Anything a Marli and Mo’s Magazine
but Ordinary
farmyard
fun!
Create a statement Improve your look 5 minutes with Chrissie Swan & Lisa Curry
Issue 2 sept 13
shop
women
clothing collections
I you to
follow us
hand made delights
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo www.pinterest.com/marliandmo
babies
tots &
www.instagram.com/marliandmo
juniors
http://tinyurl.com/c8cm8af
aussie
http://bit.ly/14KrXS8 designers
unique creations
delightful
decor
46
contents 44
36
10 64
94
98
4
Welcome
5
Meet the team
7
Meet our contributors
8
Inspirational women Bec Derrington
10
Farmyard fun
32
Creative play with Elise Ellerman
34
Baby shower style Claire Cassey
36
Vintage high tea
44
Inspirational women Chrissie Swan
46
Fabulous fairytales
56
Talking kids with Melissa Henderson
61
Image talk with Ann Whitaker
64
Adorned in spring
82
Health talk with Dr Jemima Nelson
84
Inspirational women Jade Robran
86
Beauty talk with Sam Crosby
88
Designer showcase Julie Russell
94
Inspirational women Lisa Curry
96
Tech talk with Pia Argiratos
98
Create a statement
110 Calendar of events 112 What’s on 4 award winners 115 Competitions 127 Natrice’s last word I
YOU =
I moust-ache YOU www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 3
Welcome Spring has sprung! And doesn’t it bring with it a warm and fuzzy feeling? For the Marli and Mo team, spring signifies new life, new looks and new experiences. It’s hard to think of spring without a newborn—be it a gorgeous baby or a lamb or chick. We have the cutest pictures of all things baby for you to ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ over in Adorned in spring and Farmyard fun. We’ve interviewed some amazing women in this issue—women like Lisa Curry and Chrissie Swan—who are full of courage and stories that inspire us to do better. And for those of you wanting something special to give you a new ‘spring’ in your step, we’re sure Killari silver will do just that. Speaking of new experiences, our awesome photographer leaves in just a few days’ time for an Incan adventure—make sure you read all about it on page 28. We don’t expect many dads will read our gorgeous pages, but we hope that you get to share the first day of spring (yes, it is the best season!) with your dad, the father of your children, your uncle, grandfather, or any special man in your life. Happy reading.
Team Marli and Mo Anything A MARLI & MO’S MAGAZINE
but Ordinary
farmyard
on the front cover
fun!
Create a statement Improve your look 5 mintues with Chrissy Swan & Lisa Curry
The gorgeous Charlotte (Charlie) wearing clothing by Small to Tall. ISSUE 2 SEPT 13
4 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Meet the
team Natrice Grosvenor Co-Founder/Director
Debbie Stahmer Co-Founder/Director
Marketing/PR I have a thing for stationery, adore handmade, wine and of course chocolate. My 3 boys are my life and love!
Creative Director I am passionate about creativity. I enjoy time with my family and friends and I am so not a domestic goddess. But I love chocolate!
Antonia Medhurst Precision Proofing
Nicole Barralet Nicole Barralet Photography
Editor-in-Chief Hello, I’m Antonia. I love tickling my two munchkins until they beg me to stop and chatting with friends over a good coffee!
kind words
Senior Photographer I am a Brisbane-based wedding and portrait photographer. I love coffee, singing loudly in the car, the colour red and cooking for my family and friends.
Thank you for all your love and support ... Well done, you! It looks great and is a fun read. I know the work that goes into these things so I commend you and totally understand the sleepdeprivat ion thing! Belinda Glindemann
A BIG congratulations to you sweetheart, Deb and the rest of ‘Team Marli & Mo’ on what I knew would be a stunning debut magazine! Gorgeous is not part of my usual vernacular but it really is just that. Monique Smart
a simply Congratulations on that e in az stunning mag cks a aims high and pa and ORK punch. GREAT W ve been ha no wonder you so busy! Sally-Anne Carey
Congratulations on your first issue—it was fabulous! Jemima Nelson
It’s Thank you. !! AMAZING!! issue. r u yo E LOV xxx Gorgeous x
CONGRATULATIONS!!! The magazine looks both AMAZING. Well done to see to g itin exc So of you. lity. your vision become rea Melissa Henderson
WELL DONE! It’s just beautiful. It’s stylish, easy to read and perfect for your target market. You should be so pleased! Sharon Westin-Shaw
Well done, girls, it g looks really amazin d an ul tif and beau clever. All the things you are! Elise Easdown
nger
Lisa Messe
Special thanks to Indiana Sage Designs and Boys Will Be Boys.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 5
Meet our
contri butors Melissa Henderson Early Childhood Solutions
Elise Easdown What’s on 4
Through her business and as a social worker and early childhood teacher, Melissa offers mentoring and support to parents and educators with children in the 2–8 year age range. Soon to offer a number of online courses, keep your eyes on www. earlychildhoodsolutions.com.au and facebook.com/early.childhood. solutions
What’s On 4 is about sharing with you all the wonderful things to do with children to have fun and celebrate living in Australia.
Pia Argiratos Powered Life
Dr Jemima Nelson (B Sc-Psych and M Chiroprac)
Powered Life knows the importance of keeping our devices powered and protected so that we can keep connected to our families, friends, clients and more—wherever we are.
Jemima is a new mum and chiropractor with a passion for holistic parenting and health. She specialises in paediatric health and pregnancy.
Sam Crosby CEO & Founder, Anyana Organics Skin Care Sam’s background in pregnancy and baby massage and aromatherapy, combined with a love of animals, a serious distaste for animal testing, her love of veganism and her passion for natural birthing led to the launch of Ayana.
www.marliandmo.com.au
Elise Ellerman Creative Play Central
Ann Whitaker House of Colour & Image
Nurturing children’s potential through creative play and art experiences. A former school teacher with ten years’ experience, Elise has a keen interest in designing experiences that inspire children’s creativity so that they develop skills, strategies and behaviours that enable them to ‘think outside the box’.
A Brisbane-based image consultant, Ann gives you simple, stress-free solutions that enable you to always feel confident in your appearance. Ann provides a one-stop service teaching you skincare, make-up and dressing tricks that mean you will love the person you see in the mirror.
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 7
inspirational women
we
BEC ...
Owner Of sourcebottle
What inspired you to start SourceBottle? I didn’t plan to start this business in the beginning. I was just frustrated by the whole PR process. I felt the relationship between journalists, PR professionals and businesses was really inefficient. Journalists were being inundated with unsolicited and (many times) irrelevant PR pitches, while thousands of interesting businesses were going unnoticed because journalists so often stuck to their usual sources. This meant that no-one was winning—least of all readers looking for fresh perspectives from credible, thought-provoking sources. I questioned why we weren’t just asking journalists what sorts of expertise or experience they were looking for in a source so we could find them, as a collective. Anyway, it wasn’t until a week before my second child was due that I decided I had to make it happen. I was desperately trying to finish the last of my client work before taking a few weeks off when I took a call from a client prospect who expected me to be on hand the following week (what, mid-birth?) should she need it, and could I confirm my availability? It was then 8 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
that I decided I would make that lame-brained scheme of a free service a reality. I didn’t then, and still don’t, believe in charging for these publicity opportunities. While not necessarily great from a revenue-generating perspective, my goal was to address the deficiencies of the industry as I saw them, meaning the service had to be accessible to everyone. Can you tell us a little bit about you? I like to refer to myself as a work-in-progress mum of three boys, with a fascination with all things media and marketing. While I started out as a lawyer, it was short-lived, and I soon found myself pursuing a career that I loved, working in marketing and media in the professional services industry. After the birth of my first child, I started my own consultancy, called Wagging Tongues, concentrating on public relations, marketing and copywriting for SMEs. A few years later I started SourceBottle. Is owning and running your own company as glamourous as it sounds? God no! It’s bloody hard work and I feel exhausted and overwhelmed by what I need to do on a daily
basis. The truth is, there are a lot of days when you’re sitting in your jammies at 2 pm with WeetBix in your hair, sipping ice-cold tea (complete with milk skin from the multiple times you’ve reheated it in the microwave), with a knot in your stomach at your growing ‘to do’ list. But while there’s nothing glamourous about my life, I wouldn’t change it for anything. What’s a day in the life of Bec like? I usually wake to the call of my youngest son from his cot, followed by ushering the other two boys out of bed for breakfast, while I frantically pack their lunches, get everyone dressed (including myself) and ready for the school and kindy/childcare run. Then, it’s a mad dash back to my office to catch up on the call-outs, load up the day’s ads and start responding to queries from subscribers. Then (in the words of Elaine), ‘Yada, yada, yada’, and before I know it, it’s time to pick up the kids and get them dinner, bathed and to bed, so I can then have dinner with my husband, clean the kitchen and then sit watching TV, along with my laptop and a cuppa. Oh, then I usually collapse in bed sometime after midnight. Have you got a piece of advice you think is invaluable for working women? Be gentle on yourself. You’ll always be your harshest critic, so ignore the majority of what you say to yourself and remember that you’re doing your best. What is your biggest challenge? Juggling parenthood and work. I never feel I have the balance right, but keep striving for it just the same. Who inspires you the most? My mum, with her tireless work ethic and devotion to her family; my husband, with his determination, drive and compassion; and my girlfriends who are remarkable in the way they hold down stressful jobs, while being amazing parents and friends. www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
I questioned why we weren’t just asking journalists what sorts of expertise or experience they were looking for in a source so we could find them, as a collective.
How do you relax and unwind? I love to read, hang out with my family, or catch up with girlfriends for a coffee/glass of wine. What’s your must-have product? Matte lipstick. What are the three most useful tools for your business? Right now it’s Twitter, Freshbooks and Saasu. What’s one quote that you live by? ‘Suck it up, Princess’. Not terribly highbrow, but effective just the same. Where do you see your brand/business in five years? As one of the top three media leads services in the English-speaking world. Your biggest vice? Late night TV and crime shows, accompanied by strong tea and chocolate. www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 9
Photography Nicole Barralet Photography Animals Kim’s Itty Bitty Mobile Farm Fashion B eautiful Soles, Born Gorgeous My Heart Flutters, Ohh Baby Baby, Paisley and Argyle, Small to Tall and Whoo’s Cute
farmyard
fun!
12 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 15
16 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 19
20 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 23
24 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
behind the scenes look at
farmyard
fun!
26 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Let us bring a few furry friends to your next party or event! We come to you—Kim’s Itty Bitty Mobile Animal Farm with portable pens to accomodate our animals, we bring the gazebos and tarps for ground cover if you wish ... And the best bit is we clean up after the animals and leave your site close to what it was when we arrived, maybe with a little more fertiliser and a few blades of grass missing. We bring lambs, goats, mini goats, chickens, ducks, ducklings, chicks, guinea pigs, piglets, mini pigs, and when available, we have turkey chicks and guinea fowl chicks. We provide hands-on experience for the children: we bring food and bottles so all children can feed, cuddle and groom all animals and we also have a cuddle corner for the itty bitty babies. The birthday child receives a present from the animals and all the children at the end of the day also get a goodie bag of lollies. Birthday Party Prices $250* for the first hour $100 for the every hour after *unless you are over 2 hours away where minimum party is 2 hours. (We are based at Mt Sylvia which is approx. 20 mins out of Gatton.)
