little elwood, elwood
Stepping into the charming Little Elwood is like stepping into a magical wonderland for the young and young at heart. The shopfront is easy to spot from Ormond Road’s bustling strip - it’s the one with the glorious rainbow tinsel garland dancing in the sea breeze.
Stepping into the charming Little Elwood is like stepping into a magical wonderland for the young and young at heart. The shopfront is easy to spot from Ormond Road’s bustling strip - it’s the one with the glorious rainbow tinsel garland dancing in the sea breeze.
Every wall and surface is filled with things to delight and inspire while the twinkling fairy lights and creatures that float from the ceiling (and a giant giraffe munching on grass out the back!) create a sense of whimsy and joy.
Though everything here is brand new, Lou, the owner, manages to create a sense of nostalgia through her styling and unique selection of toys on offer.
From fairy crystals and potions to handcrafted felt food and puppets - this is a sensory and imaginative play PARADISE. With a whole corner dedicated to the most opulent princess dresses to a fantastic array of craft supplies… Little Elwood has got the goods.
Go digging for some treasures from the mini figurine pick and mix display, or select from the spools of stickers that adorn the shop’s counter facade. With crowd favourites like Jellycats, Sylvanian Families and Sonny Angels, Little Elwood is the perfect mix of classic childhood toys and those that are a little bit left of centre.
Wanna know more?
Click here
Mamma’s special mentions:
Walk a few minutes down Ormond Rd and you’ll find the most delicious specialty popcorn shop - Popkin’s Artisan Popcorn
dear reader bookshop, tyabb village
Tucked away in the heart of Tyabb Village is a hidden gem that is Dear Reader Bookshop – the cutest second-hand bookshop that’s bursting with books that are just waiting for little (and big!) hands to discover.
Tucked away in the heart of Tyabb Village is a hidden gem that is Dear Reader Bookshop – the cutest second-hand bookshop that’s bursting with books that are just waiting for little (and big!) hands to discover.
Second-hand bookshops are pretty rare to find these days, but this charming store is sure to become a favourite! Mamma and crew are super pleased to have discovered this local gem, adding yet another reason to frequent the gorgeous little Tyabb Village!
With wall-to-wall of books of all shapes and sizes, you are sure to find something that you love - or perhaps try your luck with a beautifully wrapped, brown paper mystery book?
There’s some cozy couches and chairs to sit back and get lost in the pages while the little ones peruse the kids section - packed with great new titles and loads of vintage fiction and picture books as well!
With genres spanning from Classic Fiction, Biographies and Business through Sport, Crime and Mystery Books - it is sure to become your destination book shop!
The nitty gritty
14 Mornington Tyabb Road , Tyabb,
At the back of the Tyabb Village Packing house
Open
10am - 5pm
Thursday - Sunday
Wanna know more?
Click here
Mamma’s special mentions:
While you are there, check out the gorgeous Fairy Maker and have lunch on board the Rattling Red
the gift shed, tyabb village
Tucked away in the treasure trove that is the Tyabb Packing House village, The Gift Shed is your go-to spot for all things “bloke’. Whether you're shopping for your Dad, your partner or a mate, this little shop packs a serious punch!
Tucked away in the treasure trove that is the Tyabb Packing House village, The Gift Shed is your go-to spot for all things “bloke’. Whether you're shopping for your Dad, your partner or a mate, this little shop packs a serious punch!
Think leather wallets, quirky and one-of-a-kind gifts, military-themed collectables, and a huge range of hot sauces - the kind that'll make your eyes water just looking at them, they’re Mamma’s Little Man’s Favourite!
This place is man cave heaven! Every corner of this shop is packed full of fun gifts - there’s sure to be something for even the hard-to-buy for men in your life. From stylish accessories to nostalgic memorabilia.
Mamma says make sure to pop in and check it out - you won’t regret it! Oh - and make sure you say hello to the gorgeous guard doggo out the front!
The nitty gritty
14 Mornington Tyabb Road , Tyabb,
Inside the Tyabb Village Packing house
Open
10am - 5pm
Thursday - Monday
Wanna know more?
