We rise by lifting others! Peppermint wouldn’t exist without the generous support of our wonderful partners. We’re big believers in the fact that every time you spend your hard-earned dollars, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you’d like to see, so champion mindful businesses with this exciting curation of our wonderful Marketplace sellers from the latest issue. Below you’ll find a marvellous mix of local, sustainable, small, handmade and ethical brands – grab a feel-good find today!
RUCO PAINTS
Ruco Paints believes we all have innate creativity – and they want us to spread it like love. And they make it very tempting to do so with exquisite handcrafted paints made using artist-grade pigments, sold as sets and single shades. Produced using traditional methods and natural binders, each colour is housed in a tiny reusable ceramic pot made in the brand’s North Coast studio.
WILDBODY
Founded in Geraldton, WA, by Jade Payne, WildBody is redefining activewear with purpose. Crafted from 88% GOTS-certified organic cotton and dyed with OEKO-TEX-certified colours, this range proves you don’t need plastic for performance. Designed in sizes 4–22 with plantable packaging and donations to cancer research, WildBody brings comfort and conscience together.
SHEET YEAH!
Love doing laundry? No-one does. But it’s made a whole lot easier (and less taxing on the environment) with the dissolvable detergent sheets from Brisbane company Sheet Yeah! Scented with essential oils and nothing else, they’re ideal for bubs and others with sensitive skin. Throw a couple in your suitcase for travel-safe suds on your next big adventure.
SEW INTO OVERLOCKING
If you’re ready to take your sewing to the next level (read: finally use that overlocker or coverstitch machine), Sew Into Overlocking classes are here to help. Offered in-person and online, Kate Marra’s classes will take your machine from misunderstood to a much-loved must-have. Kate also has a range of sewing patterns and projects to put your skills to the test.
THE PLANT RUNNER
Are you a dedicated plant parent, or an accidental Monstera murderer? Either way, meet The Plant Runner, who believe caring for your plants should be as enjoyable as admiring them. They make quality care products (plant food, leaf shine, soil booster) in sustainable packaging with carbon-negative ingredients. Another thing we dig: the company donates one percent to planetary causes.
EVER VESSEL
There are water bottles… and then there’s Ever Vessel. Is it possible that Brisbane couple Bec and Tim have achieved water bottle and tea flask perfection? The many awards suggest yes. Their simple but oh-so-stylish range, made from stainless steel and borosilicate glass, is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Custom engraving and a slick integrated carry handle? We’ll drink to that.
BY AUDREY AND GRACE
Slow, sustainable, and stylish; by Audrey and Grace is Melbourne-made fashion designed to outlast trends (and help you look fab as a bonus!). Each size-inclusive piece (6-22) is ethically crafted under Ethical Clothing Australia accreditation, using zero-waste principles and timeless design. These are investment pieces inspired by fashion icons of the past, made to love and live in for decades.
RARE PATTERNS
Bloom, baby, bloom! Step into the world of Rare Patterns – where art, planet-friendly fabric and a slow fashion ethos intertwine. Created by textile designer Michelle Holik, each exclusive print begins as a hand-rendered artwork (like the dreamy watercolour ‘Blossom’ print) before being digitally printed on 100% linen. Natural fibres, thoughtful design and creativity? Just perfect for a me-made wardrobe!
FUR-YOU
If your pup has a keen sense of style and a passion for regenerative cotton and natural fibres, they’ll be very glad you stumbled on this brand. Take it from Jack Russell Charlie, the brand’s chief experience officer (CEO), Fur-You’s cute and comfy hoodies and tees spark conversations at the dog park. Each one is designed and hand-printed at founder Mel’s Melbourne studio.
HONEY AND STITCH
Bedtime a bit itchy and scratchy? This double award-winning Aussie brand makes sleepwear dreams come true for little ones with eczema-prone skin and sensory sensitivities. Their buttery-soft, organic OEKO-TEX certified bamboo PJs (for ages 0–6 years) feature built-in silk mitts. There are no inside labels, they’re thermoregulating and oh-so-cosy – proving comfort and cute can go hand in hand (or mitten!).
MARKETDAY
Move over, granny trolley. The Marketday Cart is changing the produce-gathering game: no more squashed avos or busted wheels on your return from the farmers’ market. Fresh from winning gold at the Australian Good Design Awards, you might just find yourself using this sturdy but lightweight cart for everything (grocery shopping, picnics, crafternoons). Ditch the drive and walk with ease and style.