Kim’s Itty Bitty Mobile Animal Farm
(07) 5462 6406
www.kimsittybittymobileanimalfarm.webs.com email: kimsittybittymobileanimalfarm@outlook.com www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 27
Did you know that right now 7 Aussies are living in aged care, s there are no other optio This isn’t right, and you can help to make a difference! Youngcare is an organisation that brings greater choice in care and housing for young people with high-care needs. It has a history of adventure challenges to encourage people to get out of their comfort zone and experience some of the mental and physical challenges that could be compared to life in aged care. The Youngcare Machu Picchu Inca Trail will be a significant and life-changing event for not only Nicole, but for the young Australians for whom Youngcare is working so hard to exist. By sponsoring Nicole on this once-in-a-lifetime challenge, you will be helping Youngcare to:
On 5 September, our amazing photographer Nicole will be conquering one of the most isolated tracks on the Inca Trail in Peru with altitude peaking at 4000 m. While she will be conquering and pushing her own limits, the most important part of the challenge is to raise money and awareness for young people with high-care needs.
• build more relevant and age-appropriate housing • provide information and support to those in need via the Youngcare Connect hotline service • provide grants to keep young people who are at a high risk of entering aged care at home (with their loved ones) • undertake world-first research to develop a better understanding of the issues, wants and needs of young Aussies who have 24/7 care needs.
7500 young simply because ons? Nicole’s Journey—Why she is trekking to Machu Picchu ‘As a teenager, I had the wonderful experience of caring for a young Australian with high-care needs. Joanne, who was in her late thirties, had both mental and physical disabilities that required a full-time carer. Joanne’s mum had no other option than to provide her with the full-time support that she needed. This meant that there was little or no time out for Joanne’s mum. This is where I was able to help. One night a week I fed, cared for and put Joanne to bed, while giving her mum some much needed time out for herself. Initially, I took this role on during my teenage years to earn some extra pocket money, but it also taught me to understand compassion, responsibility and tolerance, not something easily come by as a teenager. Caring for Joanne made me aware that not everyone has the same opportunities in life that I do; and giving a little bit of my time meant so much to someone else. When the opportunity arose to be part of the Youngcare Machu Picchu Trek 2013, I
immediately jumped at the offer. My experience with Joanne has given me appreciation and gratitude for my good fortune in life. I have a chance to give back, to make a difference in someone else’s life.’
So how can you help? Head over to Nicole’s fundraising page to make a tax-deductible donation and help a young person in need.
Nicole is also offering anyone in the Brisbane area who donates $500 or more to Youngcare via her online fundraising page, a complimentary portrait session and 10 digital negatives valued at $800! If you would like to follow Nicole’s journey of trekking to Machu Picchu, then check out the links below.
www.nicolebarraletphotography.com/blog
We are finalist for Mumpreneur of the Year Please show your love and support by voting for us. Voting commences 11 September 2013
Click to
Vote for us
mu mp ren eur SH OP
MuMPrENEur OF THE YEAr FINALIsT
#4
In association with
NATRICE GROSVENOR and business partner DEBBIE STAHMER bring together all kind s of great finds with their Marli & Mo Online Marketp lace WHO: Natrice Grosvenor (mum to Harrison, four, and Flynn, two) and Debbie Stahmer (mum to Cooper, four, and Jai, one). WERE: Natrice (above right) was a marketing manager and Debbie (above left) a graphic designer. NOW: Co-founders of Marli & Mo Online Marketplace (www. marliandmo.com.au).
a graphic designer and the talent behind our branding, it made it a lot easier to control the look of the site.
Spreading the word
eldest is in care three days a week and her youngest is at home. We work around them. There are very late nights and early starts, which isn’t ideal, but we know it’s not forever.
With little to no funds in our marketing The best bits budget, our friends and family were our Watching our dreams turn into a reality biggest supporters to begin with in spreading and being able to share the vision and goals the word. We also began building our of being business owners together. Also, community within Facebook and other having the flexibility to be able to share those social media platforms. Networking and precious moments with our families and ebbie and I are so proud of Marli online forums were also integral in getting connecting with other like-minded people & Mo Online Marketplace, which our messag e out there. I also put on my within our little community. brings together buyers and sellers media and PR hat and generated some to create a community of like-minded people, great publicity through existing contacts. The hardest part where mums can browse and buy all kinds The steep learning curve. There were a lot of things for babies, children and themselves. And now? of mistakes made and lessons learnt, but we We’re proud of our achievements and are are wiser for experiencing them. You certainly When did the idea strike? enjoying connecting with our community of get to find out who you can and can’t trust In conversation over coffee and cake! Debbie buyers and sellers, which continues to grow. in the world of business. and I were discussing options regarding We believe we’re helping other businesses get going back to work, one thing led to the tools they need to grow their brands and another and a business model was formed. their audiences, too. We’ve launched our first quarterly e-magazine and are excited with Star ting out the direction the business is moving in. With close to six months of research and development and discussing the framework, How do your kids fit in? it then took another year to build the Our children are our first priority. My kids website, due to the extensive amount are in care two to three days a week (and of coding that was needed for this kind of don’t understand that I have a job other marketplace. Thankfully with Debbie being than being Mummy!), while Debbie’s WINNeR
D
geTs
5000!
Who do you think should be vot ed Practical Parenting’s MuMpren eur of the year? Practi
cal Parenting and 4moms have been on the lookout for Australia’s Mumpreneur of the Year and this year we have had an overwhelmin g response! We’ve narrowed down the entries to five fantastic finalists who will be profiled in the magaz ine each month until our October issue, where we will have a recap of all five finalists.
We want you to be the judge to determ ine the winner so if you like what you see, remem ber to cast your vote online at www.pp-mumpren eur.com.au when voting commences on 11/09/13. Once the votes are in, the lucky winne r will receive $5000 cash plus a 4moms multi-colour plush infant seat valued at $379.95.
Visit www.practicalparenting.com.au for full terms and conditions. Closes 12/03/13 at 11pm AEDT. Voting period is 11/09/13 Maximum prize value is $5379.95. Winner at 9am – 15/10/13 at 5pm. judged on 16/10/13 at 11am. The Promote r is Pacific Magazines Pty Ltd (ABN 16 097 410 896).
Creative Play ... Think outside the box
It has been said that ‘creativity is the currency of the future’. We live in a world where innovation, which requires creative thinking, is highly sought after. There is always a demand for creative thinkers to generate new ideas, develop possibilities, solve problems, use failures to reinvent processes, put their own ‘stamp’ on a product or service. Therefore, providing children with many and varied creative experiences is not only important for their overall development, it is through creative pursuits that children develop and strengthen creative thinking skills, strategies and behaviours that shape their future and lay the foundation for success. Creative experiences teach children the value of exploring, observing, innovating, taking risks, discovering and the steps involved to create a vision and turn it into a reality. Therefore, children need opportunities to lead creative experiences; as well as be exposed to different materials and encouraged to explore them. To encourage children to ‘think outside the box’ why not mix it up a little when it comes to drawing, painting and creating with playdough. Some possible ideas include: • V ary the materials supplied and the canvas for painting and drawing. This could involve 32 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
cutting out some coloured door shapes, securing them (one edge only so they can be opened) to the paper. Invite your child to draw what they think could be behind the door. • D ivide a piece of paper into quarters and in each quarter draw a shape (the same shape in each quarter). Invite your child to draw four different pictures by incorporating the shape into each of their drawings. • C reate a pop-up play scene (this is an activity that can be enjoyed by younger and older children). To do this, create some basic outlines to suit a particular theme that your child is interested in (outer space, where you draw a couple of planets and a rocket; a fairy land featuring a few mushroom houses; a farm with a barn; underwater land with castles shaped like shells etc.). Children then paint (or colour) the pop-up scene. Get the creative juices flowing by adding all sorts of embellishments, too— secure flowers to the pop-up pieces (we often use fake flowers to do this and secure them by making a small incision in the pop-up pieces and then poking the flower through). Coloured sand and shells could be added to a mermaid or underwater land. Wire can be wrapped around the pop-up pieces so
children could also thread beads onto this and then secure it to the back of the pop-up pieces. Small holes could also be made around the pop-up pieces and ribbon could be threaded around the outline of the pop up bits. Once your creation is complete it’s time to let the creative play and storytelling begin.
creative Play with Elise Ellerman
• W hen it comes to painting, create pieces on different surfaces and experiment with using different materials. For example, we have a boulder wall in our yard which has been used several times to inspire creative paintings; however, a similar sort of thing could be done on smaller rocks. • M ix up some chalk paint to create paintings outside. Place a stick of coloured chalk in a sealed plastic bag. Use a hammer to crush the chalk. Pour the contents of the plastic bag into a paint pot and add some water to create paint. Children can then colour their driveway or any paved area. It’s also fun to cast a shadow while striking a pose and have your child paint (with chalk paint) some details onto your shadow—perhaps a crazy hat, a bunch of flowers in your hands, create an outfit for you or paint an animal by your side, or in your hand.
