Welcome back to Plant Care 3.0, this time around we have enlisted the help of Boaz. Boaz is our Junior graphic designer here at BN, he is also our resident plant enthusiast. He takes great pride in his at home greenhouse and helps maintain our office plants, health and wellbeing.
\With all this extra time spent at home, we see this as the perfect opportunity to
give our severely neglected house plants the extra attention they deserve.
We taken it upon ourselves to put together some tips and tricks to help keep
your plant babies looking good.
Tell us about your journey into cooking and baking. Did it change over time from a hobby to a career?
I was raised by a very health conscious and holistic mother, who values health and food beyond anything. Learning to cook and enjoying food has always been a an integral part of my life and continued to evolve as I grew older. I studied design at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts and along side my interest of food was always my hunger for creativity and the arts. Soon after I went into fashion, although the industry never felt as though it was my calling. I auditioned for The Great Australian Bake off in 2015 and ended up winning which completely changed my life. After that experience I moved to Sydney and turned my hobby of cooking into my full time career. I now work as a chef and food stylist, combining all the things I love aesthetically into the culinary world!
What does an average day look like for you?
I'm most definitely one of those irritating early morning people. I like to get up around six, make myself a fresh juice and then do exercise of some form. Then its straight into work. Im freelance which can be a curse at times as I have to keep myself accountable and productive and procrastination is always appealing. So I'm either working on a shoot, writing recipes, sourcing new props (ceramics etc) or in the kitchen experimenting. In the evenings I love having friends over for dinner and unwinding with wine and music. Nothing beats sitting around with the people I love and am inspired by.
If you could eat only one entree, one main and one desert for the rest of your life, what would they be?
Italian food completely reigns supreme for me so all three dishes would be Italiano...for entree, fresh figs, burrata and prosciutto. Main, spaghetti Putanesca, with tomato, anchovies, capers, chilli and olives and topped with lots of parmesan cheese. For dessert it's hard to go past tiramisu. Coffee, mascarpone and chocolate is unbeatable. Obviously negronis, red wine and Montenegro to accompany all courses!
What are your top 5 favourite red-hued foods?
Pomegranate- super exotic and beautiful, I love pomegranate for its versatility in sweet and savoury dishes. It adds vibrant colour and sweetness to salads, looks great on top of hummus and is a nice change for the topping of a pavlova at Christmas!
Tomato- the humble tomato. Incredible in summer when they are fresh but also wonderful in winter from a can or a bottle of passata. I particularly love cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and lower acidity and they make the best pasta sauce alongside garlic, herbs, chilli and ricotta.
Sumac- A deep, dark red spice that I think is totally underestimated in western cooking. It has a beautiful tangy lemon flavour and works perfectly as a rub or marinade for meat, fish and vegetables. My favourite way to use it is on top of guacamole or sprinkles on oven roasted polenta chips.
Blood Orange- The holy Italian ingredient. Blood orange have a very short season, so while they are around I love to make the most of them. Juiced with Campari for a cocktail, made into amazing curd for a tart filling or cut into segments in a salad. The colour and aroma of these is so striking and makes me feel like i'm back in Italy immediately!
Rhubarb- It might be my British blood, but I adore rhubarb. Such a comforting flavour that makes me feel nostalgic and cosy. I like to roast it or stew it to top porridge with in winter. Also delicious with custard or for the ultimate winter dessert, alongside apple in a crumble, topped with vanilla ice cream.
What are your creative projects or hobbies outside of cooking?
Music would have to be my greatest passion in life, even beyond cooking. I think the power of music is beyond any other force, having the ability to connect people and elevate human emotion so drastically. I’m really into deep house and dance music, along with rap, jazz, disco, hip hop, rock and soul...and much more. I played instruments in school and DJ’d a bit so that love will never die. I’m also pretty obsessed with architecture and furniture design. Mid century and minimalism completely appeal to my aesthetic. I hope to turn that obsession into a career someday too. Oh and fashion....the shopping problem is real.
Do you have a favourite occasion or type of event to cook for?
My favourite occasion is honestly a small, intimate dinner party at home with a few close friends. Sharing easy food and wine and having the night to lounge around. I’m always bring new recipes and it’s great having friends feedback on the food I’ve been cooking. I also love making wedding cakes. I design something different for every couple I meet so there is always a wonderful opportunity for me to be creative and conjure up a cake that is unique and memorable for the day.
What exciting things do you have coming up?
In the last couple of years I have immersed myself in the craft of cooking, so this year I really feel ready to share that knowledge with people and get others excited about food and discovering their own creativity in the kitchen. I’m currently working on my first cookbook as well as some video content to share with everyone later in the year! I just hope to continue to evolve as a cook and collaborate with people in all areas of the arts to combine our worlds or food, fashion, music and design.
Firstly, tell us a little about yourself, Ash!
Hey! I’m Ash Holmes, I’m 25 years old, and was born and currently living in Sydney on the beautiful Northern Beaches. I have been creating art since I can remember and have been practising art full time for three years now. I’m actually the fourth-generation artist in my family – this really helped me develop a technique and passion from early on with my art. I find that nature is really the strong source of inspiration in my work. I’m also really into film photography too!
How did you first get into painting? Can you share with us your journey as an artist?
I started painting when I was 3, my Mum was an Artist at the time, and I would often paint with her whilst she worked. Acrylic paint and large-scale surfaces quickly became my favourite mediums to work with about 4 years ago, and this really hasn’t changed since.
In the past 3 years I’ve been in multiple group shows, 4 solo shows and an international group show in Spain, where I have met so many different people. I absolutely love who I meet on my journey as an artist, and I’m really lucky to have made some lifelong connections to like-minded individuals along the way!
What inspires you most in your art?
Nature! The authentic colours and energy that nature provides us is what motivates me, and I like to replicate and communicate this in my own way. I find when I’ve spent time in nature or exploring varied landscapes around the world, I walk away full of inspiration that I then put to canvas!
What does a usual day look like for you?
It’s a rotating combination of the following; music, coffee, swimming, painting, photographing work, and time with loved ones. Pending on the day, maybe a Margarita or two, ha!
What do you feel is your biggest achievement to date as an artist?
For me it would be my recent solo show that I hosted in my Studio in Brookvale. I loved curating the open night and seeing all my loved ones in the one room. Showcasing my largest collection to date surrounded by supportive people! It was a night to remember and I’m happy that the majority of the pieces found their forever homes.
With 2020 just around the corner, any exciting plans?
There’s some exciting plans in the pipeline! I’m planning an Artist in Residency in Morocco for next year where I’ll be creating a body of work based around my journey and inspiration over there. I’m also involved in a show at Sydney Road Gallery, Sydney.
What is it about the Northern Beaches that you're most in love with?
It would have to be the community support, the ocean and the creative opportunities at arm’s reach!
Can you share with us your favourite spots on the Northern Beaches for:
Coffee
ROLLAS, ManlyCocktails
Belgrave, ManlyBeautiful wares, trinkets, treasures
Bow + Arrow Store, ManlyFollow Ashleigh Homes on Instagram here and discover her artwork here.
Website: Ashleigh Holmes
Photography: Ben Murphy
This week is Glaucoma Week, and here at Bailey Nelson, it’s important for us to shed light on how you can monitor your eye health and learn about what traits you need to look out for.
Glaucoma is a progressive, irreversible eye condition that, if left untreated, eventually leads to tunnel vision. Known as the 'silent thief of sight', glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and develops slowly, often without any symptoms. When left undetected, people can reach the advanced stage of the disease without any awareness (due to cortical fill-in*). While vision loss can’t be restored, the good thing about early detection means that treatment can delay or slow down its progression. This is why having your eye health checked every two years is so important, as it can detect blind spots caused by Glaucoma, early.
This is where the natural blind spot test comes in.
Having a blind spot in each eye is normal. This spot is caused by a gap in the retina where the optic nerve is positioned. The gap in the retina corresponds to a gap in your vision. Everyone has it, yet none of us are aware of it due to a phenomenon called cortical fill-in.
*Cortical fill-in happens when one eye fills in for the other and the brain puts back the missing piece for us. Even if we close one eye so that there is no information from the closed eye, the brain still uses the rest of the visual information it has to replace the missing part of the field of vision. Without it, we’ll all be noticing black holes in our vision.
Have a go of the natural blind test below, and you’ll see what we mean:
Cortical fill-in is beneficial because it means we don’t notice black holes in our vision, but fill-in can also prevent us from noticing loss of vision caused by eye disease, such as Glaucoma.
Robert Mapplethorpe and Patti Smith; Gwendolyn Knight and Jacob Lawrence; Gilbert and George. Creative couples have produced some of the world’s most influential artistic work, drawing out the strengths and brilliance in each other’s talents. Ahead of Valentine’s Day, we’re exploring the place where romance, collaboration and imagination meet by profiling four creative couples.
Paul Firmin and Niko Dafkos of London’s Earl of East are a couple perfectly matched in energy, vision and drive. From humble beginnings pouring scented candles from their East London home, Earl of East now boasts a team of 18, three lifestyle stores, a home fragrance and bath range with over 230 stockists worldwide and an Amazon bestseller. As well as this substantial list of achievements under their respective belts, their mission to form community and connection through workshops is a cornerstone of the business. The ultimate side-hustle success story, Niko and Paul only recently quit their day jobs to commit all their time to their ever-growing enterprise. We visited their stylish and sweetly-scented Hackney store to learn more about their successes, challenges and everything in between.
How did you meet?
We met in 2012 on an extremely warm day in late March. We were both with friends in London Fields right around the corner from what is now our Earl of East studio on Gransden Avenue.
When did you decide to start a business together?
We started speaking about what our dream business ideas would be pretty early on, and each weekend we would venture out to grab a coffee and explore our neighbourhood, markets and independent shops. Over time we began to formulate what our dream business would look like, and it just happened organically.
Tell us about the work you do together!
Earl of East is at its essence our creative outlet and passion project. Rather than being defined by one product or idea, we want it to be something that can grow and adapt as we do. We started five years ago as a one-off market stall selling items we loved, that grew into a desire to launch our own brand. We began with candles because we absolutely love the product and the way it can transform a space and create a sense of home. We now have a line of home fragrance, bath and body products, stocked in over 200 stores worldwide. Also, we have 3 lifestyle stores here in London, selling a broad spectrum of products. We are now a team of 18, and so overtime our day-to-day has changed significantly, but we absolutely love every minute.
What are the shared values that are most important to you both personally and professionally?
