Stories

Drool-worthy Sour Cocktail Recipe

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By Katie Milton

How the founder of Drool found love (and gin) in Melbourne lockdown.

Make Italian Meals with Cook with Luca

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By ClassBento Team

Make mouthwatering, rich and flavourful Italian meals at Cook with Luca's fun classes.

Holiday Favourites: Pressy Sankaran, General Manager USA

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By ClassBento Team

Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!

Stylish Party Ideas for a Sophisticated Hens Night

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By ClassBento Team

Plan a hens night that will go down in the history books with our range of classy hens party ideas across Australia!

Creative Present Ideas for Pinterest Loving Mums

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By ClassBento Team

Delight busy mums with our creative Mother's Day experiences. Pinterest-worthy presents for creative mums!

Alternative Corporate Team Activities for Every Type of Work Event

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By Laine Fullerton

Looking for the best team building activities for the best corporate event you're planning? Check out these fun classes for team building ideas.

The Colourful History of Jewellery Making

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By ClassBento Team

I'd never tried jewellery classes in Sydney before. When I was a kid, my mother took me to meet one of her friends for an afternoon lunch.    WeI'd never tried jewellery classes in Sydney before. When I was a kid, my mother took me to meet one of her friends for an afternoon lunch.    We had to pick her up at her house, she explained, because Betty was blind and couldn’t drive herself. Having never met a blind person before, a flood of wonder and curiosity washed over my young mind:   What would she be like? Would she be sad? What did she do if she couldn’t watch television?   When we pulled up the gravel driveway, Betty was already at the doorway, ready to greet us. She was smiling and waving, and with her dark sunglasses, you wouldn’t even suspect that she wasn’t look straight at us.   After introductions, Betty invited us inside for some iced tea before we went to the restaurant. As she turned to lead us into the house, I was mesmerized by her beautiful cascade of silver hair, pinned back with the most intricately beaded hair clip I had ever seen.   The clip was an oval about five centimeters long and a few centimeters high and was adorned with blue, red and yellow beads arranged in symmetrical patters. It reminded me of the mosaics we had learned about in school, yet somehow more impressive because of the minuscule size of the beads (I later learned that they were called seed beads.) They were so small; you could almost mistake the entire thing for patterned fabric.   My mother smiled. “She makes those herself, you know,” she said.   Though she couldn’t see my expression, Betty sensed my surprise and laughed.   “It’s true,” she said. “Come on, I’ll show you my collection.”   Betty lead me to a spare room, where she had set up a workshop. On top of her desk, she had everything to make the intricate clips: rows and rows of brightly colored beads, spools of thread, various sizes of scissors and pliers, and strips of leather.   Pinned up to the wall in neat columns were her finished products. Reds, blacks, oranges, greens, and blues. They were impossibly beautiful. Watching Betty show off her art made me realize how important beadwork was in her life. Just standing in her workshop, she was relaxed and full of joy.   For the rest of the day, I couldn’t stop thinking about Betty making those incredible hair clips. I had always enjoyed making crafts with beads at school, but I couldn’t imagine creating something so detailed. My mother explained to me that the beadwork was an integral part of Betty’s heritage as a Native American of the Owen’s Valley Paiute Nation in the United States, and she had probably learned very young. Not a lot of people have an interest in learning the craft anymore, she told me sadly.   Intrigued, I started researching the history of jewellery and beadwork on my own, finding a cultural history as elaborate as Betty’s art.   History of Jewellery Making Jewellery, which in its most primitive form constituted decorative shells, bones, and colored rocks, is thought to be older even than clothing. As humans began settling into communal agrarian societies, in Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt, jewellery developed into more ornate and sophisticated forms of art, alongside concepts like religion and governance.   At this moment in history, jewellery began gathering social significance. For example, the tomb of the pharaoh Tutankhamen, whose treasures are housed at the Egyptian Museum (2) in Cairo, is still the largest collection of jewellery in the world, and gives modern historians a good idea of the opulence afforded only to the most powerful royal figures of the time.     The next few centuries saw an explosion of jewellery trading that solidified the art as a staple of almost every European, North African, and Middle Eastern civilization. A historian can dedicate a lifetime to a single island in the Mediterranean, like Crete, and never learn everything there is to know about jewellery in the Ancient World. The waters are simply too deep.   At the same time, on two completely separated continents, jewellery was weaving another historical thread in North and South American settled societies. In Central and Southern civilizations, like the Aztecs and Mayans, silver and gold were popular materials for ornamental pieces. For Western tribes, like Betty’s, early forms of jewellery consisted of natural materials, such as shells, silver, ivory, colorful stones like turquoise, etc.   European colonists, surprised no doubt to see such beautiful jewellery in the New World, introduced glass and seed beads in the 16th century, revolutionizing Native American art. Today, Native American nations throughout the United States continue to produce beaded moccasins, hair pieces, and baskets to preserve the tradition. With such a diverse and vast history of jewellery in human civilization, it is no surprise that jewellery continues to be a key part of almost every society in the world. But in this age of mass-production, is there a way to preserve the age-old tradition of jewellery making? Is it even worth it to try?   Scientists say we have a very strong incentive to keep jewellery making around, namely its potential to improve our mental health.   One study (3), lead by Carolyn Adams-Price and Bernard Steinman of Mississippi State University, reviewed the impact of jewellery making on the mental wellbeing of 29 Canadian and American women, aged 31- to 64-years-old. All participants reported a psychological benefit, while 24% said that they experienced an increase in happiness and self-worth in particular.   The organization, Bonita Bead Boutique (4) in the United States, has recorded similar effects, from reduction in stress-related illness to improved cognitive function, in individuals participating in jewellery making for the first time.   Getting involved in jewellery making is incredibly easy. Jewellery making workshops are taught all over Sydney. Check out the long list of beginner’s classes by Chris Smalley: 1) nf!Earring making 2) nf!Beaded jewellery making and 3) nf!Jewellery repair and upcycle   Because of the broad definition of jewellery, there are endless options for beginner’s classes, based on your personal preferences. A typical introductory class will teach the basics of anything from beadwork to simple silver- or silicone-molding to creating your own porcelain beads and pendants.   References: (1) britannica.com (2) sca-egypt.org (3) aginghorizons.com (4) promedicahealthconnect.org ...

