Stories

Craft Gift Experiences for Dad in Sydney

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By Iain Wang

Our co-founder, Iain, shares his favourite crafty gift experiences for dads in Sydney!

Find Your Calm with These 5 Spring Craft Ideas

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By Tiffany Fung

Craving a slower pace? Embrace simple living with these fun, mindful spring craft ideas, from soap making to pickling and beyond.

First Time Dad Gifts for Every Kind of New Father

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By Jana Lepojevic

Celebrate fatherhood with these unique first-time dad gifts. From foodie adventures to creative escapes, find the perfect experience to suit hisCelebrate fatherhood with these unique first-time dad gifts. From foodie adventures to creative escapes, find the perfect experience to suit his style. ...

Is Creativity the Cure for Loneliness?

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By Laine Fullerton

Discover the science behind the power of creativity and connection.

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!

Meet Chelsey Teale

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By Kellie Maloney

Meet Chelsey Teale, the Sydney artist who transformed her side hobby into a full-time job and discover why you should try pouring paints!

5 Creative Activities to Enrich Your Senses

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By Laine Fullerton

That are just as fun as they are beneficial.

Digital Detox Ideas in Sydney

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By ClassBento Team

Our digital devices are taking over our lives. Our phones have transformed from being a device that could only help us talk to people, to becomingOur digital devices are taking over our lives. Our phones have transformed from being a device that could only help us talk to people, to becoming an endless source of entertainment and engagement. And it's the first place we turn if we're looking for things to do this weekend. It’s no surprise that our devices are so hard to switch off, since they’re designed to be addictive. When we see an email, a comment or a ‘like’, we feel cared about, we feel important – it’s the pleasure of basic social recognition. When we see some news or updates, we feel a rush from our brain’s hit of dopamine. It’s a big problem. Big enough that companies like Google, Apple and Facebook are getting in on the act, providing apps and tweaking their products to help us control our cravings. And it's a problem worth solving. A more balanced life, with more mindfulness, has huge benefits. Studies have shown a correlation between digital addiction and depression/anxiety. Intuitively, you’ll of course have a lot more time to build and develop personal relationships, and relax as you take a break from chasing digital pats on your back, and enjoy the simpler things in life. If you live in Sydney, digital detox is arguably easier than elsewhere. Let’s take Singapore as a comparison. Instead of facing stifling tropical heat and humidity (or torrential downpours) when you step out the door, Sydney actually has pretty nice weather most of the year. Instead of a tiny island where going to malls is the main respite, Sydney has a huge number of activities and natural beauty to enjoy. Here are some of our favourite tips for Sydney-siders (or tourists here for a stay) undertaking digital detox. Get in the water. Swimming, kayaking, or any physical water sport. It’s pretty hard to check your emails while doing any of these activities (even if you have a waterproof device – if you’re anything like me (unfit), you’ll be too busy struggling to stay alive). Be inspired by the beauty of Sydney’s pristine beaches while you’re out there, and remind yourself of the beauty that just can’t be wholly captured in an Instagram photo. Team sports. We Aussies love our sports. Get some friends and go on your detox journey together – it’s harder to quit halfway when you’ve already made promises to your friends. The adrenaline rush you get from sports also keeps you buzzing immediately afterwards (negating the need for electronic stimulants), and also helps you sleep later that night - you'll be too tired to even bother checking your phone. Creative classes. Keep both your mind and your hands occupied as you decide exactly how you want to design a mini garden landscape in a bowl. Mentally travel back to earlier days without the need for scrolling back through your social media, by playing with nostalgic scents in a fragrance-making or candle-making workshop. Or pick up some practical skills like cooking, that you can use over and over again. ClassBento has a range of workshops held in-person by passionate local experts. Meet some new people and form some meaningful and real social connections.   Have other tips that are specific to Sydney? Do let us know. Otherwise, we hope you've found these tips useful! ...