Director/owner
• C ombining different materials with playdough helps to inspire unique creations and encourages children to think outside the box. A favourite in our home involves gaining inspiration from birthday cake cookbooks, for example we have been inspired to create Dolly Varden playdough dolls. Another favourite playdough activity that my children enjoy is playdough dress-ups. For this activity you need cardboard outlines of people (you can purchase these at craft stores or create your own). Add some embellishments such as buttons, gems, ribbon, lace and dress up family members and friends in playdough threads. Engaging children in creative experiences develops transferable skills that lead to children being innovative and flexible thinkers; thinkers that the future will demand and value. Creative Play Central recommends that children are closely supervised by adults during the activities mentioned and children are not left unattended. Creative Play Central takes no responsibility for any loss, damage, or injury as a result of these ideas and activities. presented. For more inspiration, ideas and discussion about the importance of creativity, visit Creative Play Central’s blog http://blog.creativeplaycentral.com.au and Facebook page . www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 33
Bucking the tradition of the typical
baby shower
I have never been one to stick to tradition so it came as no surprise to my friends and family that not only did I have men at my baby shower, but I also organised the whole thing. My son’s godmother looked after the sending of invitations and the RSVPs, but, being the control freak that I am, I looked after everything else from the invitation designs to the décor, to the food and music. Very much a believer that your invitation sets the tone for the party, I wanted to use design elements that I had used in the nursery such as the graphic of the birds on the fabric I had for my son’s cot quilt along with the stripes and organic shapes also on the fabric. Green, turquoise and orange were the colours used for the party and I highlighted this with the décor ideas: tissue paper pom poms, mini lanterns to hang across the outside entertaining area and gorgeous bunting that welcomed everyone to my baby shower. Bucking tradition again, I didn’t have games to 34 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
play, but I have been to many that have. Guess the girth was a funny one, we had to guess how round the mother-to-be was and whoever was the closest to the right measurement won. Another was to not say ‘baby’ for the whole event: you all start off with a lolly dummy around your neck and whoever catches the other out for saying baby gets to take their dummy from them. In the end it came down to one other person and myself laden with candy dummies! I was ridiculously spoilt for presents and as a person who doesn’t accept gifts easily, I found this quite overwhelming, especially when the guests insisted I unwrap every one of those presents in front of them all! I ended up having a baby shower registry simply because I was constantly being asked what I wanted, and as a first-time mother I honestly didn’t know what I would and wouldn’t need. The ladies at the baby store were a massive help and it certainly stopped any confusion on what was needed on my part. And the guests appreciated being able to go to one place and pick items off the list, but
Baby shower Style Claire Cassey
owner
make sure if you do this you have a wide variety of prices from $3.00 nail clippers to a $500.00 pram (this is more a wish list present, which I very luckily received) to make sure that each of your guests feel comfortable with their purchase amount. Make sure, too, when you are unwrapping your presents you have someone write down what the gift was and who you received it from so you can thank them later. Your guests have gone to the effort of buying you a beautiful present for your new baby so thank them with either a handwritten note or a little thankyou gift which you can give to them at the end of the shower. I found out early on in my pregnancy that I was going to have a little boy, but some parents opt not to find out until the birth, or if they have found out they may reveal it at their baby shower—a gender reveal party. I love this idea and you can easily include a game where each guest has to guess whether you will have a boy or girl. There are so many wonderful ways to celebrate the impending birth of your child, whether it be a beautiful high tea, a picnic lunch in a gorgeous park or a fun party at home, but the one thing you must do for this celebration is share it with those closest to you. www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
Concept, styling, photography, cookies and cake pops—Events by Nat (www. eventsbynat.blogspot.com.au) Cake base—Blissfully Sweet (www. blissfullysweetcakes.blogspot.com) Paperie—Pretty and Print (www.prettyandprint.com) Sweet little birdy garland, paper birdies and paper birdy toppers—Red Elephant Creative (http://redelephantcreative.com) Tissue paper pom poms—The Little Big Company (www.tlbc.com.au)
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 35
little ladies’
Vintage high tea
Photography Nicole Barralet Photography Stylist Moments In Vintage Fashion A Little Lacey and Little Pipika
38 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 41
BRISBANE - GOLD COAST - SUNSHINE COAST - TOOWOOMBA
Specialising in the hire of classic vintage furniture, décor and props, Moments in Vintage offers a large and varied collection of items from a range of eras for your event. We’re proud to provide South East Queensland’s largest range of beautiful genuine antique and vintage lounges for hire. Vintage is our passion and our collection, collated over time and after many hours of searching, and is available to you right now, saving you stress and time. Whether you are planning a party, high tea, wedding or corporate function, the team at Moments in Vintage are delighted to work with you to recommend items and assist you in any way we can to help you create a successful event. We also offer a range of custom-built and designed items crafted from recycled timber. These include our rustic recycled timber dance floor, custom-built backdrops and our spotted gum kids chairs, which are totally safe for adults too! We happily offer DIY pickup on most items or, if required, delivery is also available. Contact us today to find out just how easy it is to add a moment in vintage to your life.
Tisa Davey | 0422 544722 | www.momentsinvintage.com.au
we’re loving this
shop
Littlelock glass baby food containers are for those who want the safety of glass (no nasty toxins here!) and the convenience and versatility of one container. With the ability to go from fridge to freezer, microwave to dishwasher as well as into the nappy bag with no spills or leaks, Littlelock glass baby food containers put safety first; glass reduces your exposure to toxins in plastic including BPA, Phthalates and PVC with an attractive design. Don’t waste money on plastic/disposable containers that are harmful to the environment and your health. Invest in some Littlelock Glasslock glass baby food storage containers today. Available in two sizes (120 ml and 210 ml) and three gorgeous colours. Made from tempered glass, considerably stronger than regular glass, Littlelock containers are sturdy and durable and the brightly coloured lids lock tightly to create an airtight, leak-proof seal.
n i W Win ... 3-pack of 120 ml baby food storage containers. Click here to
enter www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 43
inspirational women
we
ChrissIE ...
tV & radio personality
Chrissie Swan is probably one of the busiest working mums in TV and radio! Let’s go through the list of credentials … host of Network Ten’s Can Of Worms, breakfast host on Melbourne’s MIX 101.1 with her friend Jane Hall, co-host of 3 pm Pick-Up on MIX FM nationwide with Jane and an ambassador for CARE Australia … Phew! Many fans have followed Chrissie from her days on The Circle on Network Ten where we saw her sing alongside Meatloaf, shakin’ her booty like Beyoncé. Of course, we cannot ignore Chrissie’s beginnings, which was as a runner-up on Big Brother in 2003. Chrissie is the proudest mother in the world with two young boys and a baby girl to her partner, affectionately known as The Chip. From all this, we hope you can see that Chrissie is one of the hardest working and most loved personalities in the business. It is hard not to fall in love with Chrissie and her big ‘Wahaha’ laughs! 44 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Were you surprised at how Australia embraced and fell in love with you during your time in the first Big Brother? Of course I was! I just did the show for a bit of fun and never thought anything would come of it. That people liked me enough not to vote me out was a lovely thing. Did you find it an easy change from copywriting to radio? Yes and no. The work has always been really fun as I love to talk and I love to listen and both are equally important in this job. When I first started in radio though I had to move to regional Queensland where I didn’t know anyone and that was difficult but I loved the job so much I stayed for almost four years. You are talented in so many areas: media, radio, entertainment. Which role do you think suits you best? I love it all for different reasons. I love radio because it’s live and fun and I am working with two of my best friends at the moment. I also love it because I get home before lunchtime and with three little kids that is paramount to me. I love TV because,
well, because it’s TV! I love TV. I am a fan of it. It’s magical and I feel incredibly lucky to be involved in it. Really I do. Walking into a TV studio is still exciting to me and will always be so. And writing is what I have done the longest. I had a column in a major weekend mag for a year and I was very proud of it. It was great to express myself in that way. What’s a typical day in the life of Chrissie like? I wake up 4–4.30 am and get dressed in the clothes I leave out. I grab Peg and go to the radio studio (yes—I bring her in with me and I am SO LUCKY!). We plan the show from 5 am which involves reading papers and websites and lots of coffee! We finish the brekky show at 9 am then plan and do the 3 pm Pick-Up until 10 am then we have planning meetings for the next day. I get home around noon, relieve the babysitter then it’s just family time. I organise dinner if Kit’s asleep or go for a walk with the kids. Kindy pick-up is at 2.45 pm, which I do every day. My partner gets home at 4 pm. Dinner is at 5.30 ... Then it’s bath, book and bed by 7.30 pm for the kids, just like in every home in Australia! Very ordinary! Did you find it hard to pick up your career after becoming a mum? Actually, I never stopped working so I didn’t have to pick up anything. I had Leo in a radio survey break and was back at work within five weeks. I had eight weeks off with Kit and I was back in the TV studio three weeks after Peg was born. My work is very flexible and fun and full of supportive people. I could come back that quickly because of who was around me. It was tiring but also wonderful. Do you find it tough being a mum who’s a public figure? How do you switch off from the constant judgement? I’ve had my fair share of criticism and it used to be very hurtful. But now I realise it’s part of the job. Most people are gorgeous and kind and normal. There will always be judgemental weirdos and you just have to accept that and ignore them. Most info I’ve read about myself is made up. Which is odd, but unavoidable. Have you got a piece of advice you think is invaluable for working mums? It is difficult to juggle work and family. But it is also difficult to be a stay-at-home mum. Don’t think the grass is greener. EVERYONE struggles on some days. www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
It is difficult to juggle work & family. But it is also difficult to be a stay-at-home mum. Don’t think the grass is greener. EVERYONE struggles on some days. What has been your biggest career highlight? Working on The Circle was the most beautiful experience I’ve ever had. It was full of love, support, intelligence and heart. Who or what inspires you the most? My children are without doubt the best, most exciting and precious things in my life. How do you relax and unwind? What’s that? Lol. I don’t at the moment. I have three kids under five. I’ll relax later. What’s your must-have product? YSL Touche éclat—Hides big bags UNDER your eyes. Really red Revlon lippie—you can wear it, and only it, and it looks like you’ve made an effort. Silicone ear plugs—to block out Chippie snoring! What are the three most useful tools that you can’t live without as a mum? Ikea high chair. Ruggies (little security blankets—Leo has white ones, Kit’s are blue and Peg has pink ones!). Dress-up box. Instant joy. What’s one quote that you live by? Regret nothing. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Probably still at kindergarten pick-up! www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 45
s u o l Fabu s e l a t Fairy
Photography Nicole Barralet Photography Teepee Mocka Ribbon Wands My Heart Flutters Fashion Fairy Beautiful
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 49
50 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
52 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
, u o y k Than lous Fabu es Fairi
What it means to belong
When I was asked to write for Anything but Ordinary I was thrilled to be able to contribute to such a vibrant new magazine and I love that it’s created by a fabulous community of mums. In the last few years, my life has dramatically changed as I have become a parent and retrained and completely redirected my career, so I am extremely grateful for the wonderful community I find myself in. In fact ‘community’ is quite a buzz word in early childhood education these days. The new Early Years Learning Framework has a great emphasis on belonging. It recognises that one of the most fundamental human need is the need to belong. In fact, research shows that sense of belonging has been found to help protect children (and adults) against mental health problems. A sense of belonging even positively contributes to a child’s ability to learn. As a parent and an educator I have found that ensuring our children have a sense of belonging is critical to wellbeing. In practice, educators are encouraged to embrace, celebrate and reflect home cultures, traditions and beliefs in their kindergartens and day care centres. Over the last couple of years, as different families have come and gone, I have genuinely enjoyed learning about the traditions of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Jewish and Buddhist 56 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
families, and celebrating Chinese, German, Canadian and Italian culture. It has, however, occurred to me on more than one occasion, that many families—including my own—do not identify as a member of a recognised religion or culture. Does that mean we don’t have an identity? If our family’s traditions are not overtly recognisable to ‘the world’ are there no traditions, language or special days to be observed? What am I part of? Where is my children’s sense of identity coming from? Growing up in Queensland I was lucky to have a close and large extended family of parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles (many of whom were of no blood relation) and when we moved to Sydney when I was 12 those relationships stayed strong through letters, phone calls and visits. I also had a local grandmother figure take me under her wing, and friends and their families who took me in as their own. I had the usual teenage ups and downs, but I can honestly say I felt like I belonged and it gave me a degree of self assurance that I had others who knew me, and people who I could turn to. When I moved back to Brisbane as an adult I was lucky to have a ready-made tribe of primary school friends to spend my late 20s with. As gals all around the same age we went through
talking kids with Melissa Henderson
social worker & early childhood teacher
late nights, tentative first career steps, marriages, divorces and everything else in between. Fast forward to the mid 30s we were all having babies around the same time. Which was a godsend. My tribe grew to include the gorgeous women I met in birth classes before baby number one. We had a ‘reunion’ when the bubbas were about three months old and through those bleary, sleep-deprived eyes, there was a core group of us who made a connection and vowed to meet up every two weeks for a loosely defined ‘Mothers Group’. There was always someone there to struggle through things with in the early days (and nights!) of motherhood and 9 years later we are still going strong, celebrating love and loss together and fumbling through the early years of parenting. As our children grow and we exhaustedly juggle work and family it’s exciting and strangely comforting to see our children growing up together and forming genuine friendships of their own. I have realised that even though we don’t belong to a recognised community we have definitely created our own tribe ... a clan, a posse, a crew, a group of true friends who will be there to share common interests and values and show genuine appreciation and care for each other. Its members are friends and family who I have chosen to be a part of our lives. These relationships are purposeful and take www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
work. Sometimes we drift, but we always we always manage to find each other again and for that, I am truly thankful. I also know that as they grow, when I can’t be there for my children (whether that be due to distance or teenage angst) the Aunties and Uncles of my tribe, will be there for my children and I am incredibly grateful for that. Your tribe will most likely look quite different to mine. Whatever it looks like, I really encourage you to celebrate and strengthen it as there is no doubt that the best way for your children to develop a strong sense of self, confidence and self-esteem is to be belong to a community with traditions, routines, rules, celebrations and elders. As a parent I truly believe it is one of the most important things we can give our children. Here are a few tips: 1. T hink of the qualities you want your tribe members to have and seek out these people. These qualities might include trustworthiness, kindness, loyalty, treating others with respect, a warped sense of humour. Or it might be a particular sporting affiliation or music appreciation you value. The list is endless, but you will be able to identify the key ones for you. Seek out these like-minded people and then make the effort to keep these relationships alive. www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 57
the most fundamental human need is the need to belong 2. Create simple traditions that give members a sense of belonging. These don’t have to be elaborate. They could be regular group dinners, birthday celebrations, Friday pizza or movie nights, camping weekends, or coffee with the girls. Don’t underestimate the importance of these regular get-togethers. They provide light relief, entertainment, but also a secure and welcoming place to be.