Dedication, commitment, focus and hard work are some of our most important values. We're both from working-class families and have always been surrounded by an inspiring work ethic that has had an impact on both of us.
What is the most special part of working alongside your significant other?
The fact that you can be creative together, be on each others team, give another perspective and the truth when needed. Ultimately you both have the same end goal in sight, so you always strive to give it 100%.
Are there challenging elements to working with your partner?
You have to get your head around work and life being very interwoven, and that certainly isn't for everyone. At first, you have to really figure out what each other's strengths are and then divide the workload accordingly.
Which of your achievements to date has been the most exciting to share and celebrate together?
Without a doubt releasing our book 'The Scented Candle Workshop' was the most exciting moment. It came out last September, right before the business turned five years old, which felt like a great week to mark that milestone and document the journey so far. Opening our stores were big moments, but it's often been a few months before we have allowed ourselves to celebrate those.
How do you find the balance between a relationship and business? Do you have any rules when it comes to how you divide your time or what you talk about outside of 'work hours'?
We really believe in work:life integration rather than balance. We love our work, so rather than having out of work hours, it's more about trying to make every part of the day count and be as fun as possible. It's really hard not to talk about the business at all times, but we are trying to establish some ground rules with downtime at home.
What exciting things are coming up in 2020?
This will be the first year that we have both been full-time in the business, this alone feels really exciting. We are planning to do a lot more travel, which will be linked with workshops and pop-ups. This is our favourite way to travel as we feel much more integrated into the culture. We also have some new launches coming up towards the end of Summer.
Images by Claire Posthuma
Niko wears Markova in Yellow Tort and Paul wears Dustin in Prosecco and Vintage Tort.
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Robert Mapplethorpe and Patti Smith; Gwendolyn Knight and Jacob Lawrence; Gilbert and George. Creative couples have produced some of the world’s most influential artistic work, drawing out the strengths and brilliance in each other’s talents. Ahead of Valentine’s Day, we’re exploring the place where romance, collaboration and imagination meet by profiling four creative couples.
Kerr Mcilwraith and Desislava Todorova are freelance creatives who collaborate on projects in the realm of fine art and fashion. Living and working from their studio, it’s clear how much they enjoy and thrive off each other’s company. Whether discussing their collaborative work or each other, the pair are brimming with upbeat energy and contagious enthusiasm. Their space reflects their idiosyncratic yet refined taste, and it’s here that we meet to chat about their life and work as partners — in every sense of the word.
How did you meet?
We met initially in 2016 before I was moving to Stockholm for work, Desi was to take over my role in London, so we had around a week of getting to know each other. About 18 months after this, I returned to London, we were both now in different situations and realised how much we had in common – and now here we are!
When did you start working together?
Almost straight away! We are both so buzzing with ideas that our general chit-chat tends to result in ideas! A few of our first projects were travel-based editorials for Teeth Mag, as well as a London Fashion Week event for the renewable brand, Altiir.
Tell us about the work you do together.
It varies widely, from the art market to fashion trend forecasting. Desi has an academic background in Fashion Communications, while I studied Art Market Appraisal – so almost everything is marketing and communications focused, for fashion brands, galleries, art organisations or standalone events.
What’s the most special part of working alongside your significant other?
The honesty, and the teamwork.
Are there challenging elements to working with your partner?
I’d say we both have very different working styles, I like to blare music out and work sporadically (lots of coffee breaks) whereas Desi is much more concentrated and focused on the task at hand.
Which of your achievements has been the most fun to share and celebrate together?
We both work closely with a dear friend of ours who is an incredible designer, Roman Serra. He and Desi have been friends for years and years in London, and she has been alongside him as he grows as a designer – we both do as much as we can to promote, and support him with his work. Most recently Desi modelled for some of his new earrings, and last year I helped out with the campaign shoot for his debut collection.
How do you find a balance between a romantic relationship and business? Do you have any rules when it comes to how you divide your time or what you talk about outside of work hours?
For a large portion of time, we both work remotely on the same projects that don’t restrict us to a confined space for too long! Usually, the workday ends when one of us (usually me) gets hungry.
What is your number one piece of advice for collaborating with someone you love?
Reward yourselves (and each other!) after a long and often stressful week a small treat can sometimes be the most rewarding return; whether that be morning coffee & pastry, flowers (or burgers…)
What exciting things do you have coming up in 2020?
We are super excited to be welcoming a range of international artists to our studio over the coming year, for intimate exhibitions showcasing a variety of emerging talents in an assortment of mediums: from painting to photography, augmented reality to sculpture! We will be kicking off this March with a solo show by Folkestone based painter, Constance MacQueen!
Kerr wears Palmer in Rose and Desi wears Shirley in Gold.
Tell us how Hatrikkk all began, and what inspired its name?
I had just left school and I was studying Law at the time when I desperately needed a creative outlet. It wasn’t for the purpose of anything else other than to give me a platform to post my drawings, my outfits, travel pieces and things that inspired me. I remember at the start I was actually quite embarrassed by the whole thing and chose to keep it secret for a long time. The name came from the idea that I wanted it to symbolise ‘three of something’ so I changed the spelling of ‘hatrick’ to become ‘Hatrik’. It was one of the rare words that didn’t have a trademark, nor a business registered. So I took it!
Did you study a creative degree, or are you self-taught?
No I studied a combined degree of Law and Media & Communications at UTS. It took me 6 years to finish it but I got there. My whole family is super creative, we were taught to draw and create ideas from a really young age. I’m really thankful that my Mum and Dad pushed us in this way. I’m a huge believer that you aren’t born with a skill, it takes a lot of time, practice and patience.
Was there a lightbulb moment when you just knew that your blog could take off into becoming a fully-fledged business? Tell us more about your newest venture, Hatrik House.
Not at all, at the time of studying Law I wanted to be a criminal lawyer, I love cold cases and the drama that comes with that world. It wasn’t until I started creating ideas and branding for other people that my client base started to grow. People seem to think my business is based around being an ‘influencer’ but it has changed dramatically, we work for about 15 regular clients now and most of our time is spent on their branding and creatives rather than Hatrik’s own channels. Hatrik House was created to mark this transition, it sort of formalised everything I was doing with social media management and content creation.
Post it notes, I Cal’s or maybe you got hold of Hermione’s time turner? What’s your secret to managing such a diverse job title? What does a day in the life of Hatrikkk look like?
I have become a professional multitasker, it’s not a matter of having one task to complete in a day, it’s more like 10 - 15. I have realised though, you’re only as strong as the rest of your team and this year I have spent a lot of time building an epic group of ladies who are just as important to my business as I am. In a nutshell: I wake up at 6am, have a coffee and do some emails, I then go to the office, we either have days of editing and client meetings or we are on location at different shoots and events. I usually leave work at 5pm but I don’t stop until later that night. As long as you have a phone in hand, you’re on the pulse. It doesn’t really stop, it can’t.
What do you turn to for inspiration? Do you have any routines to maximise your creativity?
I am quite old school when it comes to this - a good Pinterest board, a tear from a print magazine or a conversation that I’ve had with someone.
What advice do you have for others wanting to start out a career as a freelancer in the creative world?
Just START. I hear too often of people having great ideas or the aspiration to do something or change their career path but they never actually follow through. There’s no doubt that this world appears to be a lot more glamorous from the outside - I worked for free and didn’t start making money for nearly four years. It was purely a hobby that I loved so much and it kept growing into something I can now, thankfully, call a job. And once you start, don’t stop.
Both Hatrik House and your own personal Instagram, Hatrikkk are supercharged with creativity, colour and contagious quirk. Where do you see trends heading for social media content in the future? Any particular styles, customs or habits that you’re expecting?
I think the audience and consumer behaviour is changing faster than the actual platforms themselves, which is a problem. The consumer is smart and informed, with about 1000000 bits of content available to them every day, so as a creative you need to stand out. There is no doubt that video is a growing trend over still photography, and more raw or casual footage of BTS rather than the crisply edited motion pieces are more relatable for audiences. It’s not enough these days to have the perfectly curated Instagram feed, it has to be backed up by a good product in real life.
Staying true to the Hatrikkk theme, what are your three favourite:
Items in your wardrobe right now.
My vintage cherry earrings, Acne Studios blazer (actually my sister Chesca’s) and my Skillings dresses!
Instagram accounts that you follow for inspiration.
@manrepeller (always) @farrynheight (a bunch of creatives in NYC doing cool things) and @billie (I discovered this the other day and I like their aesthetic).
Apps that you can’t live without.
My Podcast Apps and Qantas Wellbeing because I have a constant steps challenge with my friend Alice!
Follow Sophia on Instagram here.
Website: Hatrik House
Photography: Ben Murphy
We recently sat down with our friends Zak, Jesse, Brad and Yoni, the four members of Mini Simmons; a NZ based Blues-Rock band that captures the stomping swing of the wild 70’s, with groove oriented bell-bottom flare. The group was dreamt up on the Pacific highways of Mexico, while electrified campfire seances propelled the band onto the stages of the Auckland club scene. Keep reading to get to know more about the boys as well as their movements over the summer season…
It's been one year since we spoke; how time flies! What has been a highlight for the band in these past 12 months?
Spooky huh?? It’s been a cool year for us. The kind of year I think we probably set out to have when we started the band. Perhaps what we imagined as a freshman year, even though it wasn’t our very first together. It’s pretty hard to peg a single highlight, but the ‘CliffNotes’ would be releasing our debut Album, packing out a headline show at Galatos to finish a national Tour and performing at the APRA Silver Scroll Awards.
With your summer tour just on the horizon, what are you boys looking forward to most over the summer season?
Playing a lot! We’ve always gone over well as a live act, even before we got our thing together properly. We’re performers so we get excited to give it all up. We’ve got 8 shows over the next month with Racing; one of the most impressive Rock bands in NZ right now. That’s sprinkled with some great festivals including Splore, Kaleidoscope (NYE) and Soundsplash.
You guys released your self-titled album this July, congrats! How was the lead up to its debut? How many months in the making was the album?
Thank you! There’s so much planning that goes into releasing an Album that you don’t consider. We mostly figured it out on the fly. Obviously, the musical side of things is what everyone sees and hears and is really what we’re all about. The other side of things is the promotion – figuring out when to release singles, getting artwork, music videos and other content together, organising press, booking a tour to support it; it’s a mad house. Thankfully we had some amazing help from Harry Pettit at Birdsnest (booking agent & consultant), Georgia Parker (manager) and Christian Tjandrawinata (cinematography). The actual recording of the Album took about 14 days across a few months. When you add the mixing and mastering of the record to this along with all the promotion, I mentioned earlier… From first day of tracking through to date of release, it took the best part of 11 months!
