Our Joyful Story

From Joyful Plates to The Joyful Place

We first started by hosting family-friendly workshops and cultural celebrations across Melbourne and Sydney — everything from Lunar New Year festivities to Mid-Autumn mooncake making. These experiences brought families together to cook, craft, and learn, while also helping children connect to their heritage in playful ways.

As our community grew, so did our vision. We wanted a permanent home — a studio where workshops, child-led birthday parties, and partner programs could all live under one roof. That dream became The Joyful Place: a space built with heart, meaning, and community at its center.

We are the Joyful People

The Joyful Place is guided by people who believe in creating with heart. We’re more than event hosts — we’re educators, storytellers, and community builders who love seeing children and families light up with joy.

Together, we are building a community where families and creators feel welcome, connected, and inspired. The Joyful Place is more than a studio — it’s a home for joyful memories.

Rachel

Founder / Chief Joy Curator

Emily

Founder/ Chief Joy Creator

Hi, I’m Rachel! As I raised my children, I found myself rediscovering the simple joys of my own childhood — cooking, playing, and celebrating together. I wanted other families to have that same chance: to slow down, connect, and make meaningful memories.

Over time, that joy grew beyond my own family and into a community. And now it has found a home. The Joyful Place is a calm and welcoming space where families, children, and joyful creators can come together to cook, play, and celebrate life’s moments with heart.

I would love for you to join us here — a home where joy is created, shared, and cherished.

Hi, I’m Emily!

My journey has always revolved around food, family, and culture — from creating the Museum of Food Singapore, to writing a heritage food book, to designing workshops and programmes that connect families through cooking, crafts, and shared stories.

When I’m not dreaming up programmes or scribbling down recipes, you’ll probably find me chasing after my 4 kids, sneaking in a good coffee, or happily lost in a neighbourhood market (my version of treasure hunting). I love bringing people together around a table, trying new flavours, and finding joy in the little, ordinary moments that make life feel big.