Gemma Chapman launched Beautifully Gem six months ago. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Who are you and what is your business? My name is Gemma Chapman and my business is called Beautifully Gem. I grew up in Griffith and went to Wade High School. I work full-time as a dental assistant and now I produce scrunchies [hair ties covered in fabric], bibs and burp cloths, which I sell at markets and online. I get my material from [fabric store] Spotlight and everything I sell is hand sewn by myself.
When and why did you begin? I was doing it as a bit of a hobby. My partner was away for a few months, I was a bit bored at home, so it gave me something to do – I thought, ‘Why not do this on the side?’ So six months ago I decided to start making these products and selling them on the weekend.
What do you produce? I just do the bibs, scrunchies and burp cloths for the moment, but have a few things in the works over the next couple of months. I’m planning on doing headbands and hair clips and more hair accessories, for adults as well as children.
What do you sell that would make an ideal present for a wife or girlfriend? The scrunchies are always the way to go – everyone loves a good scrunchie.
If you could make anything in the world, what would you make? I love what I’m making, I’d just love to be able to make it more on a bigger scale. It would be nice to work my day job part-time and do this full-time.
Gemma sells ‘Bib and Burp Packs’ for $25. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Where can we buy your products? At the markets. I’m at Griffith Central Markets every month [third Saturday of every month]. Any markets that are in Griffith I try to go to, but I’ve also done Leeton and Wagga markets. I also have a Facebook and Instagram page called Beautifully Gem. People can message me there and I can make whatever they like. I’d like to set up a website within the next six to 12 months.
How would you promote the Riverina? There’s a lot of great produce here. The town is small, so everyone knows everyone. It’s a really nice community to be in.
Coolest local thing you’ve ever bought? Any of the fruit and vegetables at Broome’s would be the best. I really enjoy the produce around this local area. The wine is good but I’m not much of a wine drinker at the moment.
What’s your favourite coffee spot? Probably Cafe 2Sixty2 [located at 262 Banna Avenue].
Who is another local producer/business you admire? There is so many. I love Stuck Up by Janelle Lee, she is also at the Griffith Central Markets. She makes some beautiful personalised things. I also like Mina J, who does some really good jewellery.
Region Riverina is committed to celebrating our local producers and creatives and encourages everyone to buy local.
If you’re aware of someone who’s making something amazing, let us know!
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