For this edition of the journal we had the pleasure of interviewing the duo behind Hevan-Yah Gelato, Amy & Holly. Known for their focus on seasonal flavours with an emphasis on local artisans & creating scoops likened to those you would find in traditional Italian gelaterias in their distinct Pozzetti cabinet. We learn of the journey to opening Heven-yah, experiences along the way & the importances of appreciating rest & quality time with loved ones.
01. In your own words can you tell us what you do?
We run an artisanal Gelateria located in Mermaid Beach serving from our traditional Pozzetti cabinet which captures that feeling of an authentic Italian Gelateria. All of our gelato is made small batch, from scratch and on site with no artificial flavouring or colouring. There is no gelato without great ingredients, creating its uniform creamy texture and intensity of flavour we have grown to love. Fruit is fresh, seasonal and always local. All of the hard work has already been done by the incredible local artisans growing and perfecting their craft, our work is simply to showcase that.
02. What does a typical morning look like for you?
A piccolo out to enjoy the morning sun and a good feed at home or down south at farmers markets.
03. Who makes the best coffee?
Our good friends next door at Alfred’s.
04. Can you tell us a little bit about the journey that’s led you to where you are now?
What started as a yearly Christmas tradition of making watermelon granitas, flavours of mango, melon, raspberry, and lemon sorbets soon turned into an obsession with the luminous refreshing joy churned and shared. Through our travels and love of the European culture and way of life we wanted to bring a little piece of what we had learnt and adored home to share.
05.What has the greatest learning experience been from establishing heven yah & what have you both enjoyed most?
You really just learn as you go. We’ve learnt to adapt and grow with each other, learnt to support and listen and learnt the power of apologising. Enjoying our trips away together have been really special, which on the daily we will reminisce in some of our favourite feeds shared. To close up shop and take some time away has been incredibly rewarding.
06. Is there anything you are currently working on or towards?
Getting back to Sicily.
07. How would you both describe your own personal interior style?
Whether it’s new or antique we have always been drawn to a story, the heritage behind a piece, the significance and joy that it brings us. Spanish woods, Italian stone and terracotta, traditional tiling and antique ornaments are the foundations of home.
08. Favourite object or piece of furniture you own & why?
Vintage Spanish wooden dining table and my Italian marble chess set that Hol gifted me for my birthday a few years back which is an exact replica of our parents set that they were gifted as a wedding present.
09. If you weren't living on the Gold Coast, where would you live & why?
Melbourne, Sydney, Italy or Sicily. Better food.
10. An album or artist that uplifts you & one that calms?
Tyler the Creator, Frank Sinatra and anything jazz.
11. Favourite way to unwind at the end of the day, any favourite rituals?
With a pasta and a drink.
