Tell us about Nash + Banks ~

Nash + Banks is a curated platform designed to help people discover and shop a range of beautifully designed ethical, sustainable and artisan products. We handpick brands that are committed to having a positive impact and research each brand in detail to ensure their purpose, process, and products deliver against one or more of the eight core values that we are guided by.

What was the inspiration behind starting the business ~

The initial seed was planted when I worked for an NGO in the cloud forests of Costa Rica. But it wasn’t until after the birth of our children that my awareness of the increasing cost of overconsumption grew to a level that I couldn’t ignore any longer. I became frustrated with my the feeling of powerlessness to effect change. To try and combat this, I made a commitment to make better choices wherever I could.

I started searching for brands that offered alternatives that were either ethical, sustainable, organic, small-batch, handmade, low waste, vegan or social enterprises that gave back. Interesting and unique products, that fit my aesthetic, were well designed and made with purpose.

What I discovered was an inspiring community of change-makers, innovators and artisans all dedicated to rewriting our future. However, the process of sourcing, researching and vetting the products and brands is time-consuming and I couldn’t find one lifestyle platform that offered me what I was looking for...so I built it.

Top 3 learnings you’ve had through your entrepreneur journey so far ~

Have a firm purpose as the ultimate reference for your decision making and the fixpoint to navigate your business towards. But at the same time retain the flexibility to meander here and there along the way.
There is nothing more valuable for a young business than a great network of experienced mentors. Ask any relevant contact for help as often and confidently as you can. Then listen and take their advice as long as it doesn’t challenge your purpose.
Aside from great advisors, it is important to immerse yourself within a great community of like-minded founders, changemakers and innovators. The bigger your network the more likely you might find the solution to a problem you can’t solve yourself. It is more fun than doing it alone and does wonders for your sanity on those doubtful days.

3 picks from your online store ~

I’m obsessed with the Atelier Stefanie’s Heloise shoes in black and silver. Not only are they exquisitely designed, but having spent time with Stefani herself understanding her process for making her shoes, they are truly works of art brought to life with heart and soul.
The Helena Necklace by Sophia Maria is another piece that I adore. Sophia makes all of her jewellery to order in her studio in Manly using 100% recycled metals locally sourced and recycled right here in Australia. There is a beautiful wabi sabi nature to every piece that can only be achieved created slowly by hand.
I hadn’t really thought about the fact that standard chewing gum contains plastic and synthetic rubber until I met Alec from Swell Gum. He and his partner have worked tirelessly to create an effective alternative that is 100% natural, plant-based and zero waste (including their packaging). It’s a brilliant example of a conscious alternative that outperforms in every way.

Nash + Banks