One Sunny Day

Bronwyn knows the importance of getting kids engaged in reading. Noticing how her daughters face lit up when she recognized familiar scenes, and also wanting to reflect the bedtime routine of re-capping a child’s day Bronwyn created the ‘One Sunny Day Book Club’.

The first book in the series will be launched officially on August 25^th, ‘One Sunny Day in Lennox Head’, this year will also see the release of ‘One Sunny Day in Ballina’ and ‘One Sunny Day in Byron Bay’. Down the track Bronwyn hopes to continue the series with books based in Brunswick Heads, Yamba, etc.

The One Sunny Day series is designed to be re-enacted. Parents could plan a special day around the story line, encouraging families to experience local family-friendly hotspots. “Australia relies heavily on the tourism industry, yet many Australians travel abroad for their holidays as opposed to exploring their own country,” said Bronwyn.

Children with an ADHD diagnosis often struggle with concentrating on reading and on connecting the words with what they already know. “By reading a story based on their own life, or something they can look forward to re-enacting, it greatly increases the chance of remaining focus and understanding the words,” Said Bronwyn.

The ‘One Sunny Day Book Club’ website is up and running and definitely worth a look. There are some great local offers, competitions, business listings as well as some fantastic rainy day ideas- because not every day is sunny! There is also a town guide with some great ideas of things to do locally, as well as a extensive community calendar so you never miss out on any of the great family activities in your area! ‘North Coast MUMblings’, Bronwyn’s blog is also attached to the website and covers all kinds of parenting related subjects.

We’re excited to have Bronwyn coming to the market, and she has generously offered to donate $5 from every book sold on the day to the Lismore Base Hospitals Special Care Unit. Bronwyn is also providing us with two ‘Complete Pest Control: General Pest’ vouchers- worth $110 each! These will be up for grabs in the raffle.

Head over to the ‘One Sunny Day’ Facebook page and say hello!

BaBee Blocks

BaBee Blocks is one of the unique and exciting businesses you can expect to see at the market on September 9^th.

Rachel initially purchased her sewing machine to sew her son’s cloth nappies. She considered selling her MCN creations but after sewing her second son a cloth book her husband suggested she sell books rather then nappies! Not long after creating the first fabric book Rachel made a little fabric block, which was also loved by her sons. So in late 2010 Rachel set up a Facebook page to see if she could sell some of her creations. Before she knew it BaBee Blocks was receiving so many orders that Rachel was forced to limit the number of custom order spots available!

BaBee Blocks now makes soft balls, crayon wallets and rolls as well as cloth books and blocks. Rachel said her specialty is interactive baby toys, “I have discovered my creative side and love it- so that’s why I started, and have kept going with my little business!”

Rachel is also passionate about her eco/organic range.  She expressed frustration at the number of products available which are advertised as ‘organic’ but in fact are only partially so. Rachel is careful to ensure that her organic/eco range is exactly that- 100% what it claims to be.

Rachel hopes to continue with BaBee Blocks and to see it grow into a full time (day) job once her children begin school- rather then sewing 7 nights a week! She will continue with her current lines but also has pages of ideas for future products. Rachel has also considered making an organic/eco line of clothing with funky prints as it can be so difficult to find organic items in any colours other then pastel!

BaBee Blocks currently supplies four local shops- three of which are solely organic suppliers. In the future Rachel hopes to see her products in more local shops and perhaps do a market once a month, “…just to get out there amongst it all- working from home means you miss out on the social aspect of ‘going’ to work.”

Rachel is grateful that the business enables her to use her creativity to make individualized items all while having her young kids at home with her.

BaBee Blocks products make perfect personalised gifts for baby showers, namings, christenings and birthdays- or just because! You can check out BaBee Blocks very own website here, or follow them on Facebook. 

Peppertree & Paisley

Peppertree & Paisley is a new local business started by Loren Heathcote in April of this year. Loren had been making accessories and toys for her family and friends for a couple of years but then started receiving requests for custom orders. Peppertree & Paisley create handmade gifts and goodies for the babies, children, and mothers, from cute and cuddly owls, to gorgeous jewelry. Loren loves to create special little gifts for special little people that are anything but "disposable".

Loren got her love of craft and sewing from her mother and grandmother and before having children, she worked as a designer and product developer in the fashion industry. After the birth of her daughter, motherhood become her main job, however, she still needed a creative outlet. Although now, she found it much more interesting creating items for her daughter, which led to the birth of Peppertree & Paisley.

Her range includes toys, nursery decor and accessories for babies and children, as well as a few accessories for the well-deserving mothers. Loren aims “to ensure these items are both beautiful AND practical.”  During her studies a lecturer told her that colour was her strength, and she has “always had an obsession with beautiful printed fabrics. I try to make these the emphasis of my products” she explains.

