Sustainable Style: Cronulla’s New Feel-Good Store And Studio
We Are Mindful Is Now Open
We are Mindful is Cronulla's newest storefront that is the creative brainchild of Kathryn Batty. The name We are Mindful perfectly encapsulates what this store has to offer: sustainable, ethical and Australian made products. Originally opening just down the road in 2018, the brand underwent a refresh along with a new location, wiping its previous name Mindful & Co, and introducing a whole lot of new products and experiences. We’re talking Pottery & Sip, Paint & Sip, Alcohol Inks and more.
We are Mindful is described by Kathryn as a contemporary curation of wellness and lifestyle gifts, homewares, accessories and clothing for the conscious consumer. Her new store has effortlessly chic interiors, with custom built joinery and natural timber finishes. Its earthy vibes will lure you in as you walk past, but it’s the quality products and quirky pieces that will keep you coming back.
From a 30 sq m space on the cusp of Cronulla’s residential area, to 210 sq m, Kathryn has had quite the journey. Her third store is smack bang in the centre of Cronulla mall and thanks to its increased size, she has expanded her offerings dramatically. Introducing menswear, a baby range and select furniture, there is now a little something for everyone who walks through the doors.
At the rear of the store sits the show-stopping We are Mindful Studio. The studio will host a range of workshops and is also available to hire for private gatherings. Here Kathryn has created a sense of laid back luxury with its open space, unique touches and natural lighting. The stunning venue makes for the perfect backdrop for your hens, baby shower or birthday celebration if you ask us!
Just to top it off, every Friday and Saturday a pop-up dried flower bar by Sugar Moon Blooms can be found at the store’s entrance. This is no standard flower bar. Sugar Moon Blooms stocks every colour and texture you could dream of, customising incredible bouquets to complement your space perfectly.
Being the newest store in Cronulla, it's only fair we sat down with Kathryn to bring you everything there is to know. So, let’s start from the beginning and roll back the clock to 2018.
Tell us a bit more about where it all started? What was your first store like and how long did it take to transition to store two?
“I identified the need for sustainable, ethical and Australian made products in the Sutherland Shire after working in a local health food store for over a year. Customers were constantly seeking these types of products and I realised there was an opportunity in the market.
My first store at 150 Cronulla Street was 30 sq m. It had a rustic charm with painted white bricks, big timber windows and a paved courtyard surrounding. It was the most suitable space to start my journey as I wasn't sure what the future held. We had a great start but it became apparent that the foot traffic and exposure was lacking. At the beginning of 2019, I decided that I had to move closer to Cronulla Mall and after 7 months an opportunity finally arose. My second store was not perfect; it was only a slightly bigger floor size, however, it enabled my business to be noticed.”
Mindful & Co, Kathryn’s previous store before transitioning to We are Mindful
Kathryn's second store was perched perfectly at the entrance of Cronulla Mall, directly opposite Cronulla train station. Small in size but big in charm, you’ll remember a space filled with wardrobe staples, curated gifts and smaller items for every nook of your home. Not letting its size impact her aspirations, Kathryn shortly introduced workshops run by local artists.
“It started with essential oil workshops, which grew into pottery, painting and floristry. It also enabled my customers to connect with the makers behind some of the brands that I stocked in store. They were challenging to run due to the store's small size and shuffling of stock, however, it was worth it to see the interest from customers and the joy of learning and connecting. I could see there was a demand for this type of offering to be taken to the next level.”
With overflowing stock and not enough space to service the traffic of customers, Kathryn knew it was time to take the next step or should we say ‘leap’ in her case.
Your new store is considerably bigger than your previous store. How did you feel about making such a big move?
“It was a mixture of emotions. I was very nervous about the increase in rent and renovation investment but excited and hopeful. I knew that if I didn't make a move that my business wasn't going to grow in the direction that it needed to. I had such a drive and passion for wanting to create a beautiful space and an elevated experience for my customers. With more space they can now browse at ease, bring in their dogs and prams and feel comfortable to try on clothes with generous size change rooms. There’s even a lounge for the partner or kids to hang. The vision of having the opportunity to create this kept me going.”
We have to admit, we squealed a little inside after seeing the studio. With COVID restrictions limiting most social days out to dining, finding something new to do has never been more exciting.
How has the response been to your studio?
“The response has been amazing and humbling. Before it had physically opened, many workshops had sold out for September and October. The most popular ones are Pottery and Alcohol Inks. I've had bookings for private gatherings, art exhibitions and interest as a co-working space during the week.”
What more can we expect from you in the future?
“The store will be increasing its offerings to include sleepwear, footwear, activewear and more furniture. I want to be a one-stop-shop for my customers. The studio will also increase its range of workshops and eventually have a buzzing co-working space during the week. If the opportunity arose to expand into the level above, I would be looking into tapping back into my health background with the introduction of yoga, meditation and other wellness-based services.”
We are Mindful has created a truly beautiful space and a unique buying experience where shoppers can learn about the products they’re buying, the makers behind them and more.
We are Mindful is absolutely worth its own trip to Cronulla. Whether you're shopping for a gift, a present for yourself or a special piece for your home, you will leave feeling totally zen. In fact, you won't want to leave at all. We guarantee it.
Posted September, 2020
