How a conversation over coffee led to a new business idea

IT WAS their first coffee catch-up after Queensland came out of lockdown in May and Inky Barwick and Jill Bliss decided it was time to open a homewares store.

The two long-time friends were looking for something new in their lives.

Mrs Barwick was the one who made the suggestion, and Mrs Bliss “didn’t even think about it”.

“I just went yes,” she said.

Fast-forward five months and their business idea has become reality in the form of The Store Room, at 111 Campbell St.

Both women have a love of homewares, gifts and furnishings, and it’s reflected in their selection of Australian-made stock.

“All our designers and creators are from Australia, so the people we are talking to directly, they have physically made the products and sourced all of their materials,” Mrs Bliss said.

The Store Room is also serving up Padre Coffee and little treats from Impressions on Scott on the side.

“We find a lot of our customers so far have just loved coming in for a coffee and having a browse,” Mrs Bliss said.

Mrs Barwick said their first week of trade had been great and lots of positive comments from customers, which had been a thrill.

And the best bit?

“Coming in to work each day is fun,” she said.

For more information about The Store Room, head here.