Stories
Inspiration on unique activities and gifts, mindfulness and more
Best Coffee Classes in Melbourne You Need to Know About
By Natalie Kemp
Take a coffee class in Melbourne and you'll be able to master espresso, pour stylish latte art and be the coffee connoisseur you've always dreamedTake a coffee class in Melbourne and you'll be able to master espresso, pour stylish latte art and be the coffee connoisseur you've always dreamed of being! ...
Meet Your Local Community at These Paint and Sip Classes in Melbourne
By Grace Smith
Surround yourself with old friends and new ones at these social paint and sip classes in Melbourne and connect with your local community!
Zero Waste Bartending: The Future of Cocktail Making in Melbourne
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Shake up sustainable drinks that favour foraging, fermentation and zero waste bartending with cocktail classes in Melbourne!
Why Is Everyone Talking About Paint and Sip Classes
By Jana Lepojevic
Paint and sip class in Sydney have burst onto the social scene. Find out why art and wine is the perfect weekend activity in Sydney in 2023.
Experience Gifts for Dad Based on His Love Language
By Tiffany Fung
Do you know Dad’s love language? Surprise him with these thoughtful gifts for Dad in Melbourne that will make him feel truly loved.
Looking for Hens Weekend Ideas in Melbourne? Try a Staycation
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
In need of hens weekend ideas in Melbourne? Rent a house, stock up on the bride-to-be’s favourite snacks and wine and bring a perfume blendingIn need of hens weekend ideas in Melbourne? Rent a house, stock up on the bride-to-be’s favourite snacks and wine and bring a perfume blending workshop to you... ...
Meet Zara Avila
By Laine Fullerton
Colourful and cute polymer clay creations help jewellery maker Zara Avila see the bright side of life. At her virtual workshops you can join in theColourful and cute polymer clay creations help jewellery maker Zara Avila see the bright side of life. At her virtual workshops you can join in the fun! ...
Why Baking Speaks Louder Than Words
By Laine Fullerton
Five irresistibly sweet recipes that can help you say everything from “I love you” to “I’m here for you” this World Baking Day.
Why We Turn to Craft in Times of Crisis
By Courtenay Turner
From global pandemics to natural disasters, we explore the role of craft in helping humankind cope with crises.
9 Best Gifts for Dad in Australia in 2025
By Annie Symmonds
Find the best gifts for dad with our gift ideas! Celebrate Christmas, Father's Day and birthdays with arty experiences, crafts, cooking classes andFind the best gifts for dad with our gift ideas! Celebrate Christmas, Father's Day and birthdays with arty experiences, crafts, cooking classes and more. ...
Unique Ideas for Birthday Party Themes in Australia
By Annie Symmonds
Giving your birthday a theme gives your party planning a focus and makes it easier to come up with birthday party ideas and activities that everyoneGiving your birthday a theme gives your party planning a focus and makes it easier to come up with birthday party ideas and activities that everyone will love! ...
Master Latte Art Designs at Barista Classes in Melbourne
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Up your coffee making game when you learn how to make coffee pretty with latte art classes in Melbourne. Learn how to make hearts to tulips andUp your coffee making game when you learn how to make coffee pretty with latte art classes in Melbourne. Learn how to make hearts to tulips and rosettas! ...
