Clare Lewis-Evans from Gypsy Carmen and Rachelle Basile from Batari Brows opened the doors to their newly renovated space today, Tuesday, March 30.

The duo will operate their businesses from a shopfront on the Princes Highway near the Ulladulla Post Office. South Coast contractors began major renovations on the building in November 2020 and the result drew many an impressed comment from customers on its opening day.

Rachelle has relocated Batari Brows from Bellbrook Arcade and said the whole venture has been around 11 months in the works.

"It's been such an amazing journey but I don't know we've done it," she said.

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"Both Clare and I have had our businesses running at the same time, our families and renovations but we did it with plenty of family support."

Rachelle began her career at Goddess Health and Wellness Day Spa. After six years she followed her love for creating beautiful eyebrows and opened Batari Brows. Rachelle's passionate about continually undertaking training and upskilling opportunities - next up in May is an advanced tattooing course in Perth, the fifth she's completed.

"I absolutely love making clients happy and seeing the whole transformation that brows make," she said.

"I'm so, so particular too so when I see all the boxes ticked, it's the biggest win. I want clients to leave feeling happy and comfortable."

After moving from Jervis Bay to Ulladulla and working from home, florist Clare has also embraced the new venture. She has more than 10 years experience in the floristry world and opened Gypsy Carmen five years ago.

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Clare describes her style as 'eclectic' and creates custom, fresh bouquets for every day, weddings, corporate events and funerals. She also delivers from Bawley Point to Bendalong.

She hits the road around three times a week to source all her flowers from Sydney and hand select everything herself. Clare said she's hoping the new studio offers a welcoming space for everyone.

"I want it to be a creative hub for people, with beautiful local products created by local artisans and just give people something a little bit different," she said.

The new premises will be open from 9-5pm Tuesday to Friday and 9-3pm on Saturdays.

Batari Brows

Gypsy Carmen