With so many incredible local businesses on the Gold Coast, one begins to wonder: how did they all come to be? In our series, ‘The story behind…’, we chat with local founders and owners about how their business started, their biggest learnings and their tips for other self-starters.
This time, we caught up with Sandy Ronalds, Founding Director of Gold Coast underwear brand, Nat’v Basics.
When did the idea for your business first come about? And how?
The idea first sparked back in 2017. I was on the hunt for everyday basics that were genuinely better for both people and the planet, and I just couldn’t find what I was looking for. I spent a lot of time scrolling through the usual legacy brands online, and nothing quite ticked all the boxes: ethical production, sustainable materials, fair pricing, and styles that actually felt modern and wearable.
After a while, I thought, ‘If this doesn’t exist, maybe I should just make it myself.’ That was the turning point. So, I started researching, prototyping, and building from scratch and here we are today, still growing and learning every step of the way.
Where did you start?
The brand didn’t officially launch until October 31, 2019 – my daughter’s birthday, which made it extra special.
We started from very humble beginnings in my mum and dad’s spare room in Mermaid Beach. That’s where it all began – super small, just me, some boxes, and a big dream.
What were some of the challenges you faced in the beginning? How did you overcome them?
Some of the biggest challenges in the beginning were learning underwear design, manufacturing, and sourcing. I hadn’t worked in apparel at all before, so everything was brand new – huge learning curves! Figuring out fabrics, fits, factories, minimum orders, quality control… it was a lot.
I overcame it by just diving in, asking questions, making mistakes, and keeping at it until it started to click. Trial and error were basically my teachers.
What has been your biggest learning since starting the business?
Honestly, there are way too many learnings to mention! But if I had to pick the biggest one, it’s cash flow – it’s always a challenge and still is today.
Things rarely go to plan. Times get really tough, and you have to stay strong and back yourself, even when the doubts creep in. That resilience has been the hardest but most important lesson so far.
And what about your biggest ‘I’ve made it’ moment?
I’m not sure I’ve hit my ultimate ‘I’ve made it’ moment just yet – there’s always more to achieve! That said, we’ve had some really meaningful wins along the way.
The absolute first big one was simply launching the business. That takes guts, and is a huge milestone in itself. Then came building healthy, consistent sales, positive customer feedback, and real momentum.
One highlight that stands out was winning the Micro and Emerging Business of the Year at the Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards. It was a proud moment for the whole team.
Still, I try to stay humble and keep perspective. Things can change quickly in business, so we focus on gratitude, hard work, and continuous improvement rather than resting on any one achievement.
What does a working day in your life look like?
What does a working day in your life look like?A typical day starts with exercise, then coffee, and straight into the office for a full day.
After that, it changes day to day depending on what we’ve got going on. It could be meetings, new designs, stock checks, customer stuff, socials, or whatever’s most urgent. No two days are really the same, but it’s always busy and keeps things interesting!
What do you love about the Gold Coast community, especially as a business owner?
It’s the friendly, laid-back vibe. Everyone’s so approachable and supportive. People here genuinely cheer each other on, whether it’s locals shopping small, other business owners sharing tips, or just the sense of community that makes tough days feel easier.
Winning things like the Micro and Emerging Business of the Year award here felt extra special because it came from our own backyard. The lifestyle helps too – beach close by, great weather, family-friendly. It keeps you balanced while building something.
So, where to next? What’s in the pipeline for Nat’v Basics?
We want to launch more into the basics category – think tank tops, tracksuits and more, all with the same natural quality and ethos we’ve built everything on.
Keeping it simple, sustainable, and true to what people love about us. Excited to keep growing that way.
What is your biggest tip for local business owners?
Back yourself, even when it gets tough and it will. Cash flow can be a nightmare, plans go sideways, and there are days you doubt everything. But keep showing up, stay true to why you started, and don’t try to do it all perfect from day one.
Start small (like we did in a spare room!), learn as you go, ask for help when you need it, and surround yourself with good people. The Gold Coast community is super supportive, so lean on that.
It’s not about never falling; it’s about getting back up and keeping the faith in what you’re building. You’ve got this.