How 8 Global Makers Are Using Workshops to Change the World
By ClassBento Team
What do you think when you hear the names Malala Yousafzai, Michelle Obama and Gloria Steinem? Strong, trailblazing icons. These women are householdWhat do you think when you hear the names Malala Yousafzai, Michelle Obama and Gloria Steinem? Strong, trailblazing icons. These women are household names for a reason, but in the words of author Kate Hodges, “Behind every great woman… is another great woman”. While their names might not be as widely known, ClassBento’s global community is overflowing with innovative women working to promote equality by sharing knowledge and creativity. Some have picked up their crafts from mothers and grandmothers, while others have determinedly taught themselves, or been mentored by fellow makers. The special thing about them, however, is their shared mission, one that allows you to tap into your creativity and experience the wellbeing benefits that come with it. So here are 8 voices from our uplifting community of women-identifying makers. Authentic, inspirational and crafting change—one stitch at a time. Makers turning the tables on gender stereotypes Monique and Reneé Hunte, East London England Sisters and co-founders of nf!Dai-KOR “For us, we’re breaking gender stereotypes by showing everyone that women are out here winning in business. We share our story during workshops in the hope to inspire and motivate others to follow their passion and dreams.” Janine Hendry, Melbourne Australia Founder of nf!Guild of Objects and the March4Justice Movement “For the first time in a decade, the gender pay gap is getting worse and not better. Workshops at Guild of Objects are all about empowering women to take control of their own income.” Nadia Abbas, London England Founder of nf!House of Stööki “Women can do the heavy side of jewellery making too. The jewellery making practice has a lot of different methods of making and some are more brutal than others. Our workshops show students that the finished Stööki products have been made using all the different methods of production.” Kelly Ortega, San Francisco United States Founder of nf!Artillery AG: Mindful Ceramics “So often to win success in business looks like being co-opted into the systems of oppression all around us. As a woman of colour, who is also a business owner, I hope to disrupt these harmful practices. At Artillery Ceramics we are slowing down, caring for each other, reconnecting to ancestral Indigenous roots and creating with intention.” Sara Knights, Steyning England Founder of perfumery nf!Sara Lucia “As a perfumer, I set out to challenge the stereotype that women should smell a certain way or ‘like’ certain aromas. Smell is not gender specific, in fact, men can love lavender and geranium and women can love leathery, tar smells.” Makers uniting to empower one another Cara Bevilacqua, St Augustine Florida United States Founder of nf!Coastal Design Workshops “The support creative women give each other is unmatched. I hire and train female artists to learn how to teach others their creative skills and to see how rewarding it is for them is something that makes me feel extremely fulfilled.” Nadia Abbas “The women that I met when I got my jewellery degree at university have become part of a friendship group that has shaped my career today. We all share a love of jewellery design and have continued to thrive in the industry with each of our businesses that encompass very different styles.” Kelly Ortega “Through my workshops, I was lucky enough to meet a woman who I now consider a dear friend and is now the second instructor for my mindful ceramics curriculum!” Amy Beggs-French, Canberra Australia Founder of nf!Deep Blue Ceramics “Years ago I bought a handmade mug at a market. I caught a cold shortly after and ended up having about a million lemon, honey and ginger teas. I fell completely in love with my new mug—it was so nurturing. I enrolled in my first pottery class as soon as I was better. The maker I bought my life-changing mug from was Tina. Connecting with her through appreciation of her art as well as a bunch of other mutually adored hobbies, we are now great friends!” Sampada Gurung, London England Founder of nf!The Slightly Curious Studio “One of the most impactful connections I've made was with a fellow potter who runs a sustainable pottery studio. It's reassuring to know that I'm not alone in my struggles as a business owner, and it's inspiring to see how another woman has been able to create a successful and sustainable business that aligns with her values.” Makers inspiring creativity from all walks of life Cara Bevilacqua “As someone who grew up feeling a bit like an outsider, I relied heavily on my passion for creativity as an outlet for my feelings and emotions. I feel it is my duty to use my platform as a business owner and creative instructor to include those who may need to feel the embrace of inclusion.” Kelly Ortega “Equity needs to be spread throughout the way we do business, the way we interact with each other, and even the way we think about what we should expect from one another. Through equity, we are moving forward towards liberation for all.” Amy Beggs-French “Appreciating where people are at and supporting my students to play with their creativity produces some really incredible, diverse results! What people can produce and create when they are feeling safe, equitably supported and encouraged is awe-inspiring.” Sampada Gurung “Everyone should have equal opportunities to pursue their passions and to access resources that can help them grow and develop. We're committed to providing accessible and affordable learning experiences that empower our students to discover their creativity and pursue their goals.” ...
I Did a Workshop with My Family. Here's What Happened Next
By Kellie Maloney
And why you should try it this Christmas.
Tune Into Something New
By Charlotte McKewen
Switch up your routine and engage in sensory experiences that will inspire and invigorate you.
Why It's Best to Learn Painting from a Pro
By ClassBento Team
If you've always wanted to learn how to paint, there's no better way to learn than by enlisting the help of a professional at painting classes inIf you've always wanted to learn how to paint, there's no better way to learn than by enlisting the help of a professional at painting classes in Australia. ...
How to Be Your Own Art Therapist
By Kellie Maloney
Try out this simple, creative exercise and get a glimpse into what art therapy is and how it can improve your wellbeing.
