Meet Amy Clarke, the creative mind behind Confetti Rebels who transformed a greeting card setback into a thriving t-shirt brand from her base on the beaches.
When Amy’s original card business didn’t quite work out, she took a friend’s suggestion to transfer her designs to t-shirts instead. That pivot turned out to be golden – Confetti Rebels was born, and the rest, as they say, is history.
“I really wanted to create a brand that resonated with me and my fellow female community,” says Amy. “I wanted to create apparel that made people feel happy, confident and speak their mind (without speaking their mind verbally). I wanted to create apparel that MEANT something to the person wearing it.”
“Within the first month of opening my online store, I had a family and domestic violence survivor message me and tell me she wore her “Worthy” tee to her court hearing with her ex-partner. After years of him telling her she was nothing, she finally was able to tell him she was SOMETHING, with WORTHY written on her tee, she was confident and ready to take on anything. After shedding quite a few tears over a bottle of wine, I knew this was my calling.”
Seven years on, Amy’s empowering designs have attracted more than 60,000 Instagram followers, her t-shirts are shipped to customers all over the world, and she has also branched out into hats, sunnies, badges and gifts. As a long-time beaches’ resident, we asked Amy to share her favourite places that showcase the best of Northern Beaches living.
Which local cafe makes your perfect breakfast? And what’s your go-to order?
Ingleside Market Café hands down! They whip up the BEST Acai bowls – fresh fruit, mouth watering, and absolutely packed with yummy goodness. It’s my ultimate go-to breakfast spot on the Northern Beaches!
As a busy business owner, where do you go for family time when you need to recharge?
When we need to recharge, the beach is always a favourite for our family. We also love walking the Narrabeen Lake Trail – it’s perfect for some quality time outdoors. And for a special treat, we can’t resist P&N’s Ice Cream at Narrabeen. It’s the little things that make the best memories and most mess!
Which local markets or events have been most valuable for networking with other creative entrepreneurs?
The ‘Get Savvy’ Women in Business event by Brandid Media in October was such an incredible opportunity to connect with other Northern Beaches businesswomen—it was inspiring and empowering! I also love the Narrabeen Markets at Rat Park; they’re fantastic for networking with other small business owners and creatives in the community.
What’s your fave local restaurant, and what dish keeps you coming back?
I have been to Bar La Riva in Narrabeen a few times now and their cocktails are delicious! The atmosphere and food is “chefs kiss” and I can’t get enough of the place!
Another family favourite is Sunset Diner in Avalon. They do the BEST burgers and milkshakes for the kids! I also cannot resist a quick lunch at Normas in Manly with my bestie. I love the deli style cafe and the potato focaccia is like no other!
Favourite place to swim?
Clareville, for sure! It’s our weekend go-to spot. We love heading there early in the morning for a peaceful stand-up paddleboard session before the locals arrive. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the calm beauty of this stunning cove beach!
Where do you go to exercise or give those roller skates a workout?
I absolutely love walking from Manly Corso to Shelley Beach on a sunny day with my dog or my bestie – it’s such a beautiful and refreshing stroll! As for rollerskating, I haven’t dared to try it there yet – I’d probably crash into someone!
Which Northern Beaches location never fails to lift your spirits?
I LOVE the Fairlight walk, and any opportunity to take a dip on one of the little sandy banks along the way. There’s always a cute pooch to cuddle too!
Can you share your perfect weekend morning?
My perfect weekend morning ritual starts with an early swim in our pool with the kids, then I grab a coffee at TopShot Cafe in Elanora Heights. On Sundays, I always make sure to visit the Mona Vale Markets for the freshest food and beautiful flowers by Patrick – it’s the best way to kick off the day!
What’s your favourite Christmas event or festival on the Northern Beaches?
Any Christmas Market on the Beaches. If I can get an opportunity to support other local small businesses, it’s definitely at any festive markets!
What’s your fave way to spend a balmy summer night in the area?
Me and the fam love to grab some fish & chips from Narrabeen Lakeside Fish Market and go sit at the park on the lake. It’s just a nice way to unwind from a hectic week of work, mumming and life!
Looking for fun gifts this Christmas? Check out Confetti Rebels and follow Amy at the links below.
Website: https://confettirebels.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/confettirebelsstore
Instagram: @confetti_rebels