Make Her Smile with These Meaningful Gifts for Mum

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By ClassBento Team

This Mother's Day, put a smile on your mum's face with a special and unique gift experience. See our selection of Mothers Day gift ideas to getThis Mother's Day, put a smile on your mum's face with a special and unique gift experience. See our selection of Mothers Day gift ideas to get started. ...

Why Art Courses Are Good for Stress Relief

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By ClassBento Team

Relax, unwind and enjoy the stress-relieving benefits of art classes in Australia, where you can learn to paint, draw and much more!

Feel-Good Gifts for Her to Boost Health and Happiness

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By ClassBento Team

Whether you’re after a bridal shower treat or a thoughtful birthday gift, these feel-good gifts for her are sure to leave your special lady smWhether you’re after a bridal shower treat or a thoughtful birthday gift, these feel-good gifts for her are sure to leave your special lady smiling. ...

Nourish, Spoil and Support Her with These New Mum Gifts

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By ClassBento Team

Want to spoil the new Mum in your life? From Melbourne to Perth, our relaxing classes make the best new Mum gifts for those who need some nourishment.

Gourmet E Gift Cards for Adults Who Love Artisan Experiences

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By ClassBento Team

Discover gourmet experiences! Explore gift card ideas for delightful classes & workshops

Best Unique Experience Gifts in Australia

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By Annie Symmonds

Whether you’re looking for DIY birthday gift ideas or Christmas presents for Mum, there’s no better time to find the best unique experience giftsWhether you’re looking for DIY birthday gift ideas or Christmas presents for Mum, there’s no better time to find the best unique experience gifts in Australia! ...

Best Calligraphy Craft Kits for Beginners 2025

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By Sam Bowden

Here's a quick rundown on the best calligraphy kits for beginners and why this mindful art is so good for you!

How to Make Reusable Face Masks from Fabric

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By Sam Bowden

Want to make reusable DIY face masks that are also sustainable? Check out these craft classes and become a certified sewing sensation!

Gift Ideas for All the Men in Your Life

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By Grace Smith

Find experience gifts for him in Sydney and treat every man in your life to more of his passions and interests. Make memories and celebrate him.

9 Simple Swaps to Make Your Hens Party More Sustainable

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By ClassBento Team

Celebrate love and Mother Nature with sustainable hens party ideas! Join the eco-conscious bride-to-be and discover easy swaps for a more eco-friendlyCelebrate love and Mother Nature with sustainable hens party ideas! Join the eco-conscious bride-to-be and discover easy swaps for a more eco-friendly event. ...

Gourmet Gift Experiences for Couples Who Love to Cook

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By ClassBento Team

Looking for gifts for people who like to cook? Check out these gourmet cooking classes for couples run by passionate local chefs.

Can't Celebrate Together? Send Love with the Best Digital Gift Cards in Australia

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By ClassBento Team

Can’t be with someone you love on their special day? Discover a range of digital gift cards which you can present to your not-so-nearest and dCan’t be with someone you love on their special day? Discover a range of digital gift cards which you can present to your not-so-nearest and dearest. ...