Loren hopes “that the goodies I make will survive the annual toy box/wardrobe clear out and one day be put away in a keepsake box, or stashed in a suitcase under a bed in a uni room perhaps.”  Despite her items being handmade, they are also affordable. Loren is not interested “in being another children's business that caters only for the wealthy minority market - we have enough of those already! I have no desire to be exclusive - I'd rather be inclusive any day of the week.”

Loren’s favourite thing about owning Peppertree & Paisley is that she is able to decide when she wants to work, and how much work she wants to do. She is enjoying being able to spend these few special years with her daughter before school starts.

Peppertree & Paisley is still only starting out and Loren’s goal is to continue to be able to create the things she loves.

Come and meet Loren and view the beautiful items she creates at the Northern Rivers Child &Family Market, on Sunday 9^th September, 2012 at the Lismore City Workers Club between 10:30-3:30. Also, be sure to pop over to her Facebook page and say hello!

Well I'll be Darned

As part of our fundraising efforts for LBH’s special care unit we’re running an amazing raffle that has been made possible by the generous donations of businesses.

One donator is the lovely Kelly from ‘Well I’ll be Darned’. Kelly thought she may never be blessed with children after 16 years with one partner and no pregnancies. So when Kelly found she was pregnant with her new husband at age 36 she described it as “…a major shock and a blessing.” Kelly now has two little ones and is able to stay at home with them while running ‘Well I’ll be Darned’.

Kelly had made some knitted props for a friend working in photography, absolutely delighted with what she had created she urged Kelly to consider setting up a little business. Kelly checked around and discovered there weren’t many knitters selling on Facebook and almost no custom knitting available. So ‘Well I’ll be Darned’ was born on April 4^th 2011, Kelly’s birthday! Just over a year later and the business has 1772 likes on Facebook! The ‘little’ business became so busy that Kelly was forced to refuse further orders for nearly 6 months in order to keep up with the massive influx!

Kelly can knit anything. She said she does make suggestions, and most people will stick with those with maybe a colour or sizing change. Occasionally, Kelly said, she does have someone ask “…for totally unique items. So I do pattern searches, search down specific yarns etc., really do whatever the client wants. Variety is amazing and something that keeps my interest rather than knitting the same thing day in, day out. I love it!”

Quality is important and Kelly ensures nothing leaves her store that she wouldn’t be happy to put on her own kids. “I definitely knit with loves and truly hope that shows through in my work,” Kelly said.

Kelly said she is happy with where her business is at the moment. She makes just enough to treat her kids- mostly to more handmade items from fellow FB stores, Kelly says she is a real handmade addict! Kelly says while she could employ knitters to grow her business if it ever got big enough but she feels she would be to concerned about relinquishing control when they might not have her enthusiasm or love of the job.

Kelly has offered to donate one boys item and one girls item to the raffle, stay tuned to our Facebook page where we will showcase the raffle prizes available in the months to come. Be sure to check out ‘Well I’ll be Darned’ on Facebook as well and thank Kelly for her generous donation to the Northern Rivers Child and Family Market. 

If you would like to hold a stall or contribute a prize to the raffle and help to support the Lismore Base Hospital's neonatal care unit then please email us at nrcfmarket@hotmail.com

Ripples On The Creek

Ripples on the Creek is an idyllic retreat where you can simply relax, breathe in the fresh air, and savour the sights and sounds of nature’s ambience and offers a distinctive blend of exceptional dining and luxury accommodation, amid a picturesque rural backdrop. Ripples on the Creek is an 100 acre property consisting of a restaurant and 2 creekside cabins. Set at the foothills of the Border Ranges National Park, Ripples on the Creek is just 2 hours south of Brisbane, and 20 minutes north of the local township of Kyogle - known as the ‘Gateway to the Rainforests’.

The Creek

Ripples (as locals know it) is owned by Victor and Cherie Rixon and John and Cathy Warburton. They purchased the business in November, 2010 when it came on the market. They thought it had a lot of potential and since taking over ownership, have made numerous improvements, not only to the property, but to the marketing and business management side of it.

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, with a covered verandah 'where you can take in the pleasures in the wonderful view of the surrounding countryside.' The menu offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with kid's meals available. If you wish to view their delicious menu visit their website www.ripplesonthecreek.com.au 

One of the delicious meals available at the restaurant

The cabins provide the prefect romantic getaway. They include a private outdoor spa, a fireplace (perfect for the coming cooler weather), air conditioning, a kitchenetter, outdoor BBQ, and a modern bathroom (my tip - make sure to check out the shower heads). All bookings include a continental breakfast hamper for two.