Learn How to Make Macarons in Sydney

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By John Tabari

Learn how to make macarons at fun baking classes in Sydney.  French or Parisian Macaron What people often refer to as a ‘Parisian’Learn how to make macarons at fun baking classes in Sydney.  French or Parisian Macaron What people often refer to as a ‘Parisian’ or ‘French’ macaron is the traditional recipe. That is, two meringue biscuits on top of one another with a sweet filling. Usually ganache, buttercream, smooth cream or caramel. They are easy to make but you must adhere closely to the recipe, otherwise they could end up with an undesirable appearance or texture. To make any variation of the macaron, you should first acquaint yourself with the basic recipe or alternatively if you dare you could book a class with MakMak's macaron making class in sydney If not then read on!   How to make macaron shells:   Whisk egg whites until they form meringue. You will know you’re at this point when you lift the whisk out of the bowl and it leaves stiff peaks. Add any food colouring or flavour at this point. Process almonds in a blender until smooth. You can also combine powdered sugar in the blender too. Sift this mixture well to get rid of any clumps. Fold the sifted almond granules and powdered sugar into the meringue. Continue to fold until you achieve a shaving foam consistency. Using a piping bag, pipe the mixture in the desired size onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave around an inch between each shell. Tap the baking sheets firmly a couple of times to release any air bubbles. Leave to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes until the shells form a skin. Bake for 10-12 minutes at 325 F until they have risen and set. Let them cool before adding the filling. How to make a macaron buttercream filling: Cream butter until it’s smooth. Then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla and milk until fluffy. Using a piping bag, pipe the filling onto one shell and gently compress both shells together.   Various fillings   You may want to change up your fillings depending on the flavour of the macaron whether sweet, savoury or a fruity flavour. For instance for a savoury macaron a common substitution for buttercream is cream cheese, which you can also make from scratch. You could get really experimental and see how smooth peanut butter or lemon curd work. Anything that has a thick, pasty consistency could work. But be sure to steer clear of ingredients with high moisture contents such as whipped cream or ice cream, as these will dissolve the shells. Make sure you’re gentle when adding a filling; they are delicate and pressing too hard could crush them.     Different Shapes   If you think that you’re a pretty skilled baker, or have mastered the simple macaron, try experimenting with different shapes. MakMak’s CEO Carlos the “Mak” daddy of macrons can give you your first steps in creating some amazing macarons with his macaron making class. If you’re game you could make animals, flowers or even other food shapes with macarons. Similarly, another Toronto baker, Christopher Siu creates macaron characters, including some faces you might recognise.   To make these macarons, follow the basic recipe. When it comes to piping out the mixture, you would need to pipe it into the desired shape. To achieve the desired colour, add food colouring in while you’re folding the dry ingredients into the egg whites.   Be careful though, these treats may end up being too adorable to eat. Taste test more of the best baking classes in Sydney here.  Bonus: Macaroons   People often confuse macarons and macaroons, thinking that they’re the same thing. In fact, if you google ‘macaroon’ you will still see results for macarons. But macaroons are a coconut based sweet, which is chewy on the inside with a crisp exterior. They are quite different from the traditional French macaron. The Anglicised pronunciation of ‘macaron’ often lends to the confusion.   Start by mixing sweetened condensed milk, shaved coconut flakes and vanilla extract until well combined. Then whisk egg whites and salt, the way you would to get meringue. Add the two mixtures together and fold. Scoop small dollops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking tray. Then bake at 325 F for 25 minutes.   For some extra sweetness, dip the bottom of the macaroons in melted chocolate and then refrigerate for 10 minutes. Let the chocolate set and enjoy.   Macaron Troubleshooting Tips   Anyone who has attempted to make macarons will know that they don’t always turn out well. In fact, they often turn out less than perfect, since the margin for error could occur at any time throughout the baking process. Here’s what to look for if your macarons aren’t quite up to the Ladurée standard: Peaks on the shell. This can happen when the dry ingredients were not sifted enough or the batter was under-mixed. Cracked shell. This happens when the batter is overmixed. Uneven Shell. The batter is too liquidy or under-beaten. Too Crispy. The shells were left in the oven too long. ...

9 Custom Dad Gifts You Can Create Just for Him

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By Jana Lepojevic

Discover 9 custom dad gifts you can make yourself. From mugs to wallets, create unique presents that show Dad how much you care.

Meet MakMak Macarons

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By Charlotte McKewen

Meet founder of MakMak Macarons, Carlos Heng - the creator of Sydney's tastiest award-winning round treats!

Experience Gift Cards in Australia Foodies Will Love

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By Katie Milton

Treat the foodies in your life with unforgettable experience gift cards in Australia that will let them go behind the scenes and learn from culinaryTreat the foodies in your life with unforgettable experience gift cards in Australia that will let them go behind the scenes and learn from culinary pros. ...

