Posts from the ‘Uncategorisable’ Category

Wee Fish Ewe A Merry X-Moose Panda Hippo Gnu Deer

I’ve always regarded Christmas as a time of significant reflection. Not just because of it’s proximity to the end of the year, but also for it’s origins and the opportunity to spend time with friends and family.

Now I’ve polished off my shopping and before I start scoffing rum balls, drinking bubbly and tearing wrapping off things I like to spend a moment just enjoying the fact I have possibly the world’s most wonderful husband, a hilarious and eccentric family and a spectacular collection of friends.

Not to mention all that has happened since last Christmas!

Here’s wishing you all a terrific festive season and much luck in the Boxing Day sales…

I Just HATE…

Okay dear readers… here’s your weekend project. Tell your Aunty Sam what fashion faux-pas you’ve seen recently (or even not-so-recently) that just make you cringe. These may be unintentional (women who don’t remove the ’100% cashmere’ tag from the cuff of their Winter coats is one of my favourites), intentional (high fashion magazines, I’m looking at YOU) or just the result of a low care factor (helllooooo visible tan lines).

Consider this your place to vent, and prevent a designer from going wayward.

I’ve got you started, so hop to it.

What A Difference A Year Makes

When you’re a kid, a year seems like a long time. As an adult, they tend to fly by. You forget just how much can really be accomplished in a year. As we slide into the end of 2010 I’ve been reflecting on what a big year it’s been.

This time last year, I had a different name. I worked in senior management for a bank, and had no real intention of leaving anytime soon. I didn’t enjoy my job, but then no one enjoys their job, right? When I had bad days and worked 14 hours straight I dreamt of running away with the resident love of my life.

Less than 365 days later, I’m married. I have a new name. I’m the creative director for my own fashion label. My job is terrifying, exciting, challenging and exhilarating. If I work 14 hours straight, it’s rewarding. I’m exhausted, sure… but at least it feels worthwhile.

So, as the curtains close on 2010 and we begin the ascent to 2011, take a moment to evaluate where you’re at. Are you happy? Is life giving you what you want?

Because if you’re not and you need a change, less than 12 months from now, everything could be different. No excuses.

I’m Just Sayin’

One day, when I’m crazy successful* at this fashion gig I’m going to be an alright kind of person.

I’m going to return people’s phone calls.

I’m going to respond to their emails, even if they’re selling something and even if just to say ‘no thanks’.

I’m going to take the time to give people feedback when they ask my opinion.

I’m going to remember that it wasn’t easy.

I’m still going to go to the little launch parties and things and help out my friends when they need me.

I’ll be supportive and encouraging of the adventures of those around me.

I’m going to send stupid joke emails around.

I’ll still be foolishly generous with my time (hey, I think it’s a good character flaw!)

I’m going to give people my full attention when they are in need.

I’m going to be gracious and humble and grateful to all who helped me be successful.

I’m going to give to charity and keep little efforts like the No Project alive.

I’m going to take the ten minutes required to help others who are just starting out like I once was.

Basically, I’ll be just like I am now.

And if this all sounds obvious to you, then like me, you’d be surprised at all the people who don’t do this.

I’m just sayin’.

*I’ll let you decide what crazy successful is! I like to think it’s when you have your own Diet Coke bottle a’la Karl Largefeld… or when you see someone in the street or a picture of someone who you don’t know wearing one of your designs.

Go Go Bento

As I mentioned earlier this week, one of my highlights for the days ahead was that I was hoping to purchase the first of the Bento fleet – a vintage bike.

Am very happy to announce that I have, and here (s)he is…

It won’t actually be delivered until Tuesday or Wednesday next week, but I’m very excited all the same!

Current No Project tally = 0

Go Ahead, Make Someone’s Day

I was talking to my dad this morning and he inadvertently gave me an idea.

As of today, the private investors that back Bento will operate the following scheme:

For every potential stockist that rejects Bento / says no, they will give me $3. At the end of each week, I’ll tally up the number of ‘nos’ I get, and take the total sum and give it to a homeless person at random.

Ignoring me doesn’t count, I need an actual rejection for it to be valid.

Why? Well, it’s about staying motivated. Moreover, just because my heart breaks a little every time someone says no, it doesn’t mean it can’t become something good.

We will do this for the whole of September.

So, stockists of Australia… bring it on.

Wait… What?!?!?!?!?!

I have just been approached by three men who represent a prominent Australian retailer. We have made an appointment next week to discuss me / Bento doing an exclusive diffusion line for them.

Too freaking surreal. But they love my stuff, so hey