Click here
Mamma’s special mentions:
While you are there, check out the gorgeous Fairy Maker and have lunch on board the Rattling Red
trudi's place @ the packing house, tyabb
Why wait for the ‘most magical time of the year’ to get into the festive spirit, when you can celebrate Christmas all year round at Trudi’s Place?!
Why wait for the ‘most magical time of the year’ to get into the festive spirit, when you can celebrate Christmas all year round at Trudi’s Place?!
Located inside the Packing House in Tyabb lies the truly joyous Trudis’s Place - a shop that is full of the most spectacular Christmas decorations - and it is open all year!
Whatever theme you are looking for, you’re sure to find the perfect tree ornament, table centrepiece and house decoration to suit. With a huge assortment of Grinch themed fun, LED lights, glowing mini trees, Christmas angels, reindeer - and SO much more.
Mamma’s crew can’t get enough of the musical dancing Santa, twerking Frosty the Snowman and rapping snowmen!
New stock comes in all the time, so you’re sure to find something new to browse.
It’s a wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit!
The nitty gritty
14 Mornington-Tyabb Rd,
Tyabb 3913
OPEN
Thursday - Sunday
10am - 5pm
Mamma’s special mentions:
Explore the village by having lunch at the Rattling Red Cafe or explore all things fairy at The Fairy Shop
t & s emporium, somerville
If there’s two things this Mamma adores, it’s supporting small/local businesses and browsing the aisles of craft markets! So needless to say the combination of those here at T&S Emporium in Somerville is just heaven!
If there’s two things this Mamma adores, it’s supporting small/local businesses and browsing the aisles of craft markets! So needless to say the combination of those here at T&S Emporium in Somerville is just heaven!
This fantastic INDOOR market is home to over 200 small businesses, showcasing hundreds of hand-made treasures ranging from intricate hand-painted gift cards, to jewellery including fidget rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, hair accessories and so much more! Plus kids and adult clothing, candles, chocolate, crystals and a great range of dog treats, toys - even pup clothing!
Each shelf in the shop presents options from small businesses - just as though you were attending a craft market on the weekend - except here you can shop 6 days a week from the comfort of indoors!
There’s a great range here and you’re sure to find the perfect gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself - or in Mamma’s case - the kids and the dog! Oh and there’s also a colouring table for the littlies so that you can shop in peace!
So shop small and support the locals and grab yourself a bargain!
The nitty gritty
5 Eramosa Rd E, Somerville, 3912
OPEN
Monday - Friday
9am - 4pm
Saturday
9.30am - 2pm
Mamma’s special mentions:
Walk down the road to pick up some delicious treats from Horribly Healthy
miss drew's bakery and dog cafe, tyabb
Enter this retro-themed cafe and treat your best mate to a gorgeously decorated biscuit, puppacino, muffin or perhaps really indulge them with a meal deal and a freakshake!
Here’s something special for all you fur Mamma’s - we love it when we can take our pups with us to a cafe - but here at Miss Drew’s Bakery in Tyabb - this cafe is SOLELY for the bestest girls and boys - yep a cafe just for the doggos!
Enter this retro-red themed cafe and treat your best mate to a gorgeously decorated biscuit, puppacino, muffin or perhaps really indulge them with a meal deal and a freakshake! Mamma’s best girl RAVISHED her Alice in Wonderland themed ice-cream topped with a crocodile claw! A glorious blue concoction full of blue spirulina, goat and turkey.
Celebrate their birthday (or any day, really) in the Pawty Kennel, a sweet little room full of giant tennis balls, dog toys and couches and even a ball pit! There’s great photo ops with props and neon lights - that’s if you can get them to stay still long enough to get that shot (Mamma failed!).
You can also pick up some cute merchandise and pick n mix dogs treats to tide you over until your next visit! It’s such a unique - and fun - little place, in fact it’s Melbourne’s first Dog Only cafe and it is right here on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula!
The nitty gritty
14 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Tyabb 3913
OPEN
Thursday - Sunday
10am - 5pm
Wanna know more? Click here
Mamma’s special mentions:
Now something cool for the humans is right next door - lunch on an old Red Rattler train carriage!
the chocolate kettle, mornington
Whether you’re a lover of all things chocolate, prefer the sugar rush of freeze-dried candy or are a connoisseur of American candy - you will find it here.
