With Madeline McFarlane
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Where to Shop For your tweens
Ageless Design Barefoot luxe shared room for the young at heart
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P66 Nursery Planning 101 Take out the overwhelm, bring in the joy! P72 Arlo’s Adventures Tash and Daniel Dumais share Arlo’s modern nursery
P88 At Home with Leah Williams Three stunning and unique children’s spaces
P100 Smallist A boutique shopping directory that takes the overwhelm out of shopping for children
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The Great Gift of Life A journey into surrogacy with Elise Grossman
The Clarkes
PHOTOGRAPHY JADE WARN E WORDS JACQU I G REIG
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At home with
With her bubbly and infectiously upbeat personality, it’s no wonder that Amy Clarke has created a home bursting with creativity, love, fun and laughter. Together with her husband Damien, and their children Leo and Pippa, the Sydney-based family revel in a relaxed lifestyle, describing family bike rides around the lake and ice cream by the beach as pure bliss.
belies the signature style of Amy’s brand – Confetti Rebels. “It’s funny actually, my studio and workspace are a plethora of colour, streamers and anything fluro. I love vibrance when I’m designing and creating new products,” she says.
For Amy, it’s the simple things that bring so much pleasure: “Sitting out on the verandah enjoying the treetops, hanging out with my chooks and just the oodles of sunshine that hits our house in the morning,” she smiles. As a creator, Amy is drawn to colour, however her home is an oasis of calm with a natural design aesthetic that
Confetti Rebels is a female empowerment brand, with the clothing size inclusive and the slogans – which Amy designs herself – also inclusive, and a bit cheeky! She firmly believes that beautiful isn’t a size – the self-proclaimed ‘pocket rocket’ aims to promote body positivity as much as possible, with the hope that everyone who wears her t-shirts feels fabulous. The brand is inspired by women, for women and Amy is clearly driven by passion and purpose.
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This issue of Minty is all about ‘It’s good to give’ – you give so much, both through your donations, and through your content. What drives you to serve? My family were always givers, and I suppose that sense of support that I could offer to others was passed onto me. I was always taught that it’s important to be kind, share and offer help when needed. I too have always turned to friends and family in times of need (especially now with kids!) and for that I’m truly thankful. That sense of community is invaluable and if I could offer that through my business as much as I can, I will.
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Confetti Rebels is such a strong brand with a cult following – any tips on how you created your tribe? Oh goodness I wish I knew! I would say it was through, honestly, taking the mickey out of myself and just being me. I’d say my followers relate to me in some way. I am not defined by motherhood, and there are so many different elements to my life, that others may feel they can connect with me even if they aren’t mothers. You are very open on Instagram with the struggles of parenting – thank you - does sharing your vulnerability come easily to you? I suppose I can thank my therapist for that. She always encouraged me to “talk it out” and even though I am loud, I NEVER wanted anyone to know I was struggling. And you never know one struggles right? When I had my first born, I was diagnosed with post natal depression and anxiety, and a lot of people were surprised at that. On the outside, I kept it all together, but inside I was a pit
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Can you share your passion and vision for Confetti Rebels? Mostly my aim is to try and create awareness on modern day topics such as motherhood, business and life. I also try my best to create a community where other women can share stories and relate to my brand as well as trying my best to donate as much as I can to charities in need.
of sadness and misery. I lost both my parents to cancer when I was young and not having that parental support with my own child really took a toll on me. I feel it’s important NOT to sugar-coat motherhood (or parenthood) in fact, because it can be a very lonely life if no one knows that you want to talk.
"Dancing for me (even though I’m terrible at it) is freedom. It produces serotonin (the happy hormone) and keeps me uplifted most of the day. ”
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Your living room dances bring such joy to so may – did you ever expect to be dancing in your undies for thousands of people? Of course! I love to put on a show! I always have. I was dubbed the “attention seeker” of the family and who am I to disappoint? Dancing for me (even though I’m terrible at it) is freedom. It produces serotonin (the happy hormone) and keeps me uplifted most of the day. For others it may be different, like meditation, but me, getting my groove on gets me going! What do you think are key elements when designing a space for children? Imaginative play! Some sort of indoor kitchen, a desk to draw pictures and a reading nook on the ground for really good story telling! Oh! And those “glow in the dark” stars. Some may cringe, but if you get the right ones, they look like a constellation you’d never imagine!
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"I was always taught that it’s important to be kind, share and offer help when needed."
Your ‘can’t live without’ items for your kids? Books! Reading is SO important in developing kids’ brains! I also think every child needs a good cubby house. My top items for their bedrooms include lots of pillows for story time, and a good night light for those late-night wake ups. A really colourful doona cover (gulp), allow your kids to pick one (under guidance!), and wall decals - they are removable and ever changing as the children get older.
www.confettirebels.com.au @confetti_rebels
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Remember when. Nostalgic Toys from our Childhood.
DO YOU REMEMBER THE TOYS YOU LOVED WHEN YOU WERE A CHILD? Those that hold special memories or capture a piece of your childhood? As parents, we want our children to have the same positive experiences we had from our own childhood and sometimes that can be through connecting to our inner child and sharing a little piece of our past to bring back those youthful feelings.
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Here are seven timeless nostalgic items from our childhood with a modern, playful and eco-friendly twist.
Retro Telephone. Remember
Usagi Rabbits. A pair of delightful
seeing these rotary phones in your early chilhood, or perhaps at your grandparent’s house? They may have been phased out in the 80s, but they still hold a special place in our hearts. Plus, they can also make a cute decorative object in a child’s room. These ones work by inserting the wooden coins and turning the dial to talk. When you are done, the handset is reset and a bell sounds, which magically returns your change. Voila!
inseparable rabbits that chime while they jiggle. Perfect for the nursery to help babies settle for sleep and super sweet as a décor piece to any nursery.
Drawing Board. This is a blast from the past! I remember having one of these when I was a child and I’m surprised how much my kids have loved it too. This version has had a serious makeover, made with beautiful sustainable wood in attractive muted colour tones. Kids can draw, stamp, erase and draw… over and over again. Win win!
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Gatcha Gatcha Gumball Machine. Did you know gumball machines have been around since 1907? Well, there are no cavitycausing lollies here with the wooden gumball machine. Instead, it dispenses beautiful natural and neon wooden marbles that children will love by turning the star dial. Kids will love seeing the different shapes as well as the surprise silver moon and golden star, which are the jackpot prizes!
Tsumiki School Blocks. Have Wakka Wakka Water Game. Ok,
Pull Back Vehicles. A great new twist on an old-time favourite. The classic friction-powered motor car made from wood. Just pull back and vrooooooooom! Gorgeous by itself or get a couple and have a race with your family!
Japanese brand kiko & gg creates wonderful tactile wooden toys. Toys to help kids use their imaginations and enjoy every moment of play. Check them out at The Modern Playroom
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these are super addictive! Kids can test their skills and patience with this wooden remake of the classic water ring toss game. Great for fine motor skills, try to get all the hoops onto the spikes by pushing the buttons to direct air flow. Kids can take it with them everywhere, running errands or on a road trip. Perfect screen-free entertainment!
you got a pre-schooler or kindergartener? Make learning fun by building and engaging in imaginative play with this block set. There are alphabet blocks, numbers, symbols and shapes, as well as an analogue clock. There are also surprises to discover such as magnetic blocks as well as a school door shaker. My tip is to create new words as a secret message for your child to wake up to each day!
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The Golden Era
Redefining fashion with Goldie + Ace
Sustainable style There is a growing movement away from fast fashion, which has dominated clothing retail for over 30 years, towards a more ethical buy less, wear it more and pass it on approach. Alana Tiller comes from a background of bedlinen and textiles, and after having her first child, noticed that for people wanting to embrace this philosophy, it could be quite costly. Alana launched Goldie + Ace in 2017 with Chris Kontos, from Chris Kontos Creative, and together they embarked on helping customers take a more considered approach to their kids’ clothing purchases with the bonus that it did not cost the earth. Brand philosophy Alana confirms “While the brand has evolved a lot over the last three years the main constant has been to ensure what we create is good quality and that we care for the environment in doing so. We don’t want our garments to end up as landfill, so we educate our customers to mend clothing if it gets a hole in the knee.” From the fabric to the workmanship, Goldie + Ace aim to create garments that can withstand the test of time and are cherished along the way. “Babies and kids can wreck or stain clothing beyond repair, but by using good quality fabrics we offer the
best chance possible of removing those stains and providing longevity,” notes Alana. The responsible approach is not limited to the clothing, as Goldie + Ace use compostable mail satchels and thank you cards which can be planted to grow into flowers. Design inspiration “Growing up in Australia in the 80’s and 90’s, we often look back to own our childhood for inspiration. We literally pore over old photo albums and remind ourselves of what we loved wearing when we were young, lead with a few key pieces and then build the collection from there”, explain Alana and Chris. Alana confides, “I was a New Kids on the Block and Kylie Minogue girl, while Chris’ favourite fashion moment from his childhood was a Cookie Monster tracksuit which, for now, will remain in the archives!” By delving into their childhoods Alana and Chris have built a brand with a touch of nostalgia for a time when childhood was a lot simpler than it is now. Interestingly, this was not part of some master plan. “Our vibe evolved organically and has strengthened in line with my increased confidence as a designer and from customer feedback on what they loved most”, says Alana. Staying authentic can be difficult so Alana and Chris try not to look at
WORDS CELIN E BARN ES W W W.GOLDIEANDACE.COM
"Buy less, wear it more and pass it on."
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"We don’t want our garments to end up as landfill, so we educate our customers to mend clothing if it gets a hole in the knee.”
Making the range Everything in the range is hand painted by talented local Melbourne artists and either screen or digitally printed. Goldie + Ace collaborates with a small team in China who hand make everything to ensure nothing is produced in large factories. Alana notes “Our approach means production is slow, but much more personal and we are proud of our products. We love working with our team in China and they love working with us which shows in what they produce for us as each piece is made with a lot of care.” Goldie + Ace are Oeko Tex certified, meaning no harmful substances are used in the production of their clothes including dyes, prints and finishing. The power of marketing “Marketing the brand has always been as important for us as the clothes we were creating because
what is the point of creating a gorgeous product if it is not marketed to the same standard,” states Chris. Like many small businesses, Goldie + Ace do not have a huge marketing budget, but they have chosen to direct the bulk of their budget towards campaign shoots and using the best in the industry when it comes to photography and styling. “By investing upfront in carefully curated content we can then create amazing look books, social media content and PR packs ourselves,” explains Alana. Biggest challenges Having your own business is commonly seen as a way of accessing a more relaxed work life where you choose the pace and what you do each day, but that is often not how it turns out. “No one tells you how hard it can be to get your business off the ground, manage your cash flow or that you will have to do EVERYTHING. Some days all I want to do is design clothes, but I cannot find the time for weeks because I am making sure other parts of the business are running smoothly,” says Alana. Both Alana and Chris have worked for other businesses and for themselves and believe each option has its own challenges and rewards. “If you are
someone who likes structure, having weekends off and a stable income, don’t start your own business. If you are up for a challenge, like taking risks, and will do whatever it takes, then maybe, it is for you,” advise Alana and Chris. Success and the future Everyone measures success differently, but for Goldie + Ace, it is knowing they have created something that people love so much they tell their friend about it, and that friend tells their friends, and so on. “Our brand has experienced such organic growth from personal endorsement over the years it has helped us direct ourselves going forward. We get a lot of emails from customers about how much they loved their purchase, or photos of their bubs wearing Goldie + Ace and we never tire of receiving such feedback. It makes our day and everything we do worthwhile,” confirms Alana.