closest girlfriends are aunties to my children. Don’t underestimate the power that language gives to a sense of belonging. 4. S TART NOW! As I write this I am reminded of a conversation with my daughter. Miss Five was looking at some photos of one of my best friends and her children. They live in Sydney and Miss Five has only spent one holiday with them. She proudly pulled out a pic and said, ‘Mummy, these girls are my cousins aren’t they?’ and I said, ‘Well, not really, Aunty Kate isn’t really Mummy’s blood sister, she’s a bestest friend’. She looked at the pic and then looked at me and with a fierce determination said, ‘She IS my Aunty, Mum, and they ARE my cousins and that is all we will say about that’.
3. Create your own language. So you don’t all identify with a culture from thousands of years ago, but that doesn’t stop you creating your own catch phrases and nicknames. I know of a family who have the ‘Friday night crew’ where members of the tribe get together to watch the game on TV and eat hotdogs. Now their children refer to each other as ‘crewlets’. My grandmother delighted in being called the ‘Rock Nanna’ and all of my Yes, Darling … it is. 58 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
we’re loving this
shop
Jack N’ Jill toothpaste was born in Melbourne, Australia in 1949. As well as Melbourne, we are excited to have a base in the UK. It has been our family business for more than 20 years ... A few years ago, my wife Rachel and I had our first child and immediately joined many parents the world over
who are concerned about the current environmental issues and the direct effects they have on our
children. We started to question everything he came into contact with, not wanting to expose him to unnecessary additives and chemicals, and felt frustrated at the lack of choices in early childhood oral
hygiene. With my background as a pharmacist, we set out to formulate the absolute safest toothpaste
for our kids and yours. In the process, we also made it the most fun and yum! Jack N’ Jill toothpaste is 100% safe for young children—especially because they have a tendency to swallow it! All Jack N’ Jill packaging is designed to be appealing to children and is cute enough that parents won’t mind
them sitting on their bathroom vanity. Alongside the toothpaste we have designed and manufactured
the first children’s toothbrushes that are made of cornstarch, and are therefore biodegradable and
recyclable. Did we mention cute? At Jack N’ Jill we believe that businesses have an obligation to the environment, that’s why we have formulated an all-natural, hypoallergenic toothpaste with organic ingredients, and designed our packaging to be minimal, recyclable and BPA free.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 59
we’re loving this
shop
Greens’ philosophy is simple: babies shouldn’t cost the earth. Founders, Shannon and Sally, firmly believe an eco-conscience need not be compromised when raising a young family. Together they have sourced quality, yet affordable eco-minded products for babies and children. Tried and tested on their four children between them, those products that exceeded expectation are the foundations of Beginning Green.
60 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Tips you can use right now to improve your look
Image talk with Ann Whitaker
easily!
Image Consultant
To dramatically improve your confidence and the way you look, follow these tips to improve your image now: Buy true red. It is the safest colour if you don’t know what you’re doing and if you have not had your colours professionally analysed. Providing you find the correct tone, it will work wonders for you as well as announce your confidence to the world. You can compare tones by holding them against your face to see which ones lift you and which ones drain you. Re-visit your underwear. Get your bras fitted properly (70% of women wear the wrong sized bra) a good bra will lift and support you and slim the tummy area dramatically. Eliminate ‘victim’ knickers and any that create bulges. Amazingly, your underwear can make or break your look. Get a manicure. Well-groomed hands will take years off of your perceived age, will draw the eye’s attention and will give you an immediate lift and renewed sense of confidence. Face your feet. Shoes are a giveaway in so many ways. Get someone to photograph your lower legs and feet in every pair of shoes you own. What story do those shoes tell? Scoop toed shoes and nude colours add length compared with flats, ankle boots and ankle straps. Chuck the pairs that don’t please you. Give the ones you keep a full service—polish and all! www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
Accessorise. Accessories give the viewer something to focus on, scarves can hide tummies and lengthen a body—same with longer necklaces. Earrings can frame a pretty face, bracelets draw attention to arms and away from bodies. Be in proportion—small delicate jewellery is lost on a larger person so go for bolder pieces. Size doesn’t matter, but fit does. There is only one person who knows what size you are wearing and that is you! But ensure your clothes fit you NOW. Tight, straining clothes make people look larger than they are, big baggy clothes also make people look larger than they are. Clothes must fit the body without straining or sagging on it. Bring that hairdo up to date. You have to change the style to keep current. But DON’T colour it until you’ve had your colours analysed by a professional. There are many things you can do to discover how to use colour, clothes and accessories to enhance your look and boost your confidence; these are just the tip of the iceberg. By making these small changes you are just at the start of your journey of self-discovery and you will be on your way to uncovering the real you. If you want to learn more about how you can maximise your potential, contact Ann from House of Colour & Image on 0424 656 097 or ann.whitaker@ houseofcolour.com www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 61
. . . e v o l s m u m what RE LOVING! A E W S T C U D O PR
Adorned in spring
ahead of her time Click on the photo to shop
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 65
fashionista in the making
66 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
shop the collection
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 69
shop the collection
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 71
Nursery E LOVING! R A E W S T C U D PRO
© Sweet Sienna Prints
Picture this ...
Sweet Sienna Prints sell nursery art prints, event banners and invitations. All artwork has been hand designed to provide unique and beautiful art for your little ones to enjoy. All prints can be customised to suit your little ones’ room décor. (In PDF format).
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
© Sweet Sienna Prints
Petit Homme Click the photo to shop
new borns OVING! L E R A E W S T PRODUC
little miss ... Click the photo to shop
How to grow a healthy brain … maximising brain development in the newborn
health talk with Dr Jemima Nelson
Chiropractor
B Sc-Psych and MChiroprac
sherwood chiropractic From the minute our little bundles of joy enter the world, their brains are constantly growing and developing. At birth a baby’s brain has very few connections and ‘hard wirings’. The primary function is centred on basic survival patterns like feeding, sleeping and pooping! Did you know that a baby can only see black and white until three months of age? In those first 12 months of life the connections in the brain are multiplying tenfold. In order for new connections to be created, our bubs must be exposed to different sounds, smells, positions and interactions. The quality of our brain connections are nurtured by the experiences we have in our baby years. If, when we were born, we were put in a room with no sound, light or touch, we would not survive the first few weeks of life—regardless of being provided food and water! So how can we help our little ones’ brains reach their maximum potential? Here are a few of my tops tips for growing healthy brains! In a newborn, the brain responds better to auditory, rather than visual cues as there are few connections laid down in the visual area of the brain at birth. Babies find it hard to focus on brightly coloured objects or follow rapid movements. To avoid overstimulation, I recommend steering clear of brightly coloured mobiles above the cot, and avoid putting your 82 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
baby in front of the TV screen until three months of age. During this time, use a music box or sing to your bubs to soothe them. My next tip is LOTS of tummy time! At least 40 minutes per day (short bursts are best!). In utero, a baby is curled up in a flexed position for many months—meaning when they enter the world, they have very poor muscle tone through the back of their necks and little bodies. Tummy time helps fire up the muscles of the back and neck, which are crucial in allowing a child to sit, crawl and walk down the track. If tummy time is missed, you may find your child is a late crawler or may not crawl at all. This can have a profound effect on later development. Crawling is one of the few things a baby does that involves the use of both the left and right side of the brain at the same time! To encourage these connections between the left and right side of the brain to develop, tummy time is important. Baby massage is another great way to stimulate the touch pathways in the brain. Start at the feet and work your way up, using medium-large strokes towards the head. Pay special attention to the fingers and toes, as these areas contain the most nerve fibres in the body! By creating a stimulating environment for our babies, we are ensuring their little brains reach their full potential!
we’re loving this
shop
The luxurious hemp organic collection from Eco Divine is made in Australia using materials from ethical and sustainable sources. Super cute baby wear is made with soft, hemp knit fabric and the elegant women’s wear is made using 100% fine hemp linen and hemp silk. No chemicals are used to grow hemp or to manufacture hemp fabric. Hemp fabric is naturally anti-bacterial and UV-resistant with thermo regulating properties so clothing is wearable in every season being warm in winter and cool in summer. Eco Divine is especially suited for people with sensitive skin and is truly 100% earth friendly.
www.marliandmo.com.au
made from hemp • uv-resistant • anti-bacterial • earth friendly • australian made
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 83
inspirational women
we
Jade ...
