Ingrid Wilde returned to the humble town of Olinda after a discovery trip to Egypt in the late ‘80s only to begin her own unique shopping experience inspired by travel.
What evolved was her business Where The Wilde Things Are, offering an array of treasures, gifts, jewellery pieces and textiles.
“I returned from an archaeology trip to Egypt in 1989 fuelled with a passion to start my own jewellery design business which eventually grew into the shop and online store you see today,” Ingrid said.
“Where The Wilde Things Are is a store like no other where you will find the most beautiful and unique handmade treasures and accessories from near and far.”
Bringing the cultures of India and Myanmar to the local doorstep, alongside Australian crafted and designed jewellery by Ingrid herself, there’s always something to be found in the cosy, dog friendly store.
“Silk clothing made from repurposed vintage sarees, Pali baskets handwoven in Myanmar from brightly coloured recycled plastics, scarves, bags, elegant block printed cotton dresses are just some of the treasures you will see,” she said.
With gifts a being big part of what Where The Wilde Things Are offer, coming into the Christmas period, Ingrid said she would like to help keep costs low reducing many items by up to 70 per cent off.
“We’ve decided to help our customers keep their cost of Christmas shopping to a minimum, with a sale of our beautiful accessories.”
Having been designing and making jewellery for over 30 years, Ingrid’s array stretches from heirloom bridal accessories to special occasion and costume jewellery.
“My jewellery designs largely feature Swarovski Crystal and freshwater pearls and I love bringing my clients’ jewellery dreams to life.”
Ingrid was able to bring her own beach wedding jewellery dream to life earlier this year when she and her partner married at Wategos Beach in Byron Bay.
While travelling the world to locate ethical and sustainable items has been a highlight for Ingrid, there is one thing in her career that stands out above them all.
“Though curating handmade treasures from around Australia and across the globe, I enjoy delighting my customers, whilst supporting so many artisans, one of my career highlights was designing jewellery worn by Toni Collette in the iconic Australian movie, Muriel’s Wedding.”
Where The Wilde Things Are can be found at 4/540 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Olinda or contacted on (03) 8203 8262.
