Frequently Asked Questions
General
Dude, those candy hearts are thiiiiiiick. Are they heavy?
You're right. Our candy heart laser-cut designs are full figure!
Products such as brooches, earrings and seasonal ornaments are approx 7mm thick. Whereas products such as our wall hangings are approx 16mm thick. Because these items are made from dual layers of plywood and branded with thin plastic backing, they're super lightweight!
I have allergies/sensitivities. Can I use your products?
Everyone is different. That's what makes the world go around! But to ensure your needs are met, please read all the information on our website and on all product listings prior to purchase.
The most common reported allergy is in regards to cheap metals and nickel used in earring posts. We're talking itchy ears, swollen lobes, green discolouring and sometimes bleeding. Yeeesh. That is not a fun time. For peace of mind, all Candy & Kitsch earrings studs are made from hypoallergenic surgical steel backs. Say catch ya to irritated ears!
Although it should go without saying... because each item is designed and assembled in a private home studio, some pug “glitter” may creep into your order unintentionally. Although the aim is to keep this to a minimum, please be aware of this if you have pet allergies.
I don't have pierced ears or I've got stretched lobes. Do you offer alternatives?
We got you, boo.
Clip ons: Scared of committing to pierced ears? Love the 80's? Look no further. Clip ons are the answer! Just add a pair of clip ons to your order and we'll replace the default studs prior to dispatch.
Ear hoops: These are the perfect alternative to turn our standard earrings into stretcher friendly accessories. Just add a pair of hoops to your order and we'll replace the default studs prior to dispatch.
Variations in handmade products. What's the deal?
One of these things is not like the other. In fact, each product is handmade and will therefore have variations that add to the character of each product. This is a feature of handmade goods and not a flaw!
Each product is unique and there may be variations such as colour or pattern from the product photograph. Due to the nature of using plywood as the main material of choice, each product has a unique texture and grain to it. This may result in some blemishes or imperfections. If you ask us though, these variations build character in each piece.
Our product photography seeks to capture the product "true to life". Please note that each device and screen will show colour in a slightly different way.
Business
Where does the magic happen?
My dude, I never thought you'd ask!
Candy & Kitsch is an Australian business located in a quiet little town located on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria (about an hour from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne). Here, Morpheus and Cola squeeze in pug runs and power naps between orders.
All products are made with love (and a little sprinkle of pug magic) in a private home studio that's bursting at the seams.
If you feel like being pen pals or want to send the pugs a little somethin' special, go old school and direct your snail mail here:
PO Box 228,
Hastings Retail,
VIC 3915,
Australia.
What are your operating hours?
Lucky for you, Candy & Kitsch is available 24 hours a day via our online store! When it comes to our workdays, our presence in the studio varies.
You know how it is. Jess currently has a big girl day job Monday to Friday and the pugs have to squeeze in as many naps as possible. But rest assured, we get shit done, son.
Because there's no recipe as to when the creativity hits, it is common for us to work unusual hours (hello, neurodivergent brains!) We have been known to send messages and manage business tasks outside of the general 9-5 grind because it suits us. We know not everyone is wired this way, and don't expect our customers to read and/or respond to any correspondence outside of regular working hours. In saying this though, this does not mean we are available at all hours of the day. #HealthyBarriers.
We endeavour to respond to all your love letters and pug fan mail within two business days.
Do you take part in markets or in-person events?
Sorry, did you say IN-PERSON? Look. Pre-pandemic we took part in regular pop culture conventions and events. But since the world was turned upside down, these appearances have come to a grinding halt.
As the world finds its feet again, it will come with new opportunities for fun events. Hooray! Physical interaction! So make sure to stay up to date with all the sweet stuff by signing up to the Candy & Kitsch mailing list and keeping track via socials!
If that doesn't curb your appetite, check out our list of stockists here.
I’m interested in collaborating with Candy & Kitsch. How do I make this dream a reality?
Uhm... yes, please! Get in touch and send through a sweet 'lil email bursting with your ideas. Morpheus, Cola and I will be sure to get back to you in two shakes of a pug's tail.
