Stories

Quirky Birthday Party Ideas and Gifts for Dog Lovers

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By Annie Symmonds

Discover pet-themed birthday party ideas to celebrate your friend in style. From pet portraits to dog statues, find top birthday ideas for dog parents.

7 Best Hens Party Ideas for Foodies (2025)

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By Kellie Maloney

Indulge in the 7 best food-focused hens party ideas for 2025! From cooking Italian classics to tasting local wines, your bride-to-be will be spoiltIndulge in the 7 best food-focused hens party ideas for 2025! From cooking Italian classics to tasting local wines, your bride-to-be will be spoilt for choice. ...

Want to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint? Try Veganism

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By Cassandra Hawkings

Thinking about adopting a vegan diet? These vegan cooking classes in Sydney will teach you how to make easy vegan recipes at home!

Best Matcha Recipe Ideas to Improve Your Health

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By Julia Carr-Catzel

Matcha, which directly translates to ‘powdered tea’ in Japanese, found its roots over one thousand years ago, when Japanese monks wouldMatcha, which directly translates to ‘powdered tea’ in Japanese, found its roots over one thousand years ago, when Japanese monks would consume the beverage, to maintain calm during meditation practice. In modern Japan, matcha, at the center tea ceremonies, continues to reflect Zen culture. It's also an incredibly popular ingredient in Japanese cooking classes in Sydney. Its signature green colour is the result of the slow growth of the leaves under shade, thus obtaining a greater chlorophyll density. Once harvested, the leaves are ground into fine powder, combined with hot water and whisked with a bamboo brush or ‘chasen’ to make tea.   Garnering the attention of superfood lovers and others alike, matcha can be found in a slew of sweet and savoury dishes, from muffins to guacamole, the green powder is known to boost mental wellbeing, weight loss and even fight cancer, Alzheimers and dementia.   Facts about matcha   When consumed daily, matcha supports the immune system, sustaining your body’s antioxidant levels. Its unique class of antioxidants ‘catechins’, specifically ‘epigallocatechin’ (EGC), can ward off agents which damage cell DNA, and thus reduce chance of cancer, and help fend of the signs of ageing. According to a study conducted by Tufts University, its high antioxidant level of 1573 units is far above food such as blueberries (93) and broccoli (31).    Matcha promotes longer-term, sustainable energy. The drink lets you skip past coffee jitters, delivering natural caffeine throughout the body over a 6-8-hour period. L-Theanine amino acid found in matcha increases dopamine levels and boosts serotonin, enhances focus, balances your mood and reduces stress.   Alongside detoxifying and rebooting internal processes, matcha improves your outer appearance. One spoon of Matcha tea powder is equal to 10 cups of green tea per day, vastly lowering cholesterol and blood pressure and boosting weightloss. The powder inhibits cell degeneration responsible for wrinkles, skin cancer, loss of collagen and skin elasticity.   Matcha meals to try   Topping countless meal variations, matcha lattes are likely the most common and popular form. In a fresh, yet complex process, lattes comprise of matcha powder, milk and sometimes a sweetener. Added to smoothies, ice-creams and pancakes – its natural bright green aesthetic is favoured among chefs and health-enthusiasts alike. The green hues are refined on social media where one can scroll through hundreds of photos featuring innovative matcha recipes under the hashtag #matcha; crepes, fudge and green granola included. Japanese foods including rice, green-tea ice-cream or mochi also incorporate matcha.   To harness the best quality of matcha, the degree of grade, from cooking to ceremonial must be taken into consideration. Ceremonial graded matcha is usually representative of the region it came from, the amount of time the tea spent in shade before harvest, among other factors. Alternatively, cooking grade matcha is commonly used to produce sweeter cafe drinks. Indicators of ceremonial grade are colour: fluorescent as opposed to moss green and flavouring: slightly bitter with a refreshing grassy taste.   When not prepared with care, matcha can lose its nutritional properties. And to maximise and neutralise matcha’s antioxidants, various ingredient pairings help to increase its properties such as citrus from lemon, promoting absorption. Vitamin C perfectly compliments matcha’s grassy notes. Typical Japanese desserts such as yoghurt: to balancing out bitter flavours or chewy, sweet mochi: to add a layer of texture to compliment matcha. Discover more traditional Japanese cooking classes here.    Learn to use matcha   Learn how to harness matcha’s best qualities under the expertise of a professional chef. Cook delectable matcha dishes in Matcha Lovers High Tea workshop alongside chef Yoshiko Takeuchi. Dip your fingers in coconut fudge, make two-colour mocha balls with yuzu and matcha an-paste and cold soba with matcha broth.   Yoshiko holds over ten years to her name as a qualified chef, frequenting Sydney’s top kitchens and working alongside professionals including Tetsuya Wakuda. Dedicated to cooking healthily, she states: “I want all my students glow with confidence, energy and healthy beauty.” Yoshiko’s Japanese influenced vegetarian and vegan meals, aim to do just that.   Observe Yoshiko’s detailed and easy-to-follow demonstrations, following hands-on practice. Sip on a yuzu matcha mocktail and organic matcha green tea. Take home practical and appetising recipes to replicate at home and incorporate into future meals. Take control of your relationship to food and echo Yoshiko’s philosophy of taking onboard a healthy and enriching lifestyle.  ...