Why Cocktail Classes in Melbourne Are Perfect for Every Event
By Sam Bowden
Fun, social and a little bit boozy, cocktail classes in Melbourne are the perfect, hands-on activity for every occasion!
Best Watercolour Painting Classes in Melbourne
By Sam Bowden
Looking to unleash your inner artist but don't know where to start? These fun, hands-on watercolour painting classes in Melbourne are perfect forLooking to unleash your inner artist but don't know where to start? These fun, hands-on watercolour painting classes in Melbourne are perfect for beginners! ...
5 Floristry Classes to Try in Melbourne in 2025
By Grace Smith
Surround yourself with flowers at these floristry classes in Melbourne and bring a bit of mindfulness into your day.
At the End of This Quiz You'll Know Exactly What to Gift Your Partner
By Laine Fullerton
Searching for gifts for couples? Take our quiz to unlock meaningful experiences, from crafting to cooking, designed for quality time together!
How to Keep Your Brain Young
By Courtenay Turner
We unpack the simple lifestyle changes you can make in your 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond to keep your brain sharp and your mind malleable.
Why Wheel Throwing Is the New Meditation
By ClassBento Team
Join pottery classes in Australia at your local ceramic studio to unwind away worries, have fun and learn to relax in a soothing and encouragingJoin pottery classes in Australia at your local ceramic studio to unwind away worries, have fun and learn to relax in a soothing and encouraging space. ...
Make Vegan Shortbread with Caroline Rowe
By Courtenay Turner
Meet Caroline Rowe, the passionate foodie inspiring everyday Aussies to get creative in the kitchen and uncover the joys of cooking for one.
Fabulous Hens Party Ideas Every Bride Will Love (2025)
By Annie Symmonds
Find the perfect hens party ideas for any type of bride! From pottery workshops to cocktail classes, there are so many fun hens activities aroundFind the perfect hens party ideas for any type of bride! From pottery workshops to cocktail classes, there are so many fun hens activities around Australia. ...
Why a Team Building Barista Course in Melbourne Will Work Wonders
By Sam Bowden
Barista courses are a great team building activity in Melbourne! From grinding to frothing, equip your employees with skills and bonding opportuBarista courses are a great team building activity in Melbourne! From grinding to frothing, equip your employees with skills and bonding opportunities. ...
The Best Cooking Classes in Australia for Travel Lovers
By ClassBento Team
Enjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch thatEnjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch that travel itch! ...
10 Ways to Unwind with the ClassBento Crew
By Courtenay Turner
Despite what the $1.5 trillion global wellness industry would have you believe, taking care of your physical, social and emotional wellbeing doesn’tDespite what the $1.5 trillion global wellness industry would have you believe, taking care of your physical, social and emotional wellbeing doesn’t require fancy French candles, powdered mushroom supplements or cryotherapy – unless you want it to. That's right, self-care doesn’t need to be shoppable, Instagrammable or endorsed by the beauty editor of the weekend paper – and we're here to prove it! To celebrate the many wonderful ways we can look after our health and wellbeing, we called on the ClassBento crew to share their favourite ways to relax and unwind. From nostalgic 90s re-runs and rock climbing to private dance parties, it’s safe to say there really is no “right” way to practice self-care… 1. Cook slowly, eat mindfully “My favourite way to unwind is by cooking. Making pasta from scratch, experimenting with stir-frys and curries and making apple pies are just some of the recipes I've been trying out. The most important aspect of cooking is to have a good few hours on hand and to simply enjoy the process. The key is good tunes, patience and plenty of taste-testing throughout.” – Kellie, Content Writer “Nothing beats sitting on the beach with a good book and some healthy dinner while watching the sunset!” – Adelaide, Social Media Manager 2. Travel back in time “Sometimes, I just like to watch re-runs of nostalgic shows I grew up with or look at old photos and videos. I like to take a trip down memory lane by looking at old keepsakes like drawings I did as a kid, magazines I used to read or toys I loved.” – Veronica, Designer 3. Wash the day away “On these hot summer afternoons, I jump into the ocean at the end of each day which has been sublime.” – Natasha, Community Partnerships Manager 4. Dance, cos this time, there’s really no one watching “My favourite way to unwind or get myself into a better mood instantly is to have a mini dance party by myself. No one’s there but me, and I just dance with (and for) myself. I