media & radio personality
Jade describes herself as: Mum-of-two-undertwo (arrgghh) and media-mixed lollybag. It’s any wonder we love this gorgeous happygo-lucky lady and all her accomplishments. She successfully tackled a male’s domain with grace and style and earned the respect of many in the process. For those of you wondering who Jade Robran is, Jade comes from the very famous Robran clan— passionate and proud South Australians. With a diverse background in media, journalism, travel, radio, sports and entertainment, Jade has worked on several television stations including Nine Network’s Today Show, Channel Seven as a reporter and producer on Seven News, Sunrise, Today Tonight and the Sunday Night program. A talented media personality based in Adelaide, Jade’s peers are hailing her as one of the most well-rounded personalities in the industry. Today we chat with Jade on how she balances her role as a mum with her career. 84 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Can you tell us a little bit about you? I’m a mum of two beautiful boys. Solomon, 20 months, and Harry, 11 weeks, so life is somewhat crazy at the moment. In fact, that is a massive understatement! I’m originally from Adelaide but my career has taken me to Melbourne and Sydney. I’m married to an amazing man called Ben. Some of you might remember him from Big Brother. He won the first series. He’s now an amazing dad and has his own sports management company. What inspired your career path into journalism? In year 12, we had to do a week’s work experience and I chose to go to Channel Nine in Adelaide. I loved it! The thrill of breaking news and meeting people from all walks of life really drew me in. I’m passionate about a little bit of everything and I think being a reporter scratches that itch because every day is new and exciting. You wake up not knowing how the day’s events will unfold and where you will end up. You are talented in so many areas: media, journalism, travel, radio, sports and
entertainment. Which role do you think best suits you? You’re way too kind with the ‘very talented’ part! I like to look back on my career as a bit of a mixed lollybag. TV, radio, entertainment, sport, travel, current affairs. TV is great and has been very kind to me, but right now if I were to pick, it would be radio. I love talking to people. Finding out their stories and what makes them tick. Radio, I find, is more challenging. There is no ‘take two’ just live-to-air and the bonus is, I don’t have to wear make up! What’s a typical day in the life of Jade like? A typical day in the life of me now is waking up to either Harry or Sol ... whoever demands breakfast first. If I’m working, I play with the boys as much as I can before I head off. We have breakfast first and then put the Wiggles on and have a bit of a dance to ‘Hot Potato’. I then jump on the train and head into Channel Seven. I’m working at Sunrise at the moment and also commuting back to Adelaide where I’m hosting an afternoon radio show on 5AA. After a full day at the office, I could honestly be a Grand Prix driver, I’m that keen to get home to my boys and do the dinner, bath, story time and cuddles. That’s the best part of the day ... Coming home and being mummy. Did you find it hard to pick up your career after becoming a mum? Yes, in that all I wanted to do was be at home with the boys but also I knew I needed to get back into the world of adults for a few days a week (at the moment I’m working two days) so that I can be Jade again, and I’ve found I’m a better mum for it. I’m given the opportunity to miss them so when I’m home, I’m excited and have more energy to do things. Otherwise, I find it can get a bit ‘Groundhog Day’. Having said that though, I miss them terribly! Have you got a piece of advice you think is invaluable for working women? Do what’s right for you and your family. If it means your kids are home with grandparents, great ... Or at daycare or with a nanny, awesome; or if dad’s a house dad, fabulous. Whatever makes your home tick along. No-one has the right to judge, but they do ... It’s whether you choose to listen or not. What has been or is your biggest challenge? My biggest challenge ... I’m living it. Being a mum to two boys 16 months apart. It’s crazy with a capital C! However, it’s the best challenge in the world. I apparently say ‘Oh, God,’ quite a bit www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
No-one has the right to judge, but they do ... It’s whether you choose to listen or not. because my 20-month-old came out with it today ... There have been times where I could have said a lot worse, so I guess I’m going OK. Who or what inspires you the most? Who inspires me ... My husband. He’s my best friend. He the best dad I’ve ever seen and I’m so lucky he’s the dad to my boys ... And he’s not bad husband material too! How do you relax and unwind? Reflex ... Red wine! What are your three must-have products? My perfume. For as long as I can remember I’ve always worn Chanel Allure. Carmex lip balm and a tinted moisturiser from Mecca Cosmetica. What’s one quote that you live by? I don’t do the quote thing ... But from life experience so far: love lots, smile and laugh lots and don’t regret anything ... Just learn from anything you aren’t overly happy with. Is it hard juggling travel and family? How do you keep the balance? Any parent will tell you travelling with a young family isn’t ideal. Our babies love their beds and we’re strict when it comes to the bedtime routine so we keep travelling to a minimum. If we have to be apart for more than a week, then we travel together. www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 85
The importance of selecting
natural & organic
Skincare products during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time when we as women start to prioritise our health, but we are often left feeling confused as to what is safe and what should be avoided. What foods should we avoid? Can we colour our hair in the first trimester? How much caffeine can we consume? Are there certain essential oils that we must avoid? It’s just as important to consider what we are putting on our skin as well as what we are putting into our bodies. When it comes to skin care during pregnancy, the importance of choosing natural products becomes heightened. In 2011, Toxic Baby documentary film maker Penelope Jagessar Chaffer discussed the scientific evidence that some of the most commonly used preservatives in skin care (and particularly in baby products) mimic oestrogen once they enter the human body. As many of us know, we absorb an estimated 60% of what we place on our skin. Research shows that these chemicals do pass through the placenta, and therefore we are often unwittingly exposing our unborn babies to an array of toxic chemicals. In fact, you and I have 30 000–50 000 chemicals in our bodies that our grandparents did not have. This does sound frightening and I often get asked the question, ‘Why do companies continue to put chemicals in skin care products, 86 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
when they are unsafe?’ Unfortunately, it is not always the case that we can rely on government legislation to protect us, or on product manufacturers to be honest in their disclosures and marketing claims. In terms of skin care, it is simple to decrease the toxins you are placing on your skin by knowing a little information about labelling and ingredients. In Australia, it’s a legal requirement that when listing ingredients they appear in descending order calculated by either mass or volume. So, the first ingredient that appears on the label is what makes up the largest part of the product. This is useful information to have, because a product may make a claim that is it ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ on the front, however, when you look closely at the ingredients you could find that the natural part of the cream (for example certified organic rosehip oil) appears toward the very end of the ingredient list and is preceded by a host of long chemical-sounding names (which are more than likely synthetic and potentially harmful). This may indicate that the product is primarily water, plus some naturally and synthetically derived ingredients, with a very small percentage of a natural or certified organic ingredient included, so that the word ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ can feature on the packaging.
Beauty talk with Sam Crosby
CEO & Founder
The best products to look for during pregnancy are those in which the ingredients are recognisable to you. Ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, rosehip oil and jojoba oil. Products should ideally be preservative-free, or use a natural preservative system. Products that are certified organic or contain a large percentage of certified organic ingredients will also ensure that you are reducing your (and your developing baby’s) exposure to pesticides and fertilisers. If you are ever unsure, always contact the company and ask them questions. Top five tips when selecting skin care for pregnancy and baby: • B uy scent-free products, or those that are scented with essential oils only, rather than those that use fragrances. • B uy products that are free from preservatives or use a natural preservative system. • S elect certified organic products, or those with a high percentage of certified organic ingredients. • K eep in mind that ‘naturally derived ingredients’ are not the same as ‘natural ingredients’, so select products with all natural (or a very high percentage of natural) ingredients. • O nce you change to natural products, stick with them! It’s not only important when you are pregnant or breastfeeding. www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 87
designer showcase
we
JUlie ...
Founder of Bon appeteat Can you give a brief overview of your business? Bon Appeteat was established with the modern mum and baby in mind, as a product line to help new (and existing) breastfeeding mums feel a sense of freedom to nurse in the presence of others. Today’s mothers are constantly on the go and our covers offer privacy to breastfeed in public when out and about. With safety, style and comfort at the forefront of our designs, the nursing covers feature our Flexi-Curve neckline to preserve the essential visual bond between mother and baby, as well as an internal pocket (to discreetly store small necessities) and an adjustable neck strap for a custom fit and quick, easy on and off. Unique to our brand, our nursing covers come with an ultra-absorbent coordinating burp cloth which keeps the inevitable spit-up off mum’s clothing. Our design team scours the market for the most gorgeous 100% breathable cotton fabrics in fun, trendconscious prints to help give mums a chic yet practical accessory to use while feeding. Tell us a little bit about yourself? I was born and raised in the US and have lived and worked 88 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
on and off in Australia (Brisbane) for the past 11 years. I established the company in Brisbane and am proud to offer a product that is both Australian designed and owned and made in the USA! By my side I have a smart, busy 18-month-old son, Evan, (who also was my faithful test-subject for various designs while I perfected what is now our final product) and a wonderful, supportive husband. Without both, I wouldn’t have had the idea or need to start my company! What inspired you to start your business? As a mother, I understand the task of breastfeeding can be difficult in many ways, so why not make one aspect a bit easier? I was tired of spending time trying to find a private place to nurse my son and didn’t want to miss a thing. I needed to find a solution that allowed me to be social, not only in public, but also in my own home when entertaining. I also wanted an accessory that was not only practical, but made me feel uplifted when I felt dull from sleepless nights. I loved pulling my sassy, patterned cover and burp cloth out of my nappy bag and instantly feeling a little brighter.
(Especially on those days I was too tired to find my mascara and lip-gloss!) What were you doing (career-wise) before you started your own business? I’ve always been one to take on a challenge and enjoyed having a creative outlet, be it through work or hobby. Not positive what I wanted to do as a career, I graduated from university with a major in communications and minor in both French language and fine arts. In Los Angeles, I took on a job as a PR Exec. for interior design accounts. That job only furthered my love of fashionable, unique patterns and prints that I can now translate into our product line! It’s always fun being able to shop the latest fabric and colour trends and then see them fabricated into your own products. Following my PR work, I relocated back to Brisbane where I worked in a corporate setting, managing a communications
All-in-all we aim to make feeding on-the-go a breeze!
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
department for a large sector of a global company. Although this position was in a much less glamourous field, the management and leadership knowledge gained was invaluable when it came time to start my own company. This role afforded me the opportunity to live in various locations worldwide and learn about business cultures and customs around the globe that has helped immensely in starting an international business. Describe your product range—what makes your products unique? Bon Appeteat designs breastfeeding covers as well as our coordinating burp cloths that come with each cover. As for functionality of the nursing covers, we understand that the intimate bond between a mother and her baby shouldn’t have to end when you cover up to feed, so our covers feature our Flexi-Curve neckline that can be shifted so you can always maintain eye contact while breastfeeding. Our covers also include an adjustable neck strap for quick and easy on and off, as well as an internal pocket for storage of dummies and other small necessities. All-in-all we aim to make feeding on-the-go a breeze! www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 89
we’re
loving
Our team here at Bon Appeteat prides itself on creating our products using beautiful print fabrics to share with breastfeeding mothers. We aim to bring not only a sense of freedom to mums, but also a sense of fun and style! Unique to Bon Appeteat, we are the only nursing cover on the market to come with a coordinating, ultra-absorbent burp cloth. Our customers have told us this mess-stopper has quickly become the most used item in their nappy bags from babyhood to toddlerhood! What’s been your biggest business challenge so far? I’m a perfectionist and it’s difficult to let others take the reins on certain aspects of my company as it grows and evolves. I have to remember to accept help when offered and decide when it’s worth spending money to have others take on some of the jobs within my business. What’s your favourite product from the range? I oversee the final purchasing of all of our fabrics so of course I love them all! I am a colour fiend, and love a pop of colour to brighten my house or wardrobe. Currently, I love one of our latest releases, Coral Reef. It’s such a fun pattern that can translate easily across the seasons. 90 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
What are your ambitions for your business? I would love to see Bon Appeteat make life easier for breastfeeding mothers everywhere! We want to be accessible to the global market, yet still remain a company with a cozy, approachable, local feel. What was the biggest obstacle you have faced starting your own business? That’s it— deciding to take the plunge and just do it! How do you find the balance between life and your business? I have to-do lists posted all over the place … for work, for the house, for me … I’m still a pen and paper list-maker (much to the dismay of my ‘i-connected’ husband) and gain satisfaction from crossing things off my lists when I’m lucky enough to complete a task. What is the most rewarding part of owning your own business? Being out in public and seeing other mums using my product line! Just knowing I am helping to make lives easier for other women is a wonderful feeling. As a successful business owner, what advice would you give to anyone thinking of taking the leap into the business world? It will take more time than you think … every step is more elaborate than the last!
we’re loving these
items
Want to make your life healthier and the environment happier, whilst being kind on the hip-pocket? We have handpicked these items with the aim of making your life that little bit easier— and easier on the environment as well as your hip-pocket!