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what other brands are doing as they aim to stay unique. Goldie + Ace has become known for its distinctive prints which often feature Australian flora and fauna. “It is now our challenge to come up with new and exciting print concepts each season”, says Chris.
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Radical Love Breaking free of limiting messaging in our children's spaces
“IF WE DON'T PLACE THE STRAITJACKET OF GENDER ROLES ON YOUNG CHILDREN, WE GIVE THEM SPACE TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL.” - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
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ST YLING MADELIN E MCFARL AN E PHOTOGRAPHY FR ANÇOISE BAU DET WORDS K ATH RYN BOWN @ LIFELONG LEARNING
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s quote above is an important reminder that messages about gender roles can have lifelong impacts on children as they come to believe and embody the rigid roles they might observe in media, in schools, in the wider community and between peers. On the other hand, children who are exposed to a wide variety of roles, interests, activities and learning opportunities, regardless of gender, are more likely to have an expansive outlook on what they can attempt and achieve in their lives. This outlook will also affect how they perceive others and embrace diversity in the world. So, when it comes to designing a bedroom or playroom for the young people in your life, careful considera-
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tion of the messages you are sending to your children through the use of colour, materials, toys, and equipment is prudent. Some of these decisions might be obvious, such as the use of traditional ‘gendered’ colours, which might not even reflect the tastes of your children but reinforce gender stereotypes. Other decisions might be less obvious, such as subtle messages about gross motor play being encouraged for boys and more quiet activities expected of girls. It’s hard not to have pre-conceived ideas about who our children are and who they should be. The media, popular culture and other influential platforms can play a powerful role in reinforcing stereotypes of all kinds and persuading society to maintain rigid roles and expectations. However, the good news is that, according to Anne Glover in the third edition of the Anti-Bias Approach in Early Childhood, “Parents, siblings, extended family members, friends, carers and teachers all play an important role in the development of children’s attitudes. Together, they provide much of the social information from which children make sense of their diverse world.” So, breaking free of the limiting messages children might be seeing in the media and elsewhere by looking inward to our home environment and relationships is a radical act of love and compassion. It can sometimes take a bit of confidence and courage to support
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e now know how important it is for children to be exposed to a range of different learning opportunities, environments and play materials to expand their knowledge and build a foundation that gives them many choices in their lives. Of course, there are many places that children receive messages about how they should ‘be’ in the world, and many of those messages can be constraining and restricting. So, it might be of particular importance to many parents to ensure that children receive positive, reinforcing and world-expanding messages in their homes and in the spaces designed and created just for them.
Children who are exposed to a wide variety of roles, interests, activities and learning opportunities, regardless of gender, are more likely to have an expansive outlook on what they can attempt and achieve in their lives.
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our children to embrace their true selves when they are resisting gender roles that are traditionally expected, especially if it means we have to reflect on some of the biases we might consciously and unconsciously hold as parents. But in the words of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, in doing so, we are giving our children the gift of space to reach their full potential. This is a pursuit worthy of our time and effort.
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WORDS BROOKE MACQU EEN ART TAH N EE KELL AN D AN D BROOKE MACQU EEN ST YLING JO AN DERSON
DESIGN BY THE STARS Astrologically inspired spaces for children
Inspired action An Aries child isn’t afraid of action and adventure, nor are they afraid of a little bit of colour, and that colour is red. Incorporating touches of red throughout their room will spark their creative passion and motivation. Adding some excitement into their room whilst cultivating some sort of rest area is key. Start off with a quiet corner with a sheepskin rug and lots of books, preferably cardboard if they are quite young. They love to read when they aren’t climbing up a tree. These little ones are born with courage and fire; their room can be filled with all sorts of sporting equipment even a basketball hoop if you are game. If not, anything with wheels. Aries children are quite creative, adding in a blackboard or an easel will give them a creative outlet for their pent up energy.
TAURUS
Cosy sanctuary Your majestic little bull thrives in comfortable and peaceful surroundings. Their internal essence is to experience the joys of life through their five senses. Out of all the signs of
the zodiac, material possessions play an important role in making them feel secure. The colours of the earth and pastel hues calm their mood. A beanbag upon a plush rug will remind them of sweet hugs. Do get carried away with security blankets and throws in divine natural fabrics. The walls can be filled with beautiful nature-inspired art. Provide musical instruments for when a melody takes inspiration. So too an art easel or blackboard with easy access to art supplies. An abundance of plush toys will allow them to relax. Speaking of relaxing, a little Taurean’s bed is their favourite spot, so invest in elegance here, from linen sheets to a state-
ment bed head, this is where they will come to feel safe when not in your arms.
GEMINI
Curious oasis There is never a dull moment with a Gemini child for they change like the wind. Try not to get stuck on a theme as it will most likely be adored one day and extremely disliked the next. Their minds are always travelling; therefore, creating a calm, open, and airy room with whites and neutrals which will prevent them from becoming too overstimulated. A rocking chair will also help them relax whilst reading one or two of their favourite books. But we are talking about little Gemini's here. They love variety, colour, and an eclectic mix of everything at once. Yellow is their colour, either bright, mellow or mustard, which will help bring their room to life. As an air ruled sign, Gemini’s will appreciate a bookcase filled with books as well as puzzles. Any toys that require motion and movement will spark their curiosity. Invest in a large toy box and plenty of baskets that will enable you to quickly pack up the array of toys left in their wake in a practical yet stylish manner.
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ARIES
CANCER Mini home
Home is the very essence of a Cancerian. Creating a mini home in their bedroom where they can take solace and retreat provides a haven from the harshness of the outside the world. A tent or cubbyhouse filled with cushions and plush cuddly toys will provide a cosy hideaway helping them feel safe and secure. When it comes to colour, start with the palette of the moon in which they are ruled. Accents of violet, pastel pinks, sea green, pale blue and silver create a warm and inviting atmosphere. If you have space, include a wooden mini kitchen where they will play host and invite you in for afternoon tea. Prams, dolls and dollhouses will never go astray alongside some shelves
to store all the trinkets they have collected from the vintage store. Their hearts are sentimental therefore, those beautiful family portrait photos may be hung throughout their bedroom alongside pictures of the moon of course.
LEO
Animal kingdom Royal and regal are the children of the sun. Made with sunlight they live life in full bloom. Leo children are full of joy and playfulness, leaving an impression wherever they go. Their bedroom should do the same– this is their castle - ensure it is unique, extravagant, and lively, and a room fit for Kings and Queens. Include luxurious textures and bold animal
prints, and consider hints of their zodiac colours - gold and bright oranges. The room should allow natural sunlight and create a warm sense of fun. Leos enjoy framed art of the animal kingdom - big cats, tigers, and you guessed it, lions. Sensual fabrics such as velvet cushions and throws are also suitable and perhaps a statement mirror to practice their next form of entertainment. A trunk filled with dress-ups including an essential crown will complement their sign. Envisage a space to entertain, to sing, to laugh, and to create. This is truly where the wild things are.
VIRGO
The minimalist Your Virgo child will love a minimalist approach to their bedroom. Like all earth children, their room should be filled with earthy hues, neutrals, and whites. It is not necessarily the decoration of the room that is important but rather the practicality of the room. A Virgo child will love lots of drawers and storage compartments, as everything must have its place. A dirty clothesbasket in their room will be just that, a dirty clothesbasket. Organisation and cleanliness, plus a room with lots of free-flowing air, will stop them from getting too overstimulated. The room should echo a Zen-like atmosphere. Virgo children
deep into the mysterious realms. A ‘do not disturb’ sign would be quite fitting. Lastly, make room for a little corner or some statement curtains that allow the perfect spot to hideand-seek. And here you have their perfect secret cave.
SAGITTARIUS The great outdoors
LIBRA
statement rattan mirror, as they are the fairest ones of all. They will love neutrals woven together with lavender, blue and pastel hues. Baskets filled with arts and crafts will please them as well as an open wardrobe of their finest outfits on display. But we must not forget art - they are little art lovers in the making.
SCORPIO Secret spot
Aesthetically pleasing Your Libran child was born with good taste; it is only natural that their bedroom is aesthetically pleasing with all the trimmings. It is absolutely necessary to have a peaceful and harmonious space where they can play host because what they love the most is sharing their space with others. Charming and social creatures, providing your Libran child with a little nook with a table and two chairs for entertaining guests is perfect. Bunk beds or a trolley bed for sleepovers is a must. They will also appreciate the expensive linen sheets and that
Scorpio children are hidden and resourceful little creatures. The bedroom should be their private sanctuary that allows them to be introspective. They don’t mind darker hues such as deep reds and purples and they love sensual textures such as velvet and silk. They do not care for anything superficial. Their walls can be adorned with vintage posters of butterflies and insects. A bookcase ought to be filled with detective books and stories of transformation such as The Hungry Caterpillar. Add in a magic box, science set and magnifying glass to help them to dive
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are master craftspeople and have an eye for detail, so make sure those drawers are filled with all sorts of art and craft materials. Books and a bookcase or shelf are a must. So too are puzzles. They will love a doctor and nurse’s kit, and this is one child of the zodiac I would entrust with having a plant in their room for which they care and nurture.
When it is time for your little Sag to come inside and read a book, their room must allow freedom of movement. Life is one grand adventure and their gallivanting hearts and free spirits are on a quest to experience life to its fullest. Bring every corner of the world to them with a map hanging on the wall or their own little world globe that they can dream up their next travel destination. Their ideal room would be open and airy with plenty of natural light, splashes of exotic colours and bohemian rugs.
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Their furniture should be wooden to remind them of nature. They will love to display all their foreign trinkets upon shelves. A book nook is a must to try and satisfy their thirst for knowledge. Your little Sag may also be a keen sportsperson so hanging their sporting equipment as a feature will invoke inspiration.
CAPRICORN A modern classic
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These brilliant minds require a room that invites radical creativity and innovation. Aquarians are modern, quirky and eccentric. Don’t worry about brands and perfectly scripted interiors, these children need inspiration. They are here to change the world with their uniqueness. Like all air-ruled signs, their room should be free-flowing and open, especially as your little Aquarian will want to invite like-minded friends in for a visit to share ideas. It can be filled with unique touches from abstract art (theirs or someone else’s), local artesian treasures from the markets and inspirational posters of thought leaders. Think books such as Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls and Boys. A statement chair or desk will provide spaces for their active minds to read, do puzzles or dream. You also don’t want to overstimulate them but adding in accents of colour like blue and a few clashing prints and patterns never hurt anyone… that is if you are ok with it.