Birthday Ideas for First Time Party Planners

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By Annie Symmonds

If it's your first time planning a party and you need some birthday ideas, try a creative workshop for a birthday activity that will delight yourIf it's your first time planning a party and you need some birthday ideas, try a creative workshop for a birthday activity that will delight your party guests. ...

Team Building Activities

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By Julia Carr-Catzel

Learn how team building activities can boost morale in the workplace and why it's so important. Explore our best corporate activity ideas with teamLearn how team building activities can boost morale in the workplace and why it's so important. Explore our best corporate activity ideas with team workshops. ...

Expand Your Creativity with Australia's Top Craft Classes

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By ClassBento Team

Unlock your creativity in 2025 with the top craft classes in Australia! From pottery to bullet journaling, discover mindful hobbies for a vibrant,Unlock your creativity in 2025 with the top craft classes in Australia! From pottery to bullet journaling, discover mindful hobbies for a vibrant, focused year. ...

Make Japanese Gift Wrapping with Larkswold Creative Workshops

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By ClassBento Team

Melinda and Emma from Larkswold Creative Workshops share their crafting journey and why they love sharing their creative passion with others!

13 Personalised Gifts for Mums Who Live Far Away

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By ClassBento Team

Looking for personalised gifts for Mum? These handpicked gift experiences are the perfect way to show you care, no matter how far apart you are.

How to Find the Best Practical Gifts for a Dad-to-be

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By Annie Symmonds

After practical gifts for a dad-to-be? Help him become the best first-time Dad ever with these fun creative experiences, from cooking to coffee makingAfter practical gifts for a dad-to-be? Help him become the best first-time Dad ever with these fun creative experiences, from cooking to coffee making and more! ...

Unique Ideas for Birthday Party Themes in Australia

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By Annie Symmonds

Giving your birthday a theme gives your party planning a focus and makes it easier to come up with birthday party ideas and activities that everyoneGiving your birthday a theme gives your party planning a focus and makes it easier to come up with birthday party ideas and activities that everyone will love! ...

Top 7 Hens Party Ideas for Eco-conscious Brides (2025)

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By Kellie Maloney

Opt for eco-friendly hens party ideas! Share laughter and joy with your leading ladies while being kind to the planet.

Cooking Classes Are Now Being Prescribed as Therapy

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By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Interested in relaxation and mindfulness? Culinary therapy may be just the thing! Give it a try at local Melbourne cooking classes.

How to Be Your Own Art Therapist

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By Kellie Maloney

Try out this simple, creative exercise and get a glimpse into what art therapy is and how it can improve your wellbeing.

Learn Calligraphy with Pascribe

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By ClassBento Team

Masterful calligrapher Paul Antonio has a penchant for sharing his passion with like-minded creatives... find out why!

Holiday Favourites: Katie Jeanes, Head of Marketing

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By ClassBento Team

Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!

Personalised Presents for Couples Who Have Everything

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By ClassBento Team

Think outside the box with these presents for couples who have everything and get them involved in cooking, glassblowing, latte art and more!

Stop Searching and Discover the Perfect Gift for Your Father-in-law in Australia

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By Annie Symmonds

Nail the perfect present for your father-in law with these creative gifts for Dad in Australia, from cocktail making workshops to cooking classeNail the perfect present for your father-in law with these creative gifts for Dad in Australia, from cocktail making workshops to cooking classes. ...

How to Find Happy Birthday Flowers They'll Love

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By Annie Symmonds

Instead of sending Happy Birthday flowers this year, hit up our handy guide and discover the best birthday gifts ideas.

Best Interstate Hens Party Ideas in Australia (2025)

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By Annie Symmonds

Looking for getaway destinations for an epic hens party? Uncover the best interstate hens party ideas around Australia to celebrate love in 2025Looking for getaway destinations for an epic hens party? Uncover the best interstate hens party ideas around Australia to celebrate love in 2025! ...