Do you have a favourite track to play at gigs that gets the crowd amped?
Little Man Blue. It’s a sneaky surprise. It’s not our most recognisable song but it’s the most confrontational and it really goes somewhere. It’s got teeth and it bares them – lyrically and musically.
You recently covered Benee's hit Soaked at the silver scroll Awards, what was that experience like?
Amazing! And daunting. To get asked by Nathan Haines to perform, and to cover Benee of all people… It was our first time performing to industry so there was a bit of pressure once you coupled that with being live streamed and playing Benee’s song in front of her! She was the super cool though and we hung out a bit afterwards. I think people dug it. Hope Benee did haha.
You've released your latest album on vinyl - what an amazing way to present your craft into a physical tangible product! We're assuming this process was a little different to Spotify though so could you share with us the process of putting together a vinyl?
Sure... I think we always envisioned the album EVENTUALLY making it on to vinyl... So from the get-go we had that format in mind when recording, mixing and sequencing the album. There’s only so much music you can fit onto each side before it starts to deteriorate in quality. Luckily, we had a pretty good idea of the songs we wanted to go on the first Album so we skimmed what we had down to 11 tracks. The sequencing is really important with a vinyl record as you listen to each side in one go rather than the shuffle format that digital seems to favour. We made sure each side had a great opening track and took the listener on a bit of a journey to the end of each side. Side one ends with our country rocking ballad ‘Sunflower Fields’, whereas side 2 concludes the record with the epic blues stomper ‘Little Man Blue’. It also gave us the opportunity to go the full nine yards on Album artwork. We got together back cover art, an insert with thanks/acknowledgments and the centre labels for the actual record. That’s the sort of stuff that falls by the wayside with the digital age, and loads of younger people probably have no idea it exists anymore. We, along with everyone else in NZ have Holiday Records to thank for bringing that back to us in the 21st Century.
2019 has been a huge year for you boys! What's in store for 2020? Will an Aussie tour be on the cards?
Hopefully more of the same but larger! We’ve already got some festivals booked for the start of the year and we’ve just tracked 3 songs in the studio that will be ready to release in the new year too. We’ll definitely be getting back to Australia. We dipped our toes with a couple of shows in April this year, but a full tour is on the cards once we release some more music. We’re busy writing for the next Album in amongst all the noise too, so there will be some playing around with what we’ve got so far as well as writing a whole lot of new songs over the coming months.
We know you guys are well on your way to reaching amazing things, but is there an all-time dream for Mini Simmons? What does the gran plan for this look like?
To write, record and tour eight days a week. Headlining a sold-out show at the Hollywood Bowl might be nice too…
Keep up to date with all things Mini Simmons related on their social channels
Instagram @minisimmonsband
Facebook Mini Simmons
Spotify @minisimmons
Tell us about your journey into the visual arts. Did it change over time from a hobby to a career?
To be honest, I was barely drawing at all between finishing high school and my early 20’s. But the moment I decided I wanted to build a career on illustration, I was full steam ahead. I left my job in a local cafe (standard artist trajectory) and dove into freelance work designing posters for gigs, small illustrations for publications, and random graphic design jobs. Over time, the jobs just got cooler (and better paying).
Did you ever formally study visual arts or was your craft self taught?
No, I studied fashion design, but pushed that aside once I commenced illustration. By the time I’d chosen to follow this path I didn’t have the patience to re-train. There’s definitely a few things that would’ve been quicker to learn if I’d attended university, but hey it’s been fun learning the hard way!
These days you’re based out of Wellington. Does your line of work mean you get to travel a lot?
It does, and for that i’m very grateful. Travel was actually a major motivating factor for me in pursuing a freelance career, and I can’t imagine life any other way. It’s not all romance, it’s not like I can just pack up and leave any old time, but work-travel opportunities continue to come my way, plus I’m able to take a decent portion of my work with me wherever I go.
What does an average day look like for you?
All day’s start with slightly too much coffee while l try to smash out as many emails as possible. If I’m painting a mural i’ll aim to be on site by 9am and work a big long day. If I’m working in the studio then I might do some drawing at home from the comfort of the couch before heading in to the studio to work on designs/paintings/illustrations. And more emails.
Where do you find your main source of inspiration? Do you find looking to other artists useful or do you tend to find sources of inspiration from the world around you?
I try to keep by intake balanced. Of course I love looking at what my peers are creating, but I am increasingly trying to consume art which is really different from my own. It seems to be a healthier approach to ensure the production of original ideas. I love vintage animation and illustrations, I follow a lot of tattoo artists, and a handful of abstract artists who work with colour in a huge way. Out in the world, I’m always scouting out colour combos and retro signage.
Being based in our country's capital with a plethora of eateries and bars at your fingertips; what are your top 3 recommendations for us out of towners?
Oooh. I don’t eat meat or dairy, and we’re fortunate to have a few locations that serve this market excellently: The Botanist in Lyall Bay for brunch, and Plant Blazed for epic vegan burgers beside Vic Architecture Campus. Oh and Hanging Ditch for a drink. It’s everything I ever wanted in a bar.
What exciting things do you have coming up for the rest of 2019?
A one way ticket to Mexico…?! It will eventually become a return ticket, but I have a couple of projects lined up in the Caribbean region, followed by Christmas in New York. Up until then I have a full schedule of murals and illustration work here in NZ. Exciting times!
]]>Poppy - Stylist
You spend a lot of time around our frames. Whats your all time favourite frame? Ohh thats so difficult, my favourites at the moment are the Esquire in clear crystal and the Bonnie sunglasses in gold, can't beat a subtle cat eye.
Have you any trips planned in the future?
My partner has family in Japan, so we are hopefully visiting them in the near future! So far my favourite place to visit has been New York! I found it surprisingly cheap to eat and do some sight seeing. I love getting lost in all of the cities' hidden spots too.
Living at the mount you must spend a lot of time at the beach. Do you surf or boogie board?
I love living a street back from the beach, so I try to practice yoga or walk down the beach every morning. My family love surfing but I'd probably say I'm more of a hobbie summer surfer, not good with the cold!
If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life what would it be?
I'm a lover of fresh fruit and veg and because we have so many orchards close by I try my best to shop local. I also wouldn't complain about having avocado on sourdough bread for the rest of my life! Bottomless coffee would go down a treat too, haha.
You've got an eye for all things "on trend". whats your favourite frame in the Bailey Nelson Collection? I'm obsessed with the Isabelle frame, but also love my Austin's at the moment such a classic shape.
Whats your dream car?
Either the Jeep Wrangler or the old school VW Beetle. I love the retro vibe.
Retail and coffee go hand in hand. Wheres your go to local Coffee spot?
Luca, down town Mount Maunganui! An iced caramel latte is my go to.
The Mount has such a vast array of restaurants. Where's your go to spot for a Friday night out for dinner? The Rising Tide is my favourite! I love getting takeouts and sitting on Leisure Island.
Lynda - 2IC
Lynda you're very new to the Bailey Nelson team; whats your favourite frame so far? They are all very new styles for me but I'm absolutely loving them, the colours are very unique also. I love the Sherry - the perfect colour way for this time of year.
Have you any trips planned in the future?
Earlier this year I went to South Africa with my partner who is originally from there. Although I was nervous about meeting his family for the first time, it was the most epic amazing trip ever!! We are hoping to go to Namibia three years from now. I CAN'T WAIT!!
Living at the Mount you must spend a lot of time at the beach?! Do you surf or boogie board? My family and I love to go jet skiing in summer! We head to the lakes most weekends. Sometimes during the week we get fish & chips and shoot to Matakana Island for dinner. We want to go camping up north next summer. I'm always on the hunt for more places to go and new family adventures.
If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life what would it be?
How do I choose an answer for this! I'm definitely a foodie and love trying new recipes, especially salads and dressings. I could also live off Seasoned Pork Belly.
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On the back of the release of the BN X ILU collaboration last week, we thought it was the perfect time to get a behind the scenes view of our biggest collaboration yet. We sat down with Joe Levy, I Love Ugly's Head Designer to get to know more about the ILU brand and how this exciting collaboration started.
The I Love Ugly journey began back in 2008. For our Bailey Nelson fans, followers and customers that aren’t familiar with ILU; tell us a little bit about yourselves, the brand and your ethos.
Absolutely. As you mentioned it started back in 08 initially as an art project for Founder and Creative Director Valentin Ozich, with screen-printed illustrative tees sold from his Mt Eden apartment. And I guess, as they say, the rest is history…
The I Love Ugly brand ethos can be best defined as producing an everyday premium product of sophisticated simplicity for the creative, aspirational man whilst spreading a positive, aspirational message.
I Love Ugly has established itself as a huge name in Men's fashion here in NZ and globally. What is one integral part of ILU that separates you from other brands, and keeps your label ahead of the game?
That’s a good question. I think our approach to fashion is an integral part of what sets us apart from the ‘status quo’. We don’t conform to fashion’s traditionally ‘seasonal’ release structure, we release monthly. We design goods with a timeless aesthetic that has a twist - modern interpretations of classic silhouettes and inclusion of ILU illustrative prints, something we have become synonymous for. We also place equal value on product and marketing, placing a strong emphasis on unique content creation and marketing strategies.
I Love Ugly has a very strong voice. The message you put out is always inspirational, forward thinking and out of the box. How do you ensure that this mentality is shared from the creative team to all ILU employees?
It’s actually pretty straight forward. I think because we have a lot of clarity with regards to our voice and what we represent, we attract a certain ‘ILU’ psychographic. So no matter the skill-set, we attract aspirational types, that align with our message.
How would you describe I Love Ugly’s aesthetic?
Sophisticated simplicity for the independent mind.
How did this collaboration initially come about?
As organically as you could possibly get! I popped into the High St Bailey Nelson Store in Jan of 2018 with the intention of getting some new optic frames and a quick eye test. A simple conversation with the amazing retail staff soon led to introductions with the Bailey Nelson Head Designer Ryan Nix via email...and fast forward a month or so Valentin and I were flying to Sydney to meet Ryan and review the first collab samples!
From a creative point of view, a collaboration can be extremely invigorating. What was the design process like working with our Head Designer, Ryan?
