Territory rig
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY Mums, husbands, children — and even grandchildren — are the secret to success for these NT fashion businesses
Our mums can inspire and guide us onto a certain pathway, but some Territorians have taken it a step further, as mothers and their children work together in their chosen passion for fashion. Bec Bebbington started her family’s clothing hire business, Higher Attire, when her daughter Hannah, 20, who had frequently hired pieces to wear to events when the family lived in Perth, was looking for a similar service after moving to Darwin.
Hannah, her sisters Pia, 15, and Chloe, 7, and their dad Andy are all involved in the business, which sees Higher Attire rent out designer fashion, including ball gowns, race-day fashion and party dresses, for a fraction of the purchase price.
It’s been a family business from the get go, with the girls an integral part in handling client inquiries, taking bookings and selecting garments to keep the range up-to-date.
“It’s pretty cool to have a room full of amazing garments to play dress ups with your kids in at an older age, but the best part is celebrating success (of the business) together,” says Bec.
The family will spend today celebrating Mother’s Day at East Point with a picnic lunch, after a sleep in and bike ride to the popular scenic spot.
Elsewhere, it’s a three-generational affair for Sally Ross at her children’s clothing boutique Milly Molly Mandy, located in Darwin’s Smith Street mall.
Sally has five children, and 11 grandchildren ranging in age from 18 months to 14 years. They’re a “cute little bunch” says Sally, who works alongside her daughter Asha and daughter-in-law Heidi.
Her grandchildren have modelled clothing from “Grammy’s” shop for local fashion parades, but it is seven-year-old granddaughter Nevaeh who already has her fashionable little foot in the shop door. She advises Sally what to buy for the store, and has her own section on the shop floor, branded ‘Nev’s Little Shop.’
“She’s a young entrepreneur, and my 2IC,” Sally proudly says.
Sally and her children and grandchildren, who all live locally, plan to enjoy our dry season weather at the Darwin Waterfront today.