Local young entrepreneurs are taking their first steps into business, selling handmade creations through Imagem and Brighton Handmade Collective.
Among them are Tahlia, 15, Jack, 13, and Veiah, 11, who sell handmade items at the Brighton Terrace gift shop with the support of owner Sara Boase.
Tahlia makes candles and luxury-inspired fragrances. She became one of Sara’s first creators when she was 12.
“I always enjoyed my room filled with nice scents, and I realised how expensive good-quality candles are, so I set out to make affordable but high-quality candles,” Tahlia said.
“I started with only making candles and diffusers, but I quickly expanded to perfumes, room sprays and car scents. It has been years of testing and getting the right formula.
“I do get a lot of repeat customers in my luxury-inspired range, which is very affordable, I think.”
Tahlia donates $1 from every large candle sold to Beyond DV in Brisbane and has partnered with Dark Horse International Media, which works to end violence against women and children.
Brighton teen Jack creates metal garden art, with his pieces displayed in the shop’s garden section.
“First it was just family wanting to buy some of my art, and then I tried my first markets, and they were pretty successful,” Jack said. “And then, after contacting Imagem, I was offered a spot… I was so grateful for Sara’s support.
“Working with Imagem has taught me retail skills too. I’ve learned that I need to display products nicely at eye level, keep shelves clean and organised, check stock and make sure pricing and vendor number are clear so customers can see it easily.”
Turning Creativity Into Confidence and Business Skills
Veiah creates colourful crochet headbands and toys. She first started crocheting when her grandmother taught her a simple stitch, and she has continued developing her skills.
“I enjoy being creative with yarn and experimenting with different styles,” Veiah said. “I also make crocheted toys called Amigurumi. I make a variety of animals like bunnies, penguins and many more.”
She said running her own business had helped her become more financially aware, using spreadsheets to track material costs and pricing.
“I have learnt so much, and there is always something else to learn, which is one of the reasons I love crochet,” she said.
Owner Sara Boase said she loved the initiative shown by the young makers.
“They go from creative instinct to planning and production, then have the courage to come and talk to me in the shop about selling their work,” she said. “I’m very proud to have them in the shop.”
Read more stories from the Sandgate Guide print magazine here:
- Bramble Buzz: Updates from the Community
- CatVideoFest 2026
- Organic Gardening in August
- Wedding Inspiration Awaits at Queensland Brides Expo
- Running Festival Returns
- Three Women Share Creative Journeys Through Handmade Exhibition
- A Penny from the Past
- Spring has Sprung
- St Pats Expansion Plans
- Red Riding Hood a Feminist Icon
- Fashioning a Fundraiser for 100 Years
- Everybody Needs Good Neighbours
- Get Your Rhythm and Blues On at Cardi Bar
- Mr William Street: Building for the Future
- Gluten-Free Dining Options Across the 4017
- From the Bush to the Beach
- New Podcast Helps Overwhelmed Business Owners
- Switch Off and Tune In: Enjoy a Digital Detox Around Sandgate
