Fara Sutjipto, Owner, Denim Co.
Life is more precious than money ever will be ...
Before the combo cafe became a trend, Fara Sutjipto opened Denim Co. on Little Stanley Street in 2001, bringing a new retail and hospitality concept to South Bank’s streets. Upon returning from a holiday in Europe, Fara combined her passion for coffee, eye for fashion and love of all things beautiful to create Denim Co. boutique and cafe. Continuing to utilise travel as a means for inspiration and to source the latest designs from new labels, Fara ensures continual renewal in both the fashion and food aspects of her business. Stocking labels like Marnie Skillings, Karla Spetic and American Vintage, this fashion cafe is also home to a luxurious Italian hot chocolate, perfect for the current cooler season. The Weekend Edition spoke to Fara about her weekend essentials.
How do you like to start the weekend?
A nice sleep in is always welcome. And a cuddle and a kiss.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Saturday morning?
I love visiting the markets, either New Farm or West End, for some good fresh food, produce and homemade craft. I feel like I am able to travel the world just by visiting the markets, tasting the food from around the world. My favourite is Turkish Gozleme.
How do you like to unwind?
A magazine, a cup of tea and good episode of Criminal Minds.
What are your essentials for a well spent weekend?
Good coffee, good food, great company.
What’s something you’ve been meaning to do on the weekend but haven’t got around to yet?
Get up early, go for a walk and invite friends for breakfast.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday evening?
Get cosy with my partner in front of TV with takeaway – or sometimes we go to South Bank for dinner and a movie.
What are you looking forward to next weekend?
Paniyiri Greek Festival.
What are you reading at the moment?
The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul by Deborah Rodriguez. It’s a story about five inspirational women who meet in a coffee shop in Kabul. It’s a very empowering book.
What inspires you?
People who never give up.
What was your childhood dream?
To live in Shaolin and be a Kung Fu master.
What has been your greatest achievement?
Having Denim Co. for nearly 11 years. It started from being just my sister and me to now having 20 great staff that help make Denim Co. the destination it is today.
What is success to you?
Being happy and content with life.
What are your words of wisdom?
Life is more precious than money ever will be.
Only a local would know that … Brisbane Roar’s two best players Broich and Berisha are Denim Co. regulars.
FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … Denim Co., South Bank
Relax … My balcony
Dine … Ginga, South Brisbane
Indulge … Ortiga, Fortitude Valley
Shop … Homewares stores in Paddington
Catch up … Yum Cha
Be inspired … By beautiful floristry
