About Pretty Wee Things

Hi, I'm Krissy Barnes. I grew up in Southland, New Zealand, and now call the Gold Coast home. Pretty Wee Things is where I capture the beauty of everyday life — from what I wore Wednesday to the clean eating recipes that fuel our family, and the honest ups and downs of motherhood with my son, little L.

In 2014, I shared my post-baby body journey, a low histamine diet I tried for eczema and IBS (recommended by my naturopath), and workouts guided by nutritionist Sheena Jayne. My style leans tailored and cinched at the waist, with favourite brands including Kookai, Witchery, and ALDO.

Whether I'm packing for a New Zealand winter or sharing a Bali travel guide, this space is all about finding joy in the small, pretty things.

There is something quietly powerful about starting the day with intention. A slow morning walk while the world is still waking, a glass of water with lemon, a bowl of oats topped with fresh fruit and a sprinkle of chia seeds — these small rituals set the tone for everything that follows. Clean eating does not have to be complicated or restrictive. It can be as simple as choosing whole foods that make you feel nourished and energised, without overthinking every ingredient. The goal is not perfection but consistency, finding what works for your body and your season of life.

Motherhood reshapes everything, including your relationship with your own body. After having a baby, the journey back to feeling like yourself is rarely linear. Some weeks bring energy and motivation, others call for rest and grace. Gentle exercise, plenty of water, and meals built around vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can make a world of difference. What matters most is listening to your body rather than fighting against it. Embracing the changes while also prioritising your own wellbeing sets a beautiful example for the little ones watching your every move.

Style after becoming a mother does not have to mean sacrificing the things you love to wear. There is joy in finding pieces that are both practical and pretty — tailored dresses that cinch at the waist, soft knits that layer beautifully, and accessories that add a touch of personality to even the simplest outfit. Building a wardrobe around quality staples makes getting dressed each morning feel effortless rather than overwhelming. Fashion should be fun and expressive, a small creative outlet in the midst of nappy changes and snack preparation.

The Gold Coast offers an incredible backdrop for a lifestyle rooted in fresh food, outdoor movement, and natural beauty. Weekend markets overflow with local produce, artisan breads, and organic treats that make clean eating feel like an adventure rather than a chore. Coastal walks provide the perfect setting for clearing the mind while pushing the pram, and the abundance of sunshine makes it easy to spend time outside year-round. Living in a place that values health and the outdoors naturally shapes the way a family eats, plays, and grows together.

Food sensitivities can turn everyday meals into a puzzle. Navigating a low histamine diet while breastfeeding and managing eczema and IBS required a complete rethinking of what went into the fridge and onto the plate. Fresh vegetables, gentle proteins, and simple grains became the foundation, while processed foods and leftovers were set aside. Though restrictive at first, this approach opened up a new appreciation for clean, whole ingredients and creative cooking. Listening to professional guidance from a naturopath made all the difference in finding balance and relief.

Travel with a little one brings its own kind of magic and chaos. Memories of exploring Bali with a baby in tow, discovering new flavours, and soaking in the warmth of a different culture stay with you long after the suitcase is unpacked. Keeping snacks on hand, embracing a relaxed pace, and letting go of rigid schedules transforms a trip from stressful to special. Whether it is a tropical escape or a local weekend away, the key is soaking up the moments rather than trying to control every detail.

There is beauty in the ordinary when you take the time to notice it. A perfectly ripe piece of fruit, the way morning light falls across the kitchen bench, a toddler's laugh during bath time — these are the wee things that make a life feel full. Capturing and sharing those moments, whether through photos, words, or simple reflection, turns the everyday into something worth celebrating. Gratitude does not require grand gestures. Often it is found in a quiet cup of tea, a favourite song on the radio, or the sweet weight of a sleeping baby on your chest.