Creative Business Q&A

A cosy flat lay of a styled coffee table with a vase of fresh pink and white flowers, lifestyle books, a lit candle, a cup of black coffee, and an open book, with a pink banner that reads 'Instagram Q&A'  promoting slow living, creative business guidance, and intentional work-life balance.
Independency and essentially my purpose or vocation is to guide and help creative business owners. With that sentiment in mind I prompted my Instagram followers (hopefully you are one) to feel free to ask business questions that have been on their minds. I had a really lovely response, with some poignant and intentional questions. In answering them I know that it will be helpful to the person who asked it and surely to many others too who might just have the same thoughts rattling around in their minds. As business owners or solopreneurs we can find ourselves in a lonely place. Despite the fact that we live in a time where the abundance of resources we are surrounded by is more than ever before. However, I find that with so many tools, potential Google searches and freebie downloads / ebooks it can also just create wild overwhelm or even inadequacy. Gone are the days of sitting in a library to do research (giving away my age) and what lies in front of us is piles and piles of tips, tricks, podcasts, AI prompts and pretty much any answer you can think of. 

Regardless of these wonderful and sometimes overwhelming tools I still find that being a human and talking to like-minded creatives is some of the best reassurance or guidance there is. The tools are there and I suppose that makes me one too (not in the rude way). I am here after all to help you, but most certainly not to overwhelm you. With that said - here is the first batch of questions asked by you, you and maybe even you. I have kept my answers super simple and to the point (not easy for me) so that they are digestible on Instagram too. 

Should we all be on LinkedIn?


"The simple answer is no. 


Being on LinkedIn is more related to you personally, what you do and which online platforms you need to communicate about your business effectively. 


When deciding on which online platforms to add be sure to understand where your ideal / target audience is. For most creative businesses - you would be better off on Instagram to start.


As you grow in your ability to manage your online presence you can add platforms that are suited to your type of business which will allow you to connect in an intentional and meaningful way with your audience."



Is Pinterest better than a website?


"They are different. With a website you control the platform and narrative. It’s your space to showcase your brand in all its glory. 


Pinterest is a tool to add to your overall marketing strategy. Having said that don’t get tripped up on not having everything in place just yet. You will “graduate” to what you need for your business.


If you are still working towards creating your own website then you can definitely still utilise Pinterest, it’s a wonderful visual search engine especially for creative work and for others to discover your work.


But the key thing is that you can’t compare the two - each has its unique place within your creative business toolkit.


There is a lot more to be said here on the power of Pinterest and how it can actually help your website. However, either or it can help your business if used proactively. I can offer more insight on this if anyone would like."



Is it a good idea to work on solid branding from the start?


"Absolutely! Solid branding can be simple, but even in a basic form it can add value from day one. It helps you to build a business which portrays trust, recognition and an aligned vision.

It does not need to be complicated, but rather consistent. That's key... consistency.


I highly recommend nailing down the basics of your brand to confidently share and showcase. Don’t over complicate it and if you are stuck or need a checklist - then let’s chat. I’ll guide you."



If you have a pesky little question rolling around in you brain then of course feel free to ask me. Here to help and create some breathing space. There are some more questions so I will add a few more blog posts as we go.

(The beautiful photo I used in this post is from AlabasterFox on Instagram. One of my favourite accounts for calm lifestyle inspiration.)

Hello | Let's Work Together

 

Independency | by Nadia Jonker


I offer creative business consulting, storytelling, and project support for people who care deeply about what they build.

My services include one-on-one consulting, brand storytelling and project guidance, but more than that, I help you move forward with confidence, focus, and integrity.

Say hello and tell me more about what you do or what you would like to do. 
I would love to hear from you: click here | nadia(at)inde.co.za or even better visit me on Instagram.
I’d love to work with you and walk alongside you on your journey. 

Book a complimentary 30-minute online introduction session to connect one-on-one.


*Featured planner is from the always inspiring shop The Ruby Orchard and a project we collaborated on.

The Good Old Days...









