Step into a space where time slows down, inspired by the sun-drenched, small-town nostalgia of beach life. The Local Stores aren't just a store; they are a feeling— perfectly curated havens in Peregian Beach and Byron Bay that capture the free-spirited essence of coastal living. We’re thrilled to have them as a Beeji stockist, and we recently chatted with the team to dive into the vision behind their unique stores.
What does the word "local" mean to your brand beyond just the physical locations?
Inclusivity of our special community
Tell us about the concept for The Local Stores?
We stock a thoughtful and eclectic mix of apparel, homewares, gifting, retro vinyl and so much more. Our goal is to inspire a feeling of play, warmth and affection for the good old days through our retro-inspired wares.
You create spaces and experiences that are playful, warm and affectionate. A big part of your brand is about community. How have the distinct communities of Peregian Beach and Byron Bay influenced the selection and feel of each of your stores?
We aim to have brands local to each store where it fits. Byron Bay see’s a steady flow of international tourists so we often look to have boutique versions of keepsakes to take back abroad where as Peregian is a very localised customer along with our seasonal regular holiday makers. Here our customers love to see their favourite Australian brands sitting amongst the many local brands founded in Noosa and the wider Sunshine coast from soaps to Pottery to Beach Chairs.
Your collection is playful and eclectic, what are you looking for when discovering and selecting new Australian-owned and ethically made brands to feature?
Our items need to feel fun, useful and we love a strong point of difference to liven up what might be a fairly regular item!
You’ve got a great collection of vinyl in store. What’s currently on high rotation to soundtrack the stores?
Our mix is VERY random depending on who’s in that day! But usually we LOVE a 70’s funk classic.
Can you tell us a story about a specific artisan or brand that you were particularly excited to bring into the store, and why their product resonated with your vision?
There are too many to name! We have thousands of products in the store so the time and effort that goes in to curating such a mix really can be a labour of love for our team. A big on though is POTTERY FOR THE PLANET which aims to reduce food/beverage waste through their re-usable ceramic coffee cups and lunch bowls. This is a local Noosa brand created by a beautiful team that we are honoured to stock and do our part in educating with the aim to reduce waste.
What are some current brands, artists or celebrities inspiring you and why?
LORNA MURRAY is our hat brand that we are super excited about for this summer as our parent company BOOM SHANKAR has created a vibrant collaboration of hats and bags due in store October. Also watch this space for Sandcastle Rascals shaking up kids wear and swim come November.
What's a memorable moment or story that illustrates the unique connection you've built with your customers or the local community?
I think the feel of the vibe we have here at Peregian most days but especially during the holidays when you can actually see visiting customers fall in love with our special beachside town and the relaxed daily pace and joy that we operate with. Our Peregian store resides in the space of the older Friendly Grocer that many locals remember growing up getting an ice block straight off the beach; the nostalgic feels emote a happiness that the space we’ve created holds true to our village. Our Byron store on the other hand rolled in with a sophisticated lashing of colour to the area and lush, vibrant homewares that has sparked a new local customer to frequent us to see what other shades of colour we can bring to the area! It’s been lovely creating a local customer base through our kids wear offering and seeing the families grow over the last year and realising that we are firmly cemented now as one of their favourites.
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Visit The Local Stores at:
The Local Byron Bay: Shop 5/21-25 Fletcher St, Byron Bay
The Local Peregian: 6B Heron Street, Peregian Beach