The handmade edit
Creativity has always been part of life for Helen Parker, the maker behind Little Henny. Shaped by hands-on learning, family traditions and an appreciation for well-made things, her love of handcrafts began at a young age. The name Little Henny comes from a childhood nickname and quietly honours the skills passed down from her mum and maternal grandmother, whose influence still sits at the heart of every piece Helen creates.
Little Henny was officially born in 2017 following encouragement from friends and a successful first stall at a Murrayville market. What started as a small local venture quickly found its rhythm, built on strong community support and an appetite for thoughtful, handmade jewellery. In 2020, Helen expanded the business online, opening up a new chapter that saw Little Henny reach customers across Australia and take its place well beyond the Mallee.
As a proudly solo business, every element of Little Henny is led and managed by Helen herself. From designing the logo and creating each jewellery piece to running workshops, developing fundraising ideas, managing the website and marketing the brand, everything is produced in-house. A background in graphic design, completed prior to her teaching degree, has played an important role in shaping Little Henny’s visual identity and creative direction.
Individuality is central to Helen’s work. Many designs are created as one-offs, ensuring each piece feels personal rather than mass-produced. Even when certain styles prove popular, production is kept intentionally limited. This approach reflects the values of a small bush business, where connection and care still matter. Custom orders are welcomed, and aftercare is part of the service, with worn necklace cords or earring backs replaced free of charge – a small way of repaying the local support that helped Little Henny grow in its early days.
Sustainability underpins much of Helen’s creative process. Growing up in the country meant learning to be thrifty and resourceful long before sustainability became a trend. Today, that mindset translates into affordable, eco-conscious jewellery for women across the Mallee, Sunraysia and beyond. By combining new polymer clay with preloved beads and textiles, Helen reimagines forgotten materials and gives them a fresh, contemporary life.
Little Henny is based at Tutye, between Murrayville and Underbool, where Helen works from the farm. While rural living can feel isolating at times, the open landscape provides a constant source of inspiration and a slower pace that naturally influences both the making process and the finished pieces.
The Little Henny range continues to evolve, with core pieces including boho recycled-bead bracelets, earrings and necklaces, alongside polymer clay key rings, stud earrings, subtle specks and statement dangles. All earrings are finished with quality stainless steel posts. The collection also includes make-your-own necklace kits for kids, hair clips and trinket bowls.
A selection of Little Henny products can be found at the Mildura Visitor Information Centre, with the full collection available online. Follow Little Henny on Instagram and Facebook for updates, new releases and custom order enquiries.
About the Mildura Visitor Information Centre Gift Shop
Looking for unique, handcrafted gifts with a local touch? Look no further than the Mildura Visitor Information Centre. Step inside their gift shop and discover a curated selection of unique products from over 50 local producers and makers. From delicious produce to stunning artworks, stylish homewares and wellness products, you’ll find something to delight every taste and interest. Every purchase at the Centre directly supports the talented artisans and producers who call Mildura home.
180-190 Deakin Avenue, Mildura. T: 03 5018 8380
Open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Weekends 10am-4pm, Public Holidays 10am-4pm & Anzac Day 12-5pm. Closed Christmas Day.
