Sweet red and pink heart measuring spoons. Courtesy of Sweet Little Birdy
Sweet red and pink heart measuring spoons. Courtesy of Sweet Little Birdy

Home Shopping: Girlie treats at Sweet Little Birdie



If you're not a girlie girl, look away now. Sweet Little Birdy, as the name indicates, is a shrine to sugar and spice and all things nice. If it isn't pink, pretty or covered with polka dots, you won't find it here.

The owner Tara Hawley lives in Hunter Valley, Australia, with her husband and three sons and says her online shop is her "sweet escape from mud, soccer boots and Lego". She's packed her virtual shelves with pink products: baking accessories, birdcages, teacups and, unsurprisingly, sweet little birds.

Despite my best intentions and ambivalent attitude towards "cuteness", I admit there are some great rosy buys here, like the little ceramic milk bottles. Available in pretty pastel shades with delicious names such as Latte and Lemon, they're only 15cm high and perfect for milkshakes, small vases, pencil storage or just lining up to admire.

I'm also smitten with the floral Liberty teacups. They're all ditsy patterns and vintage charm, perfect for tea parties, of course, but also charming for serving stylish chocolate mousse or sorbet. There are coordinating cake plates, too, as well as cupcake holders and glass serving domes. If you're into baking, there's kitsch kitchenware galore - think heart-shaped measuring spoons and spotted cake cases.

Party planners will enjoy the extensive stationery department, the huge selection of favours and the array of pretty decorations including bunting, tuile paper pom-poms and giant balloons. Every conceivable colour scheme or theme is available.

Before you log off, check out the fun, squeezable owl squeakers, mini cushion toys that are great for children's rooms. But be warned: you might soon grow tired of those sweet little birdies' tweets.

For shipping rates to the UAE, visit www.sweetlittlebirdy.com.au