In early March I took a trip to Cape Town to see some of those closest to my heart. Amy, Sam and my (lil) sister Simone... the three gals closest to me (sad that they all live so faraway). It has since become an even more important trip to hold dear because it was the last bit of fun and "normal" interaction I had before the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything. It was already being spoken about and I had my little hand sanitiser and steered clear of touching things, but also didn't want to appear over the top. I had heard warnings and been told to "be careful". There was only one person wearing a mask at the airport so that somehow made it seem a bit less stressful.

Little did I know that once I got back... life would be thrown into such turmoil. My worst fear at the time was that I didn't want it to impact my work. In the days leading up to the lockdown those fears were realised as I worked with my team to put measures into place and to prepare for the worst. I don't want to get swept up right this minute in writing about my lockdown struggles or those of the people I care about. Instead as we have some of our freedoms returning I want to share some of the incredible local places I visited and perhaps at the time took for granted. As they start to open their doors (and hearts) once more it's a lovely reflection on people and places that can do with our support. It will be a glorious day when I am able to return again... so close, yet so far!

"We have surely always understood the value of supporting local brands and businesses, but if there is some additional insight that we have gained it is that they need us more than ever! It certainly helps that the wares they present and the food that they lovingly make is of such a delightful standard that you feel instantaneously pleased when visiting them."

Here is my list of must-visit spots:

P.S. *I know many of these will not be new or noteworthy to Capetonians, but my list is more for those heading to Cape Town in the (hopefully) near future. I also found that some of my friends who had newly moved there hadn't yet discovered  some of these gems. It was lovely to share them. 

Shopping & Gifts:

Fabricate:
This colourfully curated shop is a firm favourite. Amy bought a beautiful kitty bowl  from Soenchie as a gift for Sam. Good choice!


BaliBali:
We popped in here as I was looking for a few small gifts for my sister. I found some lovely Palo Santo for her. Amy found a beautiful incense holder which is a smooth white pebble with gold lettering on it.

PRESENTspace:
A treasure trove of local products. I bought the loveliest smelling white sage incense from a brand called Good Vibz.

Tessuti Boutique:
This is a shop my mom discovered on her travels. Their jewellery, decor and Rifle Paper Co. selection is pure perfection (shown in pictures below).

The bubbles were a treat from a Sam to celebrate my sister's 30th birthday which was the main reason for my trip. How delightful is the bottle?



Atleljee:
A treasure of a shop hidden inside Waterstone Mall in Somerset West, Sam and I stumbled upon it and absolutely adored what we found. The small ceramics by Julie de Pao were a personal favourite. You'll spot them in the photo below (the colourful triangles).

The Mood Collectives:
An unexpected discovery next to Pajamas and Jam filled with interior design inspiration and art.

The kitty mug just needed to be featured below because it is so damn cute and secondly, Amy makes the best tea I have ever tasted. She uses hazelnut milk from Rude Health. Highly recommended!


Food & Beautiful Settings:

Just a tip, they aren't open on Sundays so get there earlier in the week. Filled with a selection of the finest goods.

The Poké Co:
I could eat there everyday! We visited the Kloof Street branch and I decided to create my own bowl which included rice, tuna and seaweed. The pink decor was particularly perfect (according to me). I also managed to find some Orbs (chickpeas in dark chocolate) there - check out their website here. Pink heaven pictured below.



Unframed Ice Cream:
Named as the best ice-cream in the world, who am I to argue? It was a cold day, but that didn't put Amy and I off. Two scoops after a big lunch was a stretch, but for dessert we all make room. 

Gorgeous George:
We had a girly dinner here and it met all my expectations in terms of the Instagram pictures I had seen. Such a wonderful rooftop setting, it felt reminiscent of New York. 

Kloof Street House:
My sister and I celebrated her 30th birthday there. The decadent interior has an old-world charm to it. The food was also exceptional. It is so unlike anywhere you would visit in Durban.  