A Pisces child's remarkable imagination and their capacity to escape into a fantasy world suggests a much-needed quiet retreat as a bedroom to get lost in a daydream. The room should soothe the depths of their emotions. Neutrals and tranquil colours of the sea take them to an underwater playground. Consider a bedside table housing their favourite fantasy books and their collection of shells from their seaside travels. Pisces rules creative expression, therefore, install an easel or blackboard in the room for when inspiration takes hold. Musical instruments and a stereo will help give them another creative outlet. They will be obsessed with their favourite Disney character so a dress-up box must be on hand. These ethereal sensitive souls revel in mystical and mythical creatures. Their collection of fairies, mermaids, goblins and otherworldly characters will be allowed to sit amongst their creative chaos.
Happy abstracts
Ethereal daydreams
Influenced by the hidden words of the sky, Astrologer, writer and mother of two, Brooke Macqueen from Various Friends uses the traditional language of astrology to inspire young and old.
variousfriends.com @variousfriends
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Born with a sense of maturity, your little Capricorn goats are cool, determined and practical. Only a timeless and elegantly designed room would suit their traditional palette. Their room may be filled with earthy tones, neutrals, and monochromes, and Scandinavian signatures. Ambitious and disciplined, a desk is required to master all their necessary skills. As natural born leaders, a bookcase would not only display books but also Capricorns’ serious trophy and award collection. They love a tried and tested system for storing all their toys and possessions; therefore, baskets and an organised closet is the way to go. They will want to roleplay running their own business so here is where you can go wild with wooden role-play toys such as calculators and cash registers. A Rubix cube and engineering models will also teach patience and how to work towards long-term goals.
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positive streetwear + gifting for smart tweens | ethical | built for joy | supports tween causes
w w w. re a l p r e t t y k i n d . c o m
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Level Up TRENDS FOR THE TWEEN YEARS
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e all remember the tween years right?… not quite a kid, not quite a teen, just somewhere in the middle…mostly feeling desperately awkward and out of place. Luckily for our tweens, the world is evolving, and tweendom is being embraced! These days, tweens are respected for their unique needs and celebrated in acknowledgement of the essence of this phase in life. So, in that spirit, enjoy these pages of tween inspo. From bedroom design to the latest trends, we hope you find something that connects with the tweens in your life Our cover image features unique artwork by Laura Berger. It explores themes of inclusion, interconnectedness and empowerment. Laura focuses on ideas of family in a global
community—whether that's through a collective ancestry or our shared relationships with nature and the unknown. This wallpaper style is called Field and features layers of female forms, leaning against each other, gathered together, holding each other. "I'm interested in how the idea of settling into our basic shared human experience can serve as a base to inform our personal identities, choices, and roles in life," Laura says. For us, it was the perfect foundation for a tween room, a depiction of endless support and safety to create a sanctuary for growth. Paired with a sophisticated palette and natural materials, this is a room that will last well into the teen years and beyond.
FIELD BY LAURA BERGER - WARM PINK $$380/ 10M ROLL WWW.WALLPAPERTRADER.COM // IVETA OPEN WEAVE BED HEAD $790 WWW.INARTISAN.COM // CANE PARTITION $3,480 WWW.TRITHOUSE.COM.AU // SHIFT FLOOR LAMP $459 WWW.TRITHOUSE.COM.AU // INTO THE BLUE PRINT 1 $140 WWW.TRITHOUSE.COM.AU // SHELL CUSHION IN CORAL $59 WWW.HUNTERANDNOMAD.COM.AU // LINEN IN PEACH AND NAVY FROM $220 WWW.INBEDSTORE.COM // THROW WWW.SAARDE.COM // PASCAL STOOL $$330 WWW.TRITHOUSE.COM.AU // VASE WWW.WECANSEE.COM.AU
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DESIGNER NICOLE ROSEN BERG PHOTOGRAPHY SAR AH TEE WORDS CELIN E BARN ES
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Tropical Boho T
he transition period between child and teenager can be a difficult point at which to decorate a room. Do you encourage your child to hold onto their childhood that little bit longer, or do you facilitate their move into new territory? What you want as a parent is probably the opposite of what your child is after! When Nicole Rosenberg of Liberty Interiors met 12-year-old Sophie, Sophie was most certainly interested in a room to meet her needs going forward. Nicole confirms “One of Sophie’s must-haves was a good size functional desk as she heads into her secondary schooling years.” Nicole opted for the Sienna desk from GlobeWest which boasts sturdy powder coated stainless steel framing to survive years of restless, swinging legs and two good sized drawers for storage. Paired with the IKEA Hattefjall office chair in Gunnared beige, which ties into the curves elsewhere in the room, Sophie is well set-up for years of study (or procrastination). During their first meeting, Nicole picked up on Sophie’s bright and bubbly outlook and wanted to encourage the brave use of colour to match her vivacious personality. “I showed Sophie the Jimmy Cricket Flamingo wallpaper and she was hooked! We then designed the room around this theme and added in highlights of muted peach and pinks throughout”, explains Nicole. As Boho and Jungle are such huge design trends currently, it made it easy to add in lots of cream and rattan elements like the Olliella Neutra Basket but the Art Deco influence of the wallpaper keeps the room from blending into the noise of these trends.
Clever choice of products is a must when designing a space where the owner may want to tweak things down the track. Choosing key pieces which either can be used elsewhere in the house or, which provide flexibility to reimagine, are essential. Nicole ticked both these boxes firstly, by choosing a bedhead which could easily transform its language via colour and texture – they are designed with slipcovers in materials ranging from velvet to linen – and secondly, by choosing the webbing cabinet which could be moved to any other room and hold its own. “The oval Retro Webbing Cabinet from House of Orange is such a special piece that can be used anywhere in the house and while in Sophie’s room, coor-
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dinates beautifully with the curve of the bedhead – definitely one worth investing in”, confirms Nicole. The final touch to create the relaxed vibe of Sophie’s space was the addition of greenery. Nicole used a variety of vessels from the Angus and Celeste Raw Earth Hanging Planters, set at different heights, to plant stands and even cut greenery (Australian native of course) in vases. “I just love the way all of the vibrant colours and textures work in so well together which gives the room a real cohesion and sense of belonging for Sophie. Adding in greenery where possible, gives an added element of freshness and nature coming in from the outside”, says Nicole.
2020
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JIMMY CRICKET FLAMINGOES WALLPAPER $320 PER ROLL WWW.JIMMYCRICKET.COM.AU // CREATE ESTATE HALF MOON BEDHEAD – QUEEN $870 WWW.CREATEESTATE.COM.AU // HOUSE OF ORANGE WEBBING CABINET $1186.50 WWW.HOUSEOFORANGE.COM.AU // GLOBEWEST SIENA DESK $1720 WWW.GLOBEWEST.COM.AU // AMIGOES DE AHOY FLUFFELBUSTER THROW $249 WWW.AMIGOSDEHOY.COM //ANGUS AND CELESTE RAW EARTH HANGING PLANTERS $159 // $79 WWW.ANGUSANDCELESTE.COM // TEMPLE AND WEBSTER HUXLEY BEDSIDE $314 WWW.TEMPLEANDWEBSTER.COM.AU // IKEA HATTEFJALL OFFICE CHAIR $299 WWW.IKEA.COM/AU // OLLI ELLA NEUTRA BASKET $169 WWW.AU.OLLIELLA.COM // AL AND EM ROUND PINBOARD $104 WWW.ALANDEM.COM.AU
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NICOLE'S TIPS FOR DESIGNING A TWEEN ROOM
• There MUST be a good desk (the bigger the better) – kids are staying home longer and will likely use it through university so make the study zone one that they can grow with • Steer clear of anything that they will identify with a certain crush/period – at some point they will not want to be reminded of what they used to like • Think about more mature colours when designing the room – design the room for the adult they will become!
www.libertyinteriors.com.au @liberty.interiors
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Styling Up a Tween Storm
DESIGNER MADELIN E MCFARL AN E PHOTOGRAPHY FR ANÇOISE BAU DET WORDS NICOLE R AY
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hen tasked with creating a tween room, stylist Madeline McFarlane was inspired by the atmosphere of the one-of-akind Simon Davidson photographic artwork. Maddie went on to select Porters Paints Arabian Nights, complemented by Topographical Maps statement wallpaper by Wallpaper Traders. With the base set, the room was styled with a sophisticated edge to celebrate the tween rite of passage. Comfort is key, so the bed was layered up with linens from Pony Rider and Society of Wonderers that all work perfectly mix-and-matched. The Incy Interiors William chair was added for the inevitable lounging with friends and plenty of cushions on hand for floor hangs.
The Mustard made locker makes for easy and stylish storage of the day to day items, with the added bonus of a key for a little privacy that your tween might just be craving. The accompanying storage baskets are a versatile option that can easily move from inside the locker for quick access. In an effort to think ahead, the Kokubo Collective bed side table and side table were chosen. Both are practical pieces that will suit any bedroom transition and can go with your tween when the time comes to fly the nest. The overall vibe is one of relaxed sophistication. An easy to maintain space that suits a tween to a tee!
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MADELINE’S TIPS FOR CREATING A SPACE FITTING FOR A TWEEN
BEDDING - Layer up bedding. Invest in a plain sheet / duvet set and build on it with fun decorative accents to both ensure that there is longevity in the bedding yet still a sense of youth in the space. ARTWORK - Artwork gives an opportunity to add some personality to the space. Encourage your tween to choose the artwork so they are involved in creating their own unique bedroom. REMOVABLE WALL PAPER As this is a transitioning space, choosing a removable wall paper will add a sense of temporary fun that can easily be removed if your tween outgrows the print.
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AMPLE STORAGE - Ensure there is plenty of storage capacity for all the hobbies that may come and go… somewhere to throw the clutter! FABRICS - Find a balance between maturity and playfulness. Introducing more luxurious fabrics, such as leather, adds mature accents while selective use of prints will maintain the youthful presence. www.madelinemcfarlane.com @madelinemcfarlanestylist
TOPOGRAPHICAL MAPS WALLPAPER POA WWW.WALLPAPERTRADER.COM // SIMON DAVIDSON BURNOUTS SERIES POA WWW.SIMONDAVIDSON.COM.AU // NOMADIC CROWN RUG 200 X 300 $3,700 WWW.CADRYS.COM.AU // INCY INTERIORS WILLIAM SINGLE BED $1399 WWW.INCYINTERIORS.COM.AU // ORGANIC CANVAS DUVET – NATURAL KING SINGLE $239 WWW.PONYRIDER.COM.AU // CHERRY STRIPE DUVET COVER $239 WWW.POPANDOLI.COM.AU // FRENCH NAVY GRID MOODY BLUE DOUBLE SIDED QUILT $359 WWW.POPANDOLI.COM.AU // RIVER BENDS CUSHION - DK SHADOW/OATS $79 WWW.PONYRIDER.COM.AU // MY WORLD CUSHION – OATS $119 WWW.PONYRIDER.COM.AU // ORGANIC CANVAS SHAM CHARCOAL $79 WWW.PONYRIDER.COM.AU // INCY INTERIORS WILLIAM CHAIR $1299 WWW.INCYINTERIORS.COM.AU // PONY RIDER HIEROGLYPHIC ROUND CUSHION DEEP EARTH $109 WWW.PONYRIDER.COM.AU // BEDSIDE TABLE POLAR WHITE $499 WWW.KOKUBOCOLLECTIVE.COM.AU // NEST OF TABLES POLAR WHITE, SOLID OAK FRAME $545 WWW.KOKUBOCOLLECTIVE.COM.AU // BLOND + NOIR HAND PEACE IN DEEP BLUE FROM $25 WWW.BLONDNOIR.COM // BLOND + NOIR PALM IN SMOKE FROM $25 WWW.BLONDNOIR.COM // MIDI LOCKER IN NAVY $429.00 WWW.MUSTARDMADE.COM // BASKETS IN SLATE $59 WWW.MUSTARDMADE.COM // MENU CARRIE LAMP BURNED RED $399.00 WWW.DESIGNSTUFF.COM.AU // BANWOOD CLASSIC HELMET IN RED $69.95 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // NOVA YOUTH BACKPACK $59.95 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // APPLE – STYLIST’S OWN
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Where to shop GAMMIN THREADS www.gamminthreads.com Small run tee’s for people who believe in living colourfully, paying respect and empowering women. We love the cool typography and powerful messaging. But be quick, once they drop, they don’t last long!
