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10 | iNarrabri Magazine
All At the one locAtion
- 3 cAroline wAy, nArrAbri
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6792 1586
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Expert Advice
How did you come to Narrabri?
I met and married a local (Ben). Originally from Sydney, I moved to
Narrabri in 2008, was married in 2010 and now have two boys aged
five and three.
What were you doing before launching Thread By Design?
My first job in Narrabri was with Eastern Star Gas (now Santos). I then
spent four years at home with the boys before returning to work as a
Medical Receptionist.
What was the motivation for starting your new business?
The opportunity to turn my hobby into a “day job”, more flexibility
with my kids, a better work/life balance and also the opportunity to
showcase my talents and skills.
What products and services will Thread By Design offer?
All manner of fabric and haberdashery, unique homewares and décor,
interior design advice, wool & knitting supplies, patchwork supplies
and beginner sewing classes.
What has been the most challenging aspect of starting your new
business?
Setting up and organising the shop while still maintaining a four day
working week at my previous job.
What advice/help have you received?
The amount of positive feedback has been overwhelming and very
much appreciated. The previous owner of the shop, Natasha Baxter
has made the handover very easy and smooth. She was very easy to
deal with and has given me lots of advice and help so far.
What are you most looking forward to?
Showcasing my skills and sharing my ideas with people. I will also be
showcasing some locally made homewares and look forward to the
community being able to experience what is available right in their
own backyard. I look forward to showing people how to do and make
some wonderful things for their home without spending thousands of
dollars.
Outside of work, what are your interests?
Interior Design, styling my home, watching my kids play sport and
entertaining friends.
Spring in today
for all your garden needs
Open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri, 9am-1pm Sat-Sun. 4 Caroline Way, N’bri
6792 1203
Feature
Interview
Mel Manchee
Thread by design
taking over from natasha baxter's maitland st shop,
mel manchee
is looking forward to turning what has
been a hobby for a number of years, into a business...
photo: john burgess