Advanced Bladder Care If pregnancy and childbirth has left your bladder a little worse for wear, Advanced Bladder Care may assist. A patented blend of herbs and minerals that can assist in the management of the symptoms of overactive bladder. Clinical research on Advanced Bladder Care has shown it to be effective in promoting normal urinary frequency and proper bladder control both during the day and night.
New Age Nappies Cloth nappies are not what they used to be! Using cloth is as easy as a disposable, far more economical, easy to care for and look totally cute on little bottoms! Boasting a large selection of quality modern cloth nappies and accessories, coupled with friendly advice and fast service. When little bottoms are your top priority, visit us to see how we can help you and your little ones.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 91
1 Celebrating
12 MONTHS
365
DAYS
8760
HOURS OF
marli
& mo marketplace
Birthday Bonanza
IN THE MONTH OF OCTOBER ... STAY TUNED FOR INFO ON OUR CELEBRATIONS
we’re loving this
shop
pony&pressed bespoke hand-stamped sterling silver jewellery and gifts. Beautiful. Personal. Individual. pony&pressed offer an ever-expanding range of special occasion heirloom gifts, all made from sterling silver and hand-stamped with your chosen letters, numbers and symbols. The pony&pressed gift range includes sweet baby rattles and combs, delicate spoons and gorgeous bubble blowers. These beautiful gifts are exquisite in their design, and unexpected in their ability to transform the ordinary into an extraordinary gift to mark a milestone. They will be treasured forever, and have been designed to become family heirlooms.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 93
inspirational women ry’s
lisa cur
we
Lisa ...
AUstralian Icon & Athlete
isa Curry is an Australian icon. As a L celebrated triple Olympian, successful businesswoman, motivational speaker, international award-winning coach, personal trainer, author, media personality, defibrillator recipient, and mum, her life reflects a formidable attitude of determination and achievement.
As one of Australia’s most sought after speakers, Lisa carries out many speaking engagements and personal appearances both nationally and internationally and talks of her successes and challenges as an elite athlete as well as her personal experiences as a coach, working mum, wife, author, public personality and a health and fitness advocate. Lisa talks today with Natrice Grosvenor on what it really is to be Lisa. 94 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Can you tell us a little bit about you? 51, mum of three, three-time Olympian, three Commonwealth Games, two World Championships, winner of 60 km Solo Outrigger World Championship, four-time winner of 72 km Outrigger World Championship, coach, personal trainer, keynote motivational speaker, blonde nomad … travelling Australia in my Jayco motorhome running seminars and workshops to inspire people to look after their health and prevent illness. What inspired your journey into swimming? It was too hot to go to jazz ballet, and I loved being in the pool. I was taught well, so with training, results came quickly. Making overseas trips and missing school was a huge incentive! You have had many successes in your life, what would you say would be the highlight? Being the first mother to swim for Australia at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics at the age of 30 with two kids, in the best shape of my life. You are talented in so many areas: sports, media, spokeswoman, radio, entertainment.
Which role do find most comfortable? I love coaching/training people the most, in any sport, anywhere at anytime. You currently have a lot going on in your life, how do you keep the balance and find some ‘me’ time? I just prioritise ‘me’ … I walk daily for relaxation and to clear my head. It helps with being creative. I write down everything ... I’m a list writer—on paper! I have notebooks everywhere! What’s a typical day in the life of Lisa like? Workout, coffee, eat, work, relax, coffee, work, walk, eat, sleep! Did you find it hard to pick up your career after becoming a mum? No, I’m really organised and I just fit work in around my children. Have you got a piece of advice you think is invaluable for working women? Take some time everyday just for you … YOU are the most important person. Look after yourself first, then everyone else around you benefits. What has been or is your biggest challenge? Adapting to a different way of life after separation, having a defibrillator and kids growing up. Being such an inspirational woman yourself, is there someone or something that keeps your fire going? Never-ending passion to help people achieve their goals.
Take some time everyday just for you … YOU are the most important person. Look after yourself first, then everyone else around you benefits. Lisa now has a new challenge: to change the state of the everyday Australian’s health and to do this she is embarking on a road trip around Australia in her Jayco Motorhome.
What are the three most useful tools for your business? Positive attitude, good work ethic, sense of humour.
The ‘One Life One Chance’ Aussie Roadtrip is visiting regional and rural Australian towns to give residents the chance to work with and talk to Lisa one-on-one. Lisa is providing free community training sessions and free public seminars—‘A Night With Lisa’— where she explains how to lose weight and get fit anytime, anywhere, on any budget.
What’s one quote that you live by? Make everyday count …
To register for any of the road trip events visit: www.oneroadtrip.com.au
Where do you see yourself in five years? Still coaching people … somewhere in the world.
Follow Lisa on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
How do you relax and unwind? Go shopping, then have a wine, then go shopping again … even if it’s window shopping! What’s your must-have product? Pure coconut oil.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 95
How to kid-proof your mobile phone and iPad
As busy parents, we know more than most people how helpful mobile phones, iPads and other mobile tech gadgetry can be. With our mobile gear in hand, wherever we are, we are just a phone call away from school and day care, we can juggle work/life, taking an urgent work call while at the park with our kids. Our children are learning about mobile technology as fast as we are, too, thanks to the plethora of learning apps and games available. And, of course, how helpful is a phone or tablet when the kids are having a meltdown somewhere inconvenient; a quick game of Fruit Ninja can quieten most tantrums. Which brings us to the problem: expensive, glossy, fabulous mobile technology versus grubby-handed, clumsy and cranky-prone children. Here are some tips to help your family maximise its mobile technology while keeping your gear kid-proofed. Protect it Tough cases have been developed by a number of big brands that use protective materials including ABS toughened plastic or rubber to give your gear the edge when your kids push it over one. The better cases have multiple layers 96 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
of protection, plus high-quality seals to keep muck out of sensitive ports (banana in your USB, ma’am?). The new ‘black’ in protective cases is waterproof cases. Junior drops your iPad in the bath while you weren’t looking? Teething toddler gnaws on your S4 while you are at the checkout? No problem—a high-quality waterproof case will protect your gear. Cases for iPad/tablets that are designed for use by children are built differently. They have a thicker frame or another device to make it easier for small hands to grip the tablet securely, even when the game gets intense. Add to that a kid-friendly stylus, thicker and easier to grip, and your little Einstein can get more from their learning apps without any nasty accidents. To be sure you can really rely upon a tough case, ensure that you buy a genuine brand case, as the cheap copies just don’t have the same engineering and quality. The cost of a fake case is a broken device—and that is just not worth it. Power it Power hungry games can sap your phone of juice faster than Rory the Racing Car. So having
Tech TALK with Pia Argiratos
back-up power on hand can save the day. A small palm-sized rechargeable power pack in your bag can give you the reassurance that you can fully recharge your phone anywhere—never be caught with a flat battery again. Another choice is a case with an extended battery built in, so one flick of a switch can see you recharge mid-call, text or email. Clean it Cleaning your phone regularly to rid it of hand jam will help to ensure a longer life for any mobile phone or tablet. Check the recommendations for your device or consider careful use of cleaning vinegar, rubbing alcohol or a good antibacterial cleanser. Don’t douse your device, just dampen a soft cloth and give it a good wipe. Check the ports for grit; clean them out careful to not leave threads behind. Let the device dry, give it another wipe. Let the device dry and carry on. With a little forethought, and a little ongoing care, your mobile technology investment can add convenience, flexibility and mobile learning for your family. For the best brands in tough cases and portable power solutions for mobile technology. Click here to visit our store. Live a powered life! www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
Special Offer
Buy a Koosh frame & stand for iPad 2/3/4 ($55) & receive 2 x free matching Koosh styluses for kids ($36) Koosh is a tough case that is specifically designed to protect your iPad from your kids. Built to take the rumble and tumble of any child, it can protect your iPad when it is dropped, knocked and pushed off tables. Not just a tough case but also comes with a stand that enables your kids to watch and play movies and games in both landscape and portrait modes. Strong, lightweight, easy to clean and, most of all, protective. www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 97
Create a
t n e m e t a t S
99
Killari means moonlight in Quechua, the ancient language of indigenous Peruvians (it is still spoken today). From the start, we’ve been working directly with Peruvian artisans to bring high-quality and uniquely designed silver jewellery to Australia. Killari jewellery includes earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings that are designed in Australia and handmade in Peru—as Peru has some of the best quality silver in the world. We don’t mass produce any of our pieces, as we value the uniqueness that Killari handmade products bring to each of our clients.
100 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 103
104 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
106 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
shop the collection
109
calendar of events
Elmo’s World Tour it’s Disney Live!
Perth, 27–29 December 2013 Melbourne, 9–11 January 2014 Wollongong, Wednesday 15 January 2014 Adelaide, Sunday 19 January 2014
From Dec
27
Disney Live! is back with a show to warm the hearts of both the young and old—Mickey’s Magic Show! Watch Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends as they join with a world-class illusionist to bring you the most wonderful Disney magic: scenes from Cinderella, Aladdin and Fantasia will enchant and excite. Definitely a one-of-akind stage show you’ll never forget.
Dora The Explorer Melbourne, 18–28 September Brisbane, Saturday 21 September Adelaide, Monday 30 September, 3 and 4 October Perth, Thursday 10 October Melbourne
Brisbane
Adelaide
Perth
From Sep
18
September
21
From Sep
30
October
10
click here for link
click here for link
click here for link
click here for link
Shiver me timbers! Dora the Explorer and her best friend, Boots the Monkey, are getting ready for a pirate adventure—and they need your help. Dora and Boots will have some obstacles to get past before they can catch up to the Pirate Piggies, do you have what it takes to help them?
Scooby-Doo Melbourne, Monday 23 September Perth, Saturday 28 September Sydney, Wednesday 2 October
Melbourne
Perth
Sydney
September
23
September
28
October
click here for link
click here for link
click here for link
2
Sessions
11.30 am, 2.00 pm & 4.30 pm
The school holidays just got better! Scooby-Doo and the gang are here from the USA ready to solve an epic musical mystery: a local theatre is haunted by a toublesome ghost and the team need to crack the case. With an all-American cast, clever staging and heaps of spooky special effects, this musical is sure to delight.