If you have ever wondered where the expression, “like a kid in a candy shop” originated from, take a step through the doors of The Chocolate Kettle in Mornington, and you will totally get it.
Mamma’s kids faces are always full of absolute delight when they walk past the rainbow of umbrellas to enter the store and absorb the amount of chocolate and brightly coloured candy packets.
There’s always something different for them (and Mamma!) to try.
Whether you’re a lover of all things chocolate, prefer the sugar rush of freeze-dried candy or are a connoisseur of American candy - you will find it here.
Mamma’s littlies can’t go past a ‘pick n mix’ style set up where you grab a cup and fill it up with your faves, and there’s a great assortment of lollies and chocolate to fill up on.
Whilst Mamma can never go past plain pastilles and freckles and pink lady chocolate covered bullets!
There is so much to choose from here, it will become your new favourite treat spot!
The nitty gritty
The Mall, Unit 10/90 Main St, Mornington
OPEN
Monday - Saturday
9am - 5pm
Sunday
9.30am - 4.30pm
Wanna know more? Click here
Mamma’s special mentions:
Still hungry? Head down the road to Lunar Dumpling Bar
herbert's corner store, frankston
There’s a brand new local shop that is home to the cutest and most unique gifts!
There’s a brand new local shop that is home to the cutest and most unique gifts!
From the lovely owners of its sister shop, Two Boys one beagle and a coffee shop, you will find a great assortment of gift ideas perfect for yourself or someone special.
There are beautiful hand made cards, kids toys, jewellery, candles, books and more.
There is also a snack fridge packed with an array of cheese, meats and drinks! Along with your gift, you can also pick up Commonfolk coffee beans, barista milk, pasta, sauces and chocolate and BOOM you have everything covered!
little shop of horrors emporium, mornington
Part costume hire/part retail shop/part glamour studio - it’s easiest to describe this as an ‘experience’.
Now don’t let the name fool you, this is SO much more than a little shop of horror!
So what is it then? Part costume hire/part retail shop/part glamour studio - but it’s more accurate to describe it as an experience. It’s a place where all of your senses will be evoked, which is exactly what the lovely sisters who own the shop, intended.
The owners’ passion for movies, glamour, Hollywood and fashion is clearly evident from the moment you walk in the door. You’ll see collectables, DVD’s, photographs of actors and characters from classic movies. Once you walk on further you will see that there are specific sections for all types of costumes and accessories to hire/buy.
Each zone is accompanied by music of that era/category and you are transported to your favourite movie or memory. There’s Princesses, Superheroes, 80s theme, roaring 20’s, Retro Room a spooky section called “Nightmare Alley” where you will find the most amazing and extravagant Halloween costumes and props - and SO much more!
But what Mamma’s crew couldn’t get enough of was the AWESOME huge Harry Potter section. Murals are painted on the walls, costumes, toys, wands, everything to transport you to Hogswarts. AND - there are even special workshops put on during school holidays, and wand-making classes available to have at your party!
Then there is the parlour where you can have your make up done, wigs styled and completely transform yourself into your character.
The kids will feel like they’re entered Disneyland! It is such a fun experience, even if you aren’t in need of hiring a costume!
Mamma’s special mention:
After a shop - head around the corner for a jump at Inflatable Land if you’re with the kids, or indulge yourself with a float and massage at The Private Sea
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Mon/Wed/Thurs/Fri/Sat
10am - 5pm
Closed Tueday & Sunday
tree country, chelsea
This is SUCH a stunning and quirky shop. From the pink exterior to the bright and leafy inside - it’s a treat for your eyes.
This is SUCH a stunning and quirky shop. From the pink exterior to the bright and leafy inside - it’s a treat for your eyes.
You’re welcomed into this serene spot by the absolutely gorgeous owner, Bec. Much like the shop itself, she radiates light and energy.
The kids can be kept busy playing with the gorgeous dollhouse and cuddle the large giraffe at the back of the shop, so that you can shop in peace!
If you’re looking for a unique gift for a loved one who has everything, a new baby gift, the perfect kids present or some locally made jewellery or chocolate for yourself - THIS is where you will find it. There’s local art, sweet treats, games, toys, books, bags, candles and so much more!
