October is Small Business Month! And to celebrate, we’re highlighting some of the great small businesses we have throughout the region.
Today we’re celebrating the makers and doers who put heart into everything they create – from guiding small businesses to tell their story, to helping clients unwind and recharge, to keeping the joy of traditional toy shopping alive for another generation.
DIY Marketing Toolbox
Learn it. Do it. Grow it.
5 Wade Avenue, Armidale, NSW 2350
Developed by Vivid Thinking, the DIY Marketing Toolbox is an award-winning program giving small businesses the skills and confidence to take charge of their own marketing. Created by brand and marketing strategist Ingrid Rothe, the program helps business owners save time and money while achieving professional results. Each workshop delivers tailored advice, tools and strategies specific to your business – empowering you to build strong, branded materials that connect with your ideal clients.
With more than 25 years of experience across corporate, higher education and small-business sectors, Ingrid is passionate about getting the thinking right first, so you don’t waste time or marketing dollars. Frustrated by generic, upsell-driven training courses, she designed the DIY Marketing Toolbox to be hands-on and genuinely useful. Every registration includes a one-on-one consultation, a three-hour interactive session, electronic resources, and a follow-up meeting to make sure your new skills stick.
Offered as private sessions, in-house group workshops, or public programs, the DIY Marketing Toolbox brings big-business marketing expertise within reach for small businesses everywhere. It’s practical, personal and built for regional success – helping you market smarter, not harder.
Blithe Beauty and Massage
Personalised beauty and wellness care in Glen Innes
126 Byron St. Inverell , NSW 2360
At Blithe Beauty and Massage, every treatment is designed to help you look and feel your best. Offering a wide range of beauty and wellness services – from relaxing and remedial massage to facials, pedicures, waxing and microdermabrasion – owner Raina Watts has created a space where self-care truly comes first. With private health rebates available for massage, specialty add-ons like paraffin wax treatments, and luxurious facials tailored to your skin, clients can expect quality care in a calm, professional setting.
Raina brings warmth, experience and a genuine passion for helping people unwind and feel confident in their own skin. With a focus on personalised service, she takes the time to understand each client’s needs, ensuring every visit is both restorative and results-driven. Whether you’re seeking deep relaxation, targeted relief, or a little beauty indulgence, every treatment at Blithe is carried out with care and attention to detail.
It’s this thoughtful approach that makes Blithe Beauty and Massage a local favourite – a place where clients aren’t just pampered but truly cared for. Step into a space built for relaxation, comfort and confidence, and discover why so many keep coming back to Raina’s welcoming studio.
Carelles
A local favourite for toys, gifts, and old-fashioned service
250 Grey St. Glen Innes, NSW 2370
A Glen Innes favourite since 1969, Carelles has been a cornerstone of the community for generations. What began as a traditional toy shop has grown into a charming mini department store, offering everything from classic toys and board games to jewellery, haberdashery and school uniforms. It’s one of the last remaining independent toy stores in NSW and QLD – a place where customers can still find yesteryear treasures alongside the latest favourites.
Owner Sue Waters took over the business in 2014 after selling her family farm, bringing her lifelong connection to Glen Innes and a genuine love for local retail to the store. Under her care, Carelles has kept its welcoming, nostalgic feel while continuing to evolve. With shelves full of puzzles, games and gifts – including pieces from Kunjani Designs, Devine Designs, Merchants of Venus and Transglobal Trading – there’s something for everyone.
Known for its old-fashioned customer service, Carelles goes the extra mile to help shoppers find exactly what they need, even ordering special items when requested. It’s this warmth, variety and personal touch that keep generations of families coming back – proof that a local shop with heart can outshine even the biggest chains.
Throughout October, we’ll run stories highlighting the great local businesses we have right here in our communities. This is a free service – the businesses highlighted have not paid for this story.
Want to highlight your business? Just fill in this form – places are limited.
Please share this story to help support New England businesses! See all our Small Business Month profiles here.