How to Make a Terrarium DIY

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By Julia Carr-Catzel

Succulents are the ideal household plant, and terrariums are a great home for them. Try out Sydney's most highly rated succulent terrariumSucculents are the ideal household plant, and terrariums are a great home for them. Try out Sydney's most highly rated succulent terrarium class and make one yourself. Succulent plants are a popular choice for modern Australian homes and gardens, due to their high-tolerance of various weather conditions, including life indoors. Teeming with water which is stored in leaves, roots and stems, these low-maintenance plants thrive almost everywhere, making them the ideal décor to spruce up a basic veranda or courtyard during the steamy summer months. Alternatively, owners can place succulents indoors, near windows to shower them with natural light. Pry through a gallery of frilled, spined and flower embellished succulents to liven up the indoors; opt for pincushion cactei dotted in beautiful hues of pink or perhaps a variegated zebra plant to match household décor. The number of succulent garden compositions are unlimited, choose from colours, shapes and sizes to adorn a bookend, hanging wall frame, wreath, pot, birdcage or terrarium. Not to mention the health benefits of indoor plants, such as the aloe vera plant, which produces cleaner air, lowers the risk of illness, boosts one’s mood and has potential to enhance concentration and memory. Despite their low-maintenance reputation, succulents thrive under a balanced upkeep. Refrain from over-watering when attending to your succulent garden, a common mistake among owners who overcompensate with a plant able to tolerate prolonged drought. Instead, make sure to check the soil moisture level with your fingers and water only when dry. Water or mist succulents at least once per week. Position them wisely with for time in shade each day, as succulents can burn when exposed to too much sunlight. Use a gentle formula once per month to fertilise. Do not combine succulents with non-desert dwelling plants Making your own succulent garden is therapeutic and rewarding activity to fill a morning or afternoon and doesn’t require any prior expertise. Adorning your home with a succulent garden can have aesthetically pleasing benefits for the inside of your home, as well as health benefits.  The terrarium making experience can be shared with others and doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Encourage family and friends to take part in a terrarium workshop with Christoper Saban, Creative Director of ‘Merchant and Green’ who conducts beginner workshops in Sydney, catering for plant-lovers looking to design and create their very own succulent garden. Christopher, who has over fifteen years’ experience as a floral decorator and stylist provides all plants and equipment, and caters to all skill levels. Equip yourself with a pyramid or quad glass container, choose from a wide variety of mini succulents, toy with vase river stones, dirty your hands with moss and soil and create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. Make a terrarium today. ...

Bring Her Pinterest Board to Life with These Crafty Hens Night Ideas

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By ClassBento Team

Calling all Pinterest enthusiasts! Uncover our selection of hens party ideas tailored for you and create a celebration that reflects your flair inCalling all Pinterest enthusiasts! Uncover our selection of hens party ideas tailored for you and create a celebration that reflects your flair in 2025! ...

One Year Anniversary Gift Ideas You Can't Miss

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By Annie Symmonds

Find inspiration for 1 year anniversary gift ideas in Australia that every couple will love! Get creative, unwind and connect over unique gift eFind inspiration for 1 year anniversary gift ideas in Australia that every couple will love! Get creative, unwind and connect over unique gift experiences. ...

Experience Gift Cards in Australia Foodies Will Love

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By Katie Milton

Treat the foodies in your life with unforgettable experience gift cards in Australia that will let them go behind the scenes and learn from culinaryTreat the foodies in your life with unforgettable experience gift cards in Australia that will let them go behind the scenes and learn from culinary pros. ...

3 Best Macrame Kits for Beginners

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By Sam Bowden

Does all this buzz about macrame kits have you intrigued? Macrame is the unsung hero of the fabric world, but ClassBento is here to give it the creditDoes all this buzz about macrame kits have you intrigued? Macrame is the unsung hero of the fabric world, but ClassBento is here to give it the credit it deserves. ...

Why You Should Take Up a New Hobby This Leap Year

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By Natalie Kemp

What to do this February leap year to improve your wellbeing, make social connections and make your life more interesting...

Want to Learn to Cook Like a Pro? Discover Australia's Top Culinary Schools

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By ClassBento Team

Learn to cook and discover a world of delicious new flavours with the help of Australia’s finest culinary schools!

Make Vegan Shortbread with Caroline Rowe

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By Courtenay Turner

Meet Caroline Rowe, the passionate foodie inspiring everyday Aussies to get creative in the kitchen and uncover the joys of cooking for one.

9 Heartfelt Gifts for Your Stepdad in Australia

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By Annie Symmonds

Soak up quality time with your stepdad and get creative together with these gifts for Dad in Australia, from terrarium making to BBQ cooking classes.

Craft Gift Experiences for Dad in Sydney

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By Iain Wang

Our co-founder, Iain, shares his favourite crafty gift experiences for dads in Sydney!

The Best Cooking Classes in Australia for Travel Lovers

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By ClassBento Team

Enjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch thatEnjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch that travel itch! ...

How to Host the Ideal Hens Party for an Introvert

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By ClassBento Team

Create a memorable hens party for the bride-to-be who enjoys time with her nearest and dearest with these nine unique ideas!

11 Reasons to Gift an Experience This Holiday Season

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By ClassBento Team

From minimising your environmental footprint to reconnecting with the community, read on for our top reasons why you should give experience giftsFrom minimising your environmental footprint to reconnecting with the community, read on for our top reasons why you should give experience gifts this Christmas. ...