If you haven’t set foot inside the pretty white cottage on the highway in Palm Beach, you’ve been missing out.

The Craft Parlour, baby of local lass Rachael Valentine, offers an array of arty workshops from macramé to mandala drawing, with the intention of bringing the community together to celebrate creativity.

We chat with Rach about the stunning studio space and her plans to make the world a little bit more sparkly.

How long have you lived on the beautiful Gold Coast?
I moved here briefly in 2001, then went overseas for three years and ended up settling back here permanently after my adventures.

What do you love most about our seaside city?
It’s relaxed vibes, the small town feels and accessibility to everything and of course the sunshine and beaches.

What’s The Craft Parlour all about?
Community vibes, connecting to yourself and others, stepping outside your comfort zone to try new things that might be on your creative wish list or to try something new that you may have never heard of before like Kokedamas (which are cute plants covered in a moss ball). It’s a place for coming together unleashing your creativity and also a place for celebrations with your girl gang at things like crafty bridal showers and baby showers.

What can people expect when they visit?
Quality workshops in an uplifting inspiring studio space with epic teachers who are leaders in their craft. Homely welcoming vibes, making new friends while sipping on herbal tea and nibbling on Tim Tams and scones! We promise you will leave smiling and feeling more passionate about life!

Where did the idea come from?
I dreamt up the idea of The Craft Parlour about five years before we opened our doors. I wanted an outlet where creatives could share their passion and skills and inspire others to find their own and of course, so I could hang out with these types of people on the daily to fuel my own creativity.

Why is it important for the Coast to have something like this?
It’s not just the Coast that needs these types of studios, I think every state and every country around the world should have creative hubs just like ours, the more people crafting and connecting to their true authentic creative self the more exciting, sparkly and humble this world will be to live in.

What were you doing before you went into the craft biz?
I had a lot more time on my hands that’s for sure. I was sewing a lot, dreaming up opening The Craft Parlour, riding my bike in the sunshine by the ocean and running my other business Hattie.

What exciting things have you got happening for the rest of the year?
We are working on a lot of new concepts and have just started offering pop up bridal and baby showers outside of the studio plus there is another overseas craft tour in the pipeline! It’s all very exciting times in our crafty world right now.

Best piece of life advice you’ve ever received?
Fill your life with good people that bring out the best version of yourself. Go on adventures and try new experiences. These are the real nuggets in life that will bring you happiness and keep you feeling young and free.

Being a Gold Coast local we have to ask your favourites…
Beach: Greenmount and Kirra
Café: Little Mali for epic take away salads and avo toast to eat by the seaside.
Restaurant: Tupe Aloha is always fun times and delicious cocktails.
Weekend hangout: The Craft Parlour all weekend, every weekend is my weekly ritual

We are of the belief that there’s an artist inside all of us, just waiting to be let loose on the world. As it turns out, there are plenty of Gold Coasters who feel the same way and have actually done something about it.

If you’re keen to try your hand at life drawing, weave a little macramé magic or maybe learn a thing or two about the art of photography, you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a list of places on the Coast where you can try your hand at something creative. You might discover your inner Picasso or, at the very least, have a laugh-filled time giving it a go with the girls.

The HIVE Art Gallery
The newest creative space on the Coast can be found in Burleigh Heads and not only are they showing stunning pieces you can take home with you, but fun classes you can take part in. For example, Fresco painting of seashells, flowers and succulents and good times like Sips, Records and Fresco Painting so you can enjoy wine, listen to music and make some art.
Where: Shop 5/3 Park Avenue, Burleigh Heads

Dust Temple
The beautiful building at the back of Currumbin is home to many an artistic endeavor and lately they’ve been hosting Life Drawing workshops for those keen to put pencil to paper and try their hand at capturing the human form. It’s two and a half hours of untutored drawing with a life model and live music, the perfect combo. The workshop is $25 and includes basic materials.
Where: 54 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin

The Craft Parlour
Found on the Gold Coast Highway in Palm Beach, The Craft Parlour is one of the most stunning spaces around AND home to more creative workshops than you can poke a knitting needle at. From watercolour painting to resin art, macramé and ceramics, you will certainly find a delightful way to spend some time. Prices vary and you also get to hang out amongst the greenery with some of the best local makers around.
Where: 27 Lemana Lane, Miami

Brush and Barrel
Painting a masterpiece while drinking wine is an idea we wish we had but we’re also happy to simply be involved. The clever kids at Brush and Barrel have it sorted with their Sip and Paint classes where, you guessed it, you get to drink all the wine while also attempting to paint a masterpiece. Last time they painted a cute little cactus. Fun. Classes are $60 and run for three hours. Also BYO.
Where: Shop 1, 3290 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Clean Beauty Market
Learn how to apply your makeup from the best in the biz, the gals at Clean Beauty Market. They are also a great way to discover natural products and makeup application techniques based on your skin type, needs and concerns. How good.
Where: 1/53 James Street, Burleigh Heads