Knife Painting Is Just Like Decorating a Cake

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By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Discover this fun medium at painting classes in Sydney and create a textured art masterpiece!

Who Said Women Can't Make Sausages

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By Kellie Maloney

Discover how a sausage maker, a talented threader, a glass smith and a macramè master challenge gender stereotypes in their chosen craft.

Gourmet Gift Experiences for Couples Who Love to Cook

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By ClassBento Team

Looking for gifts for people who like to cook? Check out these gourmet cooking classes for couples run by passionate local chefs.

How to Nail Your 10 Year Anniversary Gift

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By ClassBento Team

From mosaic making to wine and cheese tasting, these experience gifts for couples will help you reconnect with your lover, right in time for yourFrom mosaic making to wine and cheese tasting, these experience gifts for couples will help you reconnect with your lover, right in time for your anniversary. ...

Why So Serious? Hobbies Vs. Burnout

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By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Discover fun team building activities in Australia to enhance workplace motivation and avoid burnout in 2025 by finding hobbies that you'll loveDiscover fun team building activities in Australia to enhance workplace motivation and avoid burnout in 2025 by finding hobbies that you'll love. ...

Presents for Mum That Will Boost Her Happiness in 2025

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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. ...

Discover Australia's Top Painting Classes for Adults

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By ClassBento Team

Unwind as you learn painting and dive into a world of colour at some of our best painting classes in Australia.

Holiday Favourites: Jane Gauger, Content Writer

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By ClassBento Team

Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!

Creative Present Ideas for Pinterest Loving Mums

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By ClassBento Team

Delight busy mums with our creative Mother's Day experiences. Pinterest-worthy presents for creative mums!

9 Brain Stimulating Gift Vouchers for Kids

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By ClassBento Team

From jewellery making and painting workshops to kids cooking classes, discover our top 9 gift vouchers for kids that will keep them entertained thisFrom jewellery making and painting workshops to kids cooking classes, discover our top 9 gift vouchers for kids that will keep them entertained this year. ...

How Japanese Calligraphy Helps You Get Your Focus Back

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By ClassBento Team

Discover more about the age-old art of shodo, Japan's traditional calligraphy practice, and learn to put pen to paper!

4 Mother-Daughter Moments That Will Warm Your Heart

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By Courtenay Turner

From Japanese ceramics to mosaic-making, these creative experiences will warm her heart!

Make Japanese Gift Wrapping with Larkswold Creative Workshops

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By ClassBento Team

Melinda and Emma from Larkswold Creative Workshops share their crafting journey and why they love sharing their creative passion with others!

