By Abbey Cannan
Instead of retiring, a former teacher and lifelong active member of Noosa Surf Living Saving Club has taken inspiration from the Noosa biosphere to create a new career path.
For Peregian Beach local, Pam French, the Sunshine Coast has always been a special place.
Having spent weekends travelling from Brisbane to the Noosa area, a permanent relocation with husband Pete, now Director of Surf Sports for Noosa Surf Living Saving Club, to the area soon followed.
A creative at heart and a dedicated primary school teacher in both Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, complete retirement was never an option for Pam.
So throughout 2020, she embraced her creativity, skill and love of interiors and textiles to learn the art of lampshade design and embark on launching a brand new business venture, ’Shades of Peregian’, to be officially unveiled at the Peregian Markets on June 6.
As a bespoke lighting design service specialising in the creation of handmade lampshades ’Shades of Peregian’ was inspired by the natural surrounds of the biosphere Pam is lucky enough to call home.
“Every piece I create is inspired by our region and the vast colour palette we witness each day when we step outside,“ Pam said.
“From the ocean to the sand dunes, the national park to sunsets along Noosa river. Even on a rainy day, the Noosa Shire still shines.“
Pam sources fabric from local textile suppliers and works with her customers to create the perfect design for a space.
“The lighting in a room can really enhance the overall feel and aesthetic of a room, so it’s important to make a considered choice and one that compliments the overall styling of each home,“ she said.
’Shades of Peregian’ is proud to be a locally owned female start up, that not only celebrates the world class Queensland coastline, but demonstrates to women of all generations how a willingness to upskill and follow your passions can lead to a meaningful, profitable and fulfilling new career.
Find Pam at the Peregian Markets held in Kingfisher Drive, Peregian Beach, from June 6.
