Stories

Top Craft Ideas to Try in 2025

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By ClassBento Team

Getting crafty is fun and good for us! Reap all the benefits of getting hands-on and creative at a craft workshop. Start with these craft ideas forGetting crafty is fun and good for us! Reap all the benefits of getting hands-on and creative at a craft workshop. Start with these craft ideas for inspiration! ...

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! ...

Best DIY Pottery Kits 2025

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By Sam Bowden

You don't need a studio to master pottery! With these incredibly crafty DIY pottery kits, you can play with clay your own home!

Zero Waste Bartending: The Future of Cocktail Making in Melbourne

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By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Shake up sustainable drinks that favour foraging, fermentation and zero waste bartending with cocktail classes in Melbourne!

Birthday Party Ideas for Wellness Warriors

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By Annie Symmonds

Discover brilliant birthday party ideas for wellness warriors across Australia and treat them to an unforgettable celebration in 2025!

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.

Why I'm Gifting Mum Quality Time in 2025

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By Laine Fullerton

Want to give Mum the ultimate gift this Christmas? Our Australian Head of Content Laine lets you in on her top tip. (Hint: it’s all about makingWant to give Mum the ultimate gift this Christmas? Our Australian Head of Content Laine lets you in on her top tip. (Hint: it’s all about making memories!) ...

Sustainable Stocking Filler Alternatives

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By Tiffany Fung

Looking for something a little less wasteful to stuff in your stockings this Christmas day? Read on for our guide to the best experience gifts inLooking for something a little less wasteful to stuff in your stockings this Christmas day? Read on for our guide to the best experience gifts in Australia. ...

Fabulous Hens Party Ideas Every Bride Will Love (2025)

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By Annie Symmonds

Find the perfect hens party ideas for any type of bride! From pottery workshops to cocktail classes, there are so many fun hens activities aroundFind the perfect hens party ideas for any type of bride! From pottery workshops to cocktail classes, there are so many fun hens activities around Australia. ...

Top Ten Experience Gifts for Him

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By John Tabari

Make this the best Christmas ever and surprise the men in your life with the best gifts for him in Sydney, from wine tasting experiences to potteryMake this the best Christmas ever and surprise the men in your life with the best gifts for him in Sydney, from wine tasting experiences to pottery workshops. ...

Everything You Need to Know About Macarons

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By John Tabari

Learn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. WeLearn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. We imagine that this quintessentially French patisserie could only be the work of a French pastry chef. But, according to historic records, macarons date back to 8th century AD. With the first recorded instances baked in Venetian monasteries. The macaron came to France with Catherine de Medici, when she married King Henry II in 1533. Her pastry chefs continued to make these meringue-based biscuits for her when she moved over to Paris. According to one controversial Encyclopedia entry, it was two French nuns who invented macarons. The text claims that the dessert gained popularity when two Sisters baked and sold macarons during the French Revolution. They used their venture as a way to fund their housing while they were seeking asylum. Yet, those macarons were not the ganache-filled treat we know today. Those macarons were two meringue cookies atop one another, without any filling. As with the invention of the original macaron, there is a discrepancy about how the modern version was invented as well. Two French chefs claimed to have invented the sweet fillings; Claude Gebert and Pierre Desfontaines of Ladurée. They are both credited with having introduced a third layer to the sweet in the early 20th century.     French or Italian Recipe?   Although macarons originated in Italy, some 17th century Italian cookbooks include ‘French Macaron’ recipes. In any case, there are two distinct methods to making macarons; the Italian way and the French way. The difference comes from the meringue part of the recipe; specifically when to add sugar. The French recipe calls for egg whites to be whisked into meringue shapes before powdered sugar is folded in. The Italian method includes adding sugar to raw egg whites to make a paste. Today, the accepted method to bake macarons is closest to the French recipe.   Ladurée   Although macarons didn’t originate in France, we have a French patisserie to thank for their lasting popularity. Ladurée has been around for over 150 years. It was founded in 1862 by writer, Louis-Ernest Ladurée. The original location burned down during a late 19th Century uprising, so a second popped up. It was at the second location that the founder’s second cousin, Pierre Desfontaines, created the ‘Double decker’ macaron. This refers to two traditional macarons on top of one another bound together by a creamy, usually ganache or buttercream, filling.   The steady increase of these stores outside France attests to how popular the macaron has become. Ladurée is now present in almost 20 cities in Europe and many countries across four more continents.   International Interpretations   Keeping with the tradition of adapting the original recipe, may other cultures now produce their own versions of the dessert.     In the States, the composition of macarons remains the same, but the flavours are much more experimental. In France, you will find classics such as pistachio, raspberry and chocolate. In the US you can buy peanut butter and jelly, pumpkin, cheesecake and candy corn.   In Southeast Asian countries, recipes substitute traditional ingredients for local variations. Almond flour is substituted for peanut flower in Japan. Taiwanese recipes incorporate red beans and South Korean recipes use green tea leaves or powder. Discover the best types of macarons here.  Pop Culture   In Japan, where food can be cute, the macaron is a popular print for fashion items, stationery and even bedding. Simple and colourful, they decorate clothing and accessories along with other foods such as fruit and sushi.   In their attempts to create a more upscale image, McDonalds’ McCafe branches sell macarons in France and Australia. Interestingly, they are produced by a company owned by the same holding company as Ladurée. Yet, they don’t use the same recipe; McDonalds has a more limited flavour menu than Ladurée, offering six classic flavours. Ladurée, whilst not as experimental as some US macaron producers, does offer a wider range of French favourites. These include speculoos, rose and salted caramel. ...

