Stories
Inspiration on unique activities and gifts, mindfulness and more
Holiday Favourites: Katie Jeanes, Head of Marketing
By ClassBento Team
Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!
Top 7 Hens Party Ideas for Eco-conscious Brides (2026)
By Kellie Maloney
Opt for eco-friendly hens party ideas! Share laughter and joy with your leading ladies while being kind to the planet.
Birthday Ideas for First Time Party Planners
By Annie Symmonds
If it's your first time planning a party and you need some birthday ideas, try a creative workshop for a birthday activity that will delight your party guests.
Men Love Flower Arranging Too (2026)
By ClassBento Team
Don't think men and flowers mix? Think again! Our floristry classes in Sydney are for everyone.
Adapting the Workplace for Millennials
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Help the workplace adapt to millennials with our team building activities in Sydney! It's a great place to learn something new while connecting with others.
Why Plants Are Your Best Friend If You WFH
By Charlotte McKewen
Discover how adding plants to your workspace can brighten up your mood and your day!
7 Productive Fun Things to do in Self Isolation
By Sam Bowden
Fighting the tedium is crucial when looking for things to do during self isolation, so we've compiled a couple of pro-tips and suggestions to helpFighting the tedium is crucial when looking for things to do during self isolation, so we've compiled a couple of pro-tips and suggestions to help you push through quarantine season! ...
How to Get the Perfect Gift for Your Father
By Tiffany Fung
When it comes to getting the perfect gift for Dad, we’ve got you covered. Take a squiz at our beginner guide to know exactly what to get for Dad in 2026.
Make Italian Meals with Cook with Luca
By ClassBento Team
Make mouthwatering, rich and flavourful Italian meals at Cook with Luca's fun classes.
Best Interstate Hens Party Ideas in Australia (2026)
By Annie Symmonds
Looking for getaway destinations for an epic hens party? Uncover the best interstate hens party ideas around Australia to celebrate love in 2026!
Try Not to Smile in an UKulele Class
By ClassBento Team
It’s difficult to imagine a happier instrument than the ukulele. Light, twinkling musicality aside, the mere appearance of the small stringed-instrument,It’s difficult to imagine a happier instrument than the ukulele. Light, twinkling musicality aside, the mere appearance of the small stringed-instrument, miniature and cute, invokes a feeling of joy. Just do a quick search for ukulele covers of your favorite songs, or attend music classes in Sydney and try not to smile. The ukulele conjures up images of the shores of Hawaii, where island breezes carry the scent of floral hibiscus and the crashing of waves can always be heard somewhere in the distance. When considering its origin, one might imagine an islander suddenly stumbling upon the instrument leaning against a palm tree, forever changing the musical world. But the history (1) of the ukulele has a much more intriguing past, stemming from Portuguese immigration to the set of islands in the mid 1800’s. As early as 1879, shiploads of immigrants from the islands of Madeira and the Azores arrived in Hawaii as farmhands to work in sugar cane fields. Of the many items they brought with them, the machete de braga, a four stringed instrument, was arguably the most entertaining. At the end of a long day in the fields, families would sit around campfires singing traditional folksongs before resting up for the next grueling day of work. The music was probably first heard by the indigenous population when the Portuguese community gathered at the docks of Honolulu to welcome new immigrants to island. The popularity of the stringed instrument spiked, soon becoming the star of street-corner concerts that the newcomers and established population could enjoy together. Fascinated by the energetic strumming of the machete players, island natives renamed the instrument ukulele, Hawaiian for jumping flea. Even local royalty adopted the new toy. King David Kalakaua, an accomplished musician, brought the ukulele to a wider audience by naming it Hawaii’s national instrument. Subsequently, some minor changes were made to the ukulele, utilizing koa wood and altering the tuning to make the instrument more portable and enjoyable to play. The next century saw rises and falls in ukulele popularity akin to the very sea from which the instrument originated. There are many detailed histories (2) on the subject, starring iconic American legends like Elvis Presley and Bing Crosby. Today, the uke is experiencing yet another revival, with vloggers posting covers of the latest popular songs, and well-known bands playing their own songs with the happy little instrument. Which is good news for those who have been voicing the benefits of learning the ukulele for years. That’s right. The ukulele is entertaining and good for you. Here’s why. Neuropsychologist