There’s a certain kind of magic you can only find off the beaten path. In Mont Albert’s leafy, tree-lined streets, where life moves to the rhythm of takeaway lattes, dog walks and friendly conversations between mother's groups, sits Petite Matilda, the charming younger sister to Matilda, the neighbourhood café adored by locals.
A cosy grab-and-go, its Frenchtastic blue façade and porcelain-tiled front entrance beautifully mosaicked with 'Vite Vite Petite' transport you instantly - as if you’ve wandered into a Parisian café tucked away in a discreet hilly passage in Montmarte, rather than Melbourne’s inner eastern suburbs.
The first time I stepped through its door, I settled into a sunlit corner by the window and let the scene wash over me - the buttery scent of freshly baked pastries, the soft hum of the custom ‘Petite’ La Marzocco coffee machine, the walnut-stained wood counter panelling set against gentle tones of soft blue and ivory, penny tiles framing the floor with precise contrast, all bathed in the muted glow of morning light.
I sat back and simply took it all in.
Then, a moment straight from a 90’s feel-good film - Jacinta Price, founder of both Matilda and Petite Matilda, breezed past. Relaxed and self-assured, she wore a pair of well-loved Birkenstock Boston clogs and a cotton bandana scarf twisted as a headband, Jacinta embodied a confident woman at ease with herself. I thought immediately,
"Yes. A woman after my own heart."
We exchanged warm smiles, bonded over our shared Francophile obsessions, before bursting into the kind of laughter, that feels like two old friends reunited in a crowd. A meet-cute so effortless, it felt scripted by fate.
I complimented her on creating an immersive customer experience and her gift for enriching the everyday. I praised her impeccable attention to detail in visual merchandising, to which Jacinta responded with humble thanks before asking what I do for a living. I told her that I’m drawn to people, places, and moments that make me feel alive, and mentioned in passing that I’m a Brand Strategist and Creative Director, partnering with heritage brands, Birkenstock among them, on 360° campaign productions.
And just like that - the conversation shifted to what truly matters: the pursuit of one’s full potential, the ongoing commitment of personal growth and development, leaning into purpose-led work with heart and soul, the refusal to settle for anything less than exceptional, the constant push and pull between pursuing ambition and being a present mother, and the quiet courage it takes to keep going when the tide turns against you.
A deep, honest, reflective and meaningful connection I never saw coming.
In Real Life
What inspired you to start Matilda and Petite Matilda?
Matilda was a lifelong dream! I’d always wanted to own a café, but it had to be the right space. During Covid, I was walking with my mum in Mont Albert North when she said, ‘I need to show you this old milk bar — it would make the perfect café.’ I saw it and knew instantly it was the one.
Petite is an extension of Matilda. We quickly outgrew our space, so we opened a separate takeaway venue just across the road. Designing both spaces has been one of my favourite parts of the journey.
What is the most challenging part of running the cafes?
I’d say being open seven days a week really takes a toll. Honestly, unless I’m on holiday overseas, you can never switch off! In saying that, I’ve even been on a ferris wheel in Tokyo when I got a call saying the internet had failed - and there I was, on the phone overseas trying to get it fixed.
What do you feel is the most rewarding in being a cafe owner?
Seeing all the happy faces that come each day, because they love us! It’s honestly so special to create a place people can come to meet friends and family and that they chose us!
Edition Tote
A modern essential with a Parisian spirit. This tote is crafted from 100% hemp with a waxed interior coating that resists dirt and wear.
Designed with a generous capacity and snap internal pocket closure, the Tote is a practical carryall for everything from market mornings, vintage shopping hauls, gym gear to airport travel.
Thoughtful details include sturdy canvas top handles, a padded base for support, and a riveted leather patch with etched branding echoing Parisian street signs.
Somewhere between sips of coffee and stories shared, we realised we spoke the same love language. A shared vision in the joy of living. A mutual admiration for each other’s craft. A recognition of being creative intuitive thinkers. In that moment, a seed was planted.
What began as a chance encounter unfolded into an editorial capturing Edition by Nu Studios’ signature looks, a dialogue between Parisian allure and the refined sporting codes of Melbourne.
Introducing the first love letter written on The Notebook about two sensibilities with shared passions and the serendipity of crossing paths at exactly the right moment.
With love, from Montmartre to Melbourne.
Jumpsuit
Sculpting 4-way stretch jumpsuit with contrast trim for a flawless fit. Features an elegantly scooped open back with adjustable straps and built-in bra support.
Ideal for Pilates class, studio practice or running errands throughout the day. Pair with the Relaxed Cardigan and layer with Solid Socks for a casual lunch look.
Treats on Us
To celebrate our newfound friendship, we’re giving you the chance to win $200 worth of Edition by Nu Studios accessories plus a $100 Petite Matilda voucher.
Follow @editionbynustudios for all the details on how to enter.
Enjoy 20% off Edition by Nu Studios with code PETITEMATILDA including free shipping & returns.
Acknowledgment
Host : Jacinta Price
Location : Petite by Matila & Matilda
Talent : Grace Trotterr
Production Coordinator : Dongjoo Jung
Talent Photography & Motion: Jacques Dominic Massie from Comma Studio
Stills Photography : Travis Nesbitt & Phoebe Martin
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