Named for founder Ana Tuionuku’s seven-year-old grandchildren, Twinnies Books & Good Store is an exciting new platform for Pacific Island authors, artists, artisans and musicians to showcase their wares and creative talents.
South Pacific Aromas owner Helena Vea agreed to help launch the first event and share her journey as a business owner.
She started making soy wax candles, tealights and wax melts before progressing to body products like lotions, scrubs and bath crystals.
Determined to make her business work after a disparaging comment from a so-called friend, she then started selling fashion jewellery and Pasifika-inspired items such the Pule or pule’oto (knowns Ovula Ovum shells) Kafa or mangimangi which is the braided coconut fibres and floral decorations.
“I had a Tongan bride-to-be approach me who asked if I did gift favours,” Helen said.
“I miraculously pulled it off by making a four-pack of tealights decorated with ribbon and a swing tag.
“She left an awesome review and from there I received a call from a Samoan girl who wanted tealights for her wedding too and the orders started flowing in for wedding and birthday gifts, with customers saying what the various scents I sourced reminded them of and meant to them.
“Remember that success in business is a journey and it may not happen overnight but stay committed, consistent, be willing to learn and adapt, and by continuously striving to improve, you will eventually get there.”
Ana said the group found Helen’s story inspiring and couldn’t wait to sample her products which was an extra bonus.
“It was so popular, that we are planning our next Pacific Business Platform on May 8, with all invited to attend,” she said.
For further info: publisher@twinniespublishing.com.
Woman makes $1,000 in two hours
A THRILLED new small businesswoman has made over $1,000 in just two hours at the first Pacific Business Platform hosted by Twinnies Books & Goods Shop in Bankstown.