110 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
calendar of events From Nov
8
Peppa Pig Melbourne, 8 and 9 November 2013 Brisbane, 13 and 14 November 2013 Sydney, 22 and 23 November 2013 Adelaide, 29 and 30 November 2013 Perth, 24 and 25 January 2014
Join Peppa Pig, her brother George and friend Danny Dog as they head out on an adventurous treasure hunt. A theatrical production from London’s West End, complete with true-to-life puppets and live singing, this is sure to enthral Peppa Pig fans; Pedro Pony, Polly Parrot and Zoe Zebra join the bunch as they set off for adventure.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Brisbane ONLY, from 19 November 2013
From Nov
19
If you are looking for a musical that the whole family will love, you can’t go past Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. With an all-star Australian cast—including wonderful performances from David Hobson as Caractacus Potts and Rachael Beck as Truly Scumptious—this multi-million dollar production is sure to captivate parents and children alike with the amazing stage props and engaging songs. Brisbane readers, book now for an amazing experience!
From Dec
The Lion King Sydney ONLY, December 2013 to March 2014
13
As a parent, you surely know the words to Hakuna Matata. And admit it, you sing along, don’t you? If you live in Sydney, from December this year until March 2014, you have the opportunity to see one of the most amazing theatrical performances ever—The Lion King. This production evokes the rhythms of Africa with beautiful colours and superb effects. Experience Simba’s story as directed by the creative Julie Taymor. Only in Sydney.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 111
What’s on 4 International Junior Award
Winners Cake 2 the Rescue—Best Children’s Party Provider
Cake 2 the Rescue have designed all-in-one cake and cupcake rescue kits to offer FUN, EASY BAKING. The rescue kits come equipped with disposable baking trays and with everything you need to bake, we believe in offering products that are FUN 4 EVERYONE!! What was the inspiration behind starting your business? The fact that Lisa (aka Baker Girl Lisa) is clueless in a kitchen and with baking she had no idea—not even owning a rolling pin, let alone a baking tin. We spent months exploring what we wanted to do, got our family and friends to taste test and trial what we wanted to offer and slowly but surely Cake 2 the Rescue rolled out and has risen to great things!! Both of us were looking for a new challenge, the timing was right and our kids just thought it was the coolest idea!! What does winning this award mean to you and your business? We were so excited it was quite funny to see and listen to us—it has meant that our customers believe in what we do, and it shows we are offering what people want. We are incredibly blessed by the amazing support we get from our customers and so humbled by their ongoing support, it’s been such an amazing journey so far; hard, hard work, but worth the rewards and now this accolade.The award shows that we have the support and can continue to grow. Where do you see your business in the next five years? We are excited at the way we are growing, we see us offering more products, we have already expanded from offering cake and cupcake rescue kits to now adding our Retro Party Rescue Kits and have a new accessories range coming, we want to expand on our mix further which is highly acclaimed by all who taste our rescue kits and we want to be sure that more and more people get to enjoy what we offer. We love what we do and we love the support. We are also being asked all the time on global expansion and this will happen in time. We just want to thank everyone so far for the most incredible support, we are blessed! In the short space of just 18 months we have won this award and now move into our new warehouse; we still get excited at what lies ahead everyday.
Boogie Roos—Most Outstanding Activity Leader 0-5 years Boogie Roos is a high-energy, interactive, musical movement group for 0-5 year olds. We incorporate lively songs as well as traditional nursery rhymes to keep energy levels up and vibrant props to keep the little Roos engaged and captivated, such as parachutes and puppets. What was the inspiration behind starting your business? Quite simply my two special princesses!! Having experienced and failed at many activity groups with my two as they were incredibly shy, I decided to create something that would offer an environment that would encourage all personalities to let go and have fun, especially those still very much attached to mummy. What does winning this award mean to you and your business? For me personally it isn’t just the recognition of a prestigious award, but the knowledge that Boogie Roos is still heading in the right direction when it comes to entertaining the children and also offering a supportive environment for the adults. It means a great deal as the votes have been done by THE GROWN-UPS and THE GROWN-UPs have followed and supported Boogie Roos from day one. Where do you see your business in the next five years? My vision, hopes and dreams for Boogie Roos for the future is there is ‘one born in every town’ in Australia so that more and more children get to experience the magic, and more like-minded people have the opportunity to run their own group, setting their own hours and enjoying the experience of working with children.
112 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
What’s On 4 Australia is part of an award-winning international business with three online directories providing Australian families with a resource to locate things to do, school holiday ideas, classes and activities and party service providers. The Australian national awards, which were sponsored this year by Konfidence, celebrated and recognised the best activities, classes, team leaders, family days and party providers from all over Australia. This year’s awards covered 12 different categories and attracted more than 15 000 votes.
Balloon Artistry by Aaron Smyth—Best Party Entertainment My business is all about memories! That moment when something that is usually unexpected is presented. When someone asks for a balloon animal, a dog, sword or poodle is usually what is expected and then, WHAM, an octopus with bubbles or a circus elephant on a ball is what is received. What was the inspiration behind starting your business? My inspiration came from being disappointed with what my kids received when lining up for a balloon animal and when getting to the front they said, ‘My dad makes better animals than you,’ and I quickly realised they were right! I want to bring balloon animals out from simple shapes to balloons that need little to no imagination to see what they are. My kids (and every other kid) are my inspiration, I never got a balloon like the ones I make when I was a kid and I want to create animals that inspire the future of balloon artistry. What does winning this award mean to you and your business? Winning this award shows that people believe in what I do, I won these awards last year and I thought perhaps it was just because it was a new thing. Winning ‘Best Party Entertainment’ brings what I do to a new level because I feel it is no longer just about the balloons, but me as a performer, also.
..
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I don’t know where my business will be in five years’ time but I know that right now I am enjoying every bit of it and I hope that my passion for what I do grows with me as a performer. Who knows, I might be travelling around the world demonstrating and teaching my balloons to the kids that I have already made animals for in the past, perhaps one day I will be overtaken by someone with much more talent than me, but wouldn’t it be great knowing I was their inspiration and I lit that fire inside of them.
Balloon Artistry Aaron Smyth
Active Pregnancy—Best Pre/Post Natal Activity Active Pregnancy Active Mum is a business that runs fitness classes for pregnant ladies, mums and women in all stages of life. What was the inspiration behind starting your business? When I was pregnant with my first child, I was teaching normal fitness classes at the gym. There was nothing around for pregnant ladies with a cardiovascular component to them. So after my baby was born I created the Active Pregnancy exercise class, that was a pregnancyspecific class that worked on fitness, and strength, so women can stay fit and strong during their pregnancy making the pregnancy journey more comfortable and recovery post-birth much faster. After the pregnancy classes were created, I then created the mum and bub classes so that the ladies had a class to attend after baby arrived. These classes enabled mums to exercise with their babies and children, without the need for childcare. The big kids also love to come and exercise with mum in the school holidays. What does winning this award mean to you and your business? Winning this award was very surprising to us. We help lots of women to maintain a healthy way of life during pregnancy and also in life as a mum, it is really lovely that our customers value our service and voted for us. We feel so happy. Hopefully, it will help more ladies to become aware of the services we offer, so we can help make a difference to the lives of more women and their families. Where do you see your business in the next five years? Continuing to grow and help as many ladies as possible to become fit, healthy and strong. We love what we do, and we just want to continue doing it. We are now seeing ladies through their second and third pregnancies, so that is really nice. In the future it will be nice to teach pregnancy classes to the babies that came to our classes when their mums were pregnant.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 113
For a perfectly flawless finish, choose Kara for your special occasion, wedding or event. Specialising in airbrush or traditional makeup, Kara is an experienced makeup artist, passionate about skin. Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast and anywhere in between.
P 0450 670 101 E karalehmannmua@gmail.com F www.facebook.com/KaraLehmannMakeupArtist W www.karalehmannmua.com
You have the concept, you’ve done the research, you know what you want to say. Sort of ... Kind of ... It’s just not happening quite as you’d imagined.
For the blog post, advertising material,
website content or e-newsletter that just won’t write itself, contact Antonia at
Precision Proofing—she’s the wordsmith who will help you pull it all together.
Antonia Medhurst | 0404 679 284 | Antonia@precisionproofing.com.au
114 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Great for little fingers and growing minds!
Have you ever thought of play dough as an important developmental tool for your child? Play dough is fundamental in assisting development of fine motor skills, important for pencil grip, encouraging creativity and imagination, and developing independent play. New to the market, Doh Magic takes this great developmental tool one step further. The simple process of involving the children in the pouring, mixing and kneading delights the children with not only a magical colour change, but a wonderful sense of achievement and self pride in making it themselves. A great activity, and priceless for boosting self esteem. The malleable properties of play dough make it fun for investigation and exploration as well as secretly building up strength in all the tiny hand muscles and tendons, making them ready for pencil and scissor control later on.
y a w a Give Doh Magic
Valued at
15.00
$
3 Winners — 2 packs each
Colour `magically’ appears before your eyes! Ready to play in minutes Just add water and oil Safe—made with food ingredients Perfect dough every time Re-useable, re-sealable bag Educational & developmental Each pack makes up to 425 g Click here to
enter www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 115
We are here to help out mums Nursery Nanny At Nursery Nanny we understand how much pressure new mums feel. After the birth of a baby so many hormones are running around in your body and sometimes you don’t know which way is up. The baby had another unsettled night, the relatives have gone home, your husband has gone back to work and now you’re alone with your newborn and finding it hard to get into a much-needed routine—there just doesn’t seem time to work it out. There is no food in the house, the dishes are piling up on the sink and you have got to get the washing done because you have run out of clean clothes. To top it all off, the baby vomited in the bed after feeding last night. As a new mum, Nursery Nanny is here to help you out! Whether this is your first, second, or fourth baby (and especially if you’ve had a multiple birth), we know how hard it is to get settled into a new routine when baby comes home—it can be quite daunting. With more than 16 years’ experience, Nursery Nanny can: •c are for your baby while you have some ‘you time’ •h elp tidy up your house •p rovide a friendly face and an open ear •p rovide advice on sleep routines, feeding, setting up the nursery, reflux, soothing and much more •c are for mums who have had a caesarean •c are for children who have allergies •h elp out with the general running of the house.
Let Nursery Nanny give you a helping hand! Visit our Facebook page for regular advice, facts and fun things to do. Gina Pearce | PO Box 3279, Norman Park, QLD 4170 | 0417727138 | email: gina@nurserynanny.com.au
Nursery Nanny is giving readers an opportunity to
y n n a n a n i W FOR 3 HOURS.
(Brisbane Only)
She will come into your home and help you out with your baby. All you have to do to win is send in a photo of your nursery and the most creative one will win. Good luck. 116 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Click here to
enter
A fun activity for 4–7 year olds
Is there any better encouragement to get kids reading than a book where they are the main character in the story? Tracey from The Lemon Tree Book Company is passionate about getting kids to read from a variety of sources, but knows from experience just how much kids love to find out that they are the main character. ‘It’s amazing to watch their faces when they realise that they really are in the story, especially when they first start to recognise their own names, and mum or dad can point out their name throughout the story.’ Personalised books are not a new concept and good quality products have been around for many years, but Lemon Tree books are slightly different. ‘What we are offering is a fun, craft activity. You actually make the book at home with the kids and they really feel that they have helped to make something special. The activity also involves colouring pages and stickers so it really is something different for a rainy day afternoon!’ If you want to know more about the books available, there is also an app available for your iPad, where one of the books is free to download. Books are $11 RRP and the apps are just 99c.
y a w a e v Gi The Lemon Tree Book Company
Valued at
31.00
$
2 prizes each containing 1 x book of choice + $20 iTunes card. Click here to
enter www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 117
competitions Gumigem necklace
Valued at
20.00
$
Win a Heaton Disc Pendant Gumigem is award-winning, baby-proof mummy jewellery, designed to look amazing, but with baby in mind. Pendants are made from BPA free, nontoxic silicone. Gumigem keeps your baby occupied when being held or out and about—it’s a soother on the move, an easily accessible teether.