Bec is also encouraging local backyard fruit n veg growers to come down and sell excess produce to the community as well - so get in touch with her if that is YOU!
Mamma’s special mention:
After shopping up a storm, grab a coffee from one of the MANY fabulous cafes and head to the awesome Chelsea Beach Playground for a play!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - Saturday
9.30am - 4pm
Sunday - Closed
DIY slime kit from the hungry peacock
IF your kids love slime - you’re gonna want to get one of these!
Most kids LOVE slime - and most parents probably DO NOT! This Mamma is usually not a big fan. However, these kits from The Hungry Peacock take the away the hassle of having to measure out each ingredient, therefore decreasing the mess factor - and also making it SO EASY to get right!
The best part is, the slime it creates at the end isn’t actually all that messy! It has a kind of rubbery playdough texture and the kids LOVE it!
These kits come with the precise measurements all set to go, as well as instructions. Also some cool textural elements to add in like foam balls, glitter, googly eyes and colouring too.
Perfect - messy - boredom busting fun! These kits can be posted across Melbourne, and delivered locally to some parts of the Mornington Peninsula.
Mamma’s special mention: You can also get delicious Grazing Boxes delivered!
When you can - make sure you visit the incredible The Hungry Peacock cafe.
the nitty gritty
Postage available Melb wide
Local delivery/pick up
toy box tales, hampton
How good is a family owned and run Toy Shop?! There's a new kid on the block in Hampton!
How good is a family owned and run Toy Shop?!
There's a new kid on the block in Hampton! Toybox Tales opened their doors on 1 July (such unfortunate timing with Melbourne’s lockdowns) and is owned by locals Chris, Sarah and their 2 year old Elsie.
They sell a HUGE range of things like - wooden toys, soft toys, art & craft, puzzles & board games, science kits, musical instruments... and more!
Mamma’s little ones can’t rest anything Pokémon or sensory related - and there are a HEAP of both categories there!
They'll gift wrap and package together whatever you need and if you can’t find what you’re after they are only too happy to help!
You can do free click and collect within 30 minutes, and if you're within 10km of the store they can DELIVER to your door the SAME DAY for FREE. Check them out and SUPPORT LOCAL!
Mamma’s special mention: You can shop online now for delivery Melbourne wide.
hair @ amazing toys, mornington
This cute family friendly salon is tucked away in the middle of a giant toy shop!
If your kids are anything like Mamma’s, getting their hair cut can be somewhat of a trial!
BUT - when the hair salon is smack bang in the middle of one the most awesome toy shops in Melbourne - getting them there is just that little bit easier.
Keeping them still is no problem, as they can be entertained by a TV show or movie right in front of them. Or if they are small, they can fit in the little racing car seat.
The hairdresser’s are so lovely and patient, putting them at ease. Finish off the cut with some glitter spray - or even a colour spray!
Kids can also have a total pamper session with their nails done as well. The salon is not just for kids though, it offers a huge range of services for ladies and men, too.
Mamma will be back soon to learn how to braid in their special Mum and Kids class. They also have a Daddy and Daughter class where they can learn the basics as well! Such a cool idea.
Mamma’s special mention: After you get your hair cut, have a wander through the truly AMAZING toy shop. You are sure to find some treasures!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday -Tuesday - Thursday - Friday - Saturday - Sunday
9am - 5pm
(closed Wednesday)
rod's fruit and veg, melbourne delivery
They have all your essentials covered too with groceries, meat, eggs milk and bread available. Oh and they also deliver to Geelong and the Peninsula areas!
Rod’s has been a long time fave of Mamma when shopping at the South Melbourne Market, for Fruit and Veg they are just the best! And now for some great news - they have now opened a Melbourne delivery service! They have all your essentials covered too with groceries, meat, eggs milk and bread available. Oh and they also deliver to Geelong and the Peninsula areas!
Now folks - you have until 9pm each night for NEXT DAY DELIVERY too - excellent for the busy (or un-organised) peeps.