CULTURE KING www.culturekings.com.au
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Bringing international vibes to the streets of Australia, Culture Kings is the place to grab your teen that coveted piece they have seen on the ‘gram. Their youth range includes streetwear, caps, shoes and accessories. For the full experience, visit one of their stores, live dj’s, giveaways and sharp shooter challenges bring the joy to tween shopping like no other.
LITTLE DUTCH www.littledutch.co Full of punch, Melbourne designed brand Little Dutch, is bringing it to the tweens in a big way. Their vast range of non- gender specific street wear includes sweaters, hoodies and funky tie dye tees, all made with only the highest quality organic bamboo, cotton and fleece.
LOVE HAIDEE www.lovehaidee.com.au The Love Haidee mission is to inspire confidence in girls. With an emphasis on quality over quantity, they create age appropriate clothes that girls will feel great in. We love their super soft PJ range. They are made from bamboo viscose and elastine to ensure optimal comfort and the perfect fit. Available in on trend grey marle and dusty pink.
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REAL PRETTY KIND www.realprettykind.com.au Real Pretty Kind are a streetwear and lifestyle label, exclusively for 8-14-yearold change makers. Designed to empower bold, smart, kind, fun-loving tweens, ready to dream big and rock their futures. Like the customers they design for, RPK believes power can come in small packages, and ALL their products come packed with 100% good vibes for maximum JOY in 4 key ways Empowering and celebrating Tweens and their mamas worldwide from the get-go, all 'every body' styled RPK products are made with love - ethically and responsibly
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Small batch production also ensures waste is minimised to care for our other mama in the mix, Mama Earth. Post sale, all RPK Streetwear donates $1 minimum (and more on select merchandise) to the Alannah + Madeline and Butterfly Foundation to stand against bullying and negative body image amongst our youth. Closing the loop, the label then recommends you send back your pre-loved streetwear for a sweet future shopping discount with them - that way they upcycle or gift to Tweens in Need - and you get some KINDness on your wallet. That's REALtime value to families in their day to day. The Tweendom. It's a pretty sweet place to be. And RPK is a label you'll want to be a part of!
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PONY RIDER www.ponyrider.com.au With its roots planted firmly in the rugged outdoors, roaming ranges and vintage patterns Pony Rider brings all grounded, earthly spirit to your tween rooms. Ranging from cushions to bedding, canvas to merino, this award -winning Aussie brand is not one to miss.
SOCIETY OF WANDERERS www.societyofwanderers.com MINTY
Australian designed French flax linen is the perfect treat for your tween. The Society of Wonderers range is a celebration of colour, bold patterns and a mix and match style like no other. The longevity of linen makes it a sustainable choice for a tween room, and the comfort it provides might just keep your social tween sleeping at home.
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MUSTARD MADE www.mustardmade.com You can’t go past a locker for easy storage of the everyday items. An idea born from a dream to work together, sisters Becca and Jess created one of the most loved new products on the market in recent years - Mustard Made lockers. They are easy to assemble and in a range of sizes and colours to suit any space, you will wonder how you ever lived without one.
KAWAIIAN LION www.kawaiianlion.com The chill vibes of Kawaiian Lion are made for tweens. Their range of homewares infuse a love for texture, light, the sea, surf, vintage-folk, the lion muse and the island of Kauai. Whilst we may not have a clue exactly what that means, most likely our tweens do. We love their ‘War is Dumb’ flags made from hardy canvas - they look awesome on the wall or the bed.
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AL + EM PINBOARDS www.alandem.com.au In a range of contemporary colurs and sizes, Al + Em Pinboards will work magic in your tween rooms. Perfect for photos of friends, important reminders, cute post cards, the list goes on. A pinboard will give your tween freedom to express themselves as often as their moods change.
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ST YLIST: ELISE GROSSMAN PHOTOGRAPHER M ELISSA TON KIN WORDS NICOLE R AY
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The Great Gift of Life
We catch up with long-time friend of Minty, Elise Grossman, in their beautiful 100 year old cottage in the Perth Hills, Western Australia. As a single mother of Peyton who is 7, Xander who is 5 and Willa who is 3, Elise has just begun an incredible journey of surrogacy. LET’S CHAT SURROGACY. I can’t think of a more selfless gift to another family than carrying their baby. How did you come to find yourself on this journey? I first heard about surrogacy when I was in my teens. I was watching a reality TV show with a celebrity couple that had a baby via surrogate and it really stuck with me as something I wanted to do some day if I could! Fast forward a few years and I struggled in my own way while trying to conceive. After a miscarriage, misdiagnosed PCOS and nearly a year of trying to fall pregnant, I became very familiar with that "desperately wanting a baby" feeling so many women have! When I finally fell pregnant and then
very easily with my second and third, I knew I wanted help a couple to fulfil that ache of wanting a baby. I was first introduced to my Intended Parents (IPs) through a mutual friend online. We chatted a lot and quickly realised we were on the same page when it came to surrogacy. After meeting in person, I knew straight away they were the couple I wanted to do this for! I had been told you would "just know" and that was definitely the case. What is the process of surrogacy in Australia? The laws in each state vary slightly. Here in Western Australia, the main laws are focused on the intended parents (IPs) who have to be in a heterosexual relationship, which means single people and same sex couples cannot legally use a surrogate in WA. The process of surrogacy is quite long. I met my IPs a year ago and we are only just about to do transfer! About half of IPs in Australia use a family member or friend and the other half meet through agencies or
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via support groups or word of mouth (like we did). After deciding to go ahead, finding a fertility clinic is the first step. There were only two clinics in Perth that were familiar with surrogacy. After choosing, we had to wait months to get a consult with the fertility specialist. At the consult, I underwent medical testing which included blood work and an ultrasound. The IPs also had to do blood work. From there we underwent several counselling sessions and a psychiatric assessment where you discuss every possible outcome, which was quite confronting. Both parties need a lawyer for surrogacy who write up a legal agree-
ment between the surrogate (and her partner if she has one) and the intended parents. This outlines a plan for pre transfer, pregnancy, birth and postpartum, including things like a birth plan and visitation after baby is born as well as what level of care will be provided for the surrogate. After doing another round of counselling both on our own and as a group we submitted our case to the Reproductive Technology Council (RTC) who review your case. We then entered a three-month cooling off period during which either party could change their mind. After being approved by the RTC, we underwent the same medical tests previously done and another counselling session.
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"The kids were super excited about mummy having a baby for someone else who couldn't."
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There are a few different types of transfer, which one you do is determined by your doctor. I'll be doing a low dose transfer, so during the first week of my cycle I have blood tests done and a daily injection of hormones followed by an ultrasound after finishing my period, a trigger shot and on day 17 of my cycle the embryo is transferred! Another round of injections is done a week later and at two weeks post transfer I will have a blood test to confirm pregnancy! At seven weeks pregnant you would transfer to obstetric or maternity care. Once you give birth, the surrogate (and her partner) are legally the parents and their names are on the birth certificate. However, the intended parents take the baby home. After six weeks, the IPs have to submit a parenting order which essentially means they are adopting their own baby.
I'd spoken about wanting to be a surrogate in the past and my family know how much of a birth advocate I am! They were all very supportive, as were my friends and my online community. The kids were super excited about mummy having a baby for someone else who couldn't. What are you most looking forward to along the way? I have always loved being pregnant and feel most myself when I am. I am really looking forward to giving birth as well, I find it so empowering! But mostly, I'm looking forward to handing over a newborn baby to the most deserving couple! I don't think you could beat that feeling! Do you a have any fears that you’d like to share? As a single mum of three kids and about to become pregnant, it does
How do you prepare yourself, mentally and physically, for this epic adventure? We go through a lot of counselling and psychological assessments to make sure everyone is mentally prepared to take on this huge journey! There's a lot of conversation about potential things that might not go to plan, some of these conversations are quite confronting but it's important to be aware of the risks and have plans in place for if they ever did occur. I found this part of the process to be really reassuring that we were all on the same page and wanting the same things out of surrogacy. For the months leading up to transfer it's really important to get your body healthy, so eating nourishing foods, moving your body, taking folic acid supplements, limiting alcohol and no alcohol for the month leading up to transfer, oh, and keeping your feet warm! It's also really important to have a great support system, this could be your partner or friends or family and for me it also includes my online community! Where can other women that may be interested in surrogacy find more info? Finding information in Australia was pretty difficult as it is still such a new thing here! For anyone looking into surrogacy in Australia they should look at the SASS page. www.instagram.com/surrogacyaustralia I would suggest to stay away from American information as their surrogacy process is very different to ours.
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How did you approach the idea with your family? Has it been well received?
sometimes cross my mind if I will be able to juggle it all. But I have a really great support system and together with the intended parents as well as some outsourced help I'm really confident I will be able to manage it all! Oh, and I'm a little nervous about all the injections!
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Now, it wouldn’t be Minty if we didn’t have a sneaky peak in the kids’ rooms!
What was the brief for the kids’ rooms?
What is your favourite feature in the kids’ rooms?
We live in a beautiful 100 year old cottage and I really wanted to work with the same vintage charm that the house has! It was really important to use as much of the existing furniture we had to keep costs down and focus the budget on decorative pieces. I wanted their rooms to be inviting and keep that homely feeling that's throughout the rest of the home. Making sure that the spaces were both practical and aesthetically pleasing was one of my main focuses.
Definitely the wallpaper! Every time I walk into their room it's the first thing I'm drawn to. It has such a lovely soft feminine feel that it brings to the space!
I found it really difficult to get the right layout in the girls’ room as it's a square shape. I can't tell you how many times I moved everything around! Originally, I had the girls’ beds side by side but now with them both up against walls they've got a huge amount of floor space to play on, which is so important in a small home like ours.
