Grief can do many things to a person, but for Georgia Harley it actually motivated her to start her online business.
While caring for her terminally ill father in 2013, she noticed the gifts visitors were bringing, including flowers and generic hampers, were not quite right for the delicate situation her dad was in even though she knew they meant well.
It made her realise there was an opportunity in the market for premium, convenient and meaningful gifts for people wanting to celebrate, commiserate or support.
“After my dad passed away I couldn’t let go of the care package idea and launched into start-up mode, redirecting my grief into passion for the business,” she explains.
With no experience in ecommerce, the former TV producer was led by her desire to connect people and cultivate happiness to launch Caring Canary.
“Caring Canary is a one-stop-shop for people to quickly and easily brighten someone’s day. The online store has a range of gift boxes and care packages that can be ordered and personalised in a few easy clicks and offers overnight delivery across Australia.
“A carefully curated care package is the most convenient way for busy, time-poor people to show someone they care and all Caring Canary packages contain hard-to-find, ethically-sourced and locally made artisan products, which support other Australian businesses,” she adds.
Packages include the Ultimate Chemo care package and Her Survival Kit that contain specially chosen items to nourish someone who is sick, unwell, in hospital or going through chemo. The Deepest Condolences package is a highly thought out gift alternative to sending a bunch of flowers during a time of grief, and the Ultimate Fittie care package is in line with health awareness trends and the increasingly popular luxe health industry.
Harley has also branched out into corporate giving and is collaborating with Australian businesses to create customised packages suitable for their needs.
By Marion Gerritsen