Meet Zara Avila

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By Laine Fullerton

Colourful and cute polymer clay creations help jewellery maker Zara Avila see the bright side of life. At her virtual workshops you can join in theColourful and cute polymer clay creations help jewellery maker Zara Avila see the bright side of life. At her virtual workshops you can join in the fun! ...

Stop Buying Things and Start Giving Experiences for Gifts

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By Jana Lepojevic

Stop buying things and give experiences for gifts! Discover how to make 2025 memorable with thoughtful, fun and eco-friendly experience gift ideStop buying things and give experiences for gifts! Discover how to make 2025 memorable with thoughtful, fun and eco-friendly experience gift ideas. ...

4 Mother-Daughter Moments That Will Warm Your Heart

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By Courtenay Turner

From Japanese ceramics to mosaic-making, these creative experiences will warm her heart!

How to Create a Beautiful but Easy Watercolour Painting

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By ClassBento Team

Master the art of watercolours with these fun-filled painting classes in Australia and create your own unique masterpiece today!

Tried-And-Tested Gift Ideas for Mums Without a Wishlist

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By ClassBento Team

Struggling to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift for a mum without a wishlist? Explore our curated selection of thoughtful gift ideas for Mum!

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.

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! ...

Free Tips to Make Your Coffee Taste Better

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By Sam Bowden

If you want to learn how to make the perfect cup of coffee, check out coffee classes in Sydney. In the meantime, explore free coffee making tipsIf you want to learn how to make the perfect cup of coffee, check out coffee classes in Sydney. In the meantime, explore free coffee making tips. ...

Top Experiences to Give as Gifts for Any Special Occasion

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By Tiffany Fung

Read our beginner guide to unique experience gifts in Australia that will suit every special occasion, from creative birthday presents to fun ChristmasRead our beginner guide to unique experience gifts in Australia that will suit every special occasion, from creative birthday presents to fun Christmas activities. ...

7 Best Company Gift Cards for Team Building

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By Tiffany Fung

Looking for unique team building activities? Discover our range of company gift cards in Australia, from fun pottery classes to cosy tufting workshops.

7 Reasons to Gift Experiences in Melbourne

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By Kellie Maloney

From playing with clay to cooking a meal—here are 7 reasons why gift experiences in Melbourne should be on everyone’s shopping gift list!

Like Mother, Like Daughter

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By Laine Fullerton

What lessons have you learned from the women in your life? Here’s four makers whose mothers and grandmothers inspired them to pursue a creativeWhat lessons have you learned from the women in your life? Here’s four makers whose mothers and grandmothers inspired them to pursue a creative career. ...

Make Your Own DIY Garden Bouquet

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By Kellie Maloney

Surprise your special someone with a heartfelt bouquet using flowers from your very own backyard!

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. ...

Top Beginner Pottery Classes Around Australia

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By ClassBento Team

Meet like-minded people and get your hands dirty with pottery classes in Australia.