USE CODE PEPPERMINT100 FOR $100 OFF
NENE AND BOP
Karen Clarey, founder of NeNe & Bop, creates one-of-a-kind leather bags that are inclusive, playful and functional. The new Everyday Leather Tote has been designed with a clever modular system so you can attach an Ally crossbody bag for a handy two-in-one style! Every inch of leather is utilised to create the NeNe & Bop range, with scraps transformed into colourful earrings and wearable art.
FUNKY ZEBRA
Created in Melbourne by French-born Anaïs Lobmeyer, who is obsessed with bold patterns, vibrant colours and statement accessories – and it shows! Her wearable art pieces are crafted from lightweight Tasmanian Golden Sassafras wood and hand-painted with love in small batches. Funky Zebra’s bright, bold dangle and stud earrings are a joyful celebration of individuality and a whole lot of fun!
SOLMATES
We see you rollin’. We approvin’. Mainly because you’ve picked a Solmates refillable roll-on applicator, made in Australia from recycled plastic and perfect for on-the-go application of your fave sunscreen this summer (also compatible with other lotions and potions). We love the two convenient sizes, bright colours, and handy tether for attachment – no excuses to not be sun-safe!
EDORSA
You know coffee for its pep-boosting effects; well, it’s said to have a similar result when applied to the skin. The hero ingredient in Edorsa’s roll-on oil, coffee extract is used to boost circulation and reduce puffiness. Formulated with intention, precision and a whole lot of heart, it also includes marine collagen and cacay oil (dubbed “nature’s retinol”). Eyes Awaken is set to become your new caffeine fix.
BRONZE EYE CREAM / SERUM
INOYA
Founded by a registered nurse, this Brisbane start-up makes purpose-driven period products you can feel good about. We’re talking organic cotton reusable pads and pantyliners (with cute prints), super-soft period cups (with a loop for panic-free removal) and a company that gives a damn (Inoya works with social enterprises and funds initiatives to end period poverty).
SILVER PERIOD PRODUCT
ERBISTA
We’re calling it: the drink of the summer is matcha. On ice, in shakes or stirred into a latte. For a wholesome take on the trend (that happens to be delicious), try Erbista’s new Matcha Mile, a made-in-Melbourne blend that combines the brand’s organically harvested Japanese matcha with ethically sourced desert lime, baobab and maple. Or indulge in the decadent silky smoothness of Cacao Bloom.
FINALIST CACAO
NUTRA ORGANICS
Glow from the inside out with Collagen Beauty, a natural collagen supplement with VERISOL®️ Bioactive Collagen Peptides and 100% RDI Vitamin C to plump skin, aid skin healing, support skin hydration and elasticity, plus support healthy hair, nails and gut. Try the subtle Vanilla flavour for a delicious, low-sugar, non-dairy boost to baking, drinks and food – and a perfect addition to coffee.
GOLD COLLAGEN PRODUCT BRONZE COOKING + BAKING
SUPERFEAST
SuperFeast is out to create “SuperHumans”, one medicinal mushroom and herbal blend at a time. Ingredients are inspired by ancient Taoist practices – like mushrooms grown on wood. I Am Gaia Women’s Blend is a collection of the Orient’s most revered tonic herbs, traditionally used to invigorate and sustain feminine health.
GOLD WOMEN’S HEALTH, GUT HEALTH, IMMUNE BOOSTER SILVER PERFORMANCE SUPPLEMENT, SLEEP + CALM
LEAPFUL SKIN
What does a cheesemaker know about skin? Lots, actually. While making cheese from her farm’s goat milk, Kate Field discovered the whey soothed her hard-working hands. Now, she puts this nifty (and sustainable!) byproduct to work in Leapful’s nutrient-rich creams and lotions.
GOLD MOISTURISER – NORMAL/COMBINATION SILVER HAND WASH + CARE C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE HAND WASH + CARE
LITTLE KOKO
If there’s a mum in your life who needs a baby that sleeps like a baby, a Lullaby Comforter could be the solution. Designed to support settling, Little Koko’s ethically made dolls are crafted with organic materials and play bespoke lullabies and brown noise. Flowers are nice, but what she really wants is a nap.
BRONZE NEWBORN ACCESSORIES C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE NEWBORN ACCESSORIES
HEART THERAPEUTICS
Naturopath and chef Misha Moran takes tea seriously. Forget fragrances and synthetic additives: her Noosa-made teas contain locally sourced, organically certified or sustainably wildcrafted ingredients such as lemon myrtle, rose and red clover. The traditional holistic herbal blends aim to support all phases of life and health.
SILVER TEA, TEA – SLEEP + CALM C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE TEA – SLEEP + CALM
SHOP NOW
THE LAMINATED COTTON SHOP
Jacinta Taylor wants to change the way we see the humble shower cap. Not only do her covetable caps have a cotton inner to keep hair dry, they can be machine washed again and again. Because Jacinta reckons shower caps shouldn’t be disposable, and the same goes for the rest of her range, which includes OEKO-TEX-certified, coated-cotton snack bags and food covers.
