We met up with the lovely Julia Mendola recently who is the owner of Chocolate Freckles a Children’s Boutique in Essendon. Please make sure you check out this gorgeous store – they have some beautiful clothing and gifts and if you visit you wont be able to help yourself having a little shopping spree. Read more about Julia and her business below, and you can check out her facebook page for special promotions here.
If you are interested in Maple Gallery photographing your next product or store please give us a call, we would love to help, hope you enjoy:
Name: Julia Mendola
Business Name: Chocolate Freckles children’s boutique
Location: Essendon
Children/Ages: Amelia 6 and Jakob 4
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am 37 years old with two beautiful children and currently running my own Children’s retail boutique. I have a Commerce degree and prior to children worked as a Branch Manager in the Recruitment industry.
Q: When and why did you start your business?
The business opened in October 2009 based on a dream I had to one day own my own store. Due to changes in my life that necessitated me having to go back to work full time. I decided it was the right time to take the plunge and give the business a go.
Q: What products does Chocolate Freckles offer?
Mid range children’s boutique clothing, shoes and beautiful gifts and accessories. Our brands are mainly Australian designed but we have thrown a couple of great International labels into the mix.
Q: What makes Chocolate Freckles stand out from the crowd?
I am continually sourcing new and exciting brands and items and try stock brands that are not readily available elsewhere. Oh and the service is great!
Q: What is your favourite part about running your own business?
The autonomy to make my own decisions about what is stocked in the store, and how many hours I put into it.
Q: Where is Chocolate Freckles located and how can we contact you?
The store is at 194 Buckley Street, Essendon
Phone : 03 9004 5241
Email: Julia@chocolatefreckles.com.au
Web: www.chocolatefreckles.com.au
Facebook link
Q: What is the best advice you could give to new mums?
Always do what YOU feel is right for you and your baby. Everyone always has their own opinions on what’s best as soon as you first announce you are pregnant. It’s OK to listen to advice but don’t let anyone make you feel that what you are doing is the wrong thing with regards to anything from birth to feeding to childcare. It’s not a competition!
Q: When you’re not working what do you and your family like to do for fun?
Spend time in Apollo Bay, go to parks, markets, movies, catch up with friends, cafe’s and restaurants
Q: What is your favourite cafe in Melbourne?
I love and have been to so many but I can never pass up a chance for a coffee and cake at Brunetti in Carlton. So much to try and the nougat is divine!
Q: What is your favourite food?
Thai and Spanish tapas, but there’s not really a cuisine I’m not happy to eat!
Q: What is your all-time favourite film?
Titanic for an epic love story and the Italian arthouse film Cinema Paradiso for a beautiful and memorable story.
Q: What is your favourite television show?
Packed to the Rafters, Offspring, Brothers and Sisters
Q: What would be your perfect day?
Late sleep in, out for a long brunch, spend the day with the kids enjoying the sunshine (with no fighting or whingeing!) ,BBQ dinner with a glass of wine put kids to bed and watch a great movie curled up on the couch.
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