The Sweet Fine Artist Studio
Another newish creative space on the Gold Coast, The Sweet Fine Artist Studio is many lovely things including a space for hire and home to many a creative workshop. Think Paint and Sip, Life Drawing and Make your own Ginger Beer style situations, it’s the perfect place for a mid-week burst of creativity or why not plan an event around one of their offerings? Hens party life drawing anyone? Always a good time.
Where: 2/3 Karen Avenue, Mermaid Beach

POT Studios
A bit of a newbie on the local ceramics scene, POT Studios was created by Cindy Hamrey, who simply wanted a space to create. Offering everything from a four week hand building course to Sunday Pottery workshops, you’re absolutely going to love learning from someone as knowledgeable as Cindy (and you’ll make something super pretty too). Suitable for beginners (yay). Prices vary.
Where: 30 Kaleena Street, Tugun

Thurtell Photography
Andrew Thurtell is the man behind one of the Coast’s most successful photography businesses and lucky for us, he’s willing to teach anyone who’s interested the tricks of the trade. From beginners classes to travel photography and landscape to portraiture, there’s nothing you can’t learn about taking the perfect snap. Classes are usually around $195 per person and all you need to do is have a basic understanding of how a camera works.
Where: 45 Nerang Street, Southport

Artable Studio
These guys have all your artistic needs covered with various styles of classes held all across the Coast. From Impressionist Landscapes to Floral Painting in Acrylic, you’re sure to find something that tickles your fancy. Classes are held in the loveliest of spaces, from The Borrowed Nursery to Burleigh Brewing and no doubt you’ll make a new friend or two amongst all the paint and good vibes. Classes are upwards of $49.50.
Where: Various Gold Coast locations

The Jewellery Studio
The little girl in all of us is begging to be taken along to a local jewellery making workshop and it’s about time we indulge her don’t you think? At The Jewellery Studio you get to make everything from jewelled rings to DIY wedding bands in silver or gold and absolutely wow yourself with your new skills while you’re at it. The workshops really are a beautiful thing to do and we highly recommend taking along a girlfriend or two.
Where: 5/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads

HOTA
Everyone’s fave cultural centre, Home of the Arts (HOTA), of course has plenty of creative classes to take part in. From making your own comic with a local artist to even more life drawing, your inner muse is sure to be inspired. There are classes for both adults and kids and new ones added all the time so why not get the whole fam involved in something new and different. Keep up to date on what’s happening via their website.
Where: 135 Bundall Rd, Bundall

Words by Kirra Smith

Ahh Miami. I mean the name alone gives cool vibes for days, and this southern GC suburb does not disappoint. In fact, Miami has risen through the ranks over the last few years to become one of THE places to see and be seen at.

Here are 18 reasons why we can’t get enough and LBH, if it’s good enough for Will Smith to sing about, why wouldn’t we write about it?! (a different Miami but, same same).

Paddock Bakery
This place has awards coming out of every orifice and for darn good reason. Turning a 70-year-old Queenslander home into one of our all-time fave bakeries, Paddock hits a homerun every time. With seating options in the gardens, cottage, loft, rooftop and barn, it is the perfect brunch spot. You won’t give a hoot about the calories in their bakery goods because they are worth not being able to fit into your skinny jeans.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Miami

Granddad Jacks
I mean it’s a distillery, and we feel this is enough of a sales pitch… With award-winning spirits galore made by this family-owned business and a super cool rustic vibe, it’s a no-brainer for an awesome arvo. Try the Two Pencils Gin and the Coffee Liqueur…or maybe don’t coz a trip to Dan Murphy’s will just never cut it again. Also, it’s BYO food so there’s more in the kitty to blow on booze.
Where: 45 Lemana Ln, Miami

Heartfill Store
If you haven’t been in and emptied your bank account yet, you are not worthy of calling yourself a true Gold Coaster. With homewares, art and craft, flowers, clothes and vintage bits and pieces, this little gem is pure girly heaven. Described as a creative retail space inspired by living slowly and consuming mindfully, it encourages sustainable futures and celebrates creativity. Yay!
Where: 1/29 Lemana Ln, Miami

Kira & Kira
This place is a home decorator’s happy place. Carrying timeless and unique pieces carefully curated from local and global designers and artists, Kira & Kira value true craftsmanship. Their ethos is: buy once, love forever…and we’re here for it. Featured in the who’s who of abode styling magazines, Kira & Kira is a true local treasure and we feel like proud parents watching her grow and conquer.
Where: Cnr Gold Coast Hwy and Kratzman Ave, Miami