I follow many European pages on Instagram and I just adore how they mix vintage pieces in with new mod- Xander's room is really small and the ern decor! I've always had a soft spot bed can only go in one place, so it for vintage pieces! was a bit of a Tetris game trying to fit everything in! How did you select your colour palette in peyton & willa’s room? I wanted to keep the tones quite pastel throughout, ensuring to not over-power the wallpaper as that was the focal point in the room. I chose to add small pops of pink to draw out the warmth in the wallpaper and also used lots of greys to create some mood. I originally had chosen a grey rug but this one popped up on market place and I fell in love. I added the yellow Numero 74 pieces which were a similar tone to the rug.
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What was your inspiration?
What was the biggest challenge?
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ABOVE TAMAR MOGENDORFF WALL MOUNTED SWAN // CAMOMILE LONDON MINK QUILTED BLANKET OPPOSITE PAGE SANDBERG WALLPAPER FADED PASSION IN GREY // NUMERO 74 TARA CANOPY MELLOW YELLOW // MRS MIGHETTO DEAR SWAN PRINT // GARBO AND FRIENDS BLUEBELL MUSLIN QUILT COVER SET //
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"I love that they have rooms that they can grow with, I can imagine the girls still loving this space as young teens with just a few minor changes, and I can see Xander doing his homework at his desk for years to come."
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What is your overall favourite thing about the kids’ rooms? I love that they have rooms that they can grow with. I can imagine the girls still loving this space as young teens with just a few minor changes, and I can see Xander doing his homework at his desk for years to come.
THE LITTLE INTERIOR NATURAL COUNTING BOARD// THE LITTLE INTERIOR CVC WORD KIT // LITTLEBLANK SPACES PEAR PRINT (PRINTABLE) // THE PAPER HALL SEASIDE ALPHABET PRINT
Follow Elise's surrogacy journey @raisingyoungloves
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MINTY ADDITIONAL PRODUCTS FEATURED HELLO LITTLE BIRDIE OHH NOO DOLLY COT AND OHH NOO SIDE-EYE SOPHIE DOLL // GARBO AND FRIENDS FLORAL VINE BEDSET // IRON AND CUB LUNA MOON AND STAR HANGING // NANA HUCHY GREY HEART CUSHION // BIG STUFFED MAMA OCTOPUS // LITTLE WILLOW VINTAGE PINK NAME CUSHIONS // JUSTINA BLAKENEY TASSEL CHANDELIER // FERM LIVING KIDS APPLE BASKET // MRS MIGHETTO MR BILL PRINT // MRS MIGHETTO MISS PENNY PRINT // MRS MIGHETTO MISS IRIS PRINT // NUMERO 74 LUCY BUTTERFLY WINGS
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START WITH A NEUTRAL PALETTE, YOU CAN ALWAYS ADD COLOUR LATER!
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NURSERY PLANNING 101 PHOTOGRAPHY FR ANÇOISE BAU DET ST YLIST MADELIN E MCFARL AN E WORDS NICOLE R AY
"Natural materials with low-tox finishes are perfect for little hands and mouths." Creating a nursery needn’t be a daunting task. Here are our top tips to take the overwhelm out and bring the joy in!
"From tummy time to nappy changes, a good quality play mat will be your new best friend"
Consider the Materials Natural materials with low-tox finishes are perfect for little hands and mouths. Look for an FSC certification on wooden products to be sure the wood has been harvested from forests that are responsibly managed, socially beneficial, environmentally conscious, and economically viable. The hygienic and hypoallergenic properties of silicone make it perfect for baby toys and teethers. Think to the Future Invest in furniture that can be repurposed as baby grows. Look
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for storage solutions that will stand the test of time. For example, a locker is a great versatile option to house everything from baby clothes through to school supplies and sports equipment. A quality chest of drawers can make the perfect base for a secured change mat that is easily removed down the track. Choose open-ended toys that look beautiful in the room, but also offer a range of play options as your baby grows. Wooden toys are generally a great place to start. Keep it Comfy There is no doubt you will be spending a lot of time on the floor with your baby. From tummy time to nappy changes, a good quality play mat will be your new best friend. An over-sized, organic playmat can also double as cot blanket when the time comes.
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Keep it Neutral A neutral palette is a great place to start. It’s creates a calm and relaxing zone in the home for the slow and glorious newborn days. Experiment with tones and texture to bring in the wow factor. Plus, it’s a perfect base to build on as your baby grows.
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MAKE PLAY TIME COMFORTABLE WITH A SUPER SOFT, ORGANIC PLAYMAT.
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CONSIDER STORAGE OPTIONS THAT WILL GROW WITH YOUR BABY.
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CHARLIE IN THE WOODS KANGAROO AND KOALA PRINT IN CALM FROM $45.00 WWW.CHARLIEINTHEWOODS.COM // PRETTY SNIPPETS HOT AIR BALLOON – RATTAN $69.00 WWW.PRETTYSNIPPETS.COM.AU // WOODEN STORY STACKING TOY $89.95 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // LOCKER IN POLAR WHITE WWW.KOKUBOCOLLECTIVE.COM.AU // CHARLIE CRANE KUMI CRADLE HAZELNUT $799.00 WWW.ANTIPODA.CO // LEOS RATTAN SQUARED OFF CHAIR $490 WWW.INARTISIAN.COM // UIMI PRAIRIE BLANKET $159 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // MERINO BLANKET $149 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // SMARTIE CUSHION $74 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // LUMBINI ROUND RUG NATURAL AND WHITE STONE $440 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // MY LITTLE PLAY BAR, X3 TOYS AND ORGANIC COTTON PLAY BLANKET PACKAGE $299.95 WWW.MYLITTLEGIGGLES.COM // FERM LIVING RABBIT STORAGE BOX $149.00 WWW.DESIGNSTUFF.COM.AU // LIEWOOD DEXTOR COTTON KNITTED TEDDY RABBIT GREY MELANGE $79.00 WWW.DESIGNSTUFF.COM.AU // WOODEN BEAR $59 WWW.KIDOSTORE.COM // KIKO + GG CAR IN NATURAL $35.00 WWW.THEMODERNPLAYROOM.COM.AU // KIKO + GG PROPELLER PLANE IN WHITE $55.00 WWW.THEMODERNPLAYROOM.COM.AU
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Stylish and functional baby bags. BECAUSE PARENTS DON’T NEED TO LOOK LIKE PARENTS.
2020
WORDS K ATE R ABBITT PHOTOGRAPHY K ATE PASCOE
Arlo's adventures D
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Tash and Daniel Dumais are the wife and husband team behind the hugely successful brands Ubabub and Design Kids. Their latest project, a nursery for their little boy, is a stunning example of a modern nursery space.
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rlo is the sixth member of the Dumais family, a baby brother to Bianca, Sabine and Uma. Keeping things fun, comfortable and practical, Tash designed the nursery herself. The Ubabub Mod Collection grounds the design in the family’s Modernist home. VINTAGE INSPIRED An artwork collected during an overseas trip to the USA formed the basis for this nursery. Tash explains “I began with a beautiful vintage-inspired poster we bought on a recent trip to California. It's an illustration that captures the giant Sequoia trees that we saw in Yosemite National Park.
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Everything in the room kind of grew around this artwork. In particular, the feeling of adventure that we wanted to communicate to our little boy!” "I wanted to utilise an earthy colour palette, which is calm and grounding. The Yosemite print complements this beautifully", adds Tash. The Mod Cot and Dresser feature a light ash wood veneer and striking white powder-coated steel. Set against the grey wall panelling, the geometric design of the furniture pops. Textures play gently through the use of colourful fabrics and soft furnishings.
A PEACEFUL PLACE "It was important to create a space for Arlo to feed and sleep, but also somewhere for the whole family to enjoy" Tash explains. Arlo’s room features a rust velvet armchair by Sarah Ellison, a book nook including the Booksee Bookcase and a generous pile of cushions beneath a soft linen canopy. This has become a favourite corner for the girls to hang out and read to their baby brother.
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Tash adds “my favourite pieces in the room are definitely the Mod Cot and Dresser. It’s our first time using this particular product. I love that we've been able to use our own nursery furniture. A huge amount of effort, testing, time and money goes into producing these pieces.”
LABOUR OF LOVE True to their Modernist design aesthetic, the decision to clad the walls with vertical wood panelling was challenging, but worth the effort. It complements the family’s home and the style of the Ubabub nursery furniture. Tash says “I love the feeling we have created here. It feels cosy, comfortable, modern and organised. It’s a nursery space designed for us to enjoy (as well as Arlo!). And that’s what a nursery space should be. We spend hours feeding, changing and playing with our babies, so a nursery should be a space that feels comfortable, organised and beautiful.”
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It’s a nursery space designed for us to enjoy (as well as Arlo!). And that’s what a nursery space should be. We spend hours feeding, changing and playing with our babies, so a nursery should be a space that feels comfortable, organised and beautiful.”
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"I wanted to utilise an earthy colour palette, which is calm and grounding. The Yosemite print complements this beautifully"
www.ubabub.com www.designkids.com.au
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Inspired by Tash and Daniel’s search for Australian designed nursery furniture, the Ubabub range was created to sit comfortably in their Modernist home. However, it’s easy to see how the Ubabub collection works well with any interior style. The brand has a distinctive style that will withstand the test of time, made from quality renewable and recyclable materials. Ubabub is available across Australia, USA and Canada. Their online store www.designkids.com.au specialises in other modern nursery furniture brands. The Design Kids blog contains more information and plenty of visual inspiration to help you set up your nursery space.
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MOD COT $1,199 WWW.UBABUB.COM // MOD DRESSER $1,499 WWW.UBABUB.COM // SARAH ELLISON ALVA CHAIR IN RUST VELVET $1395 WWW.LIFEINTERIORS.COM.AU // CASTLE & THINGS COT SHEETS $79 WWW.CASTLEANDTHINGS.COM.AU // CAPRI VELVET SHAM CUSHIONS $159 WWW.SAGEANDCLARE.COM // UBABUB BOOKSEE BOOKSHELVES $199 WWW.DESIGNKIDS.COM.AU // WILSON & FRENCHY OATMEAL BLANKET $89.95 WWW.WILSONANDFRENCHY.COM.AU // NUMERO 74 SILVER GREY CANOPY $219.00 WWW.LEOANDBELLA.COM.AU // JUNO & ACE ELIOS MOBILE $170 WWW.JUNOANDACE.COM // HIDES OF EXCELLENCE SHEEPSKIN RUG IN LINEN $132 WWW.HIDESOFEXCELLENCE.COM.AU // LITTLE CONNOISSEUR BLUE CUSHION $68 WWW.LITTLECONNOISSEUR.COM.AU
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Ageless Design – BAREFOOT LUXE FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART
2020
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When Melissa Bonney and Brendon Bott wanted to create a beautiful children’s bedroom for their boutique Airbnb, they did not have to look far for expert advice, as Melissa runs her own building and interior design business: The Designory. The Designory started out with a focus on residential client design services, but by responding to the changing residential landscape and embracing some opportunities which came along, it progressed to working on its own development and investor projects. “Our objective when creating our boutique holiday homes is to create something that functions the way a normal home does yet there are unexpected and unique design elements that people may not include in their own home,” explains Melissa. Since an Airbnb is somewhere people come for a holiday, the primary goal is to promote relaxation and calm with a hint of fun thrown in. “We aim to create a lasting memory and personal experience for our guests,” Melissa confirms. This bedroom was designed for the young at heart – of all ages. “We made sure we incorporated playful and fun design and décor elements alongside the more functional items needed – good storage, toys, books and lots of tactile furnishings,” notes Melissa.
