There’s a particular kind of creativity that comes from having more ambition than budget.

Last week was the Mumbrella Publish awards. “The Gardens” magazine, a project we work on with Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens, was nominated for best custom publication. We didn’t win (boo) but seeing our mag up in lights against the likes of Qantas and NAB was an all caps THRILL.

It buoyed me with pride and reminded me why I love working with not-for-profits, and always have.

People in this sector aren’t afraid to get scrappy. We think laterally, colour outside the lines, and do what needs to be done. It’s passion, adaptability and commitment to solving the problem that gets you there. And when you find a group of people aligned around what you’re trying to solve, you punch well above your weight.

I truly think constraints can make creative work better. When you can’t throw more money or minds at a problem, you think harder, make sharper choices, and find the idea that does more with less.

The Gardens is a great example of this. Made by a tight team who really care about bringing the genuinely groundbreaking and heartwarming stories of the Gardens to its members and supporters.

Huge shoutout to the teams at Botanic Gardens of Sydney, Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens, , as well as all the contributors who generously write for free because they know their voices make a difference.

To our collaborator and editor Nicola Conville, and finally, our legend of a client Ted Rose – who talked his local newsagent into stocking the magazine because he believes in it so much.

Love this crew, love this project, and always love an opportunity to drink prosecco with clients. Plants to the people – long may it last! 🌻✨🏆🥂