Since January, I’ve been trying to do more of what I always talk about, supporting small business.
Our business has been built on it. Small makers. Small batches. Real people behind what you’re buying.
So this year, I’ve been making a conscious effort to choose the same in my own life.
And I thought I’d start sharing a few things I’m genuinely loving, nothing gifted, nothing sponsored. Just things I’ve found, bought, and kept coming back to.
Lucent Globe
@lucentglobe
Laundry sheets, I’ll be honest, I was hesitant at first. But after caravanning over the new year, we tried them in the van… and oh my goodness, game changer.
They’re easy, mess-free, and take up next to no space. Perfect for travel, but we’ve kept using them at home too. They are so good - I have tried all the fragrance's and can confirm my favourite is Midnight Muse.
We have now swapped out the dishwashing tablets to dishwashing sheets all from this small change supporting an Australian business to limited our use, buy intentionally, no plastics!
Guess what’s even better we signed dup with a subscription - and it gets delivered to our door every two months! Winning at life.
Who Gives A Crap
@whogivesacraptp
This is one we’ve fully switched over, both in the office and at home.
We started with a subscription for work (black and white for the office), and I couldn’t help myself… I had to get the coloured rolls for home. I genuinely love the colours, it just makes something so everyday feel a little more fun.
Originally, I ordered it for caravanning. I loved that everything is individually wrapped, perfect for when we head off-road (which we do a bit).
Now it’s become part of our routine. We’ve got two rolling subscriptions set up, and I’ve also tried the paper towel and rubbish bags. I haven’t reordered those yet, but I do love the colours of the rubbish bags, so this is my reminder to give them another go.
Simple swaps, but ones that feel good - and support a business doing things a little differently.
GOAT Strips
@goatstripco
These have honestly been a bit of a game changer in our house.
Steve and my son both use them, and the difference has been huge - better breathing, deeper sleep, and (thankfully) a lot less snoring.
They’re simple - nose and mouth tape designed to support proper breathing while you sleep, but the impact has been anything but small.
Better sleep. Better routines. Better days.
And when something works like that, you stick with it.
Bohemian Traders
@bohemian.traders
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know this one isn’t new, but it’s a constant.
I wear Bohemian Traders almost every day. It’s one of those brands that just works. Easy, elevated, and always makes you feel put together without trying too hard. I am always getting a DM on what my outfit or dress is.
The quality is beautiful, the cuts are flattering, and the pieces last. These are the kind of clothes you reach for on repeat. Whether I’m in the showroom, running around with the kids, or heading out.
I love that it’s an Australian brand, and like so many of the things we choose at Lightingales, it feels considered. Not fast. Not throwaway. Just well-made and I have massive respect for the owner EM.
The kind of wardrobe staples that become part of your everyday.
Bouf Haircare
@boufhaircare
Okay, this is a haircare routine I can get behind.
Perimenopause hair is real… and I’ve definitely noticed my hair starting to feel thinner. I actually saw a post from The Inspired Unemployed using this and, in true form, placed a midnight order.
It arrived beautifully packaged (always a win), and I’m now about three weeks in and I’m loving it.
I’ve got my hair appointment in a couple of weeks, so I’ll be interested to get my hairdresser’s take too… but so far, I love the smell, the feel, and how my hair is responding.
It’s Australian made, which is a big tick for me, and uses 100% natural actives.
Early days - but this one’s looking like a keeper.
Oli Clothing
@oliclothing
Hand-drawn and hand-printed in Perth since 2012 and a big favourite in our house.
Steve is a massive fan. In fact, most weekends you’ll find him in Oli. Great staples, easy tees, and pieces that just work.
And for context… Steve isn’t exactly small (6’4” and Croatian), so finding clothes that fit well and look good isn’t always easy but these tick both boxes.
Comfortable, well-made, and local, exactly the kind of brand we love to support.