Studio By The Bay

I’m writing this post whilst watching the reflection of the leaves from the trees in my backyard create dappled shadows on the windows of my sunroom and it’s just so soothing. Taking a moment to embrace slow living is important to me, and it’s important to Simone, who created and runs her own small, local business, Studio by the Bay, in Falcon.

‘Studio By The Bay speaks of home, a place to simply be present & allow life to slow down. A holistic space/ experience, indulging your senses.’

Perhaps the need for this is why her workshops get booked out so quickly. Yet, despite the busy-ness of running a small business, she has ways of remaining calm and grounded.

‘Since I love being on my own & am such a homebody, I feel that’s where I find my calm amongst the busyness of mum & work life. When feeling overwhelmed, I make sure there are breathing spaces between workshops and gaps in the week to recharge, do the things that bring me joy. 

I also know that you can’t do it all. The seasons of motherhood are always changing, so being flexible & kind to myself is really important. There are weeks I am super productive and other weeks, nothing gets done and that’s ok.’

Personally, I think it’s also quite wonderful that Studio by the Bay is so family-orientated. Not only are there opportunities for parents and children to do workshops together, her inspiration and processes integrate her family life, too.

I saw your post about its origin story: is there anything else you'd like to say about how you started? Where did the passion for it come from?

‘I’ve been a primary arts specialist for over 15 years, so working in the education system taught me a lot about the importance & deep need Art has for every individual.  I have always loved sharing the joy of the arts. The connection, belonging and confidence it brings in student’s  lives made me think about the possibly of extending this experience for not just children, but adults too.  The creative practice is so easily lost as we grow older. 

‘When we started a family & moved to Falcon, the business organically happened through my drive to stay creative whilst navigating motherhood. 

I always loved the idea of working in a little art studio, where I could work around my children, choose my own hours, creating a life that encourages as much balance as possible.’ 

I’m really inspired by Simone, and I asked: What’s one lesson you’ve learned about running your own business that would’ve been valuable for you to know when you started out?

She replied: ‘So many things! I’m constantly learning about running a small biz everyday. One of the biggest lessons is knowing it’s ok to say no. I discovered when I tried to take on too many projects/workshops something was compromised~ either the quality of my work, family life...The ‘hustle culture’ just doesn’t interest me. I’ve learnt time is my most valuable currency, so I choose what works and serves my family best.’

And lastly, a question I ask all of my interviewees: What’s your favourite local day out? 

‘A little stroll into town, grabbing a coffee & baked goods from Mataya and Wood & Stone, then finishing the day with a bike ride to our local beach~ Falcon Bay.’

If you’re interested in learning more about Studio by the Bay and Simone’s workshops, head to her website, Facebook page, or soak up her gorgeously curated images on Instagram.