Miami Fish Market
If it’s responsibly sourced and sustainable seafood so fresh it’s still swimming (literally) you’re seeking, then this place is your new BFF. If you don’t feel like cooking up their plethora of seafood in your own kitchen, you don’t have to as it also boasts a raw bar with oysters shucked to order, sashimi and specialist conservas from Europe. How good?!
Where: 1/54 Paradise Ave, Miami

SPEC
This moody, industrial-esque beer garden and tapas haven is a refreshing change from the Palm Springs-inspired venues which rule the GC right now. With mouth-watering bites, fine wines, local beer goodness and of course, cocktails, it’s where we’re spending our Saturday arvos. Hosting regular events like comedy nights, they also serve Halloumi Tacos and do we really need to say anymore?
Where: 2176 Gold Coast Hwy, Miami

Miami Hill
Okay so the view from atop Miami Hill is just beyond. It is a steep (but brief) climb, but well worth pushing the ‘ole bod to see our beautiful GC in all its glory from north to south. And if you’re keen to burn off the weekend’s indulgence, the stairs on the north side of the hill are a popular choice for those wanting to raise their heartrate.
Where: At the south end of Miami (you can’t miss it) 

The Miami
Known as Miami Tavern in its past life (or the Shark Bar if you’re older than that), The Miami has been an iconic destination for those after quality pub grub and good times since 1925. This two-storey newly renovated pub draws inspo from its beautiful beachy surroundings, overlooking Miami Hill. It’s a staple for a fun day or night out with the gang.
Where: 2043-2047 Gold Coast Hwy, Miami

Pizzey Park
If you grew up on the GC, you’ve been to Pizzey Park. A premium sport and recreation precinct, it’s one of the biggest and most popular parks on the Coast. With an area for your pooches to roam, a skate park for the kids to run themselves ragged, and beautiful areas to sit down with a picnic lunch, it’s also the perfect backdrop for an Insta snap-fest.
Where: 80 Pacific Ave, Miami

Piccolo Espresso
Going for a scenic stroll along the Esplanade and then rewarding yourself with a Merlo coffee, fresh smoothie or yummy brekkie is good for the soul…and Piccolo Espresso knows it! A fave amongst locals, whether you want to sit down and take in the beach views or grab something to go, you’re sorted. Insider tip: the Avo and Fetta Mash is a winner.
Where: 2 Hythe St, Miami

Miami Marketta
What would a Miami hotspot list be without our beloved Miami Marketta. It could be the backstreets of Thailand, Barcelona or New York City but nope, this epic night market is right here in our city my friends. A family friendly destination, it dishes up a giant slice of multicultural goodness with stalls, street food, live music and events. A must-see in anyone’s books.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami

The Jolly Roger
Serving only Aussie and NZ catches, this funky fish joint promises the freshest seafood and is furry friend friendly! With a great range of homemade snacks and flavours, plus offering a keto fish and chips meal (bravo) and vegan tofish (get it?!, sounds like something we’d come up with…), it caters to one and all. Ahoy me hearties!
Where: 3/110 Mountain View Avenue, Miami

UGG Since 1974
Because we all love a good UGG. An Aussie-owned and made institution, the UGG will never lose its sparkle. Literally – you can get a pair of custom-made UGGs here with Swarovksi crystals. Not.even.kidding. With a huge selection of colours and patterns plus the option to take a tour of the factory, it’s un-Australian not to check it out.
Where: 23 Christine Ave, Miami

Lumber Punks
Yes, this is the place where you go to throw axes for fun. It’s actually a thing, and a super fun and strangely satisfying thing at that. Perfect for date night, social outings, birthdays, bucks, break-up (I mean, we didn’t say that) or even corporate events, learn from axe throwing gurus who will get you nailing bullseyes in no time. If it’s good enough for Jason Momoa, it’s obvs good enough for us.
Where: 19 Ozone Pde, Miami

That’s Amore
Looking for a feed that’s Italian? That’s BYO? That’s a family-run biz? That’s…Amore! This crowd-pleasing local haunt never fails to knock our socks off. Its reasonably priced menu means we can afford to go every week (if we can get in that is) and its food is as good as it gets. With everything you’d hope to find on the menu, you can taste the love in every dish.
Where: 110 Mountain View Avenue, Miami 

Daymaker Espresso
This industrial-style space serves up coffee that is off the charts and the menu is loaded with fan-favourites and vegetarian-friendly delish eats. It’s the perfect place to meet up with the crew, take your laptop for a change of scenery during the work day, or pop in for a pre-beach bite. Both Andrew Madgwick and Dylan Nesbit will warmly welcome you!
Where: 44 Pacific Ave, Miami

Trader Trove
Another family-run fave, Trader Trove is a curation of handmade rattan furniture, unique home décor, stunning soft furnishings, beautiful giftware collections and so much more. Its worldly wares inspired by slow and intentional living, with a nod to the bohemian and coastal luxe interiors, makes us swoon every.single.time!
Where: 22 Christine Ave, Miami

Words by Bianca Trathen.