GOLD KIDS ACCESSORIES
ELK AND FRIENDS
Food and drink products mindfully created for little hands and busy families that make family life simple, safer and fun… is it possible? With Elk and Friends – yes! Their drinking cups, mealtime bundles and on-the-go products come in multifunctional designs that grow with families. Sold individually or in bundles to help parents get started.
GOLD BABY MEALTIME SILVER REUSABLE BOTTLE/CUP BRONZE KIDS MEALTIME C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE BABY MEALTIME
POLLY’S FARM
Locally grown extra-virgin olive oil is the sustainable star of Kimberley Kidger’s award-winning skincare. Each batch of skin-loving soaps, scrubs and lotions is handmade on the Mornington Peninsula with botanicals that celebrate nature’s simple beauty, with several grown on Kimberley’s small farm. Vegan-friendly and palm oil free, Polly’s Farm embodies quiet devotion to care and nourishment.
GOLD HAND WASH + CARE
SHEBANG!
Co-Founders of SheBANG! Woman want you to feel the whole SheBANG! again through peri/menopause and beyond! Their superlattes are formulated by a clinical nutritionist, contain magnesium glycinate and collagen, and are designed to ease the symptoms of PMS and peri/menopause. Plagued by brain fog and cravings? SheBANG! has a protein powder for that, too.
SILVER PERIMENOPAUSE/MENOPAUSE
U&ME AUSTRALIA
When U&Me say their baby and children’s wear is locally made, they mean it: everything is produced in Melbourne, from fabrics to packaging. Swaddles, playmats, pyjamas and underwear are crafted from natural fibres such as Australian organic wool and organic cotton – no polyester or synthetics. Good news for your little one’s skin.
GOLD NEWBORN ACCESSORIES SILVER BABY ESSENTIALS C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE BABY ESSENTIALS
JANESCE
Rose, liquid silk, Australian natives and prebiotics… Just a few of the hard-working ingredients from the Janesce Affinité range. The slow beauty brand grows organic and biodynamic herbs on its own farm, where regenerative practices preserve the land and protect biodiversity.
GOLD SERUM, FACE MASK SILVER NATURAL RETINOL/BAKUCHIOL, MOISTURISER DRY/MATURE BRONZE OVER 50S SKINCARE C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE SERUM, FACE MASK
THE ORIGINAL COCOA TRADERS CO
From their origin in Melbourne’s back-alley coffee-shops, The Original Cocoa Traders introduced a new standard in luscious, creamy drinking chocolate. Using Fairtrade, organic cocoa from the San Martín region, Peru, each harvest is carefully fermented and roasted to preserve the cocoa’s true character. Bonus: their commitment to support regenerative farming is nothing short of delicious!
GOLD, C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE DRINKING CHOCOLATE / CACAO
DELICIOUS VIBRANT BEAUTY
Exquisite skincare crafted with pure essential oils, plant butters, botanical extracts and natural waxes. Made in small batches with care on the NSW South Coast, every Delicious Vibrant Beauty product is designed to soothe and improve even the most sensitive skin. The brand also give back to local charities – true beauty beyond skin-deep.
GOLD SENSITIVE FACE, FACE MASK SILVER SENSITIVE BODY/ECZEMA, MICROBATCH SKINCARE BRONZE SKIN TREATMENT
THE HERBOLOGIST
With over 37 years of expertise as a medical herbalist, Desley Walker poured her botanical wisdom into The Herbologist: a uniquely Australian boutique with a vision for luxurious fragrances and skincare. Every decision is guided by sustainability, ethics and heart. Elevate your daily routine to a ritual with one of their delicious botanical candles, and feel the stress melt away!
GOLD, C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE CANDLE/HOME FRAGRANCE
CELL SQUARED
Cell Squared is at the forefront of consciously crafting small-batch beef organ products, sourced from certified organic farms that prioritise animal welfare. Their supplements are recognised for nutrient density, with ‘nose-to-tail nourishment’. With naturally occurring vitamins and minerals such as Iron and B12, Cell Squared aims to make meeting nutrition goals for the whole family easy-peasy.
GOLD, C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE BABY & KIDS NUTRITION
ROSE & CO BOTANICALS
There’s a reason so many love stories begin with a rose – its velvety fragrance has enchanted the senses for centuries. At Rose & Co Botanicals, a natural perfumery on the coast of New South Wales, damask roses and wild Australian botanicals are lovingly cultivated on their farm and distilled in-house in small batches. The result is a collection of timeless, indulgent skincare and fragrances.