Private Outdoor Spa overlooking the Creek.

Ripples on the Creek is also an ideal place for business functions, birthday parties or other special occasions, all of which can be shaped to meet your specific requirements. Ripples offers an enchanting and unique setting for weddings; providing you with the option to have your pre-wedding night, ceremony, photographs, reception and wedding night all at the one stunning location.

Ripples number one priority is customer service. They aim to provide ALL guest with "outstanding hospitality in addition to a relaxing country experience; and in doing so makes a valuable contribution to the Kyogle community and its tourism and hospitality industry" explains Cherie.

Restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating

Cherie loves the fun and challenge involved with owning a business. All of the owners are passionate about Ripples and love being able to "treat our guests to excellent hospitality and love hearing back from them about how much they enjoyed their stay." 

What does the future hold for Ripples on the Creek? Cherie explains, they "would love to build more cabins on the property, as well as possibly developing a camping ground. We also want to develop the wedding side of the business more. We have plans for things like cooking classes at the restaurant as well."

For more information about Ripples on the Creek or to book a romantic getaway, you can visit their website www.ripplesonthecreek.com.au and make sure to 'like' them on Facebook to stay up-to-date. 

Ripples on the Creek has kindly donated a prize for the raffle, which will be held on market day.

RAHZYchildren

Carolyn is the owner of RAHZYchildren and has been a dressmaker/pattern maker for 27 years. She worked in almost every area of the industry, from tailoring to bridal to soft furnishings & much more. Carolyn states she "started the children's toy/products side around 13 years ago when my eldest daughter of three, attended Periwinkle Preschool Byron Bay." Her love of beautiful fabrics & colours was reinvented once again in the form of Steiner inspired toys.

Carolyn worked at home part time while raising three gorgeous girls, creating many of
the highly sought after handmade treasures for a word-of-mouth clientele. It was during April 2010, that she discovered & revamped the old world treasure - "The BALLOON BALL". Many grandparents may know the balloon cover from their era. It's true when they say, "A quality item never fades."

It was love at first sight for Carolyn as she had "found a unique & practical children's item I could apply my knowledge of fabrics & colour to." The combinations are based on colour and fabric quality, using only 100% cotton in all forms, from denim to flannelettes to drills, & many more.
She always uses her signature denim appliqué circle.

All RAHZYchildren BALLOON BALLS are handmade individually and it's very important that everything Carolyn creates is "created with the utmost care & LOVE. With a strong influence on quality." Carolyn is very happy to be able to provide an affordable, educational & practical children's toy that is received with much excitement. "I would love to see as many children as possible, have the opportunity to experience the joy to be had by this simple yet exhilarating toy."

Where the future will take her ??? "Who knows, I'm just really enjoying this journey & the freedom I have to work in the field I love."

                                              ...do what you LOVE what you do...

RAHZYchildren will be at the Northern Rivers Child & Family Market in September where you will be able to meet Carolyn in person and have at look at her Balloon Balls.

Pretty Princess

Pretty Things for Your Pretty Princess

Pretty Princess is an online boutique selling baby girl and young girls' clothing, accessories, linen and toys. There is also a small range of items for the little Prince Charming in your life. It is owned and managed by Emma Rixon and her parents. Pretty Princess choses items of high quality, and even stocks designer brands, which are worn by the stars, such as Suri Cruise and the Afflect girls. 

Luna Luna Taj Mahel Dress

Pretty Princess opened in 2007 by Emma's sister-in-law,Cherie, before the birth of her daughter. At the end of last year the Cherie decided she wanted to sell the business as she has recentley purchased another business, Ripples On The Creek. "I knew instantly I wanted to purchase the business." Emma states, "I loved all the products Cherie had chosen."

Emma is the mother of two children, Jarrod and Heidi, who are 2 years and 4 months respectively. "I did not want to go back to work full time and when Cherie mentioned she was selling the business, I thought it would be perfect for me. It is an online business which meant I could still be at home with my children, but also have something of my own. I can work around my children’s schedules, which is perfect."

Pretty Princess has lots of plans for the future, as Emma explains, "we are planning of starting Pretty Princess Parties later this year. This would allow people to shop in the comfort of their own and see our products in person. This would be a fantastic for a baby shower for someone who knows they are having a girl or even for a first birthday party."

A picture from a Pretty Princess Party Emma held for friends & family.

Emma's favourite thing about owning a business is being able to stay at home with her kids and can work aroung their schedule. She also loves finding beautiful items for little princesses and princes.