Valentines Day boxes are also coming up too - check them out here! - VALENTINES DAY
Mamma's special mentions: Use code KNOW8 for FREE DELIVERY at checkout!
the nitty gritty
wanna know more?
amazing toys, mornington
This store is packed full of toys, arts & crafts, puzzles, party supplies and more!
Mamma adores this place! It’s packed full of toys, arts & crafts, puzzles, party supplies and more. The staff are so lovely and super friendly, they go above and beyond to help you find what you are looking for. If you wanted to send a gift to someone but not sure what to get - give them a call and they can come up with a great idea or hamper to fit your budget.
There are literally toys from the floor to ceiling! You can see why they named the storing AMAZING toys! They also have a huge party supply, from things like invitations to plates - party favours - balloons - things for hire and so much more.
It may be a hidden gem but you are sure to find treasure here!
Mamma’s special mention:
There is also a gorgeous hair salon in the store - Hair at Amazing Toys!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Monday - Sunday
9am - 5pm
Free Local delivery (over $50)
roving refills, frankston
Cut down on your accumulating plastic bottles and keep using the same ones, by refilling all you laundry, bathroom and kitchen detergents.
Mamma absolutely LOVES this fantastic little roving business! Operated by a local south mum, who has a passion for reducing waste and cutting out plastic, she provides a brilliant and economic way for you to make a small and easy step to help the environment.
Cut down on your accumulating plastic bottles and keep using the same ones, by refilling all your laundry, bathroom and kitchen detergents. All products are eco-friendly.
You will be able to bring your own bottles to refill shampoo and conditioner, body/hand wash, multi-purpose cleaner, window cleaner, laundry powder/detergent, disinfectant, bubble bath, fabric softener and more. You can also pick up some reusable cloth wipes, bamboo toothbrushes, stainless steel pegs and body scrub bars.
The van travels to regular spots each month throughout the south (you can keep up to date on locations here). For the time being, you can also have products delivered if you live within the delivery zone.
Help support this great local business and help out the environment while you’re at it!
Mamma’s special mention:
Roving Refills visits Bear and Cub, and Creative Makes monthly, so why not do an art class or grab some lunch as well as stocking up on your cleaning products?!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Check socials HERE to see each weeks locations
small print, mornington
Here is a brilliant idea for an awesome gift, or a sentimental keepsake for yourself.
Here is a brilliant idea for an awesome gift, or a sentimental keepsake for yourself. How special and unique to have your kids fingerprint made into a beautiful piece of silver jewellery.
Here you can choose from different designs and sizes to display your kids - or loved ones- finger prints on necklaces, earrings, bracelets, cuff-links and key-rings. You can also get handprints made into miniature prints. Mamma just loves the earrings, they’re super cute. You can get studs of varying sizes, or drop style.
Head into Kids Warehouse and find the delight Fab set up station in the back of the store.
Mother’s day is just around the corner…
Mamma’s special mention:
Stay and have a browse of the awesome Kids Warehouse while you are there. Take the kids right next door for loads of fun at Sk8house!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Check website to see times available for booking
kids warehouse, carrum downs
This wonderful warehouse is all about supporting locals. Here you can sell and buy second-hand goods, in perfect condition.
Mamma didn’t even know this place existed, and they are celebrating their 20th year! Have you been?
This wonderful warehouse is all about supporting locals. Here you will find second-hand goods, in perfect condition. You may even score some brand-new-with-tag items, too!
We’re talking kids clothes, from newborns right up to size 16. Books, toys, shoes, nursery items, prams, car seats and more! They also sell hand-made jewellery and hair accessories made by locals.
Don’t worry, you don’t need to sort through thousands of items to find your size. Each size has a separate row, all hanging up and easy to view.
The best part about this place is that you can take in your good quality items that you have outgrown, and exchange them for store credit.
How does it work?
You set up an account and donate your clothes. Once they sell in store, a percentage of the sale goes into your account to use as credit. It’s such a great, sustainable way to shop! Check their website or Facebook page daily to see what items they are accepting.
Even better - there’s a gated playroom! So you can shop away while the kids play. Don’t forget to say Hi to resident pup, Dexter. He’s adorable. Can’t get to the shop? Don’t worry, you can also shop online. They even have their own app!
Mamma’s special mention:
Take the kids right next door for loads of fun at Sk8house!