DESIGNER M ELISSA BON N EY PHOTOGRAPHY AN DY MACPH ERSON & CAT GERKE WORDS CELIN E BARN ES
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As the clients, Melissa and Brendon wanted a gender and age neutral palette that would work for anyone who might stay there. "The room is quite small, so we needed to be clever about creating the illusion of space and also ensuring it felt light and restful," explains Melissa. As the designer, Melissa sought to embrace a sense of play, as being playful is associated with being a child. “A sense of playfulness is something intangible that as adults we tend to lose over time. We wanted to encourage a lightness of being in all ages,” says Melissa.
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The ‘tick list’ was quite ambitious but the combination of mustard, pale greys and a monochrome base of black and white ended up being the perfect
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solution. The wallpaper is Huddy’s Dots from Milton & King and successfully creates a visual ‘white noise’ effect which is soothing and enhanced by the Modesty White wall colour by Haymes. One of the key features was in fact a last-minute change of mind. Melissa and Brendon wanted the bunk bed to appear to float, and right before the plasterers arrived to close the framing in, chose to install a huge LVL structural beam spanning the room. “We got the floating look we were after in a safe and structurally sound manner as it’s been built into the framing of the house itself,” explains Brendon. The bunk has high railings to protect kids in the top bunk and a removable ladder so there is no risk of young children climbing up unattended.
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"We wanted to encourage a lightness of being in all ages.”
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The wallpaper is Huddy’s Dots from Milton & King and successfully creates a visual ‘white noise’ effect which is soothing and enhanced by the Modesty White wall colour by Haymes.
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HOMEDAY MINI MOD BEAN BAG $189 WWW.THEDESIGNHUNTER.COM.AU // INTERIA DOUGHBOY HANDLES WWW.INERTIA.COM.AU// MILTON AND KING HUDDYS DOTS WALLPAPER $170 A ROLL WWW.MILTONANDKING.COM // AMIGOS DE HOY WES THE LION WALL HANGING $239 WWW.THEDESIGNHUNTER.COM.AU // LOTTIE RAE QUOTE ARTWORK WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/LOTTIERAE_ART // BEMBOKA MOSS STITCH BLANKET DOVE WWW.THEDESIGNHUNTER.COM.AU
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Insta inspiration @gathercoaustralia – For textural materials and a constant source of global inspiration @oceanhousegreatoceanroad – A collection of shots of one of my favourite houses along with texture, object and materiality @adesignersmind – For sheer volume of curated design ideas in one place
The lower bed is just as cleverly considered with the choice of a Mubu Home Sleek Trundle bed which provides double the sleeping options in a stylish way. The overarching bunk creates a cosy feel for the occupant below and is a perfect place to nestle into the Mini Mod Beanbag from The Design Hunter which sits nearby. The family’s favourite feature in the room is the netted play area built into the bunk which is perfect for curling up with a book under the skylight or just watching the clouds go by. “It’s the place everyone goes to when they come into the room – even adults love to lounge up there!” confirms Melissa. “We love everything about the final result, it really is the embodiment of our inspiration from the furniture to the gorgeous Lottie Rae artwork and Doughboy handles we used as hooks,” confirms Melissa. It really is a room that knows no age. Book your stay www.barefootescapes.com.au @barefootescapes
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2019
At home with
Leah Williams
hen it comes to giving, Leah Williams is a top student. Founder of the ‘little old Instagram account’ @the.dearest.days (as Leah modestly describes it), Leah uses her influence to share the daily highs and lows of her own family life. While it may seem an easy task, showing up daily for her audience with fresh content is a selfless role, driven by a love for her community. Whether creating content for brands big and small, engrossing herself and her account in current affairs, or sharing the ups and downs of everyday life, Leah has nurtured a trusted online space where people feel safe to interact without judgement, to share their own experiences and to be inspired. Me included! When I saw that Leah had teamed up with the talented Talie Jordon of Bam Interiors to decorate her kids’ rooms, I knew these would be rooms that I had to share. Leah came across Talie on Instagram (fitting really!) and loved Talie’s simplistic, yet on-trend style. With her kids’ rooms ready for an upgrade, and an awareness of her indecisive
nature, Leah enlisted Talie’s help to create these dream rooms. TELL US ABOUT WORKING WITH TALIE ON YOUR ROOMS: It has been a joy to work together on both the bedrooms and just so easy. Talie had in mind my initial concepts and ideas and then just ran with them. I also loved that she kept me updated along the way, stuck with my budget and always sent through ideas visually so I could understand what she meant. She was also fabulous at politely reigning me in when I would get too many ideas. I would recommend her one hundred times over! WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR INSPIRATION? I get a lot of my inspiration from all the amazing creative folk I follow on Instagram from interior designers and stylists, to stores, photographers and clever mama’s. I also find Pinterest to be a great source, although sometimes a tad overwhelming. So, although my inspo for each room came from a few different places, I kept coming back to making sure both rooms were fun, practical and represented both of my kiddos.
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ROOM DESIGN TALIE JORDAN BAM INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHY FR ANÇOISE BAU DET WORDS NICOLE R AY
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HOW DID YOU SELECT YOUR COLOUR PALETTES? A lot of time scrolling and searching! We always started out with a colour palette first and went from there. For Eva’s room I wanted to select a cheery, pastel wallpaper with a bit of a vintage vibe, that really decided what we used in the rest of the room. We chose colours that were her favourite - pink, blue and purple. For August’s room I wanted to include mustard and mint green as the hero colours and then little pops of other colours in between. WHAT IS YOUR OVERALL FAVOURITE THING ABOUT EACH SPACE? I’m so happy with the spaces we’ve created. I love that both rooms, although they’re so thought out and styled down to a tee, are still just rooms for kids. I always wanted my little ones to feel like their rooms
represent who they are, and I love that we were able to achieve that for both rooms, while still making them practical and beautiful. In Eva’s room I love how her room makes her feel. She runs into it most days and tells me how pretty it is and in Augie’s room, it’s the mix of colours and simplicity that I love. WHAT ARE YOUR YOUR MUST HAVES/MUST DO’S FOR KEEPING MESS UNDER CONTROL? Storage. I don’t like clutter, it makes me anxious so having a place for things to go away is important. I also used labels from Labeld on each tub so everyone knows where things go. I try to keep on top of the mess and do a quick tidy of the playroom each night before dinner, sometimes on my own and other nights Eva helps out.
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ABOVE LEFT DANISH BY DESIGN TROLL SUN COT // HUNTER AND NOMAD WEAVED BASKET // FOXTROT AT HOME SAGE COT SHEET ABOVE RIGHT JUNO AND ACE HANGING MOBILE RIGHT ANEW WALL DÉCOR BUTTERCUP FLOWER WALLPAPER // VALENTINE AND CO RATTAN MILA KING SINGLE BED // FOXTROT AT HOME LILAC STRIPE BED LINEN // HUNTER AND NOMAD MUSTARD DOT RUG // CHARLIE & MARLOW X SACRED BUNDLE RATTAN SWALLOWS
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ABOVE LEFT LIFE INTERIORS BELLA ROUND MIRROR BRASS // BOOIE AND BEN ANIMAL PRINTS // IKEA HEMNES CHEST OF DRAWERS REUSED AND PAINTED IN MINT GREEN // MONKEY PUZZLE TOYS // OLLI ELLA SEE YA SUITCASE ABOVE RIGHT LITTLE PEACH AND PIP CUSHION // RUGS OF BEAUTY CARLOS FELTED RUG
TELL US ABOUT AUGIE August is my little chiller. A happy, easy going boy who adores cuddles, dancing and music. For his room I wanted to do something a bit more gender neutral and also re-use some of the pieces we already had. Essential items in a baby's room always include somewhere to hide ugly toys, a change table, cot and a nice soft rug for bubs to play on. WHAT WAS THE BRIEF FOR AUGIE’S ROOM? I wanted to do something a bit more gender neutral but still very much having that element of colour and fun in there. I find sometimes with boys’ rooms, they’re often either all blues and greens or just quite stark and white… I kind of wanted something in the middle. I wanted to incorporate animals in some way as well because they are his favourite thing at the moment. It also needed to be suitable for him as he grows up from a baby into a little person. WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE? August’s room was pretty smooth sailing. The biggest challenge was probably just ensuring we had nice little pops of colour, without going too overboard. Oh, also me trying to lug the chest of drawers down our tiny staircase to paint them… definitely a challenge! Called in the hubby for that one! WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FEATURE IN AUGIE’S ROOM? The wallpaper is just stunning. The gold colour catches the light and it just glows. I also love the stunning mobile from Juno and Ace. It is such a beautiful piece of art and something special we will keep forever.
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LEFT MINNIE AND ME INTERIORS PALMS GOLDEN WALLPAPER // CASTLE AND THINGS HEY KID TEA TOWEL ART // FLORAL INTERIORS FAUX PLANT // POPPY’S LITTLE TREASURES CAVES CABINET // HAPPY GO DUCKY WOODEN TOYS
ABOVE LEFT LIFE INTERIORS BJORN POWDER ARCH MIRROR // MONKEY PUZZLE TOYS WOODEN HORSE ABOVE RIGHT ONYX AND SMOKE VELVET LOUNGER // LITTLE PEACH AND PIP RAINBOW CUSHION // DIY BLINDS PLANTATION SHUTTERS RIGHT CASTLE AND THINGS ROUND VELVET CUSHIONS // PHOENIX AND THE OCEAN WILDFLOWER RETRO PRINT ADDITIONAL ITEMS ON PAGE 99 PAX AND HART VELVET PRINT // MONKEY PUZZLE TOYS // OLLI ELLA SEE YA SUITCASE
TELL US ABOUT EVA Eva is my little wild one. She’s strong, smart, cheeky, loud and lots of fun. She loves bright and pretty things like rainbows and flowers and loves to dance and read books. I wanted to create a room that was a space just for her to be herself, at four years old. It needed to be fun, represent who she is, while still having practical elements like storage for all of her books. I also wanted to do something a little bit different, but at the same time, ensuring we designed a space that was calming and clutter free. WHAT WAS THE BRIEF FOR EVA’S ROOM? For Eva’s room I really wanted it to represent her at age four, so it had to be bright and fun. I wanted something a little bit different and didn’t want to just go with exactly what is on-trend at the moment. I also really wanted to include some pretty pastel colours and it was essential that the room was balanced, had good storage and didn’t look overcluttered. With Eva’s room I had this idea of doing a wallpaper across two walls as a feature, so we needed to make sure the rest of the items were a little more refined. I also wanted to re-use a few pieces of furniture that we already had that were practical and served a purpose. WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE? In Eva’s room it was definitely installing the wallpaper. My hubby and I have installed a few removeable wallpapers in our time and this one was by far the hardest. As it was over two walls, across a window and a door frame, it was pretty complicated. We ended up giving in and calling in a pro to install it.