How Paint Pouring Helped Me Embrace My Individuality

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By Kellie Maloney

Beyond mesmerising swirls and splashes of colour, I discovered that there’s a lot more to paint pouring than making pretty pictures.

Cute Gifts for Your Girlfriend She Can Share with Friends

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By ClassBento Team

While there’s definitely a place for romantic date nights for two, these cute girlfriend gifts for her will win you serious brownie points withWhile there’s definitely a place for romantic date nights for two, these cute girlfriend gifts for her will win you serious brownie points with your special someone. ...

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!

5 Romantic Activities for Couples That Aren't Dinner and a Movie

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By Jana Lepojevic

Transform date nights with romantic activities for couples! Try pottery classes, barista courses, cooking adventures and more for a fun and creativeTransform date nights with romantic activities for couples! Try pottery classes, barista courses, cooking adventures and more for a fun and creative experience. ...

Creative Ways to Connect with a Loved One Living with Dementia

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By Kellie Maloney

We’ve put together a list of heartwarming ideas designed to help you reconnect with your loved one this Dementia Action Week and beyond…

At the End of This Quiz You'll Know Exactly What to Gift Your Partner

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By Laine Fullerton

Searching for gifts for couples? Take our quiz to unlock meaningful experiences, from crafting to cooking, designed for quality time together!

13 Reasons You Should Learn to Cook at a Culinary Class

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By ClassBento Team

Find out the top, tasty reasons to try cooking classes in Australia, from growing your confidence in the kitchen to calming your mind after a stressfulFind out the top, tasty reasons to try cooking classes in Australia, from growing your confidence in the kitchen to calming your mind after a stressful week. ...

Explore Your Inner Artist with Paint and Sip Classes in Australia

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By ClassBento Team

Channel your inner Picasso and sample some delicious wine at the same time with paint and sip classes in Australia! You don't need any experienceChannel your inner Picasso and sample some delicious wine at the same time with paint and sip classes in Australia! You don't need any experience to join! ...

Why It's Best to Learn Painting from a Pro

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By ClassBento Team

If you've always wanted to learn how to paint, there's no better way to learn than by enlisting the help of a professional at painting classes inIf you've always wanted to learn how to paint, there's no better way to learn than by enlisting the help of a professional at painting classes in Australia. ...

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. ...

Save Money and Become Your Own Barista

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By ClassBento Team

Learn how to make barista style coffee at home with a barista class in Sydney and save money on takeaway coffee without compromising on taste.

Thoughtful Experience Gift Ideas to Try Together

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By Tiffany Fung

If you’re wondering what to get for your loved ones in 2025, try our thoughtful experience gifts in Australia—guaranteed to put a smile on theirIf you’re wondering what to get for your loved ones in 2025, try our thoughtful experience gifts in Australia—guaranteed to put a smile on their face. ...

Make Chocolate Truffles with R&M Fine Chocolate

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By ClassBento Team

Meet head chocolatier, Raanan Malkin, founder of R&M Fine Chocolates!

Birthday Presents for Dads Who Love to Cook

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By Annie Symmonds

Get Dad feeling empowered in the kitchen with these birthday gift for Dads in Australia, from Mexican cooking classes to pasta making workshops.

Why So Serious? Hobbies Vs. Burnout

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By Sarah Hinds-Friedl

Discover fun team building activities in Australia to enhance workplace motivation and avoid burnout in 2025 by finding hobbies that you'll loveDiscover fun team building activities in Australia to enhance workplace motivation and avoid burnout in 2025 by finding hobbies that you'll love. ...

7 Creative Ways Our Team Keeps Their Brain Sharp

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By Laine Fullerton

From nature walks to knitting, the ClassBento team shares their favourite things they do to boost their brain health.

Celebrate Relationship Milestones with an Anniversary Gift Card

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By Jana Lepojevic

Celebrate your relationship milestones with an anniversary gift card. Find out how experience gift cards for couples deepen connections.

The Ultimate Guide to Personalised Gift Ideas for Couples

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By Tiffany Fung

Explore our 2025 guide to the most thoughtful and personalised gift ideas for couples. No matter what kind of couple they are, find the perfect presentExplore our 2025 guide to the most thoughtful and personalised gift ideas for couples. No matter what kind of couple they are, find the perfect present here. ...