Pajamas and Jam Eatery:
This was Sam's recommendation and it truly is a must-visit. It's location is unexpected, but once inside it all makes sense. The details, food and more importantly the cake selection are phenomenal and inspired. Plan a visit, but be sure to make a reservation and don't wait too long until you order your dessert. It sells fast!






Being Outside:

Kirstenbosch Gardens:
Amy and I were perfectly matched to wonder around together. We were quietly inspired by the surrounding greenery. It's best to go with someone who likes to stroll, take in the scenery and generally enjoys peace and quiet.

Beta Beach:
I hope my sister doesn't tell me off for sharing this secret, but once I researched it I saw that you could discover it without me spilling the deets. Of all the places we went this was by far the highlight of my trip. We watched the sunset, I searched for shells and we clinked a few glasses. It gave me a sense of freedom and youth that is so often fleeting and definitely felt as if it was taken from me during lockdown.

I hope a few of these are new to your list and soon your horizons will expand and travelling will be possible. If anything enjoy the little things, silly as that sounds. The company of friends, the sand between your toes and the sweet taste of freedom.



A Rebranding Story: INDEPENDENCY


I have had a type of "blogging stage fright" (eeeek). It started off because I wanted to hold off until I was able to redo my blog, get my rebrand online and into the world and it resulted in an unannounced sabbatical which lasted far too long. On the to do list each week, on my mind in-between, you know the usual procrastination that comes with emotional projects.
I rebranded late last year after quite a bit of research, pondering and of course a healthy dose of self-doubt (insert eye-roll), no personal journey would be complete without it. What really sparked off my confidence in getting it done was reading Garance Dore’s book “Love Style Life”. Her antidotes for living, working and laughing at oneself was just the push I needed. She has long been a personal inspiration of mine. I recently looked through past press features and came across one of my first for Marie Clare in 2011, where I named her as one of my main inspirations (fancy that). Additionally, when I reviewed my notes sent to Fathima (friend, creative colleague and graphic designer) who was mentioned, no other, but Ms Dore herself (eureka). I found the book on an inspiring work trip in the most beautiful book shop. While I was wondering whether I should buy it a very stylish woman passed by and said to me “you should totally get that book, it is really inspiring”. Thank you, kind, fabulous stranger! I bought it and finally kick started my journey once more.
I don’t want to harp on about the woes that lead to the rebrand, the change of name and the overall sadness that surrounded the need to leap into something new (it’s a bitch and we’re all tired of it). I wrote about divorce in another post which you can read here. It was a painful journey that made me feel disassociated with my brand and my name. Two very important things to me.
The name Independency came from a word I heard in a song while listening to Monocle. The first thing I thought is… “that is exactly where I am, but is Independency even a word?” Yes, it is! After some research and some thinking I felt really comfortable about briefing Fathima about the new name and updated branding. I wanted to keep part of my identity, the trademark N that was part of my previous branding (which Fathima created too). It was also rooted in my work directly with independent businesses and the idea of an agency style service geared directly towards them. Independent + Agency = Indpendency. Hooray! As always Fathima was a dream to work with, she is tapped into what is on trend, yet will give longevity to branding.
So… a splash of French Garance style, a bit of pink (my perennial favourite) and a kick-ass friend and graphic designer to make my ideas come to life and here we are. Rebranded and embracing life. My consulting services have also had an update and I have been fortunate enough to continue to work with some wonderful local brands. 

“Remember to always keep your independent spirit alive, in business and in life. Times will change, challenges will come, but at the heart of it the strength that lies within a strong woman is a force that will carry her through the best and the worst that life might bring.”

All design and graphics by Fathima's Studio.

My Second Home: Station Drive

I have been fortunate enough to call Staion Drive my "second home" for over two years already. The changes and community development have been a wonderful thing to be part of and to witness. Recently, Cheapflights chatted to a few local bloggers, including Ask Ashe and I about our favourite things to do in Durban, besides lying on the beach, working within Station Drive was a clear winner. I always suggest it as a must-visit for friends making their way to our city.


“It’s a vibrant, colourful area brought to life by a community of creatives working together to shape an experience that truly showcases a unique side of Durban as a city.”

