Mimpi.Co is one of those eclectic stores you stumble upon by accident, leave with lots of things you never knew you needed or wanted, but somehow know will make your life better. We think it's because of the love and attention that has gone into the selection of every single item on display. Stylish, beautiful, fresh and whimsical are words we would use to describe Mimpi.Co. They could also be used to describe owner Monique Sproson, whom we had the pleasure of spending a morning with earlier this week, discussing all things Mimpi & Inverloch. Where does Mimpi come from & what does it mean?Mimpi means "dream" in Indonesian! After studying Indonesian at school and having traveled there many times - I fell in love with Bali, the people, their initiative to create and their craftsmanship. I saw an opportunity to bring a little piece of tropical island paradise to our coastal paradise, Inverloch. It was initially just a dream! Why did you choose Inverloch to open your store?We have lived in town for the last 2 years, before that on a little property in Krowera. We loved visiting inverloch so much, we made the move into town! My husband and daughter love surfing and it seemed the right time. Initally i was going to sell my wares at local markets over summer, then my husband had a conversation on a work site with the previous shop owner, which lead to Sunday catch up, then a dinner and then we were in- it all fell into place really easily and quickly!! "I love big bright art work, quirky one off finds from flee markets, creative ceramics and texture - I love velvet and chenille! The shop is exactly all that!" What are your style inspirations?Confused at times lol. For example my home is interesting in that it's like 2 worlds colliding. I have a love of coastal boho luxe, natural fibres with warm colours and earth treasures like shells, indoor plants and unusual homewares from around the world. I also have a love for colour and mismatched mayhem too. I love big bright art work, quirky one off finds from flee markets, creative ceramics and texture - I love velvet and chenille! The shop is exactly all that! What is your favourite piece in the store at the moment?It would have to be the huge shell necklace decoration behind the counter in the most beautiful pinks, purples, peaches. The work in the piece is exceptional, the beauty of the natural shells is outstanding and it sits behind the counter, next to me and i admire it everyday! Already told my husband it will only be sold to a good home, even then I may not be able to part with it - it's a one off thats for sure! Describe the perfect Inverloch day?Waking up to the soft sounds of waves in the distance - a calling for a brisk walk along the surf beach or a SUP in the inlet. Followed by a coffee at The local - maybe even a croissant! Opening the shop, it always smells so good! Meeting new people, finding out about their journey/trip to Inverloch and hearing about how much they love our town. An afternoon bike ride with the family along the beach track or a swim while watching my favourite people surfing! Love spending time with friends, having a BBQ and a wine. Then off to bed again, with the soft sounds of the waves rocking me to sleep. Can people order online?Not yet - we've only been open for 4 weeks so we'll get through summer first and see how we go! Insta and FB are working for us at the moment. Where does your inspiration come from?My super supportive husband and amazingly encouraging daughter inspired me to pursue my dream of being able to provide locals and visitors with something different, unique and special. I have some super cool friends who also inspire me to search for new products while we share all things we love and wish we could have! I'm also inspired by creators - and want to provide a platform for local and Aussie makers to promote their products. Especially women working from home with young kids to manage too - very important to empower women and support them in their creative ventures! Motherhood can be lonely! 12b Williams Street, Inverloch, VIC 3996
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