What a whirl-wind year 2008 has been ... and we have only just entered spring!
The year began with a bang at Woodford Folk Festival, QLD where I met many old friends excited to see what garments I had on offer this year.  It was back home to scrub mud off my feet and everywhere else for the next week or so ... until next year.  

Festivals and shows are always alot of fun but always a lot of hard work too, I dreamt about what festivals or shows I would next like to showcase mini mermaid in 2008.
I had always hoped to show my range at Fashion Exposed, but I applied after they had already booked out.   A bit disappointed I figured that this was not the year for me!
I was already juggling my business with being mum to then 2 year old, Trinity, with my second baby due in April 2008, so I figured I would rest up this year, be mum and give it my all next year!  And like the old saying goes - life happens while you are planning something else! 

A whole 17 days prior to Sydney Fashion Exposed I was invited to showcase in the new 'eco-friendly' precinct ... what do I say?  I never let an opportunity pass me by, however at 32 weeks pregnant, and a 2 1/2 year old, I hesitated ... only temporarily ... the cut off for domestic flights was 35 weeks ... I could do this, i thought ...   And I'm glad I did!
My range was received with a huge response, which led to features in various publications including Studio Bambini, My Child Magazine and many others.  I had interest from across Australia with Mini Mermaid now found in childrenswear boutiques Australia wide.  I was very pleased with the outcome of my first trade show, and just quietly, was very pleased I had survived a trip to Sydney and back by myself without going into labour ... yah for me!

My baby's due date arrived, but baby didn't ... not yet!  My gorgeous little model, and daughter, Trinity Rose, celebrated her third birthday, and started playgroup (big school)!  I welcomed my second daughter, Lily Belle, into the world (two weeks late).  She is a very placid baby which is fantastic as it sort of balances the chaos!

I am very proud to be showcasing my Winter 2009 range at Fashion Exposed - Melbourne in September 2008.  I am pleased to introduce my first 'real' winter range, which includes fun yet sophisticated styling, including lined jackets, tailored pants, fitted pinafores, vests, kurtas and dresses.  
Our fantastic designer children's wear is not only gorgeous, unique, colourful, fun and practical - all of our garments are limited editions, made from original vintage fabrics, complete with all of mini mermaid's trademark detailing!  
... and Mini Mermaid is designed, patterned, graded, manufactured and labeled in Australia in 100% sweat-shop free conditions - made with love to bring special and unique designs to life. 

Since May the designs have been numerous and endless ... I have designed a new range for newborns, also a range for mums called 'mama yum' which includes funky washable breastpads and a dress specifically designed for breastfeeding.  
This summer will also see 'mermaid ashore' re-born, a womens clothing label I started at the ripe old age of 17!  This is due to a request from many women wishing they could fit into my mini mermaid garments!
Plus many other bits and pieces!  

There is an exciting time ahead ... a little chaotic, a little wild, a little crazy ... but nevertheless definately exciting!

 
   I am very excited about my new ranges and can't wait to share them with you!
  Thank you for supporting mini mermaid!  
     Shannon Graham