The Station Drive Precinct is fast becoming one of Durban’s most interesting and inspired destinations for locals and tourists alike. With gentrification being the buzz word the globe over, it offers a prime example of the city working in unison with creatives and independent brands.

From the Morning Trade Food Market through to “First Thursdays” the taste of Durban is served in an authentic, yet truly delicious way. Fashion, food and vintage treasures can be found in amongst creatives hard at work. Offices and interesting shops are spread around the precinct in working pods such as The Loading Bay or The Station, developed to serve and assist small business growth within the area. 

How lucky we are to have such a creative hub within the heart of our city. It makes me so happy to go to work there each day! 
A selection of creative sessions to help you build your business and brand.

In June I launched The Business Sessions, a set of exclusively designed consulting sessions and weekly classes and I am ever so happy with how the introduction and subsequent sessions have gone. It has not only inspired new and existing clients, but been a very firm confirmation for me of why I LOVE my job. Hosting entrepreneurs in my office and via Skype, open discussion, teaching and guiding them and then seeing them grasp and understand concepts is a beautiful thing to witness.

For July and August the sessions continue and are open to a new group of students. I have simplified the process slightly in order to make it as clear as possible how it all works. 

- Type of Sessions -

One on One: When you need a bit of extra TLC.
Fully focused on your business, process and personal requirements.
Booked on a day and date that suits your individual schedule as opposed to fitting in with the timetable. You learn at a pace that suits you.
These are held in person in Durban or via Skype or Facetime for those who aren't based here.
R1200 for three sessions.

Small Group Classes in Durban: When you want to connect with like-minded business owners.
A group of students (no more than three) with a more general business focus.
You will receive individual assistance too, but the group setting allows for further learning from the experience of fellow students and is a great networking opportunity.
The classes are once a week for three consecutive weeks in a row / see timetable.
 Each week follows on from the previous with a clear plan and homework to keep the momentum. The timetable (scroll down) outlines the dates and times at which the group classes run.
R900 for three sessions.


- Session Info -

As you work through the sessions or classes depending on whether you select one on one or group classes, you will receive practical examples and insight that you can implement within your own life and business. Each session is taught by me, personally, no pre-recorded messages, no videos... the real life person version. It ensures you can ask questions directly and we can tackle your individual requirements. If your schedule doesn't allow for you to attend weekly sessions, there is the option to have one on one mentorship to suit your schedule and pace. 

- You can select from the following -

- Social Media Content Creation - 

Tell your story, grow your brand, showcase your business. 

You can attend either in the group class as per timetable or book these sessions one on one to suit your unique schedule.

Always wondering what to say online, how to say it and when? Then these are the sessions for you.
A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of creating and writing purposeful content to market your business and creatively build your brand. On offer are focused steps that you can personally implement and test out to see results in action.

"Meaningful content creation is a personal passion of mine. I'm fortunate to have worked on some large scale projects that yielded great success for locally based businesses, both within the creative and corporate spheres." 

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one. Not sure if this is the course for you - let's chat.

- Developing a Comprehensive Brand Experience -

You can attend either in the group class as per timetable or book these sessions one on one to suit your unique schedule.

Don't you love that feeling in your heart when you leave your favourite shop, with a prettily wrapped parcel after having received outstanding service? It's time to create that "happy feeling" for your very own customers.

"Our brands have the opportunity to change people's lives in a beautiful, positive and happy way. Who wouldn't want to share that valuable type of sincere joy through their business?"

A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of creating your own comprehensive brand experience. Add value to your customers through an authentic and connected offering and ensure it lines up with the mission of your brand.

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one.

- Planning for Creative Business -

Developing a plan that suits your business and lifestyle.

You can attend either in the group class as per timetable or book these sessions one on one to suit your unique schedule.

We often hear how consistency is key both online and in achieving our goals. But, first you need to know what you are creating consistency towards. It's time to shape a plan that creates that direction for both your life and business. 
A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of understanding what you want to become known for within your industry and creating a plan around it that respects your lifestyle and values. We tackle some of the tough elements like setting boundaries, thinking about the future and what will essentially make you a happier and therefore more successful business owner and all round human.