5 Must-Visit Creative Neighbourhoods in Australia

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By Kellie Maloney

And your guide to the craftiest things to do when you’re there.

Hands-on Birthday Party Ideas and Gifts for Gardeners

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By Annie Symmonds

If you’re struggling to find birthday party ideas and gifts for gardeners, expect to find inspiration right here among our gardening classes inIf you’re struggling to find birthday party ideas and gifts for gardeners, expect to find inspiration right here among our gardening classes in Australia! ...

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! ...

Top Baby Shower Ideas

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By Julia Carr-Catzel

An afternoon of tummy-rubs from enthused relatives, tiny gender neutral socks and disgruntled eternally-single friends beaming from across the roomAn afternoon of tummy-rubs from enthused relatives, tiny gender neutral socks and disgruntled eternally-single friends beaming from across the room in a feigned act of felicitations - all gather in honour of the greatly anticipated newborn. The baby shower in Sydney. Overwhelmed with the ceaseless stream of advice from tired mothers and unwrapping gift after gift straight out of the first four pages of the ‘Baby Kingdom’ catalogue, you wonder if there’s an alternative to the predictable baby shower schedule. ClassBento have just the afternoon for you, with plenty workshops replacing small talk with environments promoting learning, creativity or simply meditative or therapeutic rest during the testing pregnancy months.   Zen and the Art of Block Printing Join Rowan Sivyer, watercolour artist and printmaker, in carving your way to peace in her Block Printing workshop. Rowan, who carves as a form of meditation, encourages students to reignite their creative streak with the simple act of wielding tools to cut rubber. The art is a powerful de-stressor, inexpensive and doesn’t require a lot of space. In Rowan’s workshop, you will learn the process of designing, carving and printing, as well as techniques and tips for creating simple blocks, layering stamps and repeating tile stamps. In the workshop, parents-to-be, friends and family can enjoy one another’s company whilst designing and carving a small rubber block to create beautiful stationery with.  Chocolate Making Aspiring chocolatier? Gather the Birthday Shower party and try a Chocolate Making workshop with 'Adora Handmade Chocolates', a company who have won numerous gold and silver awards and whose unique chocolates have earnt the respect of establishments among the likes of the Sydney Opera House who, in response to great demand, Adora supply to regularly. Learn about the history and benefits of great quality chocolate, made with the freshest ingredients including Belgian Callebaut chocolate and espresso coffee, minus the added preservatives or artificial flavours. Walk away with a knowledge of how to make signature butter truffles and temper chocolate in the two hour workshop. Succulent Garden Workshop Thick and fleshy, succulents are low-maintenance plants that come in variety of colours, shapes and sizes and have the potential to add a smidgen of personality to the no doubt highly debated nursery in months pre-birth. Follow Christopher Saban’s step-by-step guide to building your own terrarium garden in his ‘Succulent Terrarium’ workshop. Christopher, creative decorator of ‘Merchant and Green’ has over fifteen years’ experience as a floral decorator and stylist and will provide you with all materials required. Choose from a Pyramid or Quad glass container, layer with vase river stones, moss, soil and mini succulents to create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. Cake Decorating Between fiercely jotting down the titles of baby books from enthusiastic relatives and unwrapping of baby bottles, there is time for cake. And whilst the thought of simply sitting back and indulging in rich chocolate cake may sound appealing to the lethargic mother-to-be, a group task which encourages the entire family to get involved, such as cake decorating, may just spice up the afternoon in a way which does not deprive anyone of cake, but merely forces them to appreciate it. Jo, from ‘Wendy Jo Baking’, who is known for her creative cakes and beautiful and elegant design, will see you and the baby shower party licking your fingers, layer and stack double barrel cakes, spread swiss meringue buttercream, experiment with watercolour effects, apply gold leaf, prepare and arrange flower decoration and temper chocolate in her finger-licking workshop.   Celebrate the mother or father to be by helping them share a passion or learn a new skill with a ClassBento workshop. We have a great variety of classes to suit a diverse range of tastes, budgets and group sizes, and our experienced teachers are here to help make your baby shower that little bit more special. With a new bub on the way, the baby shower is the perfect time to take a minute to remember the joy of making, and our ClassBento workshops ensure all your guests will leave with a great new skill. They also help to get everyone involved in the fun, making them a great way to share the occasion with friends and family. ...