Click here to
enter
little organics Prize pack Towel & Aromababy 30+ Sunscreen
Click here to
enter
118 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Valued at
48.40
$
competitions for baby and up
Valued at
52.60
$
Win an i play raincoat. The i play mid-weight raincoat is the ideal for all year round. The PVC-free material is soft and supple making it comforatable to wear. It has an elasticised hood, zip opening and adjustable velcro sleeve cuffs.
Click here to
enter
MIZZLE PACK
Valued at
114.75
$
Mizzle fitted sheet in pumice RRP $24.95 Mizzle snoozing cloth in cloud stripe RRP $19.95 Mizzle knotted hat in neutral stripe with cream trim (size small newborn) RRP $9.95 Mizzle long wrap romper in neutral (size 0000) RRP $29.95 Mizzle long wrap romper in neutral (size 0000) RRP $29.95 Click here to
enter www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 119
competitions Valued at
99.95
$
Mocka Tee Pee Your wee princess or budding cowboy will LOVE the MOCKA teepees. Suitable for year-round use, both inside and out—these will be an instant hit with your wee one! Super durable and made from a highquality cotton canvas which is 70% cotton and 30% polyester (for durability/ strength).
Click here to
enter
Mini Mink rug & teddy
$
107.00
Baby Blanket—‘Rug/Wrap/Throw’ Original product and most popular new baby gift. Price $89.00 The Mini Mink rug/wrap/throw measures 100 cm square and has cream jersey lining. Teddy—Faux Fur Price $18.00 These cute, faux fur teddy bears are very soft and cuddly and are suitable for all ages.
Valued at
Click here to
enter
120 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
competitions Sand Art Holiday Pack
Valued at
39.00
$
Your child will have heaps of fun creating Sand Art paintings. A Sand Art Holiday Survival Pack includes: 4 Sand Art cards (medium sized 24 cm x 16.5 cm laser cut) 4 display pockets 10 different coloured sands 4 toothpicks Easy-to-follow instructions
Click here to
enter
eco divine Baby wear
Valued at
34.95
$
One lucky winner can select their choice of baby item as their prize. Items are made from hemp, which is: UV-resistant, anti-bacterial, earth friendly and Australian made.
Click here to
enter
Click here to check out their baby range and shop. www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 121
competitions Valued at
24.95
$
Nursing Tea Win a bag of Nursing Tea
Nursing tea is a nourishing tonic that helps improve breastmilk production in nursing mothers, and often aids in the management of digestive problems such as wind, indigestion, and stomach upset. Sacred Tea for Nursing Mothers is a 100% certified organic herbal formula, exclusively formulated with specific ingredients proven to successfully increase milk supply within hours of use. It does not contain toxic ingredients, artificial ingredients, or prescription drugs. One bag of Sacred Tea for Nursing Mothers can make over 30 large cups of tea.
Click here to
enter
Natrice takes the plunge On 3 December 2013, Brisbane mum Natrice Grosvenor will be one of over 60 mums around Australia taking the plunge to raise funds for charity, Support for Mums. Now in its second year, MotherJumpers is the brainchild of Alli Price, founder of Motivating Mum and mum of two. ‘Mums today wear so many hats; from cleaner to chauffeur to nurse to entrepreneur, and everything in between. MotherJumpers is a chance for Mums to do something crazy with a great excuse—raising money for other mums, for when crisis strikes.’ In its launch year, MotherJumpers saw 34 mums around Australia jump out of planes and raise over $35 000 for Support for Mums, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing mums and their families with practical, short-term support and assistance in circumstantial crisis such as perinatal depression, an unwell child or the loss of a partner. Jumping at Bribie Island in front of family and friends, the mother of two children and owner of local business, Marli and Mo Online Marketplace, aims to raise $1000 that will go towards supporting women when they need it most. ‘I am jumping because I know first hand what it’s like to go through postnatal depression; luckily I had the support, some women don’t,’ said Grosvenor. ‘With this jump also raising money for Support for Mums, I couldn’t say no to taking the plunge.’ 122 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
The local community is encouraged to support Natrice and can do so by searching for MotherJumpers at www.mycause.com.au
Click here to show your
support
No Guilt ...
Tea & coffee biscuits
Miss Fi Gluten Free boutique tea and coffee biscuits. Treat your family with our punchy flavours such as chilli chocolate, sesame shortbread, choc chunk, orange cardamom, spicy nutmeg and rose butter ... flavours you can really taste. No gluten, no soy, no wheat, no egg and free from artificial colours and flavours means no guilt! All biscuits are gluten, wheat, egg, nut and soy free and are also free from artificial colours and flavours ... but you would never know. These boutique biscuits not only taste great, they look gorgeous and go hand in hand with a great cuppa. For more info head to web www.missfiglutenfree.com.au
email missfi@missfiglutenfree.com.au
facebook http://www.facebook.com/missfiglutenfree
n i W
Miss Fi Gluten free Win ... 1 x 280 g pack of sesame shortbread biscuits, 1 x 280 g pack of choc chunk biscuits and 1 x 280 g pack of chilli choc biscuits.
www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
www.twitter.com/marliandmo
Click here to
enter
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 123
You need to make a good first impression. Let me make you look good by ensuring your writing is clear, concise, correct and professional. I am committed to providing a high-quality, reliable editing and proofreading service to my customers, and I will polish your work and ensure that it shines. Make sure your first impression is the right one.
Remember ... first impressions count!
Antonia Medhurst | 0404 679 284
Antonia@precisionproofing.com.au
The key to is marketing y, consistenc
Building one idea on top of another until you are standing on the top of the pyramid and your customers can clearly see your brand, message and product.
Join our 6 month Business Marketing Mentoring
The cost
• 6 x monthly strategic planning session to set your goals and objectives for each month to achieve your business goals
$1500 + GST up front for the 6 month plan, or $250 + GST per month over the 6 months
• A monthly action plan check list from the planning session so you know exactly what you need to do to implement your plan
Special Offer Mention Marli and Mo’s and receive 2 hours of implementation to be used with your first month.
• Marketing Mentoring program participants lock in an exclusive rate for any implementation services they require assistance with including graphic design, training, social media management or public relations services • Marketing mentoring program participants are invited to join an exclusive Facebook page to network and share with other members—to learn from the M Plus PR team and socialise with other business owners P 07 3278 9482
|
M 0439 688 556
|
124 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
MPR
E joni.edson@mpluspr.com.au
|
W www.mpluspr.com.au
Marli
&
Mo
Movember pin it • post it • tweet it Throughout the month of November, we are helping raise awareness of ‘Movember’ and men’s prostate cancer. We’d love to see your images of all things ‘Mo’ to go in the December issue of our magazine. Instagram use the hashtags #Marliandmo and #molove. Pinterest use the hashtags #Marliandmo and #molove
Facebook be sure to tag @marliandmo and use the hashtags #Marliandmo and #molove.
Anything but Ordinary
subscribe now Don’t miss an issue, click here to join our mailing list. Thank you for reading!
Struggling to fall pregnant?
AVANA Wellness, helps couples make healthy babies, naturally! And empowers parents to address their kid’s health issues ranging from food intolerances to constipation to hyperactivity. The emphasis is always on the underlying causes and using treatment plans based on food, supplements and/or lifestyle measures that works for YOU! Discount: $10 Normal: $97 Initial 1-hour consultation including health and diet appraisal, urinary indicans test and energetic screening. Food Intolerance ‘Food Detective’ testing available (at an extra cost of $197) and 75-minute consultant.
Beverley Dorgan BHSc 0403 796259 Nutritional Medicine Therapist AVANA Wellness & Nutrition www.facebook.com/avanawellness www.avanawellness.com.au www.avananaturalfertility.com.au 126 | Anything but Ordinary • September October November 2013
Push Presents
Natrice’s
last word
Are they just for the mums? What about dad? Are they really necessary?
For those of you looking like you’ve just tasted a sour lemon, a push present is the new ‘it’ word, for a present that your hubby or partner gets you for carrying and pushing the baby out. (Had a C-section? Don’t worry, you deserve one, too). I’m personally in two minds when it comes to ‘push presents’, I would of course welcome any new gift from my hubby, but I think we are blinded by all the bling and the hype that goes on in the media surrounding push presents. Apparently these days, that gorgeous baby you just gave birth to isn’t reward enough. There is now pressure for the daddy to go out and spend lavishly on the wife to ease the guilt he carries for not having endured the last nine months of everything that a burgeoning belly brings: stretchmarks, reflux, weight gain, raging hormones, and to finally go through hell to push a baby out. Don’t get me wrong, if there’s one person who deserves a little spoiling, it’s a woman who’s just gone through one of life’s most amazing miracles our bodies are capable of. I just think that celebrities and media have made it more and more expected for women to receive a push present from their other half. The bigger the better, if you take Jay-Z or Kayne West’s word for it. Is it all just a little over the top? What about a present for the dads? What about the part he plays in all this? Ok, so he hasn’t had to endure all the excruciating pain. But he also didn’t carry the child and have an instant bond from day one. He has to work hard to bond. And let’s not forget he’s had to listen to the complaints and whining for the last nine months, put up with the hormonal outbursts, www.marliandmo.com.au
www.facebook.com/marliandmo
the smacked wrists when he tries for a breast fondle or the 3 am wake-up call to go get some chocolate and ice-cream? (Well, mine did anyway). Then there’s the watching in horror at his other half writhing around in sheer agony and there’s nothing he can do to help—and if he does he gets yelled at to back off anyway. Do you think he deserves a ‘putting up with the last nine months’ present? How did such a miracle of life ever get undervalued by the expectation to receive an over-expensive piece of material? I mean there is nothing less romantic than an expected gift in my mind. A child is something your love has created. To give birth these days is certainly a gift in itself, think of the thousands of couples trying to conceive through IVF and fertility treatments. Not to mention all the other necessary expenses that are needed once the baby arrives. To go and spend a whopping amount of money on a shiny bauble just to ease the guilt or keep on trend, just seems crazy to me, unless of course you can afford it! Whatever makes you feel happy, I guess. A 2007 survey of over 30 000 respondents by BabyCenter found that 38% of new mothers received a push present, and 55% of pregnant mothers wanted one, though fewer thought it was actually expected. About 40% of both groups said the baby itself was already a present and did not wish an additional reward. Would love to know your thoughts on push presents. Written by Natrice Grosvenor Co-Founder of Marli and Mo Online Marketplace www.twitter.com/marliandmo
www.pinterest.com/marliandmo | 127
ISSUE THREE
summer dayz ONLINE 1 DECEMBER
SUMMERTIME | FESTIVE SEASON | BACK TO SCHOOL