Daniel Levitin, a professor of music at McGill University in Montreal, provides some uplifting news on the efficacy of music intervention and clinical music therapy. According to him, scientific studies have found that particular types of music, be they upbeat or downtrodden, influence hormones in the brain, creating increases or dips in blood pressure. The key is, he says, for the individual to find music that most influences him. A doctor cannot prescribe classical music and assume that it will affect every patient the same way. Music is subjective, in other words. The interesting thing about the development of music intervention in today’s society, says Levitin, is that people are already using music as treatment method without really thinking of it as medicine. Companies like Spotify and Apple Music, for instance, have capitalized on this practice by arranging playlists based on moods, location, and activities. It seems that we as a society have already figured out what psychiatrists are testing, namely that music influences our emotions. The field of psychology is taking it one step further by asking whether music therapy can be used to treat more serious cases of psychiatric disorders. Harvard Review of Psychiatry (3), for example, published a study in 2011 exploring the effects of music on patients with various mental illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety, among others. They found that in some cases, music could actually be used as an alternative to traditional treatment regiments. Of course, the results need to be tested further, but this is incredibly exciting step for those looking for alternatives to invasive types of therapy, like medication or electroconclusive therapy (ECT). Overall, listening to music is a great way to boost mental health and help deal with certain psychiatric illnesses. So if the ukulele is the instrument that gets you smiling, you can make a conscious choice to improve your wellbeing by incorporating ukulele tracks into your daily routine. But wait, there’s more! Research shows that while listening to music has a great influence on wellbeing, playing music has an even stronger impact on mental health. Some benefits, according to Levitin, are cognitive improvements as a result of attentional training. He goes on to point out that children who are exposed to music classes are more likely to be well-socialized later in life. In support of Levitin’s claim, a study (4) out of Canada suggests that children’s participation in music lessons leads to an increase in social cohesion as a result of sympathy and prosocial development. There are various theories as to why learning to play music may contribute to changes in these behaviors. One idea is that the ability of music to bring humans together may have played a role in the survival of our ancestors. In related studies, music lessons have been associated with cognitive functioning improvements in language skills, visuospatial abilities and memory. Such findings even linked music classes to higher intelligence and academic success. Clearly, listening to and playing music is beneficial to our mental health as well as our social interconnectedness. And what better way achieve both than to add a little ukulele to your life? Those who have tried out ukulele classes rave about the joy of learning to play the instrument. Luckily, because of a recent increase in ukulele workshops and classes in and around Sydney, it is a great time to take up the hobby. For a traditional class, try signing up for the ukulele class in Bondi Beach with Dan Allen. References: (1) museumofmakingmusic.org (2) theatlantic.com (3) tandfonline.com (4) journals.plos.org ...
Best Self Isolation Activities to Try This Month
By Sam Bowden
6 Week lockdown in Melbourne doesn't have to be all Netflix and tedium! Here are a few helpful self isolation activities to avoid the boredom.
Top Barista Class Types
By ClassBento Team
Explore the different types of coffee classes you can take in Sydney. From how to make an espresso at barista classes to learning to appreciate and taste coffee.
Top Beginner Pottery Classes Around Australia
By ClassBento Team
Meet like-minded people and get your hands dirty with pottery classes in Australia.
How to Build Better Boundaries If You WFH
By Courtenay Turner
Discover how to relieve stress, reduce the likelihood of burnout and improve your overall mental and physical wellbeing.
6 Feel-Good Workshops to Boost Your Mood
By Courtenay Turner
Feeling adventurous? Give glass blowing a go. Overwhelmed? Find your peace in pottery. With workshops for (almost) every mood, we’re here to help you feel good.
Best Zoom Activities for Kids
By Sam Bowden
Looking to keep the kids entertained? Here are a few of our best Zoom activities for kids to enjoy at home!
Why You Should Take Up a New Hobby This Leap Year
By Natalie Kemp
What to do this February leap year to improve your wellbeing, make social connections and make your life more interesting...
