Meet Sally, a talented small business owner from Clayton South who crafts stunning candles and homewares. I met her at the annual Oakleigh Amateur Football Club and South Oakleigh Bowling Club fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Network Australia. Sally – and her business Gelato Home Décor – was a stall holder.
I was immediately drawn to her beautiful creations. Born with a significant visual impairment, Sally turned to creativity during COVID, designing products that brighten the world and serve as a reminder of life's endless possibilities.
Can you tell us about Gelato Home Décor and what inspired you to start it?
I’m Sally, the creator of Gelato Home Décor – elegant décor items and candles. The inspiration for my work comes from my own journey of living with visual impairment. I wanted to create something meaningful that could bring light and warmth into others' lives, both literally and figuratively. It’s important to me to help others find the courage to chase their dreams, just as I did.
The ‘Birds of a Feather’ meet-up I host, where people can learn a new skill, build confidence, foster meaningful social connections and feel empowered are a core part of that mission.
How have you overcome the challenges of being a young entrepreneur with a visual impairment?
Overcoming challenges has been a journey of resilience, creativity and embracing support from those around me. Instead of seeing my visual impairment as a limitation, I’ve reframed it as a unique perspective that fuels my creativity and determination. By focusing on my vision for Gelato Home Décor – ‘illuminate lives, ignite dreams’, I’ve learned to navigate obstacles with optimism. My experiences have taught me that challenges can lead to incredible growth if you approach them with courage and adaptability.
How has living in Melbourne’s vibrant south-east shaped your journey?
Melbourne’s south-east is a community rich in diversity, creativity and support. I was born and raised in Clayton South, and the people I’ve met here have deeply shaped my appreciation for art, a sense of connectedness and my approach to business. I’m proud to contribute to this vibrant area and give back through my meet-ups and products.
What advice would you give to other young people in our local community who have big dreams but feel they face too many challenges to achieve them?
My advice is to start small but to start. Dreams often feel overwhelming when you look at the big picture, so focus on the next step, no matter how small it might seem. There are always multiple solutions to a problem, if you apply some creativity. Learn from others and draw from their experiences to create something that resonates with you. Seek out support – whether from friends, family or your local council representative – and never hesitate to ask for help. Value yourself – use your unique experiences and perspectives to light your path forward.
Make sure you follow Sally's Instagram @gelatohomedecor – and get in touch with her to learn more about the ‘Birds of a Feather’ meet-up.
