Tell us about yourself and what inspired you to begin eco on the go?
My name’s Renae, I live in Melbourne and I’m currently studying a Diploma of Visual Merchandising. On my lunch breaks at work I didn’t want to use the communal cutlery because my co-workers so rarely washed them properly. Out of temptation I would use the disposable cutlery my friends had in their locker. I then decided to step up my game and bring my own knife and fork. After I made a cute bag for them to travel with, my other co-workers wanted their own and so did my friends going to uni. I then started making and selling the kits.
Have you always had an interest in sustainability?
Not always. I started to realise its importance only a few years ago. I had that one thought of ‘when you throw something away, there is no ‘away’. So much of what we use will always be on this earth so we should choose more carefully what we purchase and how we use it.
WhAt have you enjoyed the most about studying visual merchandising?
Sadly I really enjoyed doing the hands on tasks at uni but we’re now doing the course online! I really liked having the challenge of being provided a product and some props and finding a way to make an appealing display.
Your pieces are made using second-hand-fabrics, any tips for those who love to thrift shop that might be reading this?
Yes, I love using second hand fabrics when I can find them! A tip is to always check out the craft section! That’s where I find all my cool textures like velvet and corduroy. I’ve also noticed that some op shops seem to have a larger and better selection of fabrics, so if your regular shop doesn’t have much try some other ones nearby!
How would you describe your aesthetic?
It took me a while to find an aesthetic but if you look at my insta feed you’ll see its mostly soft green, pink and white. I like to keep it light and fresh.
Any music, artists, books, instagram accounts that you’re loving right now?
At the moment I’m loving the band ‘Wallows’. They don’t have a song I don’t like! Some Instagram accounts I love are Eden and Sage, The Essentials Club, Common Stitch, and Quotes By Christie.
Favourite weekend activity?
Ooh I always go to the Lunar Drive ins. What’s better than bringing your own snacks and snuggling up in the car to watch a movie or two!
What kind of flower brings you the most joy?
I love a white Magnolia. I just think they’re so pretty and classic.
Top tips for surviving COVID?
Make sure to stay connected with your friends and family! (safely of course) And honestly if your mental or physical health is being impacted because of Covid just remind yourself that you (and the whole world) are going through something major and give yourself a little leeway.