Personalised Presents for Couples Who Have Everything

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By ClassBento Team

Think outside the box with these presents for couples who have everything and get them involved in cooking, glassblowing, latte art and more!

Best Zoom Activities for Kids

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By Sam Bowden

Looking to keep the kids entertained? Here are a few of our best Zoom activities for kids to enjoy at home!

Best Rainy Day Activities for Kids

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By Sam Bowden

In need of rainy day activities for kids? Keeping kids busy when the weather conflicts with your plans is no easy task. So ClassBento has compiledIn need of rainy day activities for kids? Keeping kids busy when the weather conflicts with your plans is no easy task. So ClassBento has compiled a list of workshops perfect for little ones! ...

Top Beginner Pottery Classes Around Australia

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By ClassBento Team

Meet like-minded people and get your hands dirty with pottery classes in Australia.

Make Her Smile with These Meaningful Gifts for Mum

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By ClassBento Team

This Mother's Day, put a smile on your mum's face with a special and unique gift experience. See our selection of Mothers Day gift ideas to getThis Mother's Day, put a smile on your mum's face with a special and unique gift experience. See our selection of Mothers Day gift ideas to get started. ...

You'll Love Learning to Draw at These Easy Art Classes

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By ClassBento Team

Rediscover the joy of drawing or experience it for the first time at art classes in Australia. See your vision come to life as your art skills iRediscover the joy of drawing or experience it for the first time at art classes in Australia. See your vision come to life as your art skills improve. ...

Holiday Favourites: Pressy Sankaran, General Manager USA

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By ClassBento Team

Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!

Cooking Classes Are Now Being Prescribed as Therapy

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By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Interested in relaxation and mindfulness? Culinary therapy may be just the thing! Give it a try at local Melbourne cooking classes.

How to Find Happy Birthday Flowers They'll Love

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By Annie Symmonds

Instead of sending Happy Birthday flowers this year, hit up our handy guide and discover the best birthday gifts ideas.

Fabulous Hens Party Ideas Every Bride Will Love (2025)

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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. ...

Best Iso Date Night Ideas for Singles and Couples

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By Sam Bowden

Don't scrape the bottom of the barrel thinking of iso date night ideas in Sydney, we've got a couple of good jumping off points for you and yourDon't scrape the bottom of the barrel thinking of iso date night ideas in Sydney, we've got a couple of good jumping off points for you and your special person. ...

Simple Self-Care Ideas to Support Your Mum's Wellbeing

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By ClassBento Team

Know a Mum who could do with some spoiling this Mother's Day? Our Mother's Day gift ideas are perfect for those Mums who need some pampering!

Want to Learn to Cook Like a Pro? Discover Australia's Top Culinary Schools

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By ClassBento Team

Learn to cook and discover a world of delicious new flavours with the help of Australia’s finest culinary schools!

Fun DIY Crafts You Should Learn from an Expert

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By ClassBento Team

If you’re keen to give crafting a go, check out these fun-filled DIY craft workshops in Australia for some creative inspiration!

How to Be Your Own Art Therapist

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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.

Make Bath Bombs with Craft + Light

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By Jane Gauger

Long Beach craft teacher, Shelley Williams, believes that everyone needs a space to cultivate their creativity, so she opened a place to welcomeLong Beach craft teacher, Shelley Williams, believes that everyone needs a space to cultivate their creativity, so she opened a place to welcome everyone. ...

One Year Anniversary Gift Ideas You Can't Miss

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By Annie Symmonds

Find inspiration for 1 year anniversary gift ideas in Australia that every couple will love! Get creative, unwind and connect over unique gift eFind inspiration for 1 year anniversary gift ideas in Australia that every couple will love! Get creative, unwind and connect over unique gift experiences. ...

Why You Should Take Up a New Hobby This Leap Year

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By Natalie Kemp

What to do this February leap year to improve your wellbeing, make social connections and make your life more interesting...