Yeah invigorating is actually a great word to describe the process! Our bread and butter are obviously garments, so it was a really enjoyable breath of fresh air to work on eyewear. From the outset, Ryan’s vision was seamlessly aligned with ours so the conceptual discussions were all incredibly streamlined and almost effortless.
Here at Bailey Nelson we like to empower our customers to “Look Different” and to embrace their individuality. What is the intention behind your designs? What do you want your customer to feel when they wear your product?
Exactly that, to embrace their individualism by providing a cohesive eyewear collection of three styles that each had their own unique identity. I think just as equally too was to provide a carefully considered eyewear collection that is crafted from premium materials, and available at an affordable price.
Lastly, what does 2019 have in store for I Love Ugly?
A lot of exciting projects! The most symbolic though would have to be our 10 Year Anniversary, something we’re incredibly proud of. We’re pretty blessed with a global following of fanatic ‘family’ so we feel a strong sense of responsibility to do something amazing for them as a sign of our appreciation. So watch this space...
By Lexi Laphor
This month is jam packed astrologically; so it’s the perfect time to call in Rose Quartz, which is a power stone for this time of year - just in time for Bailey Nelson’s new rose quartz range.
Rose quartz is solidified magma that takes millions of years to form. It can be traced back through many ancient civilizations and was harnessed as early as 600BC by the Assyrians. It was used in ancient Rome, Greek and Egyptian culture as a love and protection amulet as well as in tinctures and potions for beauty and anti-aging. Today, this power stone of the ages is most well known for its stunning pastel pink colour and as a stone of the heart.
Rose quartz is all about love and healing, so it’s the quintessential stone of self-love.
It summons compassion to strengthen and rebalance our connection with ourselves and our relationship with love. Where regular quartz is known as an amplifier, rose quartz only amplifies soothing and loving energies. This makes rose quartz the go-to for times where you feel out of touch or disconnected, unsure or unworthy. Rose quartz is the perfect stone for self empowerment and a great gift to help others kick off this new year in flow with abundance and self-belief.
Horoscopes: What’s in Store for your Sign
Last week, we had a full moon in Leo with a total lunar eclipse. Like all full moons, there’s a build up of emotions that culminates in release. This release can be a dramatic occurrence or a welcome relief, but right now is especially intense because of the eclipse. Eclipses always mark a time of change for us and this combined with planets such as Uranus, Mars and Saturn at play mean we are in for a very full summer. Grab a rose quartz or a new pair of sunnies, as we shade ourselves from that which is not meant for us, and clarify and refocus our path for the new year!
Aries
Aries, it’s time to go off! I’d liken you to the Markova in rose quartz. You’re an introvert and an extrovert all at once. Bold and loving like these pink frames, you can also leave an air of mystery. Like Markova’s dark lenses, you assert a certain air of aloofness, building up intrigue and allure. You are known for your passion and impulsivity and people feel excited to be around you. It’s time to charge yourself up with the buzz of this full moon eclipse in a fellow fire sign and channel some self loving compassion and confidence. Rose quartz is going to help you to really get fully out of the stagnated habits you’ve been in. Make an effort to acknowledge how incredibly dynamic you are and keep building up the effort to get out and about, meet new people and seize the new year. You deserve some fun and you will feel better for reconnecting with the wild and bolder aspects of your personality. It’s easy for you to fall into the pattern of looking outside for things to help shake up your life, but you must first stir up the pot of your own exuberance, as it’s your inner world that’s going to really amplify your outer world this next month and impact how it takes shape.
Taurus
Taurus! This full moon eclipse brings you unknowns and surprise changes. Jupiter and Venus are here to help you see opportunities in even the most unpleasant feeling challenges, as well as to provide you with financial backups and alternatives. Adaptability is the challenge for the month ahead and you stand to gain so much! With every challenge that has come up and that is currently occuring, there are new found solutions. The sun shifting into Aquarius definitely helps illuminate possibilities you hadn’t foreseen, and you will be able to start envisioning huge pivots that you can make for your future. Added to this are some heavy points of closure as Mars and Uranus in Aries help push you towards change with your 12th house of healing activated. Both your work life and home life are going to need reconfiguration, but you will feel more inspired now to start making change. By the end of March Taurus you’ll know where your angles are taking you. Like the Drew glasses, you’ll reframe using design of the past for an even more innovative looking future.
Gemini
Gemini, this month is looking good on you. You are akin to the new Cocoa coloured Homer shades. From the outside, things look easy breezy and effortless and soon things are going to feel that simple and elegant. It’s a time where you’ve achieved greater sense of peace and relaxation as you’ve been winding down from all that has been last year. Now, you are beginning to slowly gear up for the year that is ahead for you. Take with you your relaxed and calm mindset as you will be facing many shifts and making decisions that will help you set up a more intuitive, flowing and sustainable way of living. As the moon squares with Uranus and obligations and deadlines rear back up, do not let yourself be derailed. Keep your goals in mind and remember you are an ideas person. You can come up with flexible solutions and last minute back up plans better than most. You are able to roll with whatever is ahead, so continue to do so in your relaxed state keeping in focus your goals and passions. You will get to where you need to go if you can embrace the change the cosmos is ramping up and channel the self belief that rose quartz brings to focus on your own divine flow, avoiding getting swept up into other’s hurricanes.
Cancer
Cancer, this is a time for you to practice being assertive and direct with those you encounter. You are like the Cliff glasses, powerful and present but adaptable to anything and anyone. You are usually hyper-intuitive and caring, but with Mars and Uranus right now, you may find it difficult to find a balance between bottling your thoughts and feelings right up or having them catch you off guard, completely escaping you. This is the time to practice finding and fine tuning the middle ground. You have the firm and wise influence of Saturn to help ground and guide you. You have everything that you need to help you pursue personal and professional growth and connection. In your personal relationships you will be able to start to shift dynamics for a healthier pattern and you may even find that you do an edit on your life and let some relationships go entirely. Now is the time to meet new people, go to new events or places and to network. People will be drawn more than usual to your sense of integrity and ambition and will want get involved or help you in any way they can. Put yourself out there Cancer, this is your time for a go get ‘em attitude.
Leo
Leo, the next month has you looking just as good as the new Harper rose quartz glasses! Just off the tail of a full moon in your sign, this is a really great next month for you! It’s a time where Mars is entering Aries, so your passions and creativity are reignited and you are going to be able to express yourself and really shine. Going out shopping, dancing, to an art show or concert, meeting new people and going new places are all a big yes, but you also have Saturn making sure you enjoy yourself without blowing your budget. Saturn’s influence will help you to incorporate your fun loving and expressive side into a new more sustainable practice or structure. This eclipse wants you to be the bold and spirited being that you are. Your health comes into focus as you are urged to step out of your shadow side and into the foreground of your own life. Call on rose quartz to help you really believe that you are worthy. You invest so much into others, but it’s time to invest in your own wellbeing.
Virgo
Virgo, your clear vision and sense of who you are is always striking. Like the Carrie rose quartz frame, you just need to be encircled with a dash of rose quartz to believe in your own vision. With this recent eclipse and the sun soon to move into your house of organisation and wellness, your thoughts hold a lot of power. One of your greatest abilities is the way you are able to analyse information, focusing simultaneously on details and the bigger picture with absolute clarity as well as preparing for infinite possibilities or outcomes. Right now, it’s incredibly important that you try to focus your mind and energy on what you wish to generate, rather than worrying about what could happen or go wrong. Where you place your thoughts right now is going to be amplified, so manifest the best you can conceive for yourself. We aren’t suggesting rose coloured lenses, just rose coloured frames! Meditate on rose quartz let it link your minds vision and your hearts dreams. Let go of self doubts and what if’s and honour your ability to be more than you give yourself credit for.
Libra
This full moon eclipse is going to help give you the energy to focus on revamping your relationships both working and personal. With Uranus and Mars in Aries, comes a real sense of urgency to create more passion and connection in your life. Try if you can to be patient with yourself and others though, as rushed decisions or swift assumptions will tangle you in unnecessary conflict. Rest assured that you are going to be feeling much more creativity in March and projects and collaboration opportunities will be in abundance. This summer is the perfect time to re-launch yourself into a more social sphere and create new relationships. Don’t be surprised if some friendships come to a close at this time as there will be room for new people and energy to enter. Let your feelings and other people flow freely and be patient with your own progress. Your summer could be like the Theodore Windsor Rim frames in Strawberry Coral. While some would see rose coloured glasses as ignorance, you, Libra can see with bliss. Whether metaphorical or literal, wearing a rose tinted lens right now can help you to see each situation with more compassion, as just like rose quartz, you can attract and amplify beauty and abundance for your new year.
Scorpio
Scorpio, it’s time to chill the eff out. Like out Leopold in cocoa, it’s time to relax shut out the world for a little and delve into yourself. With the sun just having entered Aquarius, embrace a change of pace as can slow down and sit back, taking the time to process all the progress you have made and a start at looking where it could next extend. Mars in Aries will fire up your impulses as you will want to exert control and power. You will be tempted to act super decisive or flex your assertive boss-like nature, but right now, it’s best to channel these surges into your intimate or exercise life and restrain from making too many decisions. This is only for this next month and especially concerning your career and projects. Play the long game letting Aquarius put a temporary hold on major decision making, as insights and opportunities will begin to take shape with some time. This year your most authentic self is to become more and more infused in everything that you do, as Uranus and Jupiter bless you with new and exciting shifts and alternatives.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius! This year is your year of a fresh start and a chance to truly expand the horizons for this next chapter of your life! Jupiter (your ruling planet in charge of growth, luck, charisma and gifts) is visiting you, and only you, until December 2. This is so huge as it only happens once every 12 years, and this year will set in motion the tone for the next 12 year chapter of your life. January hasn’t been easy breezy, and this has been an attempt to help you face and fix what you’ve been avoiding and struggling with for years. This month, Saturn and Capricorn have been a stern hand in your affairs and your second house of money, material possessions as well as what money can’t buy like your talents, self esteem and value system. What has been revealed are all of your unhealthy emotional behavioural patterns and bad habits which will be weaved into all- family, love and sense of self, but take the clearest shape in the way you spend and earn money. This is the universes final attempt to highlight what was not working and what could be! If you can ensure you own and learn from the past, then this year has so much goodness to flood you with. Whatever you have been avoiding has by now gone past the unavoidable and if you haven’t yet, you must really embrace Saturn and sort and close your last chapter. Use this huge full moon eclipse surge to create a plan with a timeline for all of the details you’ve still to get through. You are timeless like the Cocoa coloured Davis glasses, but don’t let yourself get stuck in the past. Keep on the details and get your affairs sorted so that you can get the most out of this special year and really set yourself up to see what the future could hold.