Experience Gifts for Every Type of Sydneysider

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By Jana Lepojevic

Discover experience gifts in Sydney for every type of person. From paint and sip classes to cooking courses, these present ideas are sure to makeDiscover experience gifts in Sydney for every type of person. From paint and sip classes to cooking courses, these present ideas are sure to make them smile. ...

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. ...

7 Reasons Experiences Make the Most Meaningful Gifts for Her

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By Jana Lepojevic

Find meaningful gifts for her in Sydney with experiences that place value on moments over things and are tailored to her passions and interests.

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!

DIY Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Bars

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By Courtenay Turner

The ultimate combination of two top-notch sweets, this DIY chocolate recipe is fun to make and a serious step up from store-bought Easter eggs.

Unconventional Gifts for Friends Who Have Everything

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By ClassBento Team

Give your loved ones DIY presents they'll remember with these unique experience gift ideas in Australia, guaranteed to bring a smile to their faGive your loved ones DIY presents they'll remember with these unique experience gift ideas in Australia, guaranteed to bring a smile to their face. ...

7 Fail-proof Gift Ideas for Mum Under $150

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By Jana Lepojevic

Show Mum you care and protect your wallet with these thoughtful gift experiences for mum that are under $150.

Help the Planet with Our Eco Friendly Gift Ideas in Sydney

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By Sam Bowden

Hunting down eco friendly gift ideas in Sydney shouldn't be difficult. ClassBento is here to offer you a few tips, tricks and suggestions to makeHunting down eco friendly gift ideas in Sydney shouldn't be difficult. ClassBento is here to offer you a few tips, tricks and suggestions to make your birthday as environmentally friendly as possible! ...

Celebrate Your Next Event with Floristry Classes in Sydney

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By Jana Lepojevic

Elevate your next event with floristry classes in Sydney. Create flower crowns, bouquets and more to celebrate a hens, birthday, Valentine's or yourElevate your next event with floristry classes in Sydney. Create flower crowns, bouquets and more to celebrate a hens, birthday, Valentine's or your mum! ...

6 Unique Presents for Dads Who Love DIY

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By Kellie Maloney

Find the best gifts for dads who love DIY! Explore classes in glassblowing, woodworking, knitting, and more. Perfect for Father's Day and specialFind the best gifts for dads who love DIY! Explore classes in glassblowing, woodworking, knitting, and more. Perfect for Father's Day and special occasions. ...

Meet Vanessa Opazo

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By Kellie Maloney

From full-time architect to calligraphy artist, Vanessa Opazo of Bondi Letters wants to share the art of calligraphy and empower you through creativity.

7 Different Painting Courses to Try in 2025

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By ClassBento Team

Try these fun-filled painting courses to try your hand at different painting techniques and learn the difference between each from watercolour toTry these fun-filled painting courses to try your hand at different painting techniques and learn the difference between each from watercolour to oil paints. ...

The Best Art Classes for Adults in Australia

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By ClassBento Team

Explore hands-on adult art classes in Australia. From acrylic pouring to resin art, find the perfect class to relax and unleash your creativity.

Who Said Women Can't Make Sausages

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By Kellie Maloney

Discover how a sausage maker, a talented threader, a glass smith and a macramè master challenge gender stereotypes in their chosen craft.

13 Thoughtful Wedding Gifts for Couples Without a Registry

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By ClassBento Team

Discover thoughtful gift experiences for couples who don’t have a registry and get your favourite duo cooking up a storm, playing with clay orDiscover thoughtful gift experiences for couples who don’t have a registry and get your favourite duo cooking up a storm, playing with clay or getting crafty. ...

13 Personalised Gifts for Mums Who Live Far Away

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By ClassBento Team

Looking for personalised gifts for Mum? These handpicked gift experiences are the perfect way to show you care, no matter how far apart you are.

Budget-Friendly Gifts for Mum from Daughter

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By Jana Lepojevic

From cooking to art classes, find budget-friendly gifts for Mum from a daughter across Australia, and strengthen your bond without breaking the bankFrom cooking to art classes, find budget-friendly gifts for Mum from a daughter across Australia, and strengthen your bond without breaking the bank in 2023. ...

The Best Gift Cards for Every Type of Person

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By Tiffany Fung

Not sure what to get for your Mum, best friend or partner? Look no further than our experience gift cards in 2023 to help make their day extra sNot sure what to get for your Mum, best friend or partner? Look no further than our experience gift cards in 2023 to help make their day extra special. ...