In what may just be the happiest news of 2018, a gin and whiskey distillery will roll open its doors in a few short weeks and we could not be more into it.

Granddad Jacks Distillery has been in the works for what feels like four years to those of us who love both gin and whiskey a little too much. In reality it’s only been four months but the wait is almost over.

On August 24^th, the industrial-style Miami distillery will open for the good folks of the Gold Coast and, it’s certainly a cause to celebrate. Found on Lemana Lane, the distillery has taken up in what used to be a mechanics workshop and the transformation is pure magic.

Father/son team and owners Dave and Luke Ridden (along with the lovely Jess) scoured the Gold Coast in search of iron beams and the like to build a space that fits perfectly in Miami’s backstreets. Steel-inspired high tables with copper stools stretch down the centre of the room and two of the coolest leather couches we’ve ever seen make for a little chill spot at one end (if they go missing forget you read this). A day bed along one wall is lined with colourful cushions and underneath a mural proclaiming ‘too busy for bullshit, too tipsy to care’ and that, friends, is our new life motto.

Above the bar, an exposed brick wall boasts a painted portrait of the man himself, Granddad Jack, whose face peers out over the whole space, keeping an eye on you and your whiskey-fuelled shenanigans. There are wine barrels placed artfully about and the cruisiest of cruisers, decked out in Granddad Jack’s signage, is parked up the back. Oh and the main affair, a huge copper still sits at the back pumping out all the tasty booze. Love you.

So who is this Granddad Jack your new favourite watering hole is named after? Well, he’s a New Zealand born lad whose hard work and sharp mind allowed him to pay a huge family debt singlehandedly at the ripe old age of 14, that’s who. Luke, his great grandson, adopted the same hard working, ‘too busy for bullshit’ attitude and here we are, just a humble beachside city with our very own distillery. What a time.

Granddad Jack’s will sell only their own styles of both gin and whiskey and they’ll have a few varieties of each including what they call a ‘navy strength’ gin that’s 58%. Gimme.

There’ll be no food available on site but, hooray, you can BYO whatever you like so it’ll be a cheese platter and gin party for us thank you very much.

The epic space is also available for events including birthdays, engagement parties and wedding receptions and there was even a secret Sofar Sounds gig there recently. So much room for activities.

Okay we’re done and so very excited. Keep August 24^th free, you won’t want to miss this one.

LOCATION: 43 Lemana Lane, Miami
HOURS: 10am until midnight Wednesday to Sunday

Words and photos by Kirra Smith

How good is making new friends in a sweet, good time space while pretending to work but really just watching animal docos? So good, gang.

In an (un)surprising turn of events, you can now do all of those things at the Coast’s sweet new co-working and events space in the suburb that may just be our new fave – Miami.

The gist is this. Lemana Lane is a kind of urban, cool kids paradise that was once only home to mechanics and warehouses hording who knows what. Now though, it’s a place you definitely want to be, what with the recent opening of Hotel Miami and a coming soon gin distillery.

Hotel Miami’s creators realised the areas potential far before the rest of us, nabbed themselves a warehouse space and filled it with all kinds of goodies. There’s velvet couches, handmade desks (ask ‘em how that went down) perfect for Insta-snaps, a dartboard and best of all, a Yamaha parked right in front of a neon sign that reads “fuck yeah”.

Oh and there’s a photo studio too. See, good times.

The idea was to open a space that would allow co-owner Nick to escape from the confines of his bedroom and a cat whose actual name is Winston Smushface.

Jokes. It was so Nick, along with his fiancé Jessie (the boss) and mate Darran, could create a place to hang out with other creatives, “work” on their various other businesses and create a fun little Miami community. They adapted a community event they used to attend in Venice Beach where local businesses would come together and showcase their goods while also making rad new friends.

The point is, you can rent one of those handmade desks for a day or on a fulltime basis (recommended for bulk good times) and there are upstairs offices up for grabs too.

The photo studio can also be hired for any fun projects you’ve got going on and there’s super speedy Internet and everyone’s other favourite thing – air conditioning.

As of April 6^th there’ll be an event on the first Friday of every month (dubbed First Friday to make writing about it easier) that’ll showcase local artists and finally bring Gold Coasters the live music we need and deserve.

Whether you’re in the market for a new workspace or not, get down there and check it out, the crew are keen to meet all the like-minded creatives they can muster.

And they’re not bad at hilarious banter either.

LOCATION: 1/49 Lemana Lane, Miami

Words and photos by Kirra Smith