Capricorn
Capricorn, it’s your season! You are starting the new year with your ruler Saturn telling you it’s time to really let go of caring about what others think of you. Start to think instead, what do YOU care about and how do YOU feel? You need a dose of the Adler Windsor Rim frames in Havana Blue to block it all out and focus on your own vision. Try things for the experience of enjoyment and try things with the simple intent to be authentic. That’s enough, and so are you. It’s time to let go of the attachment to a successful or practical process or outcome and it’s time to shake up how you’ve been viewing things and shift perspective. Embrace rose quartz and all of it’s soothing and expanding energy as it helps navigate and guide you through all the changes and emotions that this year has in store. Once you are able to be present in your feelings and your own vision can really expand and this year will be able to open up infinitely, as you see and experience change and emotion as ultimately expansive, rather than as a cave in!
Aquarius
Aquarius, this full moon eclipse is just the kind of surge you need! It’s in Leo and really reignites a fire in you to be more bolder and passion-filled than before. This is great because you have Uranus in Aries remaining until March 6th. Uranus has been stirring up your inner rebel and you are encouraged to connect and network with people who share your politics, values and interests. Align yourself with creative and just forces for a really dynamic and empowering next month. Your inner fire burning bright and it’s time to push for more self expression. You are like the Markova frame in rose quartz. You’re ready to really block out all the drabness and channel the connection and invigoration of rose quartz. Your priorities are sure to shift right now letting go of old stagnant situations and putting your time and focus into what helps you to feel full and alive. With the sun having just moved into your sign, you will be seeing what changes need to be made with a greater sense of optimism and clarity.
Pisces
Pisces, you are one of the most flowing and intuitive signs of all, you embody rose quartz and the rose quartz inspired style, Bronte. Now is a time for that self belief and connectedness, now is the time that you must remember that you are always supported by the moon and the universe, even when you feel down, lost or lacking in direction. It’s been a bit of an unsettling time for you of late as you’ve been feeling heavy and unsure. Allow yourself to decompress from the year that’s behind you and give yourself permission to put down and detach from what has felt weighty. You have a fresh year ahead and anything is possible. The key here and now is cultivating your relationships with others. It’s time to network, and put your energy into friendships and community. Make new alliances and align yourself with positive and grounded forces. With more connection in your everyday you will begin to feel opportunities opening up and see the possibilities on the horizon. Harness the energy of rose quartz to reframe love in your life as you reap the beauty and rewards of loving and healthy friendships, connection and community in collaboration.
]]>We recently sat down with Zak, Jesse, Brad and Yoni the four members of Mini Simmons, an NZ based Blues-Rock band that captures the stomping swing of wild 70’s, with groove oriented bell-bottom flare. Dreamt up on the Pacific highways of Mexico, electrified campfire seances propelled the band onto the stages of the Auckland club scene. Keep reading to get to know the boys and their movements over the summer season…
Where are you all from and how did you meet?
Zak (lead vocals)
Jess and I are brothers so we met quite early on. Yoni’s Mum was our music teacher at primary school. All three of us grew up out near Muriwai Beach so we fell in together pretty easily.
Fast forward a few years... Brad and I flatted together through University in Dunedin – We bonded over many things but he’s also from Auckland so we became super tight.
Brad had been away playing in a band in London and the 3 of us came back from surfing in Central America at the same time.
It probably only took two months of Brad knowing the other guys before we all started hanging out every weekend. It feels pretty much like family.
How did the idea of starting a band come together?
Really it all started in Mexico. Jesse, Yoni and I started a joke group, when we were on a road trip surfing from California to Costa Rica. We started coming up with these ludicrous acapella lyrics that we would mash together in raps on long highway drives.
By the time we arrived in Costa Rica, coming to terms with the fact our trip was almost at an end... we were kind of like “Really, are we just going to go back to jobs? We need something to get psyched on every day - like we had experienced surfing for the past 6 months.”
So we decided then and there that we would start a band. We wrote our first single (Slippery Gypsy Woman) with no instruments in an Israeli, Costa Rican hostel. It’s mad. Yoni had this handful of lyrics he wrote while walking a mud-track down to the beach.
Originally I was going to play bass and sing, Jess would be guitar and Yoni would drum. But when we got home and tried we realised the group needed a REAL musician.
That's where Brad comes into it. We straight up told him he was joining our band the second weekend we got back from our travels. We were out drinking one night when I told Brad to come along. I recall Yoni walking up to him (a little under the influence at the time) and demanding that he “better be good” or he was out.
How Did you come up with the name Mini Simmons?
A Mexican Palm Reader lady told us we’d be famous. Or we may have told her… anyway her name was Mini. We called her Mini Simmons after the surfboard because she was short and stumpy, so that’s what we called the band
How would you describe your sound?
It’s really Blues-Rock’n’Roll. It’s our take on the British and American bands of the 60’s & 70’s.
They put an electrified twist on the REAL Blues (the Robert Johnson’s, Muddy Waters’, Howlin Wolf’s etc) and then we’ve done our thing with what we heard from them.
All 4 of us love that music, the blues. Our sound swings between being raw and melodic. Some songs definitely lean more heavily on the rudimental pulse of the blues where as some have layered instruments and harmonies. Talking about it sounds like the two don’t fit under the same umbrella but it all adds up to a sound that draws from Blues-Rock’n’Roll.
We all have a massive part in determining the sound because we’re all quite opinionated on what we like. But at the end of the day Brad is definitely the one with the ability to harness what we express and draw it out in a form of sorts. He’s the musical director.
How have you found the public response to your unique style and vibe?
Things started pretty slowly really. Up until recently it wasn’t that far outside of our friend group that had heard of our music or was coming to shows... but it’s starting to build momentum. Especially with some of the festivals we’ve got coming up over the Summer.
Live; we generally have really good reactions. Half of our groove is visual so our shows usually have a pretty intense energy to them. Performance wise we try to be pretty in-your face. Not in a confrontational way but we want to wake people up. Change the pace from that day’s desk job.
We like to wear pretty out there clothes too. Flares, leathers, frills, scarves. Swinging London fashion mirrored the music perfectly and so the ‘vibe’ of the band is not just a music thing. We get some fairly strong reactions to it. Mostly the girls love it (or want our clothing) and guys bug out in a sort of offended respect for the way we push the boat out. It probably stacks up a bit more that everyone is on the 90’s buzz so you’ve got the chalk and cheese element.
It started off slightly subconsciously. I’ve always worn some pretty out-the-gate stuff, but we ham it up a bit more now.
How long have you been making Music for and who are your major inspirations?
We’ve been playing together coming up 2 years, but really pursuing it properly for about 12 months. We recorded 4 songs (our first EP – Whisky & The Witch) in our bedroom and put it out this time last year. Those were pretty much the first 4 songs we ever wrote so they were a bit of a stab in the dark.
As far as inspirations, we have loads but can’t go past Peter Green. To try and narrow some others down for you, Tom Petty, The Doors, Taj Mahal, Neil Young, The Rolling Stones and any old Blues. Robert Johnson is great.
Your debut Album is due to be released in March next year, has there been a moment in your creative process when you feel like you’ve nailed it?
There’s definitely moments in certain songs where you feel like things have come together. I don’t know that you ever feel like you’ve truly nailed it. That would be clocking life right? Probably the closest we got to feeling like we’d “got there” with a song would be ‘Sunflower Fields’. It’s a bit of a departure from heavy riffs and at 7 minutes it’s got the space to ebb and flow just how we imagined it. Might be a bit long for a single but who knows.
Our Album is looking like we’ll release it in March next year. Pretty much all recording was finished last week with a couple of overdubs and vocals in the last session. We’re pretty happy with what we’ve got down. It’s certainly a big step up from what we put out a year ago. We recorded at The Lab with Olly Harmer engineering – he’s a ‘bit of a blisser’ and did an amazing job for us.
We’ve already released the first single ‘Kid’s Off Broadway’ and will put out another 2 before we release the full LP. ‘Southern Cold’, our second single, is actually coming out on Friday this week so listen out for that too.
Do you have a favourite song to perform or song your most proud of?
It probably differs a little for each of us depending what songs we had more input into, but favourite to perform across the board is ‘Little Man Blue’. It’s our most ambitious for sure. We close the live set with it almost every time now and it builds in a way that is hard to ignore.
Can you tell us about any gigs you have coming up this Summer?
Yeah we have a pretty sick trio of festivals lined up for Dec/Jan.
We’re starting on Dec 29th at Rhythm and Vines which is essentially the benchmark of NZ Festivals. We’re on the Garden Stage at 10pm with a host of other bands which will be super fun and something we’ve aimed to do since we started.
Then we’ll trip up to Tauranga for a brand spanking New Year’s festival – Tides, on 31st Dec. We’re playing there with a good crew of bands that are doing really well for themselves. That will be epic.
Then on 12th of January we’re playing Nestfest in Hawkes Bay. That’s promising to be MASSIVE. It’ll be the biggest crowd we’ll play to I’d imagine and we’ll be sharing the stage with some top International and NZ acts. We can’t wait.
Keep your eyes peeled for an Australian//NZ Tour at the end of Summer to support our Album release. That’ll be our first trip over the ditch which is a bit nerve wracking. We’re starting to book that in now!
Keep up to date with all things Mini Simmons related on their social channels
Instagram @minisimmonsband
Facebook Mini Simmons
Spotify @minisimmons
The days are getting longer, the sun is getting hotter and our need for the beach is getting stronger! Think of Auckland summer beaches, and you probably think of the North Shore, right? So we thought this is the perfect time to introduce you to our Bailey Nelson team based on the Shore. Have a read and get to know our amazing team that work in our Albany and Takapuna stores!
Lisa
Albany Store Manager
Whats your favourite BN frame?
Ooooh so many but I'd have to choose the classic Bronte in Cherry Tort.
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
The culture! Support is offered, mistakes are not shamed, succession planning is encouraged and individuality is preserved! I have made amazing friends and my team works so hard!
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer? Madagascar!! But this summer i'll be here in NZ working away in store! lets call it a stay-cation!
Cass
Eyewear Stylist
Whats your favourite BN frame?
My very first BN frame, the Malto in walnut fade! Always my go to.
