Finding Connection: Reflections from the Makers & Shakers Market

Trying to connect with customers is a fine art.
Large companies spend millions crafting psychological strategies to unlock our purse strings, chasing that moment of connection—that yes.
That moment when we see something and feel: That’s me. I belong here.
It’s human nature to seek out those puzzle pieces that help us understand who we are.

And for creators, that feeling flows both ways. When we make something from the heart and send it into the world, it's creative self-expression—a deeply human need to be seen, heard, and felt. It’s that same yes—I love this!—that we hope will find a home in someone else’s life.

Earlier this month, I attended the Makers & Shakers Market in Melbourne, spending two vibrant days surrounded by people passionate about supporting Australian-made businesses.
I brought along my latest range, the result of four weeks of early mornings, countless cups of coffee, and the quiet rhythm of the studio before the day truly began.

The pieces that hung on my racks were more than just garments—they were little time stamps, like the rings of a tree, marking the different stages of my journey as a maker. Some designs were brand new; others were echoes from a few years back. And as I looked at them, I thought:
How could I dishonour her—the version of me who made these?
Her determination, her perseverance, her creativity brought me to where I stand today. She is worthy. She is enough.

At the start of this year, I made a conscious decision to remove the Sale section from my website. It was a declaration of self-worth: to stand tall for every piece I had created and the energy behind it. It was scary—but it was liberating too.

And yet, I understand human nature—how we all delight in finding a beautiful bargain, discovering that hidden gem.
So at the market, I found a new way.
Instead of seeing my older pieces as something "less than," I chose to view them as old energy ready for a fresh chapter. They had lived part of their story with me, and now it was time to set them free.

On the final day, I put up a sale sign—not out of desperation, but out of joy. Out of gratitude. Out of trust that these creations could find new life, new meaning, with someone else.
Because ultimately, I want to keep creating. To keep evolving.
And I am deeply, deeply grateful for every single person who supports me on this journey.
Thank you for being part of it.