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one.

- Workshop: Style your Brand for Social Media -

Currently Durban Only

Beautiful photos are everywhere we look, but what about your own images that represent your brand? It's easy to use stock imagery, but how about creating and styling a library of images that truly represents your business and in turn creating a brand presence. This half day workshop will take you through the steps to styling your own images that are in line with the vision you are aiming to create. From the practical to the pretty we will work on examples and actionable steps.

"I have lectured on styling at a tertiary level and styled images for a host of local brands with great success for both print and digital. It's time to be inspired, hone your own eye for composition and showcase your brand in style!"

Each workshop includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement immediately.

- Claim your Spot -

Small focused groups, individual attention, direct access to the teacher... these rates are designed to make it affordable for you the business owner. My focus is guidance and adding value. Human to human... good old fashioned communication based on true connection.

One on One: When you need a bit of extra TLC.
Three one on one Sessions: R1200 for all three sessions (R400 each). Included are some lovely items for you to use during the classes to keep you inspired. You and I work one on one so the attention is directly on your business.

.
Small Group Classes in Durban: When you want to connect with like-minded business owners.
Three Group Classes: R900 for all three sessions (R300 each) collectively which includes a host of additional treats and supplies to get you focused. You get direct access to me as I teach the sessions and the groups are limited to only three students.

The Business Sessions

A selection of creative sessions to help you build your business and brand.




Running your own business is the most (MOST) difficult job you will ever have. That can be a particularly depressing thought. Alternatively, it can be the motivation required to educate and equip yourself to tackle the problems that stand in the way of you living your best professional and creative life. 

It is difficult to admit we need help, in fact it is possibly something I battle with most in life. Luckily, functioning within a creative community means you can lose the shame and rather connect with fellow business owners, bloggers and entrepreneurs to realise that you aren’t alone, help is on-hand and we can still believe in the dreams that brought us here, even on the low days, even when it feels somewhat impossible.

These specially designed classes were born from necessity. The necessity to help, guide and lead others towards taking ownership of their dreams and goals, redesigning their thinking and refocusing on what’s important today in order to align with what we hope to achieve in the future.

With my background and experience in luxury fashion, marketing and a blogging career spanning over a nine year period, I feel that a great deal of my work experience has lead me to offering these specialised, professional sessions. To share that knowledge, which encompasses a worldwide perspective through to our own unique local influence brings me great happiness. A honed set of facts, skills and observations both in the creative market and the corporate terrain are brought together in a package that allows for the shared information to take on a discreet, focused and exceptionally detailed delivery to you... my clients.


To kick off the series, there are a selection of options to meet a multitude of personal and unique needs. There are also two ways in which you can participate and receive that much needed assistance to improve your brand and self-confidence at the helm of your own creative business dreams.

- The Process -

  1. Review the sessions or classes below and decide which you will benefit from the most. It might be more than one which means you can join in for more than one series of sessions. Good news!
  2. View the timetable and which student type you are and compare it to your schedule and availability.
  3. Get in touch and book your sessions. Space is limited to only three students per class so don't delay. 






The sessions run for three consecutive weeks to learn more about the subject on hand. As you work through the sessions, you will receive practical examples and insight that you can implement within your own life and business. Each session is taught by me, personally, no recordings, no videos... the real life person version. It ensures you can ask questions directly and we can tackle your individual concerns. If your schedule doesn't allow for you to attend weekly sessions, there is the option to have one on one mentorship to suit your schedule and pace. In addition you will be linked to a small, community of like-minded creatives to further encourage each other. Want to enrol? Click here...

- Student Type: Which are you? -

  1. Enrolled Weekly Student: In attendance at the NvdM office / Durban.
  2. Weekly Skype Mentorship Student: Anywhere in South Africa (or the world – I'd love to have you).

- Session Options - 

Time to dive in and start selecting.

