Harper Bee, the much-loved gift and lifestyle store for tweens and teens, is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to move to a new, iconic home in Mackay’s CBD. Soon, the boutique will trade from the heritage-listed Queensland National Bank building on Victoria Street—an upgrade that reflects just how far this family-run business has come.
The move comes as their sister business, Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre, prepares for a major expansion of its children’s soft play space. Rather than staying put, Harper Bee saw an opportunity to grow, setting up shop in one of Mackay’s most prominent locations. And watch this space — plans are already brewing to add barista-made coffee to the Harper Bee experience.
But what really makes Harper Bee special is the family behind it. Owned by Lisa Versaci, the store is run by her three daughters—Isabella, Alexis, and Stella—as well as her son’s fiancée, Brooke. These young women aren’t just helping out; they are the driving force behind Harper Bee, handling stock selection, social media, and daily operations with entrepreneurial flair. Their keen eye for trends ensures every item on the shelves is exactly what tweens and teens want.
Harper Bee offers a delightful array of products that cater to the unique tastes of their young clientele. Their exclusive branded items include stylish backpacks perfect for school or weekend adventures, cozy cushions that add flair to any bedroom, chic duffel bags for dance classes or sleepovers, and trendy pencil cases that double as cosmetic bags. Every product reflects the creativity and passion the family pours into the brand, ensuring that what’s on the shelves is as fun, fashionable, and unique as the shoppers themselves.
With their tagline Bee Bold, Bee Creative, Bee You, Harper Bee is more than just a store—it’s a family-run haven for young shoppers. Mark your calendars for their grand opening in mid-March, and get ready to explore their brand-new hive!
Lisa Versaci with her three daughters—Isabella, Alexis, and Stella. Photo credit: Photos by Nell
Some of the products available at Harper Bee, in-store and online
Harper Bee is moving into the iconic original Queensland National Bank Building in Mackay’s CBD on the corner of Victoria and Wood Streets. Photos supplied