groove depending on what my mood is… sometimes, you’ll find me jumping around with my hair out twirling and singing, sometimes I have a little slow dance with myself and give myself an embrace, other times I'll be discovering a completely new move.” – Rez, Customer Service Hero 5. Spend time with yourself “I love taking a bath and doing a ridiculously long skincare routine.” – Phoebe, Content Writer “I find taking long baths particularly relaxing because I'm forced to not use any electronic devices for a while. And I know I won't be picking any phone calls or getting any other distractions in there! There's also no pressure to do anything and it's a nice sensory experience to be surrounded by warm water!” – Iain, Co-Founder & CEO 6. Relax into your favourite reads “I like to read nf!The Happy Newspaper. It's full of really cute, funny, happy and heartwarming stories and is a nice break from the mainstream news which can be overwhelming at times.” – Laura, Head of Editorial “More often than not it’s reading a book. Hard copy books make it all the better but a Kindle Unlimited book is my guilty pleasure. If I’m not reading a book at the time (which is rare) I’m usually watching a French TV show to keep up my language skills or scouring the internet for new true crime podcasts.” – Charlotte, Content Writer 7. Do a little DIY “I knit and listen to podcasts, I'm one of those people who likes to keep my hands busy, even when I need downtime. If I could find a way to read a book while knitting and not messing up my project, that would be amazing!” – Jane, Content Writer 8. Skip the gym for the great outdoors “I like active relaxation, like going on a trek in the nearby mountains or getting up and confronting my fear of the ocean by paddleboarding or kayaking out in the sea. I also encourage my kids to do active relaxation activities after school, rather than extracurricular classes that they really don’t like. They go out rollerblading, swimming or rock climbing (the best activity out there!).” – Luis, UK Country Manager 9. Get crafty with the kids “Going for a walk, taking my kids to the park, doing a jigsaw or colouring-in books with the kids.” – Ryan, Community Partnerships Manager 10. Tend to your plant pals “Before 2020, my downtime didn’t expand much beyond binge-watching reality TV shows like Love Island and scrolling on Instagram for hours. Fast forward two years and I’m now a proud plant parent with over 30 green friends. I even have an app called nf!PictureThis to keep up with my ever-growing garden, which helps me make sure I’m meeting all their watering, fertilising and sun needs. Between Henry the aloe vera, Olive the olive tree and Hazel the sansevieria, my hands are well and truly full. Nothing feels more rewarding and relaxing than tending to my beloved plants and watching them grow and thrive!” – Laine, Editorial Manager Regardless of whether you're an avid reader, a weekend hiker or a nightly bubble-bath-taker, it pays to remember that self-care is not synonymous with self-improvement. In fact, it can be totally private, unapologetically personal and utterly un-Instagrammable. So go on, treat yourself to some true "me-time" and fill your cup! ...
Best DIY Pottery Kits 2025
By Sam Bowden
You don't need a studio to master pottery! With these incredibly crafty DIY pottery kits, you can play with clay your own home!
Why Paint and Sip in Melbourne Works for Team Building
By ClassBento Team
Get your employees to switch off, destress and build team bonds over a glass of wine and a dash of creativity at paint and sip classes in MelbouGet your employees to switch off, destress and build team bonds over a glass of wine and a dash of creativity at paint and sip classes in Melbourne! ...
Why You Should Try Candle Making Classes in Melbourne
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Discover the joy of candle making classes in Melbourne! Unwind, socialise and make personalised eco-friendly candles. A perfect new hobby for allDiscover the joy of candle making classes in Melbourne! Unwind, socialise and make personalised eco-friendly candles. A perfect new hobby for all skill levels. ...
Beginner Photography Classes in Melbourne
By John Tabari
Explore Melbourne and practice capturing the true essence of this city with beginner photography classes in Melbourne. Smartphones or DSLR's, allExplore Melbourne and practice capturing the true essence of this city with beginner photography classes in Melbourne. Smartphones or DSLR's, all are welcome. ...
5 Ways to Save Money and Keep Living Your Best Life
By Kellie Maloney
With these DIY secrets from Aussie small business owners, you’ll feel empowered, discover new ways to save money and change your life for theWith these DIY secrets from Aussie small business owners, you’ll feel empowered, discover new ways to save money and change your life for the better. ...