Ordering
How do I place a Candy & Kitsch order?
We accept orders via our website! Simply browse our product range and add your favourites to the cart.
When you're ready to check out, click the shopping bag icon in the top right-hand corner of the screen. This will show all of your selections.
Click checkout, select your preferred shipping method and follow the prompts to finalise payment.
An order confirmation will appear on the screen and you'll also be sent an automated email to confirm your order was successful.
Shut up and take my money! What payment options do you accept?
Candy & Kitsch offer the following highly secure payment methods during check out:
Credit or Debit Card Payment via Shopify Payments (and Square via in-person events): Through this service, businesses in Australia can accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express debit and credit cards. Unless you have these details memorised, the only painful part of this method is getting off the couch to grab your purse!
PayPal: Through this service, your payment details are never exposed to us and are securely encrypted on PayPal’s own servers. If you've got your fav payment method saved via your PayPal account, you're on easy street!
Afterpay (Australian customers only, soz): In case you've been living under a rock, Afterpay is a lay-by "buy now, pay later" style payment system. Although highly convenient, it's easy to get carried away. Candy & Kitch aren't responsible for your spending habits, so make sure this is the right payment option for you before checking out.
D'oh! I messed up *heavy breathing* Can I change or cancel my order?
Bob Ross said it best - "We don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents." Buuuut because the pugs don't skip a beat in getting your orders ready, you gotta act fast. If you wish to make alterations to your order/s, please reach out here ASAP with your order number. We can then see if it's possible to interject the production process prior to dispatch. Although this can't be guaranteed, we will try our best to help!
If your order has already been dispatched, it cannot be changed or cancelled at that point.
Please keep in mind that each customer is responsible to provide the correct order details upon purchase.
Shipping and Returns
Just curious, how are shipping rates calculated?
All shipping rates are automatically calculated via Australia Post as per their current charges. This is based on the weight and size of your order, in addition to its proposed destination.
All domestic orders (Australia wide) are sent with tracking numbers and notifications. International orders offer tracked and non-tracked parcels depending on the option selected at check out.
Yo, I just placed an order (yay!) but the waiting game sucks. How long do I have to refresh my Australia Post app until my things arrive?
We get it. Once the dopamine wears off from your online shopping binge, there's nothing more painful than having to wait for your very own sweet mail day to arrive.
Cola the pug is the nominated Candy & Kitsch dispatch supervisor and runs a tight ship. All 'ready to ship' products are generally sent within 3-5 business days. Life sometimes gets in the way, but we'll be sure to keep you in the loop if any delays occur.
** Please keep in mind that pre-order listings have their own timelines as per their individual product listings.**
Once your order is shipped, Australia Post will provide relevant updates as your V(ery) I(mportant) P(ackage) sets off on its journey to its new home. Unfortunately, the Candy & Kitsch team are still without superpowers. Until Professor X turns up with some good news, the pugs and I are unable to control the speed of the post once orders have left our hot little hands/paws. Godspeed!
Generally speaking, stalking your postie is normally a 1-7 business day commitment Australia wide and up to 8 weeks for our international friends (yep, Australia is THAT far away).
The customer is responsible for all customs/duties fees, if applicable.
I don't want to pay for shipping. Do you offer in-person pickup instead?
Soz, dude. Because Candy & Kitsch operates from a home studio IRL interactions are a no go. Why? Because even though we love meeting all our amazing customers, providing our home address to the internet isn't a super smart move. #boundaries
If Candy & Kitsch are scheduled to take part in future markets and events, pick up may be offered at the venue/s.
I hate being "that guy", but do you offer refunds, returns or exchanges?
Yes and no. You see, things like earrings can't be returned or exchanged due to hygiene reasons. It would be pretty ick to have them returned, hey? Because of this, all earrings are final sale. Please take the time to note the size and look of each item before deciding if it’s your jam. We don’t offer a refund or exchange if you change your mind or decide you don’t like the earrings.
