Creating with confidence
Alice Robb with her cards at Little Beehive.
At 29, Alice Robb has carved out a business that’s as colourful and full of life as she is. Living with Down Syndrome hasn’t stopped her from pursuing her passion, in fact, it has given her a unique drive and perspective. With her handmade cards now sold across the region, Alice is proof that creativity, confidence, and a little community spirit can open doors.
Words: Amy Russ
From colouring books to a business, Alice’s love of colour began when she was young and returned to her life through adult colouring books. What started as a simple hobby soon grew into something more. “It feels good,” she says. “It’s my happy place.” Her mum, Marg, recalls how the idea of turning Alice’s designs into cards came about: “Alice suggested she wanted to sell her pictures. Then her father’s partner had some printed up. Once that happened, we started compiling them, and Alice gave a few away to see what people thought. Sue, the owner of the Junction Shop in Richmond where I work, gave us advice and from there other stores jumped on board.”
Today, Alice’s cards can be found at The Little Beehive Co-op, Alioke Eatery, Rabbit Island Coffee Co., The Junction Shop Deli, as well as local markets like Beacon Hill. And the best part? Alice does it herself, colouring, compiling, and even approaching businesses. “It links her into the community, gives her a sense of achievement and confidence,” says Marg. Having previously worked at WINZ and The Dress Up Box, Alice has always been connected to work, but this venture feels different, it’s personal, it’s hers. “It just really gives her confidence,” Marg adds. “And the feedback has been incredible. People don’t know Alice is my daughter when they buy the cards at The Junction, so I get to hear their honest reactions. It makes me smile every time.”
The way Alice works is as organic as her designs. Sometimes she’ll sit in the sun, colouring quietly for hours. Other times, she’s experimenting with new ideas, themes, or even designs inspired by her nephew, Luca. “I like landscapes too,” Alice says, noting her uncle is a landscaper. She’s also drawn to patterns and mandalas, following wherever her imagination leads. When asked where she’d like to see her business go, Alice doesn’t hesitate: “My own building!” she says with a big grin. She’s also passionate about fundraising, particularly for causes close to her heart such as the Special Olympics. For Alice, the cards are a way of giving back as much as they are about self-expression.
If Alice had to sum up her business in a couple of words, they’d be simple: “Just believe.” It’s a mantra that captures her journey, from hobby to business, from idea to reality. Each card sold carries a touch of Alice’s creativity, a reminder of what belief can bring to life.