9 Top Hens Party Ideas to Relax the Bride-to-be in 2025

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By Kellie Maloney

Wedding planning can be stressful, indulge your bride-to-be with these relaxing hens party ideas in 2025 to help her ease some worries and haveWedding planning can be stressful, indulge your bride-to-be with these relaxing hens party ideas in 2025 to help her ease some worries and have fun! ...

Aged Health Benefits and Recreational Classes

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By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

The weekend before my great-grandmother passed away at 98-years-old, she took me outside to plant sunflowers. Her daughter and granddaughter putThe weekend before my great-grandmother passed away at 98-years-old, she took me outside to plant sunflowers. Her daughter and granddaughter put up a fuss, claiming that it was too hot outside, and that she should rest instead.   She just waved a hand and motioned for me to help her stand up.    “I’m going to teach my great-granddaughter how to garden,” she said.   I think we were all a little bit surprised. In her old age, Nora wasn’t usually so lucid.   It was hot that day (the sunflowers wouldn’t survive the sweltering heat waves of the next few months,) but my great-grandmother didn’t seem to mind. Under her sun visor, she was all smiles.   As she walked me through the steps of preparing the flowerbed and spreading the seeds in the fresh soil, my great-grandmother was radiating joy. Of course, she was always excited to spend time with family, but this was something different.   This energy and warmth had something to do with gardening.   In the years since her passing, I’ve always been incredibly grateful for the chance to share that afternoon with her. I was able to see first-hand how a simple task, like caring for a garden, could have such a powerful impact on a woman who had lived for a century. The fact that something as small as planting a seed could still put such a radiant smile on her face astounded me and pushed me to find more information on the power of leisure activities on the elderly. As it turns out, the benefits of leisure activities for everyone are vast, but they can have a particularly powerful effect on the mental health of middle-aged and advanced-aged citizens.   Why should we focus on older individuals?   As middle age passes into advanced years, our senior citizens have a difficult transition. The things they took for granted in youth, such as mobility and memory, have become less accessible in older age. Even the most joyful and lighthearted of people have to admit that this loss of function can be frustrating, scary, and depressing. The awareness of this slowing down can be especially accentuated in retired individuals, who can no longer focus on a career or feel a sense of fulfillment in their jobs.   Luckily, there are ways to ease the transition. Researchers across the world have been searching for solutions to the problems associated exclusively with the experience of aging, and what they found was something that community centers and elderly facilities have been saying all along: creative hobbies are good for our mental state and physical health.   Multi-cultural methods: what are they doing in Japan?   A 2015 study (1) from the Hamamatsu University School of Medicine in Japan sought to put previous claims of the effectiveness of certain leisure activities to the test. Though they disproved earlier beliefs that participating in social activities could improve mental health in middle-aged and elderly individuals, they did find some overall uplifting benefits to other leisure activities.   Their findings found, for instance, that hobbies, cultural activities, physical exercise, and sports all improved the mental health of elderly Japanese citizens. The effect was compounded when such activities were shared with a companion or group.   What about Australians?   A similar study (2) was conducted by three scholars in 2013 exploring the effect of hobbies on the mental health of elderly women living in Australia. Their impetus for conducting the study was a body of precedent publications that, although dealing with the benefits of creative activities on mental wellbeing, had largely excluded the effects of such hobbies on the older generation.   Their definition of creative hobby was expansive: everything from needlework to photography to china painting was included in study.   And their findings were incredible:   Women involved in such activities were more likely to be socially engaged and showed a lower tendency toward “osteoarthritis, stroke, depression or anxiety/nervous disorder compared with women not involved in those hobbies” (2, page 7). These women were also more likely to be in physically good shape in terms of functionality and enjoy an overall higher quality of life.   The reasoning for these benefits is still somewhat unclear. Experts believe that these types of hobbies probably improve mental health by lowering stress, sparking cognitive activity, and producing feelings of fulfillment and pride in participants.    How can we use this information?   We can all agree that investing our elderly population is a valuable use of effort and resources. After all, they are our parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. They are future versions of ourselves, as we navigate our own aging process. We certainly wouldn’t be here without them.   And in this vulnerable time in their lives, we should put this scientific knowledge to good use. There are lots of possible workshops that retirees and try out or even start themselves such as paint-and-sip classes, stand up paddle boarding, water aerobics, yarn bombing (the rebellious act of covering public spaces with crocheted or knitted works of art). These are just a few examples of the plethora of wacky, fun, unique hobbies out there.   This is one of the reasons why ClassBento was started, to make it easier for retirees to try out new hobbies and also allow them to teach their passions and get paid, giving them purpose back in their lives.   Our elders deserve it   Based on my personal experience with my great-grandmother, I cannot understate the effect of leisure activities on elderly individuals. Seeing the smile light up her face when her advanced years had caused her so much strain and exhaustion was truly a gift that I would encourage every young person to be a part of.   So get the older people in your lives involved in a creative pursuit. It will benefit you both!       (1) journals.plos.org (2) tandfonline.com   ...