Tea Brewing Versus Barista Workshops
By ClassBento Team
If you decide you want to become a Barista, you’re in luck. There are tons of classes that offer all different types of Barista training. ButIf you decide you want to become a Barista, you’re in luck. There are tons of classes that offer all different types of Barista training. But what about people who don’t like coffee? Those who prefer a morning green tea rather than a latte? Whilst tea brewing classes are not as common as coffee courses, there are options. In this article, we’ll look the rising trend of tea brewing classes. Tea Brewing Classes First of all, it’s important to understand exactly what a Tea Brewing class might look like. Though there are not as many of these classes as Barista courses, there are a few different types of tea-making courses: Tea Brewing workshop At a standard Tea Brewing class you will learn the best way to brew loose leaf tea. The teacher will outline the best type of water, temperatures and methods to use for different types of tea. You’ll also learn about different equipment for brewing tea and when to use it. Tea Sommelier After learning the basics of tea brewing, you can go on to learn how to become a tea expert. By navigating the history, culture and tasting notes of tea, you’ll be equipped to make recommendations for retail menus. Try out a workshop on how to make the right tea with chocolate or even tea with cheese. You’ll also come away with the ability to recommend food pairings for the tea. Kombucha classes Take your tea brewing one step further and learn to brew Kombucha. This fizzy, fermented tea drink has gained popularity in recent years because of its touted health benefits and it tastes great! Kombucha is made by adding yeast bacteria to green or black tea and fermenting it. But don’t let us tell you how to do it, you’ll learn everything at a Kombucha making class. Tea Specialist classes In the same way that Barista training will prepare you to enter the coffee industry, learning to be a tea specialist will help you get a job in a tea store. In this class you will learn the ins and outs of all the different types of tea. You will need a basic knowledge of tea brewing, which is usually included in these courses. With this foundation, you will be able to recommend products to customers based on their needs. Tea or Coffee? So now that you have a better idea of the topics and training you would cover in a Tea Brewing class. Should you learn how to perfect your tea brewing expertise or your coffee making prowess? which is better? Neither! Do both or do the one that you love! If you are looking into making a career move, smart money would be investing in a Barista training. There are more of these courses available and likely more jobs which need this knowledge. However, if you’re hoping to become a tea aficionado, whether as a hobby or profession, go for the Tea Brewing course and pour your heart and soul into it! ...
Why Clay and Sip Is the New Friday Night Drinks
By ClassBento Team
Discover why pottery classes in Australia are becoming one of the most popular ways to relax and unwind after work!
Best Rainy Day Activities for Kids
By Sam Bowden
In need of rainy day activities for kids? Keeping kids busy when the weather conflicts with your plans is no easy task. So ClassBento has compiledIn need of rainy day activities for kids? Keeping kids busy when the weather conflicts with your plans is no easy task. So ClassBento has compiled a list of workshops perfect for little ones! ...
5 Dad-Approved Gifts That Will Ignite His Creativity
By Kellie Maloney
If these real-life Dads loved them, yours will too.
Why DIY Soy Candle Making Kits Will Transform Your Home
By Sam Bowden
Needing a bit of a change around the house? Soy candle making kits can help transform the vibe of your living space.
Unique Valentines Gifts for Her in Sydney 2026
By ClassBento Team
This February 14th find a Valentine's gift for her that is as unique as she is! Our gift experiences in Sydney will delight your wife or girlfriend in 2026.
25 Fun Things to Do for Mother's Day in Australia in 2026
By ClassBento Team
When it comes to fun things to do for Mother’s Day in Australia, we’ve got gift experiences guaranteed to make Mum’s day even more special.
6 Stress-Free Work Christmas Party Ideas in Sydney 2026
By Courtenay Turner
Make the festive season magical with our creative Christmas party ideas in Sydney. From crafts to cooking, there's no better way to celebrate the holidays.
Top Valentine's Gifts for Every Kind of Couple
By Tiffany Fung
Unwrap these top Valentine’s gifts for every kind of love story, whether you’re looking for something traditional, adventurous or romantically sweet!
Meaningful Things to Do for Valentine's Day in Sydney 2026
By Courtenay Turner
From pottery classes to pasta-making, take the "ick" out of Valentine's Day in Sydney with these low-key date ideas and activities for couples.
9 Ideas to Help You Host the Ultimate Christmas Party in Sydney
By Annie Symmonds
Connect and create this festive season with our crafty Christmas party ideas in Sydney! These hands-on experiences will make hosting an event in 2023 a breeze.
7 Awesome Sydney Christmas Events to Host in 2026
By Annie Symmonds
Spread festive cheer with the best Christmas party ideas in Sydney for 2026! From painting classes to tasting experiences, there's something for every event.
12 Creative Things to Do on Valentine's Day in Sydney for Couples, Singles and BFFs
By Laine Fullerton
Wondering what to do on Valentine's Day in Sydney? Single, in a relationship or with friends, these unique Valentine's Day ideas are creative and original!