However, if you have received faulty stock a replacement, exchange, return (if appropriate) or a full refund can be issued. This is dependent on your preferred choice/stock on hand.
Return of Candy & Kitsch must be delivered to us within 15 days of when the item(s) were postmarked as delivered to you. Return shipment costs are the responsibility of the customer. Returned goods must be delivered to us unused, unworn, in original packaging and in saleable condition. Otherwise, you may not be eligible for a refund.
Please be aware that refunds/returns for lost or damaged stock is not mandatory. Candy & Kitsch do not take responsibility for lost or damaged orders (especially if tracking is not purchased). This is the responsibility of the postal system and a claim will need to be lodged via the necessary channels.
In times of unforeseen circumstances, sometimes our stock levels can fluctuate and result in overselling of products. This circumstance may result in an alternative product being offered or a refund of the unfulfilled item/s. This may also occur during custom order periods if designs do not pass the quality control stage of production.
Customers are encouraged to reach out with any concerns they have at any given time. We will do our best to assist you with a tail wag and a smile.
I still have some questions, where can I find specific policies?
Shipping and Handling Policy
Everything you need to know about your Sweet Mail Day. Our Shipping and Handling policy gets into the nitty-gritty when it comes to logistics.
Returns, Refunds and Exchanges Policy
Put your mind at rest when things don't go according to plan. Know the ins and outs of your purchase with our Returns, Refunds and Exchanges Policy.
Customers are encouraged to reach out with any concerns they have at any given time. We will do our best to assist you with a tail wag and a smile.
Materials & Product Details
What are the secret herbs and spices of a Candy & Kitsch product?
Dude, those candy hearts are thiiiiiiick. Are they heavy?
You're right. Our candy heart laser-cut designs are full figure!
Products such as brooches, earrings and seasonal ornaments are approx 7mm thick. Whereas products such as our wall hangings are approx 16mm thick. Because these items are made from dual layers of plywood and branded with thin plastic backing, they're super lightweight!
I have allergies/sensitivities. Can I use your products?
Everyone is different. That's what makes the world go around! But to ensure your needs are met, please read all the information on our website and on all product listings prior to purchase.
The most common reported allergy is in regards to cheap metals and nickel used in earring posts. We're talking itchy ears, swollen lobes, green discolouring and sometimes bleeding. Yeeesh. That is not a fun time. For peace of mind, all Candy & Kitsch earrings studs are made from hypoallergenic surgical steel backs. Say catch ya to irritated ears!
Although it should go without saying... because each item is designed and assembled in a private home studio, some pug “glitter” may creep into your order unintentionally. Although the aim is to keep this to a minimum, please be aware of this if you have pet allergies.
I don't have pierced ears or I've got stretched lobes. Do you offer alternatives?
We got you, boo.
Clip-ons: Scared of committing to pierced ears? Love the 80's? Look no further. Clip-ons are the answer! Just add a pair of clip-ons to your order and we'll replace the default studs prior to dispatch.
Ear hoops: These are the perfect alternative to turn our standard earrings into stretcher friendly accessories. Just add a pair of hoops to your order and we'll replace the default studs prior to dispatch.
Variations, characteristics and "faults" in handmade products. What's the deal?
One of these things is not like the other. In fact, each product is handmade and will therefore have variations that add to the character of each product. This is a feature of handmade goods and not a flaw!
Each product is unique and there may be variations such as colour or pattern from the product photograph. Due to the nature of using plywood as the main material of choice, each product has a unique texture and grain to it. This may result in some blemishes or imperfections. If you ask us though, these variations build character in each piece.
Our product photography seeks to capture the product "true to life". Please note that each device and screen will show colour in a slightly different way.
Custom Orders
Custom one off Designs?
You better believe it. There's only one thing better than a Candy & Kitsch order and it's a Candy & Kitsch CUSTOM order! Buckle up, because your life is about to change (and the options are almost endless!). Explore the below FAQs or visit our custom product information page for extensive details.
What Custom products are available?
