On a recent trip to the United States, local creative Jill Morris was drawn to the trademark blue and white window displays of iconic jewellers Tiffany and Co. Their impeccable presentations made such an impression that Jill decided to use the theming as inspiration for her hamper company’s 11 year celebrations.

As I arrived in the Kingsford Lounge at the Pullman Cairns International, I began to think that blue is, in fact, the new black! First, I was offered an exotic 1980’s cocktail favourite, Blue Lagoon, before noticing a beautiful blue and silver buttercream cake and a long table brimming with an array of local goodies surrounded by elegant white boxes wrapped in blue and silver ribbons.

The effect was not so close to the famed jewellers tell-tale theming as to invite a trademark lawsuit, but the timeless appeal and elegance that the Robins-egg-blue Tiffany hue evokes was definitely captured.

Local media identity Danae Jones was MC for the event, which Jill and husband Paul said was aimed at delivering thanks to the many locals who have supported their creative endeavour, born out of a need to keep busy after relocating to Cairns in preparation for retirement.

“We moved here in 2000 for a tree change,” Jill said. Six years later, she started Simply Hampers after discovering that “winding down” wasn’t for her.

Local foodie Nicky Jurd was spotted admiring the elegantly wrapped boxes on display, admitting that she had a weakness for the colour scheme as well as the culinary offerings.

“I love that Jill’s hampers always have interesting treats not commonly found,” Nicky said. “They’re great for a foodie like me.”