Make Memories Together with These Meaningful Presents for Your Wife

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By ClassBento Team

Transform presents for your wife into meaningful experiences! From painting classes to pottery workshops, these gifts are sure to bring a smile toTransform presents for your wife into meaningful experiences! From painting classes to pottery workshops, these gifts are sure to bring a smile to her face. ...

Why Arts and Crafts for Kids Build Self Confidence

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By Sam Bowden

Arts and craft classes for kids in Melbourne are a wonderful way to help build your child's self esteem and confidence. Here's why.

Actually Good Zoom Date Ideas

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By Sam Bowden

Looking for zoom date ideas that don't suck? Whether you're long-distance dating or you're seeking out first date ideas during quarantine, we'veLooking for zoom date ideas that don't suck? Whether you're long-distance dating or you're seeking out first date ideas during quarantine, we've got some ingenious ideas for you... ...

Check Out Australia's Most Popular Cooking Lessons

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By ClassBento Team

From spicy Thai curries to rainbow-coloured macarons, we’ve got the lowdown on the best cooking classes in Australia.

7 Different Painting Courses to Try in 2025

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By ClassBento Team

Try these fun-filled painting courses to try your hand at different painting techniques and learn the difference between each from watercolour toTry these fun-filled painting courses to try your hand at different painting techniques and learn the difference between each from watercolour to oil paints. ...

Make Chocolate Truffles with R&M Fine Chocolate

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By ClassBento Team

Meet head chocolatier, Raanan Malkin, founder of R&M Fine Chocolates!

Spark Romance with These Girlfriend-Approved Gifts

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By Jana Lepojevic

We’ve got cute Christmas gifts for girlfriends galore – and with these experiences, you’re bound to get a gold star or two as well!

Relaxing Ways to Spend Special Time with Grandma

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By Jana Lepojevic

From sewing to soap making, these crafty things to do with your Grandma are the perfect way to spend time together this Christmas.

Self-care Gift Cards for Men in Your Life

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By ClassBento Team

Help your loved ones rejuvenate with experience gift cards for men that will encourage them to set time aside to take care of their wellbeing thisHelp your loved ones rejuvenate with experience gift cards for men that will encourage them to set time aside to take care of their wellbeing this year. ...

7 Crafty After School Activities for Kids

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By Sam Bowden

Chasing down quirky and creative after school activities for kids? Here are some of our best offerings from two of our best kids providers!

7 Productive Fun Things to do in Self Isolation

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By Sam Bowden

Fighting the tedium is crucial when looking for things to do during self isolation, so we've compiled a couple of pro-tips and suggestions to helpFighting the tedium is crucial when looking for things to do during self isolation, so we've compiled a couple of pro-tips and suggestions to help you push through quarantine season! ...