Unique Father's Day Gift Experiences in Sydney
By Kellie Maloney
From pottery making to glassblowing, our unique Father's Day gifts for Dad in Sydney will bring a smile to his face!
Sydney's Best Fathers Day Craft Ideas of 2026
By Tiffany Fung
We've rounded up the best Father's Day craft ideas and gifts for Dad in Sydney that are guaranteed to make him smile.
Heartwarming Mother's Day Ideas You Can Do Together
By Jana Lepojevic
Looking for meaningful Mother’s Day plans? Explore our list of unforgettable Mother's Day gift ideas you can do together and create lasting memories with Mum!
11 Perfect First Valentine's Day Gifts for Your Boyfriend
By Laine Fullerton
Need Valentine's gift ideas for your first Valentine's Day together? Try these thoughtful Valentines experience gifts for him that he's guaranteed to love.
6 Mother's Day Activities in Sydney to Take Mum in 2026
By Tiffany Fung
Find the best Mother’s Day activities in Sydney and treat her to something special. From terrarium making to skincare pampering, there’s somethingFind the best Mother’s Day activities in Sydney and treat her to something special. From terrarium making to skincare pampering, there’s something for every type of Mum. ...
Unique Corporate Christmas Ideas to Impress Your Team
By Tiffany Fung
We’ve got the ultimate guide to the best corporate Christmas ideas to help you win brownie points among your team, from cocktail parties to pottery classes.
9 Wholesome Gift Ideas and Mother's Day Activities for Adults
By Courtenay Turner
From pottery workshops to cocktail making classes, discover the best Mother’s Day activities for adults around Australia.
Awesome Ideas for Christmas Lunch in Sydney Everyone Will Love
By Annie Symmonds
Discover delicious Christmas party ideas in Sydney in 2026! From BBQ cooking classes to sweet dessert workshops, make your holiday celebrations extra special.
Break Tradition with 10 Unique Ideas for Christmas Parties
By Annie Symmonds
Think outside the box in 2026 with these unique Christmas party ideas to help your team bond and reconnect.
Fun Father's Day Activities in Sydney to Try in 2026
By Jana Lepojevic
Discover fun Father’s Day activities in Sydney for 2026, from BBQ and cocktail classes to pottery, barista workshops, gardening and more.
What Your Valentines Day Flowers Really Mean
By Tiffany Fung
Gift our flower arranging classes in Sydney this Valentine’s Day! Learn what each bloom symbolises to create the ultimate personalised bouquet for your partner.
11 Things to Do in Sydney with Your Mum on Mother's Day
By Jana Lepojevic
Cosy, creative things to do in Sydney this Mother’s Day, from punch needle to pasta making, with experiences that feel personal.
11 Romantic Things to Do on Valentine's Day
By Jana Lepojevic
Looking for things to do on Valentine’s Day? Discover romantic, creative experiences you can enjoy together and turn the day into something unforgettable.
Top 11 Father's Day Gifts in Sydney
By Kellie Maloney
From sculpting glass to mastering the grill to capturing priceless moments, check out our top 11 Father's Day gifts in Sydney!
20 of the Best Christmas Gift Voucher Ideas in 2026
By Courtenay Turner
Want to treat someone special? Browse the best Christmas gift voucher ideas of 2026. Shop gift cards for pottery classes, whisky tastings and more.
How to Host a Magical Mother's Day Lunch in Sydney in 2026
By Jana Lepojevic
If you're celebrating Mother's Day with a lunch this year, go a step further with our cooking class experience gifts for Mum on Mother's Day!
9 Unique Mothers Day Gift Experiences in Sydney
By Laine Fullerton
Gift your mum an experience for Mother’s Day in Sydney and give the best gift of all—quality time together making memories she’ll cherish for years to come.
The Best Christmas Things to Do in Sydney in 2026
By Tiffany Fung
It’s time to get fabulously festive with these Christmas activities in Sydney, from fun Xmas craft ideas to delicious baking classes.
15 Fun Things to Do for Father's Day in Australia in 2026
By Jana Lepojevic
Explore the best things to do for Father’s Day in Australia, from cooking classes and pottery to cocktail workshops and hands-on experiences.
Feeling Jolly? You'll Love These Sydney City Christmas Events
By Courtenay Turner
From wreath-making workshops to festive food experiences, discover the best Sydney city Christmas events near you in 2026.
Treat Mum to the Best Mother's Day Gift Ideas in Sydney
By Tiffany Fung
Looking to make your mum feel special on her big day? Discover our wide collection of Mother’s Day gift ideas in Sydney, from soap making to cake decorating.