- Option One -

Social Media Content Creation: 

Tell your story, grow your brand, showcase your business. 

Check out the timetable below and register today.

Always wondering what to say online, how to say it and when? Then these are the sessions for you.
A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of creating and writing purposeful content to market your business and creatively build your brand. On offer are focused steps that you can personally implement and test out to see results in action.

"Meaningful content creation is a personal passion of mine. I'm fortunate to have worked on some large scale projects that yielded great success for locally based businesses, both within the creative and corporate spheres." 

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one.

- Option Two -

Developing a Comprehensive Brand Experience


Don't you love that feeling in your heart when you leave your favourite shop, with a prettily wrapped parcel after having received outstanding service? It's time to create that "happy feeling" for your very own customers.

"Our brands have the opportunity to change people's lives in a beautiful, positive and happy way. Who wouldn't want to share that valuable type of sincere joy through their business?"

A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of creating your own comprehensive brand experience. Add value to your customers through an authentic and connected offering and ensure it lines up with the mission of your brand.

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one.

- Option Three -

Planning for Creative Business:

Developing a plan that suits your business and lifestyle.

We often hear how consistency is key both online and in achieving our goals. But, first you need to know what you are creating consistency towards. It's time to shape a plan that creates that direction for both your life and business. 
A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of understanding what you want to become known for within your industry and creating a plan around it that respects your lifestyle and values. We tackle some of the tough elements like setting boundaries, thinking about the future and what will essentially make you a happier and therefore more successful business owner and all round human.

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one.

- Half Day Workshop -

Currently Durban Only

Style your Brand for Social Media

Beautiful photos are everywhere we look, but what about your own images that represent your brand? It's easy to use stock imagery, but how about creating and styling a library of images that truly represents your business and in turn creating a brand presence. This half day workshop will take you through the steps to styling your own images that are in line with the vision you are aiming to create. From the practical to the pretty we will work on examples and actionable steps.

"I have lectured on styling at a tertiary level and styled images for a host of local brands with great success for both print and digital. It's time to be inspired, hone your own eye for composition and showcase your brand in style!"

Each workshop includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement immediately.

- Timetable -

The good news is if you are unable to attend or fit in with these dates, you can be a student in July or book the series of sessions for one on one mentorship that fits your schedule. It’s a win win all round! Isn’t that just lovely news? Ready to enrol? Click here.









- What does it Cost? -

Small focused groups, individual attention, direct access to the teacher... these rates are designed to make it affordable for you the business owner. My focus is guidance and adding value.
Human to human... good old fashioned communication based on true connection.
.
Durban Sessions: Simply put it is R900 for all three sessions (R300 each) collectively which includes a host of additional treats and supplies to get you focused. You get direct access to me as I teach the sessions and the groups are limited to only three students.
.
The one on one mentorship sessions via Skype for the same series of sessions are R1200 because you receive direct, individual attention. 
Or better yet get a group of three and you can pay R900 each instead. Have yourselves a little creative party, make tea, meet up at one friend's house... let the learning commence.
.
Half day workshops are R500 each. Currently in Durban only.

Click here to book your sessions and get working on creating the brand of your dreams.






My New Office Journey

When you run a small, independent business moving your office out of home and into an official space is a damn BIG DEAL. I remember when I first realised I needed to make that move, I was trying to fall asleep, late at night and the next thing I knew I had created a "NvdM Office" Pinterest board as the clock struck 1am (you know creativity... not keeping office hours). The decision worked out better than I could ever have expected. I found the ideal space in Station Drive, Durban's creative hub. It truly became one of my happy places. 


However, towards the end of last year things were changing and my office would no longer be available come 1st of January 2017. Life had already taken on some big changes and so I sort of just absorbed it in amongst the other elements that were in my mind already. 

Affordable office spaces are not aplenty in Durban, I know this from my original office search. I was however very lucky to be updated about a new space that was being developed in Station Drive alongside Con Amore, the beautiful interior design store - The Loading Bay. Upon my first visit there wasn’t much to see (see the above photos), but with some imagination I was able to envision working there. I needed to think and figure out if I was going to take the space, the rent was higher than I was paying and I needed to reassess my direction, goals and business. Questions, so many questions! With the help of a friend I came up with a list of all the things I needed to think through and ask about taking on a new space. 