Why Cooking Classes Are the Best Team Building Activities in Sydney

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By Courtenay Turner

Looking for team building activities in Sydney that aren't a bore? Check out these hands-on corporate cooking classes and whip up something seriouslyLooking for team building activities in Sydney that aren't a bore? Check out these hands-on corporate cooking classes and whip up something seriously special together. ...

Quirky Birthday Party Ideas and Gifts for Dog Lovers

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By Annie Symmonds

Discover pet-themed birthday party ideas to celebrate your friend in style. From pet portraits to dog statues, find top birthday ideas for dog parents.

5 Sydney Experiences That Will Lift Your Mood

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By Sam Bowden

Looking for Sydney experiences that will lift your spirits? From glassblowing to ramen-making, here are five cozy activities to do this weekend!

Practical Eco Friendly Gifts for Him in Sydney

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By Sam Bowden

Searching for sustainable presents for the special man in your life? ClassBento has an array of eco friendly gifts for him in Sydney that are perfectSearching for sustainable presents for the special man in your life? ClassBento has an array of eco friendly gifts for him in Sydney that are perfect for birthday experience gifts. ...

Meaningful Gifts for Dad from Son That Inspire Quality Time

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By Tiffany Fung

Looking for the best gifts for Dad from son? Pick fun experiences that help you spend quality time together, from cooking classes to paint and sipLooking for the best gifts for Dad from son? Pick fun experiences that help you spend quality time together, from cooking classes to paint and sip sessions. ...

Unique Ideas for Birthday Party Themes in Australia

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By Annie Symmonds

Giving your birthday a theme gives your party planning a focus and makes it easier to come up with birthday party ideas and activities that everyoneGiving your birthday a theme gives your party planning a focus and makes it easier to come up with birthday party ideas and activities that everyone will love! ...

Alternative Corporate Team Activities for Every Type of Work Event

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By Laine Fullerton

Looking for the best team building activities for the best corporate event you're planning? Check out these fun classes for team building ideas.

Glow Up Marriage Anniversary Traditional Gifts with Unforgettable Experiences

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By Tiffany Fung

Discover our modern take on marriage anniversary traditional gifts that actually speak from the heart. Think jewellery classes, floristry coursesDiscover our modern take on marriage anniversary traditional gifts that actually speak from the heart. Think jewellery classes, floristry courses and more! ...

Discover the Benefits of Adult Art Classes in Sydney for Yourself

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By Jana Lepojevic

Discover the benefits of Sydney adult art classes for personal growth. Tap into your artistic potentional as you explore different mediums and tDiscover the benefits of Sydney adult art classes for personal growth. Tap into your artistic potentional as you explore different mediums and techniques. ...

The Best Cooking Classes in Australia for Travel Lovers

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By ClassBento Team

Enjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch thatEnjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch that travel itch! ...

Why a Paint 'n Sip Party Is the Ultimate Way to Celebrate

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By ClassBento Team

If you’ve got a special occasion coming up, gather your loved ones for an evening of unforgettable entertainment at a paint ‘n sip party inIf you’ve got a special occasion coming up, gather your loved ones for an evening of unforgettable entertainment at a paint ‘n sip party in Australia. ...

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! ...

Unique Gifts for Women (Or Men) in Sydney

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By Susana Aguilera

Here's 9 gift experiences for her or him in Sydney that will make the next birthday, Mother's Day or any special occasion they won't forget...

Learn How to Paint Abstract Art for Beginners

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By Tiffany Fung

Curious about abstract painting? Join fun, beginner-friendly abstract art classes in Australia and discover how relaxing, creative, and joyfullyCurious about abstract painting? Join fun, beginner-friendly abstract art classes in Australia and discover how relaxing, creative, and joyfully messy it can be. ...

Daughter-to-mum Gifts That Will Warm Her Heart

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By Courtenay Turner

Soak up some quality time together this Christmas with the best daughter-to-mum gifts in Australia. Make memories, spark joy and strengthen yourSoak up some quality time together this Christmas with the best daughter-to-mum gifts in Australia. Make memories, spark joy and strengthen your bond. ...

5 Best Date Ideas to Help Spark the Romance

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By Tiffany Fung

Ignite the romance in your relationship with one of our unique date night ideas in Australia, from spinning clay on a wheel to making custom DIYIgnite the romance in your relationship with one of our unique date night ideas in Australia, from spinning clay on a wheel to making custom DIY jewellery. ...

Holiday Favourites: Natasha Dsouza, Community Partnerships Manager

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By ClassBento Team

Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!

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!