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"In this room I wanted to keep it simple and fun so I included a few pieces of artwork, removeable decals from The Lovely Wall Co and then a nice soft rug for the kids to sit on."
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PLAYROOM The goal for the playroom was to keep it fun, functional and storage storage storage… Got to hide all of those ugly toys away somewhere! I used the Ikea Trofast cabinet to pop all the plastic toys, games, pencils and colour books in and then used the top of it to style some of the kid’s beautiful wooden toys from Monkey Puzzle Toys. The top of the storage unit also is a great height and makes it a useful benchtop for a toddler to stand and play with toys. In this room I wanted to keep it simple and fun so I included a few pieces of artwork, removeable decals from The Lovely Wall Co and then a nice soft rug for the kids to sit on.
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"I always wanted my little ones to feel like their rooms represent who they are, and I love that we were able to achieve that for both rooms, while still making them practical and beautiful. "
www.thedearestdays.com @the.dearest.days www.baminteriors.com.au @baminteriors
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Insta inspiration @shityoushouldcareabout – totally off the topic of kids and interiors but I feel like everyone needs to follow this account. Delivering important and sometimes complex issues, in a digestible and informative way. @thebearcubclub – for an interiors fix, you can’t go past Sarah’s account, she nails it every single time. @sophieleaphotography – an amazing photography account to follow. Sydney based mama of three Sophie produces the most stunning images and also writes about her motherhood experience so beautifully.
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Big design for small people Curated by the team at Minty, Smallist is a boutique shopping directory that takes the overwhelm out of shopping for the children in your life by carefully selecting the best independent Australian stores and brands in one place. We understand the modern, ethically conscious shopper and take great care to bring you a directory showcasing local businesses doing things the right way. www.smallist.com.au @small.ist
Babybee Prams
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babybeeprams.com.au Babybee are committed to bringing you unbeatable value, contemporary design and most importantly safe products that are a dream to use. Their Melbourne based team are devoted to understanding exactly what Australian families want; from the convenience of online shopping to smart product features, practical storage and sleek design.
Acorn Kids www.acornkids.com.au Acorn Kids deliver gorgeous beanies, hats, knitwear and accessories made with love, care and a big dose of fun. Only using the highest quality yarns and fabrics Acorn Kids ensure the protection of your little-ones heads throughout the year with 100% Australian Merino wool and soft pure cottons.
Anarkid
Baby Village
Bambino Mio
www.anarkid.com Anarkid is an Australian label for kids newborn up to 12 years. Anarkid encourages free thinking, values confidence and creativity and believes that fashion shouldn't come at the cost of the planet.
www.babyvillage.com.au Baby Village offers soon-tobe parents a personalised shopping experience from a curated range of brands & products. By providing expert advice you can be sure you’ll make the right decision on essentials including your pram, cot & car seat through to the nice-to-haves.
www.bambinomio.com.au Bambino Mio provides parents with stylish, affordable and environmentally friendly product alternatives with a wide range of award-winning cloth nappies, toilet training undies, swimwear and change time accessories. They champion sustainable nappies that feel better: better for bums, your pocket and our planet too.
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#needit now
Blond + Noir www.blondnoir.com Blond + Noir is the place to go for wall art, reusable decals and wallpaper for your kids rooms. Designed by their inhouse artist and interior designer, the products are then hand made in their Gold Coast studio using only the highest quality materials. From custom name prints to abstract pieces for any room palette, Blond + Noir have you covered.
Aster & Oak www.asterandoak.com.au Aster & Oak is a West Australian children’s label that offers a beautiful and artistic collection of certified organic clothing & bedding for the precious little people in our lives. All of their designs are hand illustrated in-house, making each season’s exclusive collection as original, unique and distinctive as the babes who wear them.
Boori www.boori.com.au For over 25 years, Boori has stood for quality and innovation. Boori combines classic heritage with contemporary trends to create timeless nursery and kids' furniture. Crafted with sustainable and durable solid wood and finished with eco friendly paints, their pieces are built to withstand the bumps and knocks of family life, whilst also caring for our environment.
Bluebird Co. www.bluebirdco.com.au Bluebird Co offers a modern take on the traditional idea of a bluebird keepsake with unique, personalised jewellery that has been lovingly designed in Australia and crafted by skilled artisans from quality materials. Inspired by the wonders of nature, the keepsakes make a perfect go-to gift for baby showers, birthdays and special occasions.
Design Kids
Charlie in the Woods www.charlieinthewoods.com Charlie in the Woods was created by Artist Laura Attew who was inspired by her little boy to paint artwork to ignite children’s imaginations and inspire dreams. Laura hand paints personalised birth and name prints, animal A-Z charts and beautifully painted animals which are then converted to prints for an extra special gift.
www.designkids.com.au Design Kids Australia is an online store dedicated to providing you with the best range of modern nursery furniture. Adhering to Australian and New Zealand safety standards, their range of furniture gives you the peace-of-mind feeling knowing you’ve invested in a piece that will be safe, practical and well loved by you and baby.
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Designstuff www.designstuff.com.au Designstuff presents a world of adventure, fun, and eclecticism through their curation of Scandinavian inspired kid’s furniture, toys, décor, and accessories. Designstuff is a must see store for kid’s room furniture and décor pieces, gorgeous birthday present ideas, and stunning baby shower gifts.
Elms Store www.elmsstore.com.au Elms is a lifestyle store showcasing beautiful Australian brands with a focus on sustainability, beauty and functionality. From baby blankets and books to wooden toys and artwork, their goal is to fill your home with items you and your little ones will love and appreciate for years to come.
Elyse Howlett www.elysehowlett.com Elyse is an Australian artist & mama bear creating beautiful fabric wall decals & art prints for kid’s spaces. We love the large range for girls, boys & gender neutral options. Elyse’s philosophy sums it up perfectly - Let them dream, let them imagine, let them be little.
Ekokids www.ekokids.com.au Ekokids is a playful furniture brand inspired by children’s imaginary world. They believe furniture can be fun without compromising good design. Ekokids is here to help parents contribute to a more sustainable planet by enriching children’s environment with conscientious furniture designed with love and made in Australia.
Ergopouch
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www.ergopouch.com.au ErgoPouch Australia is the reliable and trusted innovator of organic, premium, TOG-rated sleepwear for ages newborn to 5 years. Ergonomically designed for your child’s age and developmental stage and made using the highest quality materials to give your child safer and more comfortable sleep in their early years.
Go To Bed
Goldie + Ace
Frankie + Roy www.frankieandroy.com.au Australian made kids label Frankie + Roy creates classic, versatile wardrobe staples for both boys & girls sizes 1-10. With a major focus on quality over quantity each item is designed to be functional and durable. We love the mix and match colours keeping our kids comfy and looking great!
www.goldieandace.com Goldie + Ace is a new Australian designed mini label with a focus on quality fabrics in simple, easy to wear shapes. We love their philosophy of quality over quantity, buy less, wear it more and pass it on. An obsession with ensuring each individual garment is made to perfection means Goldie + Ace’s soft, high-quality clothes are made to last.
www.gotobedthelabel.com Sleep is the new happy hour: Go To Bed, is a range of super-soft children's bed linen that are available in stylish colours at accessible pricing. We love the unisex, muted palette that works perfectly in any bedroom.
Happy Go Ducky www.happygoducky.com.au The Happy Go Ducky collection of traditional and whimsical European children’s brands has been carefully curated to include brands that all share a passion and focus for quality handmade pieces. Their range covers keepsake toys, bedding and decor and includes some of our all time favourite pieces perfect for any style room.
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Hunter and Nomad
Hello Kit Co.
Hevensent
www.hellokitco.com Hello Kit Co. offers a range of design driven party ‘kits & bits’ to celebrate and decorate! Rather than shopping for gift and party related products across many different stores, you can find all you need here packaged up beautifully, and delivered to your door. All we can say is expect joy here!
www.hevensent.com Hevensent create fun memories with exclusive children’s story wallpapers and interiors. Their unique wallpapers in sophisticated soft muted tones or hand screen printed metallics are so beautiful that we just had to share. Hevensent are committed to working with local suppliers and limiting their impact on our environment. A big tick from us!
www.hunterandnomad.com.au Hunter & Nomad is an eclectic decor store, bringing to you a thoughtfully crafted collection of stunning and unique handmade products for you and your home. Drawing from their Dutch heritage, Hunter & Nomad design ethical products with a European edge. Well established as a go-to store for kids interior design, we love browsing their store for endless inspiration.
India and Grace www.indiaandgrace.com India and Grace is an Australian designed baby and children's wear label bringing you whimsical and stylish yet practical fashion for littles. Each piece is lovingly designed and ethically made using only the finest fabrics and materials. With quality being an integral part of India and Grace, all of their pieces are made to last.
CHOOSE WELL
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Incy Interiors
Kippins
Linen House
www.incyinteriors.com.au Allow your little one to dream big and sleep easy with nursery furniture from Incy Interiors. Incy have a range of bassinets, cots, change tables and rockers. While style and versatility are on top of their agenda, they never let this compromise the safety of their designs so you can always shop in confidence.
www.kippins.co Love sleep? So do the Kippins. These insta-famous cuddle blankies are made from pure organic cotton - a big tick from us! Designed in Australia and made ethically with love the world over, their range now includes muslin swaddles, soft toys and sleepwear for the cutest kippins twinning.
www.linenhouse.com Hiccups, Linen House for Kids, is an enchanting brand of bed linen and coordinating homewares for babies, children and teenagers. Designed to make your little one’s bedroom colourful, fun and universally delightful their designs are hand-painted in Melbourne. Perfect for bringing a gentle theme into your little one’s room.
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Little Footwear Co. www.littlefootwearco.com.au Little Footwear Co strives to provide children and adult’s with great quality, comfortable and stylish shoes. All Little Footwear Co. shoes are made with microfibre leather also known as Vegan Leather, known for its high level of wear-resisting properties and excellent air permeability. We love the beautiful cut away design.
Little Ray www.littlerayswim.com.au Australian designed, Little Ray is a premium swimwear label for children 1-8 years, produced using sustainable Italian Lycra. Little Ray creates timeless styles, designed to be functional, comfortable, sun protect and durable. We love the Little Ray commitment to sustainability from product design right through to packing. Plus their colour range is awesome!
MINTY
Livly www.livly.com.au Livly is a designer lighting store inspired by the heart and delivered with love. A place where imaginations are illuminated by the curves and colours of each magical piece. Where the everyday act of lighting a room becomes a special experience. That’s what we’re talking about right?! With the Luna Pop Lighting collection, you and your child can enjoy the warmth and enchantment of Livly lighting in your home. Each piece a perfect balance of aesthetics, functionality, and fun
Luna’s Treasures www.lunastreasures.com.au Luna’s Treasures® focus on designing and manufacturing their own extensive range of baby and kids essentials from Australian businesses. Their bamboo muslin baby wraps & accessories, bamboo jersey baby wraps & accessories, cot and knit blankets, bamboo jersey fitted sheets for bassinets / cots / change tables , hair accessories, knit beanies for the whole family, are sure to impress.