SILVER NATURAL PERFUME
NO PONG
Ocean-loving co-founders Chris and Melanie didn’t want to contribute to any plastic ending up in the sea and so No Pong was born: an all-natural deodorant that’s 100% plastic free, in a chic, discreet, 100% recyclable tin. Proudly made in Australia since day one, the multi award-winning and super effective No Pong has been beloved by armpits of all ages and genders for 10 years.
SILVER NATURAL DEODORANT
ZIIPPUP
Ziippup has taken the humble dog lead and turned it into a fabulously functional fashion statement. With a built-in lead pocket, you can store poo bags, treats, or keys directly in the lead and save yourself from clunky clip-ons. Designed in Sydney and made from recycled plastic bottles, Ziippup also offers matching collars and compostable corn starch poo bags. Walk time!
BRONZE PET ACCESSORY
71BAY
Traditional Bangladeshi materials and designs form the basis for 71bay pieces. Women in remote Bangladesh, often at risk of trafficking and abuse, hand-craft the designs, a celebration of their resilience and skills. This is founder Shehreen’s love letter to Bangladesh.
SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIAL IMPACT AWARDS – GLOBAL IMPACT AWARD EDITORS’ CHOICE CELEBRATION + STATIONARY GOLD CELEBRATION + STATIONARY SILVER HOUSEHOLD LIVING
HENRY BLOOMS
Smile! This Probiotic Mouthwash is powered by Dental-Lac®, a probiotic strain that balances the microflora in the mouth just as probiotics harmonise the gut micro-biome. Created using ethically harvested and sustainably sourced ingredients that are free from alcohol, fluoride, peroxide and animal products, this minty mouthwash will leave a good taste in your mouth in more ways than one.
FINALIST PERSONAL CARE
SMITTEN MERINO
Can luxury and sustainability be besties? Family-owned Tassie label Smitten Merino says yes! Their superfine merino pieces – like the zero-waste Cami Top and floaty Florence Dress – are ethically crafted to rise above trends. Their OEKO-TEX-certified range is produced at a Responsible Wool Standard-certified, solar powered factory.
GOLD, C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE SUSTAINABLE WOMENSWEAR SILVER SUSTAINABLE UNDERWEAR
ANTHOGENOL
Anthogenol wants to empower all people to feel their best selves. Their patented blend of OPCs, extracted from grape seeds, are based on antioxidants that have over 75 years of research supporting their benefits for health. Committed to sustainable practices, Anthogenol also supports ocean conservation through The Sapphire Project, helping protect Australian marine ecosystems.
FINALIST SUPPLEMENT
SENSE
At Sense, each small batch of products represents the perfect blend of traditional soap-making and modern, responsible formulations. Solid bars and cleansing liquids are crafted from the finest natural ingredients – think plant-based oils, creamy butters and beautiful botanical extracts – each thoughtfully selected for its nourishing benefits. Sense makes for a soul-soothing experience.
FINALIST HAND WASH + CARE
SANAME
Reinventing multi-collagens and bone broths, SANAME® uses clinically proven ingredients to promote everyday health. Known as A Hug in a Mug ®, their award-winning range of practitioner-grade broths, brews, waters and soups are an easy and delicious addition to support your health, fitness, vitality and well-being from the inside out.
SILVER HEALTH DRINK BRONZE PROTEIN POWDER FINALIST COLLAGEN PRODUCT
THE ESSENTIAL CO.
Made with love for the most sensitive skin, The Essential Co handcraft nourishing small-batch skincare using their own grass-fed tallow, raw honey and beeswax – harvested straight from the family farm. Founded by two sisters driven to create safe, natural skincare for their children suffering with eczema, The Essential Co selects hard-working ingredients that serve a unique purpose, and ditches the rest.
BRONZE SENSITIVE BODY ECZEMA
POC BEAUTY
Born at the intersection of culture, lived experience and a passion for change, POC Beauty is authentically proud of colour. Creating skincare that celebrates and cares for melanin-rich skin in every shade, POC Beauty advocates for meaningful representation in the beauty industry. The range is thoughtfully formulated to support diverse skin tones and textures with gentle, skin-loving ingredients.
FINALIST FACE EXFOLIATOR
THRIVE TALLOW
Sometimes simple things are best. And that’s why Thrive Tallow sticks with grassfed, ethically sourced tallow and just a handful of simple ingredients to make its range. Nourishing body butters, whipped facial moisturisers and sun balms with zinc are made with hero ingredient tallow-rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids to help skin thrive.
SILVER MULTI-PURPOSE BALM C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE MULTI-PURPOSE BALM
