“Some of you are

walking love letters

and you don’t

even realise it.

You’re lighting up rooms,

shifting atmospheres

& creating inspiration

Just by simply being you.

(@warriorsofthedivine)

Today’s blog is all about the joy of using your creativity to spread love and comfort to those in your community.

Welcome to The Bigger Picture; a blog that is all about building NETWORK and CONNECTION. Each month, I feature a woman in small business within my community with the sole purpose of showing support, building solidarity and sharing stories of passion.

I am so fortunate to be surrounded by incredible small businesses in the South West run by mums in their spare rooms or out in their gardens and they each have a unique story to be told; a BIGGER PICTURE to be discovered.

Creativity is one way to express what kind of human being you are; what you love, what you value and what is important to you as a person. And whether you’re a painter, a musician, a photographer, a knitter or a sculptor, alongside that need to create is the need to share your creations and hope that they give others the same joy that they give you.

For instance, for me, when I take family portraits, (even when those people are total strangers), the love, the laughter, the connection that I see and feel as it unfolds before me, all flows through my lens and editing screen. It comes out as a beautifully curated gallery of images that is intended to make you FEEL that moment, and that they were taken by a person who truly cares about preserving, and celebrating, the love that you have as a family.

The gift of giving people something that you have created is at the heart of being a creative person.

My feature for November is a true creative and a person who is motivated by curating gifts that bring love, comfort and warmth to others. Yoga specialist, knitter, wife, busy mum of two gorgeous girls and craft enthusiast, I am very pleased to introduce you to…

Ally Robinson

Blue Wren Designs

Tell us about your business and what services you offer.

My business @blue.wren.designs focuses on creating handmade, custom beanies that are tailored to each client's specifications, whether it’s size, colour, or design. In addition to my beanies, I have recently started offering personalized gift boxes or baskets upon request. These are often created for friends and family members who are unwell or undergoing cancer treatment. Each gift box is carefully curated to bring comfort and support during difficult times, adding a personal and thoughtful touch to my offerings. I also provide seasonal collections and commissioned work for those who want something truly unique.

Is there a story behind the name you chose?

I chose the name "Blue Wren" because blue wrens are my favourite Australian birds. Their vibrant colour and lively nature really resonate with me. My sister, who shares my love for creativity, drew and designed the logo, making it extra special and personal to me.

Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from various sources, including nature, fashion trends, and my own personal style. I love going for walks on the beach, which often inspires me to create beanies that reflect comfort and warmth. As someone who enjoys creating cozy pieces, I find joy in crafting items that are perfect for autumn and winter, as well as those colder nights in spring and summer. My journey into making beanies started when I was drawn to a fluffy wool at Spotlight. I decided to make a beanie for myself, and when my daughter asked for an ear warmer in the same fluffy wool, it sparked my passion for creating custom pieces. This combination of personal experience and seasonal inspiration drives my designs.

What is your favourite part of your job?

Since this is a business I do in my spare time, it gives me the chance to be creative and do something I absolutely love. One of the best parts is spotting people out and about, "in the wild," wearing the beanies I’ve made—it’s such a rewarding feeling! Knowing that something I created is being enjoyed and worn by others makes all the effort worthwhile. I love, love, love those moments! What truly makes it special, though, is seeing the joy and appreciation from my clients, whether it’s for a custom beanie or a personalized gift box. Knowing that something I’ve made can bring comfort or brighten someone’s day, especially during tough times, is incredibly rewarding. Plus, the supportive and friendly atmosphere at local markets makes me feel like I’m part of a wonderful community.

What do you offer your clients that no one else does?

One thing that sets me apart is the personalized service I offer. I provide free local delivery, making it easy for clients to receive their custom beanies or gift boxes. Additionally, when creating personalized gift boxes, I go the extra mile by sourcing other items from local sellers to make each box unique and filled with thoughtful, locally made products. This allows me to support other small businesses in the community while offering my clients something truly special and one-of-a-kind.

What’s the biggest thing you’ve learnt since starting your business?

One of the biggest things I've learned is the importance of building strong connections with my customers. Listening to their stories and understanding their needs has made my work more meaningful and personal. Whether it's creating a custom beanie or putting together a personalized gift box, taking the time to make each item unique has been key to my success. I'd advise anyone starting a small business to stay true to their passion, be patient, and focus on quality relationships—those are what sustain and grow your business over time.

The support and kindness of other market stallholders have also been a huge part of my journey. My advice? Don’t hesitate to ask for help and embrace simple tech solutions to grow your business.

For anyone who is a creative person, you will know that creativity has huge value and that the things we make have the power to impact people, community and culture. At a small craft table in her back garden shed, Ally creates. And her creations provide her clients with warmth and love….not to mention, style!

So, in short, the world needs your creativity! Find your passion and go make it!

Edwina xx

If you would like to know more about Ally’s beanies, headbands and candles, or you know someone who would benefit from one of her care packages, you can find her at the Port Fairy Maker’s Market most Saturday mornings, or you could please give her a follow (and your support) on her social media page…

Instagram: @blue.wren.designs