As you can surely tell by now that “new space” is now my office. It really has been a very different experience to my first office. Finding myself in a challenging chapter of my life really added to it being a great deal more difficult to settle in and embrace change. To do basics like style and arrange all the pretty things and then to form a new habit of actually going to work so to speak. With the support of my parents and friends I am finally utilising the space and getting that spark of joy when I unlock the door.

Want to visit my office for a cup of tea and some creative business insight? Let's chat... send me a digital note.

Want to visit my office for a cup of tea and some creative business insight? Let's chat... send me a digital note.

Faraway Friends & UncommonGoods








Love, relationships, progress, joy... distance. Ah, distance my old friend. Why, is it that we find ourselves so far from some of the most important people in our lives? Separated by oceans and excessively priced air travel and often times tears too. We are spread across a globe so vast and yet our hearts can feel so close together. As a self-employed, hard working woman - very sadly I often find that my RSVP's to those dotted around the globe are of the negative type. No... sadly, regrettably, unfortunately, heart-achingly I will  not be able to attend your milestone birthday, your engagement to your true love, your beautiful wedding, the baby shower for your beloved bundle of joy. Of course these are not the words I use, but as a sentimentalist with many a faraway friend my heart feels these things when I can't jet across the ocean to celebrate with them. It is in those moments that I find it a close and comforting conciliation prize to send a special, heartfelt gift. However, I have found that sending something from South Africa often means it only gets there months later. Over time I have discovered a small batch of overseas stores and online sites from which to send that something special so it makes it in the nick of time. 

As I enter into a new chapter of my life along with many of my dear friends, there is so much to celebrate, but also not always a chance to hop or skip off to another country. Through searching and eventually finding I have become such a fan of UncommonGoods for spoiling those faraway friends who I can't see in person (must keep filling that piggy bank).  They do ship to South Africa, but you see that defeats the object (I must resist). Besides the above little shopping collection looking very suited to my tastes, I do assure you that it isn't for me (promise). A selection of perfectly found gifts and treats to spoil a few of my favourite people and there is even a chance for a touch of personalisation for a hint of extra love. Whether I am thinking of one of my best friends Tammy in London and her penchant for cats and fashion, or the most organised friend I have... Misha, in Colorado I know that each will receive something chosen with love by me, packaged up with care and posted off safely.

The bonus for my business brain is the handmade, artisanal approach of UncommonGoods. A selection of creative, carefully curated products that tell a story and in turn support makers, crafters and artists - just  a few of my favourite "job titles". 

"We're growing not only our artist family, but also a strong following of customers who celebrate artists and delight in surrounding themselves with creative design." 
~ UncommonGoods ~

Okay, but quick side note please look at the Llama purse, too good to not have and the kitty bracelet. That's all... I will stop, it's gift list after all.




















-It seems at this time of the year there are two types of personalities that arise. One is focused on making sure that they get the most out of 2016, using each day to the maximum. We still have a week or two left. Others are leaving it all for 2017. I call it the "new year myth"... for some reason we think we will magically be able to to tackle all we put off the minute the clock strikes twelve on New Year's Eve. I want to encourage you regardless of what your current mindset is... to start thinking ahead and to know that you need not wait until a new year to make changes, to feel inspired or to start living and working for your dream life.

I am offering the perfect gift for receiving via snail mail (well, speedy snail mail). Creative business and pretty parcels - my two passions are paired together in this year's voucher special. There are only ten available so please don't delay as they do sell out each year.

It is for a one on one consulting session for up to 90 minutes of business guidance. I run the sessions via Skype or FaceTime for those not based in Durban so everyone can make use of the service. It is one of the most popular aspects of my business where creatives get to tackle concerns or ideas directly related to their needs. The session is ideal for those just starting out or thinking of taking the creative business leap. It is however, suitable for creative businesses at any level. I cover what you would like me to. Sometimes it's a pep talk, or a strategy... it's up to you and if you don't know where to begin then don't worry, I can help with that too.There are only ten of these special packages available so don't delay. They sold out last year in record time.