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
The people for sure, the ones I work with and the ones walking in ! Love it when people come in collecting BN glasses for the first time. The smile on their faces when they can see the world clearly again and the confidence they feel in their new look!
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer?
I Love going back to the Philippines when I can during summer to visit extended family, its always hot, the people are so warm and food is amazing and doesn't break the wallet! My current summer plan is Melbourne, to visit the bestie and eat my heart out at cafes and restaurants.
Amanda
New Zealand Online Manager and Takapuna Eyewear stylist
Whats your favourite BN frame?
The Harrison in the rose gold definitely! Its so delicate and feminine.
Favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
My co-workers are definitely my favourite, we jam out to music, Its just a great store environment. Seeing customers really step out of their comfort zones with glasses is also such an amazing experience.
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer? Anywhere north of Auckland, Orewa, Mangawhai! Its great to get away from the hustle and bustle of busy Auckland! I will be enjoying my summer being newly engaged!
Maria
Albany and Takapuna Eyewear Stylist
What is your favourite BN frame?
The Carrie in rose crystal. They were the first pair of BN's that I ever picked up!
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
Definitely my co-workers! BN as a company is so supportive and I love getting to work with such motivated people.
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer?
My fave summer hot spot would be Waihi beach where my Nana has a bach, it is so peaceful down there. Im going to America (L.A and San Fran) for part of my Summer and I cant wait to rock my BN sunnies around.
Vanessa
Albany Store Optometrist
What is your favourite BN frame?
The Thomas in Indigo - such a cool minimalistic shape and radical colour.
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
Lovely, supportive team members in store, always willing to help out.
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer?
Zanzibar - Would have to be top of the lot! Amazing beaches and wonderfully warm water. My summer plans are on hold for early next year! I'll be off to Singapore and Fiji for my friends weddings - definitely worth the wait.
Babra
Eyewear Stylist
What is your favourite BN frame?
You can't beat the August in cherry tort - Love that colour way!
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
The PEOPLE! And also how sustainable and environment friendly the company is. Keeping it green team!
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer?
My deck with lots of summer fruits (mostly cherries - big fan) I'll be spending a majority of my time with family and friends in the summer sun.
Cassie
Albany store Assistant Manager
What is your favourite BN frame?
The oh so classic Theodore in Silver!
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
I have a genuine love for the people. Everyone that works for Bailey Nelson is so amazing in their own way and it's just incredible to see how the individuality creates such an accepting culture!
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer?
Te Arai surf beach is where I will be this summer - when I'm not at work!
Gisela
Eyewear Stylist
What is your favourite BN Frame?
It definitely has to be the silver Harrison, I never thought I could rock a metal frame but as soon as I put those on i felt like they belonged.
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
The friendly team, the environment of the workplace, but most importantly being able to help people find the perfect glasses that fit their personality!
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer?
My favourite holiday spot has to be Matakana its just so chill and the vibes are great! My plans for the summer are to rest up before the craziness of university starts again next year.
Rasha
Senior Eyewear Stylist
What is your favourite BN frame?
The Bronte frame - I Love it!
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
The friendly team and wonderful customers that are always looking for a new styles.
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer? My favourite beaches within New Zealand are Browns Bay and Mission Bay. The next holiday plans are Thailand and Singapore. I can't wait!
Cara
Eyewear Stylist
What is your favourite BN frame?
The Malcom frame in dark mahogany of course!
What is your favourite part of working for Bailey Nelson?
Such a good team to work with and the customers are always soo nice!
What is your summer hot spot? Do you have any plans for summer?
The Coromandel and the Mount are my two absolute summer faves. This summer will definitely involve a lot of road tripping and festivals - its going to be amazing.
From there I created my first series of images. Initially I had a lot of "not-so great feedback" from friends and family. "Who would want a photo of a half-dead flower on a black background"? they would say. Quite clearly I ignored the feedback and continued on producing my work.
For me this photographic work was my side hustle, my hobby, an artistic outlet for a long time. I was working 40hrs a week in my retail/marketing job whilst continuously adding to my photographic collection. Working on Just South West any chance I could get; mornings before work, lunch breaks and at home at night.
You're a Fine Art School graduate. How has your past study impacted on your art practice today?
A close friend of mine recently shared with me an article written by Carissa Potter. It really resonated with me, accurately capturing my thoughts on the art school mindset.
"Unlearning some things you may have learned."
1. The end goal of making art is either to teach or show in galleries.
2. Your art is not interesting unless it is conceptual and esoteric, or highly aesthetic in an innovative way and critical.
3. If you want to be taken seriously as an artist, you cannot talk about money. And you absolutely cannot want to earn money. We were taught that wanting money—a.k.a wanting to earn a living wage and be paid for our work—was similar to selling out.
4. Your work has to be either commercial or fine. There are boundaries to each and approaching fine art from a business-oriented perspective is not ok.
It's not realistic. I believe it's such an archaic view of what art can be. In this day in age, in 2018 with the world of social media, it’s okay to hustle creatively, it's okay to create content, its okay to freelance. Commercial work has a place and a purpose.
How did you navigate that artistic dilemma of not wanting to sell out but also earn a living off your work?
When I started shooting I had no intention of selling my work - with no idea of what potential it had.
My latest series Nirvana is a fantastic representation that the art world does not need to be so black and white.
I can create my limited edition fine art photography printed on cotton rag, and at the same time produce commercial work.
They can, and do, work harmoniously together. An artist's career is not ONLY showing in a gallery. Yes, I make product. And yes, that's totally going against everything you're taught at art school, but that's okay.
Tell us the story behind your latest series Nirvana?
I've always had it in my head that I wanted to release a limited edition series. I wanted to prove to myself, that although I am producing product, I am not limited to that. Demonstrating that it is possible to create both fine art and commercial work. Going against the black and white mentality that was drummed into me at Art School. It's called Nirvana because in a Buddhist sense that word means "rebirth". I felt it was the perfect title for the stage in life I'm at right now. The images themselves I have worked on for over a year. I had these images in my head for a long time and I've finally managed to create something from them; leaving my job and fully committing myself to Just South West has been a massive backing behind that. I've now released a range of scarves and have so many more exciting creative mediums for my work to be displayed - more on that coming soon!
It's such an amazing feeling seeing the return of hard work. All of the time and energy I've invested in Just South West is starting to pay off.
You can find all of Stacey's beautiful work on her Website justsouthwest.com
And keep up to date with all things Just South West related on her Instagram @justsouthwest
Stacey wears our Helena frame in Pink Java Tort
Did you know 95% of blindness is treatable and preventable?
It's easy to take the access of eyecare and good vision for granted, but we believe it should be a basic human right. That's why Bailey Nelson's Eyecare Director Robyn, is trekking from Lukla to Everest Base Camp alongside a group of passionate volunteers to provide eyecare to remote communities.
Robyn is marking World Sight Day by bringing optical expertise and eyecare to Himalayan villages. Have a look through her photos below. We'll be updating this travel diary each week so stay up to date with Robyn's journey!
Week 1:
Hagley Park
Fancy a morning stroll through the most picturesque park New Zealand has to offer?
Situated in the heart of the city, Hagley Park is in its prime at this time of year! Golden leaves scatter the pavements, an abundance of well-kept flower beds embellish the park and a tranquil river gently stakes its claim through the centre of the city.
Dog lovers, this part of town is the place for you as our furry friends run free! What a zen way to start your day
From cinema, to cooking, to design, authenticity and attention to detail goes hand in hand with Italian craft. And this ethos is the inspiration behind out first collection made entirely in Italy featuring four distinct frames — Solo Quattro (or, just four). Manufactured by Barberini in Italy, our custom tinted glass sun lenses allow for the highest level of optical clarity. And as always, we’ve partnered with Mazzucchelli to produce acetate from their family-run Italian workshop.
The Solo Quattro collection fuses different and diverse elements of acetate to create vibrant, almost kaleidoscopic layered colour. Experimental colour combinations and exaggerated shapes compliment intricate and embellished design to make this a truly unique handmade collection.
To celebrate this exciting new range, we’re paying homage to those who work with authentic design and traditional artisan methods; creators who do things the old-fashioned way. Introducing our first featured artist, Sydney-based ceramicist Milly Dent.
Milly's handmade ceramic vessels feature her distinctive marbling and structured geometric pattern work, creating sculptures that are equal parts ornamental and functional. We sat down with Milly at her light-filled studio to chat about the nature of her craft and how this skilful attention to detail spills into other areas of her life.
What are three key ingredients you need to get you in a creative headspace?
Music, Coffee and Clay
Do you have any routines when making art?
When I get to the studio I put on some music and open the kilns to see the previous nights haul. I spend the morning mixing and colouring clay, and pouring molds. I love the afternoon sunlight in my new studio, so spend that time working on new forms, sanding, glazing and packing orders.
For new projects, ideas begin on paper and soon become smaller prototypes. I then make bigger forms, make moulds, add pigments to clay and start casting new forms. Depending on the project, I tend to make a number of the same form then play around with the way they are finished.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give someone starting out in your field?
Find your specialty or difference and work on that to establish your creative voice.
Who are your top three favourite artists or artisans?
At the moment, I am loving the work of Claire Pony, Holly Greenwood and Vipoo Srivilisa.
Does your focus on artistry and craftsmanship flow into other areas of your life?
I think subconsciously it definitely does! The way I make and plate up food for myself tends to be over the top! Also choosing what cup to drink my tea from is always a lengthy process! I think most areas of my life are directed in some way by my interest in texture, color and aesthetics.
Leading on from that question, can you give us a tip on where to get the best quality...
Coffee: Coffee Alchemy, Marrickville
Pizza: Vacanza, Surry Hills
Cocktail: Bloody Mary from a can at The Norfolk
Outfit: Service on Oxford Street
And finally, how long has to taken to feel like you have mastered your specific craft? Do you feel like you have? Or is this is a constantly evolving goal?
I am constantly trying to develop, improve and extend my craft knowledge. I am always researching porcelain's rich and diverse material history, and feel like there is plenty to still learn in the world of ceramics! I have only just begun to understand the material.
Find out more about Milly at millydent.com or follow her on Instagram at @millydent.
Photography: Chris Loutfy
From cinema, to cooking, to design, authenticity and attention to detail goes hand in hand with Italian craft. And this ethos is the inspiration behind out first collection made entirely in Italy featuring four distinct frames — Solo Quattro (or, just four). Manufactured by Barberini in Italy, our custom tinted glass sun lenses allow for the highest level of optical clarity. And as always, we’ve partnered with Mazzucchelli to produce acetate from their family-run Italian workshop.
