Shopping from small businesses and visiting unique, independently-owned companies will always beat a department store with sketchy ethical practices and overseas funding. The best way to support other women, and in turn yourself, is to literally support them. Below is a list of must try experiences that are celebrating women this International Women’s Day.
Image Credit: Pinot and Picasso
Pinot and Picasso
If you want a fun activity to do with the women in your life, Pinot and Picasso has you covered! Despite not being female owned, the paint and sip venue, known for its vibrant and entertaining classes, are run by their all star female creatives team and offer step-by-step lessons to learn to paint while you sip on BYO drinks. You can also organise a private function, ideal for a coworker empowerment evening or just a fun night with your girlfriends. This year, their empowering femme fatale is back and is the perfect International Women’s Day choice for those who value expression and authenticity. Book a class here.
Image Credit: Juliet Bar, captured by Jake Roden
Juliet Bar
Juliet Melbourne aims to showcase the amazing and often under-acknowledged women in the gastronomic industry. Putting a highlight on food and drinks sourced from women producers in Australia, the bar intends to celebrate all that women do in professional food service. Juliet is marketed as a space for intellectual conversation and quality connection between successful and empowered women. Grab a cocktail with your girlfriends in Juliet’s lounge and feel powerful, inspired and let that creative conversation flow! Reserve a table here.
Image Credit: Banco de México Diego Rivera Frida Kahlo Museums Trust
Frida Kahlo Exhibit
An icon of strength and courage, Frida Kahlo is an inspiring artist from the 1920s-1950s. She took her grief, loss and physical trauma into her own hands by painting her own portrait the way she saw herself: complicated, changed, but not any less than any other woman. If you want to feel empowered and learn more about an astonishing and complicated artist, this exhibit in Bendigo is for you. Bendigo Art Gallery is my favourite in Victoria and shouldn’t be dismissed as a country gallery with no real art. This building hosts stunning works, and from 15th of March to the 13th of July, you can see Frida Kahlo’s work for yourself. Check it out here.
Image Credit: @_moodsshop_
Moods
Super funky and a must-visit on your vintage shopping trip, Moods is a ’90s and 2000s-inspired curated vintage store in Thornbury. Open only on Saturdays and operating exclusively in-store, it offers a hand-picked selection of pieces straight out of a Nicole Richie-style dream closet. From Y2K mini dresses to the perfect oversized tee, each find is unique, ensuring you won’t spot it at a regular retailer. With a collection that blends nostalgia with statement fashion, Moods is the go-to for scoring one-of-a-kind gems. Check their Instagram for opening hours here and get ready to uncover your next vintage obsession.
Image Credit: @baesidehot
Baeside Hot
Pilates is a fun and versatile workout, whether you’re flying solo or bringing your besties along, and Baeside Hot takes the experience to the next level. Their heated Pilates classes challenge you to push through lunges, squats, and weight exercises in a 34-degree room, making for a workout that’s as intense as it is rewarding. Located in Williamstown, the studio also offers reformer Pilates for those looking to mix up their routine. The heat helps improve flexibility, increase endurance, and leave you with that satisfying post-workout glow. Book your next sweat session here.
Read more of our Activity Recommendations here.
Banner Image Credit: Baeside Hot