Top Mothers Day Gifts for Grandma 2026
By Sam Bowden
Don't forget Grandma this Mother's Day! These experience gifts for grandma will give her what she really wants—time with her grandkids doing something fun.
DIY Christmas Gift Ideas That Feel Personal
By Tiffany Fung
Make your present giving extra personal with our thoughtful DIY Christmas gift ideas. Discover how to make your own candles, ceramics and more for your loved ones.
A Guide to the Best Valentine's Gift for Your Wife Based on Her Interests
By Jana Lepojevic
Struggling to find the right Valentine’s gift for your wife? Check out our gift guide for unique experiences you can do together.
5 Best Mother's Day Gifts in Sydney for Dog Mums
By Tiffany Fung
Surprise the dog Mum in your life with special Mother's Day gift ideas in Sydney. From art workshops to dog park adventures, make fun memories together!
Transform Mother's Day Classics Into Unforgettable Experience Gifts in Sydney
By Sam Bowden
Take a unique spin on classic Mother's Day gifts and treat her to some of the best things to do in Sydney!
Things to Do in Sydney for Lunar New Year 2026
By Annie Symmonds
Looking for things to do during Lunar New Year? Explore some of Sydney's best attractions and locally-run cultural experiences!
Your Autumn Guide to Fresh and Fun Things to Do in Sydney Next Month
By Tiffany Fung
Discover the best things to do in Sydney this autumn, from pottery workshops to Easter chocolate fun. Plan creative weekends for a cosy and memorable season.
Save Money and the Planet with DIY Christmas Gifts This Season
By Laine Fullerton
Discover unique Christmas gift experiences in Sydney with DIY workshops and creative experiences. Make Christmas 2026 memorable with hands-on classes and heartfelt gifts.
Impress with 6 Mother's Day Gifts for Your Mother-in-law
By Tiffany Fung
Find the best Mother’s Day gifts for your mother-in-law with experiences she’ll love, from pottery and flower arranging to coffee and skincare classes.
5 DIY Valentine's Ideas for Him He'll Love
By Jana Lepojevic
From love coupons to memory scrapbooks, try these DIY Valentine’s ideas for him that feel personal, fun and meaningful.
Gather Your Crew for Sydney Christmas Crafts
By Tiffany Fung
Swap the usual festive catch-up for something crafty! From wreath making to cookie decorating, explore Sydney Christmas crafts that are fun, festive and a little unexpected.
Best Christmas Gift Experiences for Sydney Couples in 2026
By Annie Symmonds
Embark on memorable Christmas gift experiences in 2023 for Sydney couples! From pottery to cocktail making, explore it all
6 Meaningful Things to Do for Mother's Day with Mum
By Tiffany Fung
Searching for meaningful Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide to the best things to do for Mother’s Day in 2026, from gardening classes to tasting experiences.
Thoughtful Christmas Gift Ideas for Her in 2026
By Courtenay Turner
Shopping for your wife, GF or mum? No matter her hobbies or interests, these thoughtful Christmas gift ideas for her will bring a smile to her face.
What to Get a Guy for Valentine's Day in 2026
By Laine Fullerton
Celebrate love and romance with these unique Valentines experience gifts for him in 2026. Learn cocktail making, throwing clay or BBQ cooking with your partner.
7 Experience Gifts for Grandparents This Christmas 2026
By Annie Symmonds
Spoil your grandparents this Christmas 2026 with experience gift cards! From flower arranging to pottery classes, they're guaranteed to feel the love this year.
Best Outdoor Team Building Activities for Summer
By Tiffany Fung
Discover the best outdoor team building activities perfect for summer, from gardening workshops to photography walks. Make this your team's best season yet.
Unique Father's Day Gifts from Daughter to Make Dad's Day
By Jana Lepojevic
Skip socks and ties! Discover unforgettable Father’s Day gifts from daughter, from whisky tastings to cooking classes you can enjoy together.
10 Foolproof Christmas Presents for Couples Who Have It All
By Courtenay Turner
From pottery workshops to cooking classes, discover one-of-a-kind Christmas presents for couples who have everything. Gift cards available.
Spice Up Your Office Holiday Party with Alternative Work Christmas Party Ideas
By Tiffany Fung
Discover alternative work Christmas party ideas in Australia to help you shake things up and create unforgettable memories with your team this holiday season.
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