The Solo Quattro collection fuses different and diverse elements of acetate to create vibrant, almost kaleidoscopic layered colour. Experimental colour combinations and exaggerated shapes compliment intricate and embellished design to make this a truly unique handmade collection.
In light of this distinctive new range, we’ve teamed up with artists who use skilful, refined and classic approaches to their creative pursuits; combining innovation with tradition. Alesandro Ljubicic is a painter dedicated to his craft, an artist who applies finesse and skill to his expressive, accomplished work.
Alesandro Ljubicic’s immense textured canvases erupt with streaks and flecks of rich colour. He interprets nature with energy and passion, layering and blending paint to create highly tactile surfaces. Find out more about Alesandro as he lets us in on his stylish, creative world (and tells us where to get the best coffee in town).
What are three key ingredients you need to get you in a creative headspace?
Quiet space, phone turned off and great music.
Do you have any routines when making art?
I always painting in the evenings when everyone is front of the TV or sleeping. I feel in a way this is a mental advantage where I tell myself I am working hard whilst others sleep… telling myself that I will always be that step ahead.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give someone starting out in your field?
Make sure you do what you love, because there will always be days where you just don’t feel like getting out of bed.
Who are your top three favourite artists or artisans?
Monet, Vincent Van Gogh & Antony Micallef.
Does your focus on artistry and craftsmanship flow into other areas of your life?
Without a doubt. I started a company called The Sydney Art Store where I import, manufacture, wholesale and retail art materials which constantly keep me busy being creative in a whole new different way.
Leading on from that question, can you give us a tip for where to get the best quality...
Coffee: Romolo Cafe & Cafe Portman
Pizza: Da Mario Roseberry
Cocktail: Manly Pavilion
Outfit: Throwback Store for everyday gear & Mr A.Taylor for incredible suits with 124 shoes :-)
And finally, how long has to taken to feel like you have mastered your specific craft?. Do you feel like you have? Or is this is a constantly evolving goal?
I have been an artist for 11 years and still I feel like i have not mastered my specific art. But then again isn’t that the beauty of it - as we constantly strive to master in what we do and as someone with constant dreams :-) I feel like I am always evolving which makes the journey ever more exciting.
Find out more about Alesandro at alesandroljubicic.com or follow him on Instagram at @alesandroljubicic
Photography: Chris Loutfy
Nick’s following is growing rapidly and it’s no surprise given his soothing vocals, spellbinding melodies and beautiful, memorable lyrics. Having just released his new EP, In Between, Nick is embarking on a busy 2018 of touring, writing and recording his next album!
Nick took a week out of his somewhat hectic schedule to make the trip over the ditch and check out the New Zealand countryside and music scene. We caught up with Nick over coffee in Raglan to chat about his roots, life as a singer in Byron Bay, and plans for the future. We also probed him about the inspiration behind his captivating lyrics, and of course asked the all important question: where are the best surf spots in NZ and Aussie?!
Nick, first things first, what brought you over to New Zealand and how are you enjoying your time here?
I wanted to have a holiday. I also thought I could use it as a good chance to check out the country and suss out some spots where I might play when I come back for a proper tour later in the year… But yeah, mainly just a holiday this time!
I’ve loved New Zealand, it’s an awesome country. So many cool spots. I like Raglan in particular because it reminds me of home (Byron Bay), it’s small, has a cool vibe and character, and good waves!
So Raglan is your top place in New Zealand?
Yeah I reckon so, and Kerosene Creek in Rotorua. That’s a pretty epic place, I had no idea that there were hot rivers in the world!
Yep, New Zealand definitely has some unusual spots!
What are your plans when you get back to Australia?
I’m touring Australia from February to April and I’m planning to start working with a band to record some new music. So this will entail trialling drummers and bass players, working on songs and organising some much needed studio time!
And what is your favourite part of what you do? Writing the songs? Performing live? Recording?
My favourite part of what I do used to be the writing. I’m more comfortable on stage now when I play so I like that more as I get further down the rabbit hole!
The recording I’m warming to...
Speaking of recording, we’re stoked to hear you’re planning on recording some new music soon, when can we expect to hear your next album?
This year.
Definitely before the year is up!
I think it will probably be more similar to my first EP than my second.
And to the question we’re sure all your fans are wanting the answer to, where does the inspiration for your songs come from?
Mainly… ummm… I dont know I guess it really depends what is going on in my life at the time. I’m mainly inspired to write when I’m annoyed or upset so things that piss me off? And girls, definitely some of the inspiration comes from girls.
Evidence for the latter source of inspiration is the new single off your EP, ‘California’, right? What was the story here?
I was just hanging with a girl and we had a great connection then she left and moved to California. Basically, I wanted her to come home back to Australia.
Which artists do you listen to and/or admire? Are there any that stand out as a source of inspiration and admiration for you as a singer/songwriter?
That’s a hard question, ...it’s definitely changed in the last few years.
How so?
I guess the people that I looked up to and wanted to emulate when I first started out as a singer/songwriter maybe have proven to not be all they stacked up to be. I’ve been lucky enough to meet some of the people I used to admire and I guess it’s a little bit of a reality check as I’ve realised that they may not be the artists that I had envisioned and built them up to be.
The people that I have come to admire now are more the people behind the scenes, because they’re not so much in the spotlight. There’s some awesome musicians that I’ve met and worked with, not necessarily artists, who are super passionate and original and yeah, I admire what they do.
Ok that makes sense!
Did you always want to be involved in music? Were you singing from a young age?
No, I actually grew up playing professional football in South Australia. So I did that from the age of about 14 until I finished school but then realised it wasn’t for me so decided to pursue music.
I'd always played guitar through school but started writing heaps when I was about 21 and realised that music was what I really wanted to be doing.
Wow that’s awesome, so a total career change for you!
Do you ever miss playing competitive sport?
No, it’s not a lifestyle that suits me. It wasn’t good for me health wise and I much prefer surfing to playing footie now! As for the competitive part, I try and translate this into my drive to succeed musically… plus I’m pretty competitive when it comes to playing cards!
Who doesn’t love a competitive card game?!
Exactly!
You grew up in South Australia, so when did you head East to Byron and what was it that drew you there? We’re guessing the gorgeous beaches, weather, and people played a part?!
I left in 2014 and moved to Byron. I just came for a holiday at first but the weather and social life definitely helped me make the move!
If I could play enough to make a living back at home I’d think about heading back. Unfortunately there’s only three places to play in town there and of course heaps more venues in Byron so I’m staying put for now.
Tell us, what is life like as a singer in Byron Bay, we’re imagining it to be pretty dreamy, is this the case?
Yeah it’s a pretty good spot to live as a singer. There’s lots of opportunity to play both at venues and busking. There’s also a solid community of artists and musicians in Byron too which is cool.
What do you do outside of writing, singing, and recording?
I enjoy surfing and partying with my friends. Yep, mainly just surfing and hanging out with my mates in Byron!
And just one last question, where in your opinion are the best surf spots in NZ and Aussie?
Well I reckon in NZ, from what I’ve seen I’d have to go with Raglan and I’ve heard the Mount (Mount Maunganui) too although it was small when I went there. In Aussie, that’s tough, there’s usually good surf in Lennox and then back in South Australia where I grew up around Port Lincoln.
Nick’s EP is available to purchase on Itunes or listen on Spotify.
Check out his website for upcoming tour dates.
]]>We caught up with the 2 guys that make up this exciting musical collaboration, Gavin Correia and Marty Rich, over a few beverages at Bedford and Soda. First and foremost we found out that Gavin and Marty are awesome… We also touched on how they met, where the distinct sound of Jupiter Project came from, and some of the highlights of their career thus far.
So first things first, introduce yourselves and tell us a little bit about who you both are?
We're Gavin and Marty and together we're Jupiter Project. We're lucky enough to have been calling this music thing a job for a while now but we still love it and at the end of the day, we're just fans of music!
It's so important to remain true to the thing that makes you love it for the first time.
So you guys met while studying at university in Auckland, but we hear that neither of you were actually studying music?!
What’s the story? How did you guys come to play together and how did Jupiter Project first come to be?
Marty: That's true, neither of us have studied music but you don't really have to unless you're getting classical training. In today's world it's just about being creative and finding what it is that makes you and your music unique.
Gavin: How we met? I used to throw these big Law school parties and Marty used to always try and sneak in. So he'd be nice to me so I'd let him in. Some of our mutual friends had told me he was a producer so one time he tried to get in I was like - hey we should jam and he was like - ahhh yeahhhhh… and the rest is history!
How did the unique sound that is Jupiter Project come to be?
It was basically an accident. When we first started out, we both had very different styles and we kinda put them together and made something that was a combination of our styles as musicians. We thought it was pretty cool so we kept fine tuning it and experimenting. But that's probably the key to our success - taking risks and trying new things.
You guys seem to have taken off in the last few years, what’s been the highlight so far of this incredible journey?
There are so many highlights that you don't really realise until you stop and reflect but our music has taken us around the world so it's always a special moment when you get to experience different cultures and it's even better when they appreciate your music too!
But one of the highlights has to be when we played in Paris. It was such an awesome feeling playing in Paris to 10,000 people and having them sing the words along with us!
Aside from creating the awesome tunes that Jupiter Project are swiftly becoming known, you guys also produce tracks for other artists, how does this differ from creating your own music?
That's something we definitely used to do a lot more of in our earlier days and we still do from time to time but it just has to be the right fit. Now we're a lot more focused on our team and working with the artists we've signed to develop their sound and guide them in the songwriting process. I guess you could say we're a bit more picky now.
And these artists, are they all New Zealand based or from further afield? How do you find and decide if they are the right artists?
A lot of them have been great New Zealand artists but there's a few overseas based ones too. We do a lot of writing sessions overseas so we get to meet a lot of cool artists and their teams. Last year we wrote a song for a Grammy Nominated Producer which was pretty cool.
Lastly, what does the future hold for Jupiter Project?
We're really excited about 2018! We don't wanna spoil too much of the fun but let's just say you'll be seeing and hearing a lot more from us this year. And still working on a crystal ball that predicts the future but guess we'll have to keep waiting on that one!
We are absolutely thrilled to hear that and cannot wait to hear LOTS more from this incredible duo in this year!
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So Myles and Rosalie, let’s start with the beginning of your story, how did you guys meet?
