![Marlee Creasy](https://regionriverina.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2023/12/IMG_9536-e1701755287831-1140x1200.jpg)
Marlee Creasy started her business, Zahlanda Gifts, while she was on maternity leave. Photo: Deanne Crowder Photography.
Who are you and what is your business? My name is Marlee Creasy and my business is Zahlanda Gifts. We make handmade products and have small business [products] with our gift boxes as well. I wanted to support other small businesses because it’s been a rough couple of years.
Where did you begin? Zahlanda Gifts started about four years ago when I was on my first round of maternity leave. It was my very first time making handmade products. It was to do something for myself whilst home with our little one.
What do you produce? I make car diffusers, keychains, candles and bath soaks. The food items in our gift boxes are from other small businesses and are handmade in Australia. We’ve got a range of sweet and savoury items, including dressings, popcorn, Christmas puddings, fudge chocolate, and alcoholic beverages.
What do you sell that makes a great gift? The car diffusers are definitely the most popular. They are used daily and loved. They are also bright and colourful to cheer up the car.
![Zahlanda Gifts](https://regionriverina.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2023/12/364046204_610955271144251_7885207217636356929_n-963x1200.jpg)
Gift hamper by Zahlanda Gifts. Photo: Deanne Crowder Photography.
What would you make if you could do anything? I would love to do more cooking, but I’m unsure whether I’d be game enough to eat my products.
How would you promote the Riverina? Riverina is versatile. There are a lot of great small businesses, and I can find a good range of craft [products]. The markets around here are fantastic for showcasing other small businesses.
![Zahlanda Gifts](https://regionriverina.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2023/12/349111489_661755399122320_4317447092017236033_n-1200x800.jpg)
Zahlanda Gifts offers an array of gift box options. Photo: Deanne Crowder Photography.
Where’s your favourite place for a cuppa? At home by myself with no kids. If not, Melbas with the kids’ playground. You can go there with friends, and kids are entertained, so you can actually drink your coffee.
Who is another local producer you admire? Henry and Flo. They make busy boards for kids, and I think that it’s important to have sensory toys rather than online games. It’s good to get young kids off technology and get them to explore new fields.
You can learn more about Zahlanda Gifts via their Facebook page.
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!