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The Best of Perth With Ugly Bunch’s Sam Hollyock
Date night steps, scones and cinema sessions. This is Perth through the eyes of one of the city's most creative young florists.
This International Women’s Day, we’re touring our cities through the lens of the local women who inspire us. For Perth, we turned to one of Perth’s most creative young florists, Sam Hollyock.
You might already be familiar with Sam’s work as owner of Ugly Bunches, a Fremantle-based flower shop (located in the same bustling block as The Cool Room) known for its weird and whimsical arrangements. Her creative designs are a clear departure from traditional bouquets. An oddly long stem. A strange bend. There’s always something unexpected. But it’s this unique point of view (honed over years), combined with Sam’s passion for crafting the humble bunch, that’s seen her go from making weekend bouquets in the kitchen of her one-bed unit to owning her own successful retail outfit within six years.
So, how does someone with such a good eye see Perth? We asked Sam about the city that inspires her, from her favourite date night combo to the spaces that keep those creative juices flowing.
What’s your go-to coffee/breakfast spot in Perth?
Go to coffee/breakfast spot has to be The Cool Room (biased, but it’s worthy). I’m not a huge breakfast person, but I’m determined to try everything on the menu.
Your fave spot for a sip and snack (and what to order)?
Lululala in Northbridge! A Korean coffee shop that has these super yummy cold foam-y drinks. My typical order there is an iced black cream latte with a chocolate chip scone.
An underrated dinner spot more people should know about?
I’m sure plenty of people know about this place, but Little Magic Momo in Wembley. It’s a Nepalese spot. Whenever I remember it exists, I have to eat there within 48 hours. It’s also BYO!
Your idea of the perfect date night in Perth?
Drink, walk, dinner. For me, that’s the perfect rhythm for a date. Can be done anywhere, but a favourite combo of mine would be an early evening drink at Wine’s of While. Then a stroll to dinner. Old Shanghai is a great date spot because there’s heaps of options and great people watching. After that, I would stop by Astral Weeks for a bev before heading home. Anything that doesn’t involve an Uber.
Where do you go to slow down or get inspired when you need a reset?
I usually leave the cinema or a gig with a huge wave of inspiration. Watching someone else perform their craft always ignites that feeling back in me.
A woman-owned business you love supporting locally (and why)?
Mettle! Mettle is a non-for-profit gift service that supports women who have been displaced due to domestic/family violence. I’ve worked with the amazing team there previously, and could go on and on about how much I love what they do.
A woman who inspires you and why?
At the moment whenever I see Alysa Liu on my feed, I tear up. At 20 years old, an Olympic gold medalist (a first for USA in women’s figure skating in something like 24 years?), and won entirely on her terms!
The best advice you’ve ever received (and who gave it to you)?
A text I received from my Mum a couple of years ago, which I always go back to:
“Sometimes we just have to take a leap of faith and believe in ourselves.”
Loved reading about Perth through Sam’s eyes? Uncover more Perth gems with our guides to the best new cafes in Perth and the best things to do this month.
