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

Get in loser, we’re going shopping (and eating, and brewery-hopping, and sight seeing, and exploring street art, and… you get the idea)

Now you might be wondering why we’re throwing around random movie quotes to kick off this list (in our defence there is a Mean Girls line for *every* occasion) – but if suburbs were Mean Girls characters, Miami would for sure be the one to utter this iconic line. Miami has it all, and it knows it. Take one glance at just some of the epic spots we’ve lined up and you’ll soon see why all the other suburbs wish they could be this cool.

Paddock Bakery
One thing locals know, is the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is only the most scrumptious, buttery baked goods in 4220. Ever since Paddock opened it’s charmingly renovated doors in 2014, locals have been flocking there daily for their much-kneaded Paddock fix.

Reigning supreme as our baked-goods, brunch and lunch hookup ever since, the ex-Queenslander-turned-treehouse-of-our-childhood-dreams has expanded to welcome us and our relentless sweet tooth’s with open arms. With the lush gardens, cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to retreat to, the only thing more extensive than the dining space options is the menu to indulge from.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Miami

Granddad Jacks
It used to be that Granddads were good for stealing our noses and sneaking us butter candy, but in Miami, Granddad Jacks is good for plying us the finest locally distilled spirits, gin making classes, distillery tours and of course and just an all-round cool haunt to sit back with a top notch bevvy and let our mullets run free. These masterful wizards didn’t amass a whopping 70+ awards by getting distracted by anything other than distilling, so it’s BYO food too (and surely that means more to spend on the good stuff!)
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami

Miami Fish Market
It would be shell-fish of us not to include the absolute pearl that is Miami Fish Market, and we have two words for you: Sashimi box. Soy-n us up, pls! Fin-ally, we have a hook up for the finest and freshest seafood that’s a sure thing (unlike heading home empty handed from your holy grail fishing spot). Also unlike a day on the water, the pros will handle all the dirty work so you can do as much or as little as you like – oysters shucked to order, anyone?!
Where: 1/54 Paradise Ave, Miami

Pizzey Park
Wine not take those fresh sucked oysters to-go and mosey right on over for a bougie picnic at the picturesque Pizzey park. As one of the biggest parks on the GC, Pizzey is a local icon and hub for sports, clubs, recreation and all round fun times for all ages. There’s an aquatic centre, playgrounds galore, a wheely epic skate park and let’s not forget the off-leash dog area for our four legged BFFs (paw out of five dogs agree Pizzey is the best park for zoomies on the GC)
Where: 80 Pacific Ave, Miami

Miami Marketta
The Coast’s OG street food night markets that put Miami on the map as a must-visit destination for foodies and live music lovers alike. The first venue of it’s kind to Miami and perhaps even the Coast, Marketta quickly grew to establish itself as a mainstay among the GC scene, bringing good vibes, live music and great food galore via the eclectic creative and cultural hotspot for over ten years now. Our beloved market brings us all our favourite tastes of the world as well as that same buzzing atmosphere that’s favoured by families especially, for rounding up their rowdy broods for an easy night out that everyone can enjoy.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami

UGG Since 1974
With the hotter weather officially taking some mercy on us now we’ve packed away the budgie smugglers and it’s the perfect time to slip into something a little more cosy. Enter, Ugg Since 1974 – churning out wearable warm hugs for your feet since, well, 1974. Don’t be feeling sheepish if you didn’t know they’ve expanded their range to include a huge selection of colours, styles and options to customise – including monogramming (cute!) through to paw-dorable pet accessories (even cuter!) With factory tours running right out of Miami, the only thing better than supporting local, is treating your tootsies to a cloud-nine experience in the process.
Where: 23 Christine Ave, Miami

Lumber Punks
Ever find yourself struck by the sudden and insatiable urge to don your flanno’s and yeet sharp objects at the wall? Okay so perhaps not, but when your usual rotation of outings is just not cutting it anymore – it might be time to hit up Lumber Punks because you really can’t axe for a better way to get the crew together for some laughs or some fun date night axe-ction. If you haven’t yet tried your hand at the phenomenon that is axe throwing, chop chop – because this is one adventure that brings the axe-mosphere in blades (er, spades, rather). If it’s good enough for Jason Momoa, it’s obvs good enough for us.
Where: 19 Ozone Pde, Miami

Miami Hill
Okay, now it just feels like Miami is showing off and 469 (no kidding) google reviews can’t be wrong. At first glance those deceptively colourful trademark stairs might look all sunshine and rainbows, but one thing’s for sure – conquer that climb and you will be rewarded with one of the best vantages on the coast. With stunning views of the coastline from Surfers right down to Burleigh, there’s only one thing left to say: How’s. the. serenity. (and maybe a hearty dose of *heavy breathing* depending on how many times you decide to take on those stairs #cardi-no thanks)
Where: At the south end of Miami (you can’t miss it) 

Trader Trove
Trader Trove, more like treasure trove. Welcome to Miami’s own worldly homewares haven for those who prefer their interiors on the luxe side – and their swoon-worthy assortment of bohemian inspired home decor, that’s more expertly curated than an influencers insta feed.

We love: a family run local biz with a dreamy selection of ethically minded homewares. We don’t love: that all self control seems to exit our body when we visit.
Where: 22 Christine Ave, Miami

Ferg’s
You no longer need a certified 90’s banger to be proclaiming ‘fergalicious (so delicious)’ because ever since Fergs moved to town we’ve had an excuse to be saying it daily. For the unacquainted – f.e.r.g.s aka Fresh Eats Really Good Sh*t – has been dishing up breakfast and brunch much to the delight of southern GC, with all the staple brunch suspects you’d expect, but also the likes of Lemon Meringue Crumpets and really, need we say more?
Where: 2/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami

Street art
It’s no secret us Gold Coasters are quite partial to doing what we can to our put our best #lewks forward, and over the last few years the streets of Miami have also been undergoing somewhat of a glow up themselves (and #spoileralert – there’s no filler to be found here folks). If it’s been a while between visits, it might surprise you to learn the suburb is at the heart of a thriving GC art and cultural boom, with a bunch of incredible artists transforming the local laneways into a destination in and of themselves. There’s even the Art Roll website dedicated to mapping out the best routes for your own self-led street art tour.

And the event that started the movement, Surface Festival returns for it’s third year this July, set to transform the local footpaths, fence lines, laneways and walls with some art-mazing fresh new works to admire and we’re here. for. it.
Where: Check the Art Roll website for locations

Precinct Brewing Co
If you’ve worked up a thirst just reading this list – last but by no means least is everyone’s (yep, we called it) favourite brewery, Precinct Brewing Co. Once you’ve stepped through the doors you’ll be welcomed into a sleek, all-white space with greenery dripping from up high, and an absolute slew of tanks brewing up some tasty treats. You can see why people say, it’s the place to beer! Don’t forget to grab one of the tasty pizzas coming from the onsite kitchen too…
Where: 17 Christine Ave, Miami

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