Hello

The Messy Patch started with two sisters, my sister Nicola and me, wanting to find work we loved while still being there for our young kids. We tossed around plenty of ideas (and names – Messy Hands and Patch Kids nearly made the cut!) before settling on The Messy Patch. We found the perfect spot between Geelong and Torquay, worked our way through council permits, and I took on cleaning jobs to raise the money to get us started. Nicola and I had the best time creating the space together, with the odd clash of ideas that I can laugh about now. Last year I became sole owner and started the next chapter.

The Messy Patch really is a family affair:

Jasmine (25) is our resident carpenter and cabinet maker. She’s built heaps of the pieces you’ll find around the Patch, and she’s now a mumma bear to Mason.

Harper (18) is my 2IC and my yes girl – a true lifesaver, especially when we run out of bubbles or milk!

Blake (13) is a big part of why this space exists. His health means a lot of time at the Royal Children’s Hospital, and The Messy Patch lets me earn a living while being there for him whenever he needs me.

Beau (5), my little man, has grown up here. He started coming to work with me at four months old and has gone home painted by the kids more times than I can count.

I feel truly blessed to have this space. It’s my safe space, where I can just be me – and I hope it becomes a happy, messy place for your family too.