Little Wiwa
MAKE IT LAST
www.littlewiwa.com.au Premium, minimalist, non-toxic, eco-friendly. Inspired by Scandinavian traditional designs, Little Wiwa play mats are made from 100% sustainable and biodegradable TPU foam that bring timeless aesthetics to your homes with an instant splash of splendour. Revel in the comfort of our soft, luxurious mats – tailored for you, yet perfect for your babies.
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2020
Minnie and Me Interiors www.minnieandmeinteriors.com
Mini Village www.minivillage.com.au Mini Village offers modern eco friendly children’s toys, essentials, decor and books. We love their belief that “eco friendly” and “aesthetics” can blend together seamlessly. Everything Mini Village stock is beautiful, natural, ethically made, and made to last. Beautiful pieces to hand down from generation to generation.
Minnie and Me Interiors are a family operated wallpaper and wall decal business. All of their one-of-a-kind products are lovingly custom made in Victoria, Australia. Their DIY, premium wallpaper and wall decals are printed on a re-positional polyester, adhesive fabric that can be easily applied almost anywhere.
More Than Ever www.morethanever.com.au Mix and match bedding to brighten your kids bedrooms. More than Ever is inspired by the love & chaos of family life. They get that life isn’t perfect, sometimes things get mixed up and sometimes things just happen to match. Their products are designed in Brisbane, made ethically in India, are 100% cotton and use non-toxic dyes.
Mulberry Threads www.mulberrythreadsco.com.au
MINTY
Made for the sleepy heads. Mulberry Threads creates luxe bamboo bedding and sleepwear using the finest natural and organic textiles. Their collection has been designed with uncompromising comfort, quality and style in mind. Founded through a shared love of soft, natural fabrics, we love their commitment to luxury with an eco-friendly ethos.
Musluv
Mustard Made
My Little Giggles
www.musluv.com Musluv help you get back out into the open world with your baby by providing excellent sun protection for your little one. Their UV baby sun covers have been developed to keep your baby safe, cool and comfortable wherever you go and leave you confident to get out and about with your bub.
www.mustardmade.com Mustard Made creates lockers perfect for little ones Sisters Bec & Jess run this show and their aim is to make products that are as functional as they are beautiful. With a selection of colours perfect for rooms of any style and a range of sizes, Mustard pieces will stand the test of time in your home.
www.mylittlegiggles.com My Little Giggles is run by two mums with a passion for handmade. They offer a range of handcrafted baby and children’s timber products which are designed to help your child’s development from newborn through to toddler. We love their genius interlocking frame that makes assembly a breeze!
P 10 5
Nana Huchy
Peggy
www.nanahuchy.com.au Nana Huchy’s classic Baby Blankets are perfect for the cot, pram, or around the house, made from 100% Oetek-tex approved cotton, signifying quality cotton manufacturing. Super soft & durable, you can throw them in the washing machine and line dry in shade. Made to last & snuggle up to for years, these special blankets are premium quality & timeless design.
www.peggy.com.au Named after the Melbourne designer’s grandmother, the label aims to keep an air of ‘old fashioned whimsicality’ in its gorgeous designs. The range features dresses, shorts, playsuits, nappy covers, swimwear and hats for girls ages 0-12 – all of which can be mixed and matched for a quirky boho effect.
Play Pouch
MINTY
www.playpouch.com.au Pouch Australia is the original creator of the toy storage bag and mat in one. Play Pouch was designed by mothers to solve the problem of toy spread in the home and on outings. There is a space for every one and a place for everything! Trust us - you will need more than one!
Plyroom
Peppermint Tree Creations www.pepperminttreecreations.com.au
Peppermint Tree Creations specialises in handmade kids decor cushions, the perfect addition to every magical kids space with plenty of colours and designs to suit all spaces. We love their philosophy for children - to create spaces to let them dream, imagine and adventure in their own little worlds so they can keep a little piece of that childhood magic in them forever.
www.plyroom.com.au Plyroom creates sustainably made minimalist furniture for a simpler life. Proudly made in Italy and Australia, Plyroom are passionate about made to last craftsmanship, functional design and modern simplicity. Their products are designed to be loved by every member of your family for years to come.
Play To Learn www.playtolearn.com.au Play To Learn captures the essence of childhood by providing the ingredients for children’s growth and development. Their range of resources encourage children’s imagination, sense of wonder and curiosity. Play To Learn proudly supports the best quality products made from sustainable materials that are safe, non-toxic and eco friendly. Doing things right for your little ones and our planet.
Pony Rider www.ponyrider.com.au Pony Rider are an Australian homewares company who design creative gear for creative folk. We love their earthy textures and tones and the spirit of adventure that their products bring into kids rooms. The quality is second to none, so you know when you shop with Pony Rider you are buying a piece to last.
P 10 6
2020
LESS BUT BETTER
Pop Ya Tot
Pretty In Pine
Ruby Rabbit
www.popandoli.com.au Pop and Oli celebrate the love of sleep, rest, relaxation and family. They pride themselves on their beautifully curated selection of Australian and New Zealand brands. Their range covers clothing, bedding, decor, play and relaxation products specially for newborn, baby, kids through to tweens and special pieces for mums. We love their commitment to quality, comfort and style.
www.popyatot.com.au Pop Ya Tot is a family owned business that creates a highly regarded baby bedding and linen boutique, stocked in over 300 outlets around the world. Pop Ya Tots designs are made by Mum Pia, who struggled to find designs that suited her own home decor. We love that all of the Pop Ya Tot products are certified organic cotton and ethically made.
www.prettyinpine.com Pretty in Pine handcraft children’s toys and wall art that can be cherished and passed down for years to come. Grounded in the philosophy of ‘quality over quantity’, they craft their products here in Australia from 100% sustainable hoop pine plywood harvested from plantations in South East Queensland. Doesn’t get much more local than that!
www.rubyrabbit.com.au Ruby Rabbit loves to party! They stock the very latest on-trend party, event and wedding supplies. We love visiting Ruby Rabbit for all things birthday parties, baby showers, christenings, engagements, bridal showers, weddings and special celebrations. Their extensive range will have you covered every time.
Second Scout www.secondscout.com.au Second Scout creates picture-based organisation solutions that can be interpreted by even the littlest family members, well before they’ve learned to read. Designed and made in Australia, the range of practical and stylish routine helpers, timber tags & adhesive labels are perfect for empowering little ones to help around the home, whilst also satisfying the design-conscious interior lovers among us.
The Feather Bird
Small Land
www.thefeatherbird.com The Feather Bird is a gender neutral children’s clothing label, offering a range of fun and playful basics that can be worn and loved by all kids. Their clothes are ethically made in Melbourne from the softest organic cotton. The Feather Bird are passionate about gender equality and encouraging all kids to wear whatever they want and in any colour they like!
www.smallland.com.au Small Land is a lill' bit cheeky, but a whole lot of fun! We create affordable, fashion forward pieces, for your stylish mini. As a boutique fashion label, we stress on quality, comfort and design. From gift sets, to sleep wear, to outings, they’ve got you covered, dressing them from head to toe for all occasions.
P 10 7
MINTY
Pop and Oli
The Nappy Society
MINTY
www.thenappysociety.com.au The Nappy Society Baby Bag Inserts are the perfect solution, ideal for modern mamas who don’t care for the traditional baby bags on the market. They allow you to turn any tote into the perfect baby bag and will help keep your life organised while maintaining your sense of identity and love for fashion and style.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
The Upsy Store
Toots + Co
www.theupsystore.com.au The Upsy Store is the home of the Upsy. The Upsy booster seats are adorable, wipe-clean & lightweight for kids aged 18mths – 8yrs. Upsy’s are 100% cotton laminated for messy little eaters and were originally designed for that extra boost at the dining table. They are the re-invention of a vinyl vintage design from the 1960’s and are designed to be useful as well as pretty darn cute.
www.tootsandco.com Luxe Italian leather baby-bags that are stylish, yet instinctively practical, keeping mum and bub essentials separated and organised. With perfect sized pockets to allow you to grab wipes and nappies in seconds, external slip pockets to have bottles and sippy cups at the ready and multiple ways to wear each bag you will love them too!
Ubabub
Uimi
Wallpaper Trader
www.ubabub.com When parents Natasha and Daniel Dumais had trouble finding nursery furniture to suit their modern taste, they decided to create their own. Ubabub is a proudly Australian designed premium-end nursery and children’s furniture brand available throughout Australia, New Zealand, United States and Canada.
www.uimi.com.au Established in 2009, Uimi creates a unique range of slow fashion and textiles from renewable extra fine Merino wool, Egyptian cotton and Cashmere cotton. We love that they only choose natural fibres because they are biodegradable, naturally soft and breathable. All Uimi products are proudly designed and manufactured from their factory in Thornbury, Australia.
www.wallpapertrader.com Wallpaper Trader is your one stop shop for beautiful, unique and fantastical wallpaper and murals for your home. We love their philosophy that wallpaper gives you the chance to bring larger than life art, fun and whimsy into any space. Wallpaper Trader is a female founded mumpreneur business always happy to help you find something you love.
P 10 8
2020
Warren Hill Linen Play Mats www.mywarrenhill.com Linen play mats designed to look beautiful in your home. Warren Hill play mats are made from 100% French Flax linen and supported with luxurious padding. We love that for every Warren Hill play mat sold, they will plant 10 trees, giving right back to Mother Earth.
We Might Be Tiny Wondermade www.wondermade.com.au Brighten your wall and inspire your world with Wondermade reusable wall decals. Their wonderful, quality-made wall decals have been created to be educational, thought-provoking and conversation-starting.Think modern kids posters, without the hassle of framing & hanging, inspirational quotes, education, height charts, photo decals and personalised designs.
MINTY
www.wemightbetiny.com.au We Might Be Tiny’s award-winning range of beautiful, minimalist tableware inspires and delights even the fussiest of eaters. Pop them in the freezer, use them to whip up quick microwave snacks and even bake them in the oven. And best of all, you can simply let your dishwasher deal with the mess when your adventures come to an end.
Wean Meister www.weanmeister.com.au Wean Meister have a simple ethos - to empower Mum’s and Dad’s to have fun and easy mealtimes! They provide uniquely designed baby feeding products – that are genuine time savers – and made out of the finest quality silicone. They are an investment in quality, that provide an alternative to buying often and contributing to landfill.
Woolerina www.woolerina.com.au Woolerina makes soft Australian Merino clothing for your family with love, to be loved by you! Made in Australia using the softest, hand selected Merino wool, Woolerina’s products are the perfect choice for your little people. Woolerina products are easy-care as they’re fully machine washable. Woolerina’s collection features base, middle and outer layers for kids, babies and adults.
You and Me Prints www.youandmeprints.com You and Me Prints create bespoke custom portraits from your everyday snaps. Each piece is a unique, personal work of art that will brighten any family home and guarantee to melt hearts. Alongside their stunning portraits, they also offer a selection of fine art nursery prints and personalised name artworks that will inspire creativity and wonder whilst complimenting contemporary children’s interiors everywhere.
For even more inspiration visit www.smallist.com.au
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COLAB Your products, styled and shot by the Minty team, and shared with the Minty audience.
For more information visit www.mintymagazine.com.au/co-lab-content-creation
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