We have various product types available. These include:
- Brooches
- Merit brooches
- Badges/pins
- Stickers
- Keyrings/keychains
- Dangle earrings
- Wall hangings
- Seasonal decorations (both wooden and acrylic)
When do you accept custom candy heart orders?
Custom candy heart requests open four times a year; During the second week of January, April, July and October. Orders are open from Monday through to Sunday. Be sure to sign up to out newsletter to hear exactly when!
What size candy hearts are available?
Currently, we're offering the following sizes/shapes:
Brooches, merit brooches and dangle earrings (bottom) - Product size: 5cm/50mm. Text surface size (inner heart): 3cm/30mm.
Badges/pins - Product size: 2.5cm/25mm. Text surface size: 1cm/10mm.
Stickers - Product size: - Product size: 8cm/80mm. Text surface size: 6cm/60mm.
Keyrings/keychains - Product size: 5cm/50mm. Text surface size (inner heart): 3cm/30mm.
Wall hangings - Product size: 20cm/200mm in size. Text surface size (inner heart): 15cm/150mm.
Seasonal decorations (wooden) - Product size: 8cm/80mm. Text surface size: 6cm/60mm.
Seasonal decorations (acrylic) - Product size: 6cm/60mm. Text surface size: 4cm/40mm.
Can my candy heart design include images or logos?
Soz, friend. All candy heart designs are text only. We do not currently offer shapes/logos/illustrations outside of the signature candy heart design.
What colour options are available?
Our signature colour range is available for custom requests. If your design falls outside of this, it is considered a 'custom colour' and incurs an additional fee during purchase.
I'm struggling to imagine what it will look like, can you help?
If you are unsure about how your design will look on the option you desire, feel free to send C&K a message and a mock up can be designed free of charge for your approval prior to purchase.
Did I hear you say Custom Awreathas?!
Ever wanted your own over the top, ridiculous, kitschy AF wreath jam-packed full of all of your favourite things? It's the most amazing thing you never knew you needed... until now. Custom Awreatha requests are generally always open. To find out more about what an Awreatha is and how to place a custom order, check out the Custom Awreathas page.
Awreathas are such a flex for those of you who are a little bit ~ extra ~ and bring so much joy to everyone who encounters them. Turn your imagination on and get those ideas flowing!
For specific questions, get in touch.
Do you do custom mail out packages?
Got a special event coming up? An important announcement to make? Really passionate about snail mail? We can help you with that. If you're familiar with our Patreon monthly mailouts, you'll know this kinda thing is our jam; think postcards, stickers, magnets, sweet treats... Pretty much a Scholastic bookfair in one package! (What a vibe, amirite?). You can check out some examples here.
If this sounds like your perfect match, let's get the ball rolling, shall we? Get in touch and send through a sweet 'lil email bursting with your ideas.
Got an idea that you think needs the C&K treatment? Don't be shy! Get in contact and let's see where it takes us...
Awreathas
Ever wanted your own over the top, ridiculous, kitschy AF wreath jam-packed full of all of your favourite things? It's the most amazing thing you never knew you needed... until now.
What is an 'Awreatha'?
An 'Awreatha' is an experience like no other. Move over, boring hand-me-down wreaths. Hello, personality! These one of a kind creations are just as iconic as Aretha Franklin herself (the inspirational flex behind the punny name, of course).
Each vintage-inspired piece is curated with a love for the delightfully tacky. They're full of layers. You'll find yourself looking twice, noticing a new detail each time.
What is the creation process behind an Awreatha?
A lot like a collage project, each Awreatha starts with a tinsel base, moves through the placement stage and finished with gap fillers. Creating an Awreatha is a lot like Tetris. It's all about finding the right piece of the puzzle. Whether it's various sized baubles, knickknacks, buttons or draped beading... each Awreatha is created via an organic process. With a 'don't overthink it, just make it' approach, they all start with a loose concept or theme and grow from there.
What size Awreatha's are available?
Currently, we're offering the following sizes/shapes:
Small (heart) 20x25cm.
Small (round) 25x25cm.
