Kaitlyn Neuendorf

How long have you lived in Toowoomba, and how have you seen the city change?

I have been back for five years (after living away for eight) and the change in those short five years has been nothing short of phenomenal. I love that we have embraced more culture and style while keeping the small town, homely vibe.

What made you start Local Locale, and what’s the response been like?

I wanted to inspire those that live here to appreciate and explore what we have and to encourage visitors to add Toowoomba to their ‘must visit’ list. The response has been so great and I am really thankful for that! I feel like I have built myself a little online tribe of friends that offer support and encouragement throughout my journey.

Why do you love living and working in Toowoomba?

Toowoomba is a great place to make something of yourself. The talent we have here is so incredible and surrounding yourself and being able to work with those people everyday is a privilege. You can easily escape the rat race here and I feel that is so important when having your own business as a mother and need to take time out.

What are you planning to do with the new space you are opening?

One part is my own studio space where I will base my fashion styling work from, as well as continuing to produce social media content for local businesses. Attached to the studio is a larger collaborative area called ‘The Space’ that myself and fellow business owner Brooke Jones have come together to create. It will be used to house our newest fashion venture in selling sale stock and second hand designer clothing. The Space will have a fresh and inviting vibe to it and will also be used to host creative workshops and intimate gatherings for like-minded people — think flower crown workshops, private yoga lessons and the like.

What is the location and opening date?

We are located upstairs at 436 Ruthven Street in the centre of town. Opening day is Saturday, June 3.