Alicia Martin, owner of Wings 4 All Shapes, has transformed personal challenges into a business built on inclusion, community, and wellbeing. Since launching her business on 20 June 2026, Alicia has combined a clothing exchange, ironing service, and journaling sessions to create a welcoming space where women can connect, share stories, and support one another. After overcoming significant health challenges, multiple surgeries, and recovering from a car accident, Alicia is now pursuing her passion for helping others through clothing and journaling in a space she proudly calls her own.

Working with Many Rivers

I first journeyed with Many Rivers in 2021 after finding them online.

I have enjoyed support from Colin Hill and ongoing face-to-face support from Lorinda Otto, with mentoring and helping me grow my business using the Many Rivers tools to assist with bookkeeping.

I found it very difficult finding suitable employment due to my disability and required work hours, so I decided to open my own business instead. Before starting Wings 4 All Shapes, I pivoted from my previous business idea which had ceased due to Cancer. However, after multiple surgeries and recovering from a car accident later, I am thrilled to succeed in my new passions, clothing and journaling.

Biggest Challenge

Unknown expenses to run a business until you are in it!

Starting the business was also about creating something that reflected my own experiences.

As a curvy woman living with a disability, I’ve known what it feels like to be judged, overlooked, and made to feel like I didn’t quite fit, whether in clothes or in spaces. This shop is my way of gently challenging that. It’s built from the belief that everyone deserves to feel comfortable, included, and valued exactly as they are.

That is why this is a place grounded in community and inclusion. While I am very proud to work alongside my treasured disabled volunteers, this space welcomes people from all walks of life. Everyone has something to offer, and everyone deserves to be part of something meaningful.

Biggest Success

Believing in myself, and having valued people in my life for support to grow my business, and being well enough to do this to inspire others too.

The idea for the business came over an ironing board, steam rising, fabrics passing through my hands, and a simple moment that stayed with me. A customer once looked at her ironed clothes she was collecting and wondered aloud if she could leave them and take something from another rack instead. We both laughed.

It was such a small thought, but it sparked a bigger question: why don’t I create a space where women can exchange the pieces they have loved, and find something new to love in return?

I am very happy to tell you that I became a tenant of one of the empty shops in Miles, 55 Murilla Street, the old Chemist Shop. My shop continues supporting the Op Shops in Miles by opening on Tuesday and Thursday when they do not operate, with Wednesdays dedicated to journaling.

Wings Exchange Clothing for Curvy Ladies is a space built on three simple offerings, each one grounded in care. A clothing exchange, where women can bring in their pre-loved pieces and discover something different. An ironing service that brings ease to everyday life. And a place for journaling, quiet, personal, and purposeful, where thoughts can be gathered and stories can unfold.

Biggest Change

My self esteem, the much needed financial boost and being able to launch the opening of my shop.

Now I have a shop for clients to bring and collect their ironing, browse the clothing in the exchange offer, come together for journaling, enjoy a cuppa and fellowship in an inviting space that I can call my own.

This is a space for all women, of every size and every shape. A place where beauty isn’t defined by labels, but by how you feel in what you wear. I hold a special place in my heart for curvy women, because finding pieces that truly fit, your body and your spirit, should never feel like a challenge.

Drop in and have me press a shirt, swap a dress, or sit quietly with a journal. Whatever brings you here, the hope is simple: that you leave feeling a little lighter, a little more seen, and maybe even a little inspired.

This is more than a shop. It’s a small step toward something kinder.

And you’re warmly invited to be part of it.

Future Goals

I want to set up procedures so that my volunteers can run the shop on their own without me having to come in every day.

As the business continues to grow, my focus is on creating systems that allow the shop to continue serving the community while empowering my volunteers to confidently manage day-to-day operations.

Connect with Wings 4 All Shapes

I do not have social media or a website at the moment, but please drop in to the shop in Miles on the main street. We’d love to welcome you into the space.

Wings 4 All Shapes
55 Murilla Street, Miles (Old Chemist Shop), QLD

Looking to Start or Grow Your Own Business?

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If you’re interested in finding out how Many Rivers can support your business journey, click the button below to learn more:

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