“During a time when things in the world got really... let’s just say strange, I began searching for a way to show my friends and family that I was thinking of them,” recalls Kim. And that strange time we all know so well began in Australia in March this year - you know what we’re talking about here, don’t you? And I’m immediately thinking that starting a business during Covid shutdowns is one brave move.
Kim goes on to say, “Spending much of my time at home and missing life’s simple pleasures, I found myself longing for things I never thought I would have to go without. Having a cup of tea and a chat with a friend. The feeling of being wrapped up in a hug. The simple things.” Ah yes, I remember those days and months well. I met Kim virtually in July this year when she reached out to me to photograph for her website and socials. Boy, did I love shooting her gorgeous gift boxes with her array of fabulous gifts!
Tell us about oh-hello!
“oh-hello! is a small, affordable gifting solution. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, a promotion or just letting someone know they are in your thoughts, I know you will love our selection of small gifts with personalised cards to match. I have worked hard to source and partner with a range of local makers to ensure that no matter which gift you select, you’ll always get something truly special.
So while we are no longer forced into isolation (woohoo!), it is my hope that oh-hello! can continue to bring that feeling of being loved, remembered, and above all else, connected to you and your loved ones.”
What’s your brand story for oh-hello!?
Deliver happiness, one small gift at a time.
How did you come up with the idea?
I was searching for an Australian business that offered personalised gifts. A bunch of flowers didn’t feel special enough, while more traditional hampers were too expensive and often didn’t hit the mark.
My seven-year-old — also a little sad that he couldn't hang out with his mates — had begun collecting small boxes and filling them with toys, handwritten notes, and bits and bobs he would find around the house to exchange with his friends. Once the boxes were complete, we would walk around the neighbourhood dropping off the little gifts on his friend’s doorsteps.
This was my 'oh-hello!' moment and decided that since the thing I was looking for didn’t seem to exist, I would create it myself.
Like my son, for me, it wasn’t so much about the gift itself, but the feeling behind it that was important. With this in mind, I set out to create something to help people celebrate the moments that matter, even if they can’t be there to do it in person.
How did you start your business? Did you do any courses? Who did you call on to help you?
I put off launching my own business for years and years. Finally, I made the decision to enrol in Mamamia’s online six week Lady Startup Course. The course fast tracks you to actually launch your own small business or lady startup - the right way - the first time. It gave me the skills, confidence, support and impetus I needed. The lady startup Facebook Community also reassured me that there are plenty of other ladies like me, wanting to do something for themselves.
I was also lucky to have a supportive family who were cheering me on, validating my ideas and putting things into perspective when I doubted myself.
Along my journey I have collaborated with lots of lady start-ups including a few who I have met via the Lady Startup community (including yourself!).
I spent hours and hours researching Australian brands that are unique and have their own story to tell. I particularly love supporting other small businesses run by women (which most of my suppliers are), so I can encourage other women doing amazing things.