Myles: I’m a DJ, so take a guess? ;P
Rosalie: The club of course! But it took a few months before we finally had our first date. Why? Because I gave Myles the wrong cellphone number. Whoops! Luckily I managed to bump into him again to set things straight. Not long after we went for Japanese and fell for each other instantly.
And what are you guys up to at the moment workwise?
Rosalie: Currently I am working at Showroom 22, it’s fashion PR and I absolutely love it! The girls I work with are super lovely and my job definitely keeps me on my toes. Myles does more things than I can keep track of…
Myles: Couple things, my main gig now is managing the drinks brand Phoenix. But on top of this, I throw parties under ‘The Black Club’, run a live music showcase series for up-and-coming local artists under the banner ‘Merci Motel’. And I also do sustainable packaging using paper made from stone, the company is naturally called ‘Stone Paper Packaging’.
So you guys are of course Auckland based, what is the best thing about living in this city
Myles: That there are a million beaches within a two hour drive from town, so you get enough city but in a half hour drive over the Waitake’s you’re in another world. We also love the cafe culture, especially our local, the one and only Honey Bones in Grey Lynn!
And what does an average weekend hold in store for you two?
Rosalie: Wine, Piha, surf, antipasto platter, wine and Myles’ ‘Pinot Noir and Black Coffee’ playlist…
That sounds pretty ideal to us, we’ll have to give that playlist a listen!
Tell us, what are the top tips/secret spots in Auckland for a 20 something?
Myles: We will tell you some urban ones for free, but the best ones (all at Piha) are ours only! Firstly, top of Mt Eden was our main spot, until they stopped you driving all the way up... now we are sadly too lazy for it!
Rosalie: Sentinel bay (on full tide only) is a great place to sit on the wharf, soak up the sun and have a drink.. Another great spot is under the Harbour Bridge on the North Shore side, if you can find your way there!
Summer seems to be fast approaching (finally), what do you two have planned?
Myles: Yeah can’t wait! Piha obviously, then camping up at Whananaki and then Mathesons Bay - just hanging out with friends and whanau.
Myles, as a DJ (MacMylo) you must be pretty busy over the Summer with gigs and events, what are you most looking forward to?
Myles: Yup for sure, well I’m playing Springbreak in Rarotonga next week. After that it’s the Heineken Urban Polo all around the country which will be awesome!
So other than those 2 are there any other Summer events coming up that we should be snapping up tickets for and putting in our 2018 diaries?!
Myles: Laneway, I mean Anderson Paak is there, so it’s a no brainer. Plus we are doing Jack Johnson at Villa Maria which should be pretty awesome. And of course Splore is always a must!
We caught up with the man behind the Palace, Johnny Moore, to find out how Smash Palace has not only survived, but flourished in Christchurch, what the new regeneration of hospitality establishments means for the city today, and how Johnny fnds time outside of running Smash Palace for some mandolin playing!
So Johnny, tell me a little about yourself, have you always been in hospitality? If not, how did you end up in the industry? What’s your story?
I spent a decade in hospitality after high school before retraining as a journalist. Journalism led to marketing and along the way I opened a bar with a few friends. It was more that we wanted a place to hang out than wanting to start a viable business. Anyway, the place went great guns, dragged me back into hospitality, launched a bunch of serious hospo operations, and here I am – working bar again.
Life doesn’t always take the path you expect.
Smash Palace has become something of an establishment in the Christchurch
hospitality and nightlife scene, tell me about how it all started?
We had a bar – Goodbye Blue Monday – which fell over in the earthquakes. After deciding that we wanted to commit to rebuilding in Christchurch, the next question was: how to run a bar in a city where the centre will be moving for a while. The answer: create a bar that moves. So, after a night drinking we bought a bus and started fitting it out on our neighbours abandoned property.
I think it has been embraced because locals and tourists love the story of a little bar that insisted on being a part of a damaged community.
Where did the name come from?
Originally it was called “Smash City” but with the first iteration being ringed in wrapped scaffold it started to look like a castle and everyone just started calling it Smash Palace.
I thought “who am I to argue with public opinion” and we changed the name.
Smash Palace is on old Kiwi film starring Bruno Lawrence. I recommend it if you like weird old NZ cinema.
What does an average day at Smash Palace look like for you?
I sometimes think that when people imagine owning a bar that it’s much more glamorous than reality. Ordering stock. Chucking kegs about. Managing staff. Trying to hustle cheap product from suppliers…
An average day sees me working with my sister, brother-in-law and my parents which is the part of the job that I love. Business is fun but family business is about something beyond just making a buck. It’s about creating a community.
Smash Palace certainly feels like a community to us.
The earthquakes had a devastating effect on many loved bars and establishments throughout the city, how did Smash Palace overcome this to become the success it is today?
While the earthquakes damaged the city, they also represented opportunity. Smash Palace would never have worked in the past – I mean, it’s an open-air bar in a city now renowned for its weather.
When the earthquakes came the option was to cash out or to work twice as hard to do something special. We chose the second option.
The success of the place is mainly due to the hard work of all the awesome staff we have who have bought into our vision for a bar that provides something that all the others don’t.
Also, don’t forget the customers who populate a bar. Without all our loyal regulars it’d just be a bus in a car park. I think there was a bunch of people looking for a community centred place and we happened to chance upon being that place.
There have been lots of new bar and restaurant openings in the last few months, how do you view the hospitality scene in Christchurch now and how do you think this will impact the fabric of the city?
The scene is more vibrant than ever before. It’s easy to forget that before the earthquakes, Christchurch was a sleepy wee city in slow decline.
Now it’s got the most up-to-date hospo offerings in the country. Whether restaurants or bars, what we see in Christchurch is bang on trend (something Christchurch has never been accused of).
There are a lot of bars opening at the moment which means we need to stay on our game and work at being the best at what we do.
I think what the city will be left with will be much better than what we had before.
Alongside running such a successful bar, what do you get up to in your life outside of Smash Palace?
Play mandolin in an Irish band. Ride motorbikes with my friends. Race vintage cars where possible. Tramping and bush walking. An interest in native trees and birds. And try to spend as much time with my amazing wife as a I can.
What does the future hold for you and for Smash Palace?
The earthquakes taught me to stop doing too much future reading. I work on a much shorter timeframe now.
Hopefully this Summer is sunny and prosperous. Hopefully I can get my motorbike back together in time for some good summer rides. Christmas is coming – my favourite part of the year – and I’ll try and eat my weight in ham.
I’ve been meaning to walk the Heathy… Let’s see.
Smash Palace will be around for some time yet I suspect – the locals wouldn’t have it any other way.
Check out Smash Palace here
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Name and role at WMC: Kelly Elkin, Co-founder
What's the best thing about your job?
Working with brands and business that share my values.
If you could trade places with someone in your industry for a day, who would it be? Oh that's a tricky one, perhaps Simon Cipriani, he works at the Ethical Fashion Initiative and is always in Africa working closely with artisans and brands like Vivienne Westwood on fair trade projects...
What are your top 5 'most played' tracks on Spotify/Apple music?
It's pretty weird mix:
The trip - Still Corners
Blend - Aldous Harding
Harlem River - Kevin Morby
Humble - Kendrick Lamar
Coming Home - Leon Bridges
What are you watching on Netflix at the moment?
Oh man I haven't really recovered from the Handmaid's Tail on SBS and GOT! Glow was pretty good!
What item of clothing will you be wearing on repeat this Spring?
Mimi Holvast Jumpsuit from Well Made Clothes - wearing it as we speak!
And what's your number one tip for engaging with fashion responsibly/cultivating a sustainable wardrobe?
Think before your buy!! Ask yourself a few simple questions before you purchase something - will you actually wear it often? Is it versatile? What's it made from? Who made it? If you are happy with all of those answers, go for it! If you're stumbling or unsure then don't! :)
Name and role at WMC: Lilah Merz, Fashion Director
What's the best thing about your job?
My work provides a unique opportunity to actively promote and support sustainability and ethical practices through a creative process. Although styling is at the core of my passion, I’m also enthusiastic about directing my efforts and skills toward my personal values.
If you could trade places with someone in your industry for a day, who would it be
Hmmm, I guess trading places with Stella McCartney would be pretty unreal!
What are your top 5 'most played' tracks on Spotify/Apple music?
Ariel Pink - Another Weekend
Chuck Berry - Havana Moon
Talking Heads - I Feel It In My Heart
Junior Kimbrough - Meet Me In The City
Sonic Youth - The Empty Page
What are you watching on Netflix at the moment?
I'm just on the last episode of The Keepers and I'm looking forward to starting the second season of Top of the Lake.
What item of clothing will you be wearing on repeat this Spring?
Since it's been so hot recently I guess I'll be spending a lot of time in my soon to be purchased Minnow swimmers.
And what's your number one tip for engaging with fashion responsibly/cultivating a sustainable wardrobe?
My biggest piece of advice in cultivating a sustainable wardrobe is to avoid impulse purchases. One of the things I enjoy about online shopping is that you can escape the stresses and pressures of in-store shopping. Take your time, make sure every item you buy is exactly what you want; don’t compromise for anything less than perfect.
Name and role at WMC: Emmeline Peterson, E-commerce Manager
What's the best thing about your job?
Actually enjoying coming to work; and working somewhere that aligns with my personal values and that I'm proud to contribute to. Also my wardrobe has improved tenfold since working here.
If you could trade places with someone in your industry for a day, who would it be?
I'm just starting out in the fashion industry so I don't have too many hero's in the industry yet. Clare Press looks like she has so much fun every day though!
What are your top 5 'most played' tracks on Spotify/Apple music?
'Feels' - Calvin Harris,
'Self Esteem' - The Offspring
'FXXK IT' - Bigbang
'Know Yourself' - Drake
'All Star' - Smash Mouth.
What are you watching on Netflix at the moment?
I'm watching The Sopranos on Foxtel if that counts, but on Netflix specifically I'm watching Rick & Morty, painfully one episode at a time as they drop.
What item of clothing will you be wearing on repeat this Spring?
I've decided this will be my summer of wearing fancy dresses casually, as it's not very good practice to have dresses you only wear 3 or 4 times in your life whenever there's a wedding or party. I'll be wearing a Miss Crabb slip dressed down with some Veja sneakers (both from Well Made Clothes or course).
And what's your number one tip for engaging with fashion responsibly/cultivating a sustainable wardrobe?
Don't treat ethical shopping like fast fashion shopping; we need to stop buying for gratification and start investing. Instead, plan out what you need for each season in advance, do your research and buy special pieces you'll love for ages.