Stepping Out to Fight Dementia
By Kellie Maloney
On May 22nd 2022, the ClassBento team stepped up to beat dementia at the Sydney Memory Walk And Jog.
Why a Paint 'n Sip Party Is the Ultimate Way to Celebrate
By ClassBento Team
If you’ve got a special occasion coming up, gather your loved ones for an evening of unforgettable entertainment at a paint ‘n sip party inIf you’ve got a special occasion coming up, gather your loved ones for an evening of unforgettable entertainment at a paint ‘n sip party in Australia. ...
Best 50th Birthday Ideas in Melbourne for Her
By Sam Bowden
Celebrate a milestone birthday in style with ClassBento's 50th birthday ideas for her in Melbourne! Give the special lady in your life a birthdayCelebrate a milestone birthday in style with ClassBento's 50th birthday ideas for her in Melbourne! Give the special lady in your life a birthday to remember with our unique workshops and experiences. ...
Check Out Australia's Most Popular Cooking Lessons
By ClassBento Team
From spicy Thai curries to rainbow-coloured macarons, we’ve got the lowdown on the best cooking classes in Australia.
Presents for Mum That Will Boost Her Happiness in 2025
By ClassBento Team
Boost her happiness this Mother's Day with our best gifts for Mum in 2025! From drawing to ikebana, these Mother's Day activities will make her feelBoost her happiness this Mother's Day with our best gifts for Mum in 2025! From drawing to ikebana, these Mother's Day activities will make her feel special. ...
Fantastic 10 Year Anniversary Gift Ideas in Australia
By Annie Symmonds
Celebrate the 10 year milestone with these anniversary gift ideas! Mark the momentous occasion with experience gifts for couples that honour conCelebrate the 10 year milestone with these anniversary gift ideas! Mark the momentous occasion with experience gifts for couples that honour connection. ...
Surprise Your Partner with Gift Experiences for Couples
By Annie Symmonds
Wondering how to surprise your partner in 2023? Give an experience gift voucher and try anything from pasta-making classes, cocktail courses, kintsugiWondering how to surprise your partner in 2023? Give an experience gift voucher and try anything from pasta-making classes, cocktail courses, kintsugi and more! ...
3 Team Building Exercises to Help Bond Your Team
By Annie Symmonds
Stop searching for cliche team building exercises and instead, find thousands of incredible team building activities in Australia to help build strongerStop searching for cliche team building exercises and instead, find thousands of incredible team building activities in Australia to help build stronger relationships! ...
Easy Crafts for Kids That Are Good for the Environment in Melbourne
By Sam Bowden
You're really spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing crafty kids activities in Melbourne. Here are some of the most environmentally friendlyYou're really spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing crafty kids activities in Melbourne. Here are some of the most environmentally friendly options available. ...
Birthday Gifts for Mum in Melbourne She'll Love
By Sam Bowden
Make Mum's day special with the best Melbourne experience gifts for Mums on her birthday! From cocktails to candles, treat Mum to a fun activityMake Mum's day special with the best Melbourne experience gifts for Mums on her birthday! From cocktails to candles, treat Mum to a fun activity in Melbourne. ...
Get Behind Your Local with Cocktail Making Classes in Melbourne
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Learn how to make cocktails at your local Melbourne spot with cocktail making classes! Shake, muddle and sip your way to a fun evening.
Learn to Make Ceramics at Your Local Pottery Studio
By ClassBento Team
Get your hands dirty and discover how to transform clay into works of art with pottery classes in Australia.
Why Craft Workshops Are the Perfect Way to Unwind
By ClassBento Team
Soothe your senses with relaxing craft classes in Australia. Whether it's pottery painting or mosaic making, these workshops are the perfect waySoothe your senses with relaxing craft classes in Australia. Whether it's pottery painting or mosaic making, these workshops are the perfect way to unwind. ...
Drool-worthy Sour Cocktail Recipe
By Katie Milton
How the founder of Drool found love (and gin) in Melbourne lockdown.
Think You're Not Creative? Try Pottery
By Charlotte McKewen
How potter and academic Bettina Stevanovic rediscovered her childhood love of clay and used it to tap into mindfulness and find her balance.
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