Minihaha Bebe

Pretty Princess will be at the Northern Rivers Child & Family Market in September but before then be sure to visit her Facebook page and view her products online at the Pretty Princess Store.

Eternal Creation Anatasia

Alexis

Today we're posting our first Lismore Base Hospital Neonatal Unit profile! Here is the Alexis's story:


During delivery Alexis suffered from shoulder dystocia (when the shoulders become stuck after delivery of the babies head), In Alexis’s case it caused trauma to her body leading to tachycardia (heart beating too fast) and dangerously low oxygen saturation. 

Mum Casey was only able to say a brief “oi nice to meet you but see you later” before the midwives rushed her off to undergo oxygen therapy and heart monitoring in the Special Care Nursery (Neonatal unit). 

About three hours after delivery Casey was finally able to meet her baby girl properly, although she knew she was in good hands it was extremely difficult seeing her in the humidicrib. 

“[I] just fell to pieces, it was here that the neonatal staff really shined. I think it’s one thing to provide fantastic care for new babies, but providing support to the parents must be challenging… The staff were friendly and patient, taking time to explain what exactly had happened to out tiny baby girl and what to expect,” said Casey.

The staff in Special Care also took the time to provide one-on-one help for the very first breastfeed. They were aware that Casey had struggled to breastfeed her son and so were supportive, informative and gentle.

Although Casey’s husband Chris tried to remain calm and relaxed Casey reflects “I think the time in special care was one of the scariest of our lives… I don’t think I’ve ever seen Chris worry that much about anything that much ever. I realise how lucky I am to have healthy children rather then the heartbreak some families go through. I appreciate the neonatal nurses- not only are they dealing with critically ill babies they are taking on the role of comforter, counselor, advocate and teacher!”

Thankfully Alexis only required 8 hours of ‘Special Care’ before staff were confident she could breath on her own and she was quickly transferred to room stay with Casey.

Alexis during her time in the Special Care Nursery

Mum Casey was able to maintain breastfeeding and Alexis is a very happy breastfed baby 6 months on. 

                                                 Alexis, Happy and Healthy 6 months on!




If you have a story you'd like to contribute to our series on Lismore Base Hospitals Special Care Nursery/Neonatal unit then please email us at nrcfmarket@hotmail.com




Northern Rivers Child and Family Market,

Proudly Supporting Lismore Base Hospitals Neonatal Unit.

Shutterbubs Photography

We’re kicking off  our business profiles today with Shutterbubs photography. You can look forward to seeing Shutterbubs at the market!

Shutterbubs owner, Jill completed a University degree in photography, but it was the birth of her first daughter that first saw her considering photographing babies. She started with mother’s group friends, eventually moving on to families, children, weddings and even commercial photography!

Founded in Sydney in 2008 a move in late 2011 has seen the business arrive on the Northern Rivers and Jill looks forward to growing a local client base and photographing lots more families and events!

Shutterbubs offers fun, natural portrait photography in the comfort of your own home. Each session is casual and playful and provides memories for families that will last a lifetime!

Jill says “I don’t try to be fancy or trendy or anything other than myself, and I think this natural approach to photography shows in my work, as I portray the true essence of my subjects.”

“Though it can be a challenge juggling kids and a business, I love being able to be home with my kids most of the time as well as doing what I love for a living!”

Having always been a big supporter of charities supporting sick or premature babies Jill is excited to be a part of the Market, which will be directing all profits to Lismore Base Hospitals Neonatal Unit.

You can see more beautiful examples of Shutterbubs work and find out how to book on their website. Like them on Facebook to stay up to date and see more stunning shots!

Welcome to the Market!

We are creating this blog page to share the profiles and products of some of the local businesses we'll be showcasing at the upcoming Northern Rivers Child and Family Market as well as sharing some of the inspirational stories of babies and families who have been helped by Lismore Base Hospital's Neonatal Unit. All profits from the running of the market (stall fees and raffle) will be donated to the unit.

Here's a bit about us and why we've decided to hold this market.

We are two Northern Rivers Mums (Emma and Emily) who realised there was a lack of opportunities for local business to promote their products. We noticed that it is sometimes hard to find the perfect family friendly products despite the many amazing local businesses. We thought the best way to remedy the situation was to bring the businesses and the families together at a showcase market!

The market will be held on the Sunday, 9th of September 2012, at the Lismore Workers Club 10:30am-3:30pm. Entry is FREE and a raffle will be held on the day with lots of great prizes up for grabs.

If you are interested in holding a stall or would like more information you can email us at nrcfmarket@hotmail.com 

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~ Even when freshly washed and relieved of all obvious confections, children tend to be sticky.  ~Fran Lebowitz