Standard (round) 40x40cm.
Large (heart) 45x55cm.
Please be aware that measurements are approximate.
Does each Awreatha come with a candy heart slogan?
Although it is not a compulsory requirement to add a candy heart design to each Awreatha, as the process has refined over time this is now quite a common feature for each piece. Why? Because it makes them that extra bit sweeter!
How often are pre-made designs available?
Various themed collections are released periodically throughout the year, in addition to Every Other Day Awreathas. Make sure you're following us on all social media platforms and signed up for our newsletter to ensure you know when they're expected to drop!
How the hell do you ship them?
It's no easy feat, but each Awreatha is carefully packaged in a customised box (aka: a hacked up moving carton cut to size), tied down securely with colour coordinated pipe cleaners (which are pierced through the bottom of the box and firmly taped down) and stuffed full of tissue paper. They're pretty rock solid, but for the extra over-the-top touch they're also plastered in fragile stickers.
How the hell do you display them?
We often get asked what is the best way to display your one of a kind Awreatha.
Wanna hang her on a door?
No worries! It's strongly suggested that you purchase one of our Over the Hooks in a complimentary colour which brings a little flair to your new addition. Alternatively, you can find your own over the door hook from regular retail/hardware stores.
Wanna hang her on the wall?
No worries! Heavy-duty wall hooks are strongly recommended. Large 3m Command removable hooks (for renters and those who want to avoid holes in the walls) or just a decent metal hook (for those of you who aren't scared of a hammer) should suffice. If you feel like more support is required, add some simple wire to the back of your Awreatha or even make a small hole/indentation to the back of the wreath (foam base) for a hook to sit in. As each Awreatha varies in size and weight, trial and test these options carefully!
Wanna display her on a shelf?
No worries! Get yourself a durable plate stand so you can showcase your Awreatha in all her glory. Make sure the plate stand is thick enough to accommodate for her curves.
Do you accept custom requests?
You betcha! Spoil yourself with a custom Awreatha.
Disclaimers
As each Awreatha is made up of a variety of new and upcycled products, they may present with blemishes and faults. These qualities only add character to each creation. All materials are quality checked prior to use.
Because each Awreatha is made to order, please allow a minimum 4-8 week turnaround. This is subject to change depending on the time taken to source supplies, based on specific requests.
Patreon
What IS Patreon (and The Grumble Gang)?
Patreon is an online platform where fans can support the creators they love. By pledging a monthly membership (kinda like OnlyFans, but less smut [no shade, #sexworkisrealwork] and more mutt), you can gain access to exclusive content, a fun community and insight into the creative process behind your most loved designs.
TLDR; Patreon is a tiered subscription service. You gain access to exclusive content which varies depending on how much you pledge per month.
Can I cancel anytime?
Yep, yep, yep! You can choose to pledge a monthly membership (which can be cancelled and reinstated whenever you wish!) Annual memberships are also available (with a 10% saving) for anyone who prefers an upfront payment option.
How much is it?
As a Grumble Gang member, you can choose from the following membership tiers:
Tier One (Puppy Love) - $3 AUD per month
Tier Two (Pugs and Kisses) - $5 AUD per month
Tier Three (Party Pug) - $10 AUD per month (AUSTRALIA ONLY)
Tier Four (Party Pug) - $20 AUD per month (INTERNATIONAL ONLY)
Are you ready to grumble? Join the gang today!
Wholesale
Do Candy & Kitsch sell wholesale?
Hell yeah, friend! We are always looking to grow our family and accept wholesale/stockist enquiries regularly throughout the year.
Get in touch and send through a sweet 'lil email introducing your lovely self. Morpheus, Cola and I will then give you the 411 on how we do business (and provide you with a line sheet/catalogue to peruse!)
I’m interested in collaborating with Candy & Kitsch. How do I make this dream a reality?
Uhm... yes, please! Get in touch and send through a sweet 'lil email bursting with your ideas. Morpheus, Cola and I will be sure to get back to you in two shakes of a pug's tail.