After a discovery trip to Egypt in the late ‘80s, Ingrid Wilde returned to Olinda only to begin her own unique shopping experience inspired by travel.
What evolved was her business Where The Wilde Things Are, offering an array of treasures, gifts, jewellery pieces and textiles.
“I returned from an archaeology trip to Egypt in 1989 fuelled with a passion to start my own jewellery design business which eventually grew into the shop and online store you see today,” Ingrid said.
“Where The Wilde Things Are is a store like no other where you will find the most beautiful and unique handmade treasures and accessories from near and far.”
Now everyone is welcome to come celebrate the shop’s second birthday at its current location in Olinda, with a celebration to be held on the long weekend of 11 – 13 March with birthday cake and bubbles.
Over the years, Ingrid has been bringing other cultures to the local doorstep through the shop as she continues to travel and meet with artisans and tailors globally.
Most recently she travelled to Bali and a trip to the islands around Fiji has also assisted in sourcing new makers to represent their talents in store.
“Lately we have introduced Fair Trade soft toys knitted by women in regional parts of Kenya and Peru. Many of the products we sell make a very real difference to the lives and families of their makers, as well as allowing us to run a store that we just love.”
Among popular collections include unique Frida Khalo inspired creations with lamps by Melbourne artisans, earrings from Colombia, recycled jeans bags to a range of Ingrid’s own handmade Swarovski crystal jewellery inspired by Frida’s art.
Having been designing and making jewellery for over 30 years, Ingrid’s array stretches from heirloom bridal accessories to special occasion and costume jewellery.
“My jewellery designs largely feature Swarovski Crystal and freshwater pearls and I love bringing my clients’ jewellery dreams to life.”
Ingrid was able to bring her own beach wedding jewellery dream to life when she and her partner married at Wategos Beach in Byron Bay.
Soon workshops creating floral headbands will launch, which is a craft Ingrid’s happy to be promoting after 30 plus years of designing and creating bridal headpieces. Dates and details will be listed on social media and the website.
While travelling the world to locate ethical and sustainable items is a highlight for Ingrid, there is one thing in her career that stands out above them all.
“Though curating handmade treasures from around Australia and across the globe, I enjoy delighting my customers, whilst supporting so many artisans, one of my career highlights was designing jewellery worn by Toni Collette in the iconic Australian movie, Muriel’s Wedding.”
Where The Wilde Things Are can be found at 4/540 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Olinda or contacted on (03) 8203 8262.