This style of session is ideally suited to you if:
  • You want to make a change and shift careers into owning your own business, but you are unsure how to plot out your journey.
  • You are feeling like you need to change the way you work and achieve goals, but you're not sure where to begin.
  • You're an entrepreneur looking to grow and further build your brand.
  • You are a business owner who wants to improve your brand experience and streamline your offering.
  • Lifestyle Bloggers
  • Creative Business Owners
  • Start-Ups
How to buy your voucher / gift:
It's really easy to buy the voucher - email me with the following:
  • Your full name.
  • Name of person you are gifting it to / if not yourself.
  • Full detailed postal address for where you want it to be sent to, include the city please.
  • Name of closest post office to address (if you know).
  • Contact number of person voucher is being sent to.
  • I will then invoice you and once your payment is received - your order is confirmed.
Vouchers will be posted off on Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th December and will arrive at the closest post office to the address the following day. I can either send it to you or to the person you are gifting it to (please specify). If you are based in Durban you can collect it or receive your items at your session.

For R500 you will receive:
  • A 90 minute session voucher (valid for six months).
  • A notebook to capture your ideas and to start planning for success.
  • Free overnight postage via Speed Services to your closest post office. 
  • Each package is wrapped in my signature style and includes a free postcard and extra creative surprise to add some extra joy to unwrapping the parcel.
The total value is R650 including all the little added extras and the overnight postage, but I'm offering it for R500. The voucher is valid for up to six months so the recipient can book a session to suit their schedule.

The 2016 Etsy Craft Party


Piles of paperwork, hours and hours of (wo)man power, a gazillion emails, countless more hours, lists... so many lists and then finally a PARTY! It might sound like hard work and that's because it is. I will tell you this though... I do it with LOVE and the Etsy Party brings me an abundance of joy and the ability to share craft and creativity with so many enthusiasts. In-between party organising there are also countless positive remarks, kindness, sharing, connecting and a coming together of happy people. That in itself is gift enough. My happiest moment is when I get to look at the photos shared online by the attendees and the cherry on the cake are the professional pics which showcase the event in all its glory. This year the wonderfully, awesome Eileen of Brightgirl was kind enough to capture the night and how grateful I am to her! She did a beautiful job - don't you agree? 


















Every year I think “this year’s Etsy Party was the best”. Okay, but really this year’s Etsy Party was the best one to date. Each year I get to improve it through the lessons learnt from the previous parties. Etsy was very gracious this year in giving a few possible date options and no set theme... opening up endless possibilities. I was fortunate in being able to partner with Terry Angelos once again and hosted the event at her beautifully curated shop – Anthology. She was a gracious host and further assisted with useful insight and extra tips for making the party as successful as possible. The key ingredient for the Etsy Party is... people, of course.. It’s the heart and soul of real connection, trust, sharing, kindness and generosity. 

Let's delve in and experience the night! Etsy HQ were very flexible in allowing us to select the theme. I decided to rope in Fathima Kathrada, illustrator, graphic designer and all round cool gal to teach the attendees hand lettering with watercolour. An on-trend, but also useful and fun DIY. 


Tickets sold out in record time and in emailing sponsors and connecting with them I was blown away by how truly giving fellow creative business owners can be! Just another reason why I am able to organise the party in the first place.


What a delightful batch of brands, creatives and all-round amazing people. Thank you so much for taking part and spoiling the attendees. I am beyond grateful! THANK YOU!
A heartfelt and HUGE thank you to...
Terry Angelos & the amazing ladies who work with her
Lizzie Masters
MY Gourmet - Khutso Nhlanhla Masethe & his lovely team member

Click below to visit the online homes of these inspired brands...
Glass of Wine


 Be sure to check back for the lovely goodie bag giveaway!