Meet Tess and Chad, a dynamic couple who took a bold leap from their bustling life in Melbourne, Australia, to the tranquil shores of Bali. With careers in fashion and construction, respectively, they felt the weight of the daily grind and the restrictive environment of lockdowns. In 2021, they decided to embrace a life of freedom, creativity, and cultural richness by relocating to Bali with their young daughter, Violet. Tess and Chad now channels her passion into Kokosfell, a skincare brand born from Bali’s natural beauty, and Teens Unleashed, a mentoring program for teenagers. Meanwhile, Chad continues to manage his thriving construction business remotely. Their journey is one of transformation, driven by the desire to create a life on their own terms while raising their family in a vibrant and supportive community.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and where are you originally from?
We are a family of four from Melbourne, Australia! Chad, a carpenter, and Tess, who worked in fashion, welcomed their baby girl Violet in March 2020. After enduring the chaotic COVID lockdown and feeling disillusioned with the 9-to-5 grind and Melbourne’s chilly climate, they decided to sell everything and move to Bali. Tess now manages all aspects of Kokosfell, as well as her other passion, Teens Unleashed—a mentoring program designed to help teenagers develop a growth mindset and essential skills for navigating young adulthood. Meanwhile, Chad continues to successfully run his construction business, TRIK CON, back in Melbourne.
When did you first arrive in Bali and how long do you wish to stay?
We made the move in June 2021 and we wish to never leave! We could never settle down in Australia. The rising costs of living and paying off a mortgage for the rest of our life’s just isn’t the dream. Our dream is to live on our terms, mortgage free and be away from the hustle and bustle of Australia. Along with giving our kids the ultimate life, to grow up with an incredible culture and show them the world.
What motivated you to move to Bali, and how did you go about making the decision to do so?
Chad had been back and forth to Bali many times, and found that is where he was most humbled and relaxed. Tess only had to visit once to know that Bali was the place they wanted to end up. The decision was made within 24 hours –haha. Chad messaged Tess one day at work and said “I’m over this, let’s move to Bali” and the answer was “yes, let’s do it”. It didn’t take much to convince Tess to move – haha. They made the decision in the March and moved in the June 2021.
Where in Bali do you live?
We have always lived in Babakan, which is the heart of Canggu now. Our shop is on the main road of Babakan!
Congratulations on opening your first store in Bali with Kokosfell, your simple and effective skincare brand! We’d love to hear more about your journey—please share your story with us.
The idea for Kokosfell was sparked over a few beers between friends on a beach in Bali six years ago. This inspiration led our founder, Chad Perry, to create a line of natural, handcrafted, and sustainable skincare that was luxurious, stylish, affordable, and most importantly, felt amazing. Working as a carpenter on the Mornington Peninsula wasn’t enough to fuel Chad’s passion, so Kokosfell was born. In June 2021, Chad decided to relocate Kokosfell’s headquarters to Bali, Indonesia, to oversee production personally and ensure the highest quality standards. Our handcrafted products reflect the heart and soul of their creation.In July 2022, Chad and his wife Tess realized their dream by opening Kokosfell’s first store in Pererenan, Bali.
Kokosfell is proudly Australian-owned and made in Bali. Now having a store in Babakan, Canggu. Starting a business in Bali is no small feat. After three years, we’ve only recently found the best lawyer and business team. While we’ve faced many challenges, we’ve also achieved incredible successes. Our advice is to thoroughly research and vet anyone you work with, ask plenty of questions, and ensure everything is documented in writing.
Tess can you share your experiences of pregnancy with your second child, River, whom you had in Bali? Why did you choose Bali to have give birth?
Having River in Bali was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. After my first c-section coincided with the lockdown, which left me feeling traumatized and isolated due to the lack of visitors, I knew I didn’t want a repeat of that experience. I was determined to have River’s birth on my own terms, and Bali felt like the perfect place for that. With the support of an amazing woman named Merry—our nanny and a true angel—and my husband, I had all I needed.
Dr. Hariyasa was instrumental in guiding me through a natural birth, although ultimately a c-section was necessary at 40 weeks for safety reasons. Despite this, it was a remarkably peaceful and anxiety-free experience. The nurses and the team at Bro’s Hospital were exceptional, and I felt calm throughout my stay. The follow-up care was outstanding, and I recovered both mentally and physically much faster than after my first birth. It’s a testament to the power of mindset. The paperwork was intense, with the passport and KITAS process taking considerable time. However, a wonderful friend and advisor helped make the process smoother.
How have you found the new parent community to be like in Bali?
The parent community is wonderful, lots of like minded parents all in Bali with the same purpose. I have a few of my bestest friends here in Bali.
What has the preschool experience been like for your 4-year old daughter Violet?
Matahari has been a beautiful experience, Violet has become an independent strong and vibrant 4 year old. They have encouraged her and is by far the best kinder she has been too.
How does the cost of living compare to back home in Australia?
In Bali, it’s possible to enjoy an Australian lifestyle if that’s your choice. After three years on the island, we’ve learned where to save and where to spend. For instance, supermarket shopping here is about 50% less expensive than in Australia. While a week’s worth of groceries might cost $400 in Australia, it’s roughly $150-200 in Bali. Overall, the cost of living is much lower—about a quarter of what you’d spend in Australia. In Australia, a three-bedroom house would cost over $800k AUD, but in Bali, you could build one for around $350k. Childcare is affordable in Bali, but schooling can be as costly as private schools in Australia.
How has living in Bali influenced your personal and professional life, and what opportunities have you found here?
Living in Bali has helped us recognize who our true friends are—those we genuinely want to spend quality time with. In contrast to Australia, where the tall poppy syndrome can make connections challenging, Bali offers a more cohesive community. Here, people often share similar goals and interests, making it easier to connect. At this point in our lives, we can’t envision living full-time in Australia. Our business and passions are rooted in Bali, and our children thrive with their two dogs, Choko and Gigi. We’re also fortunate to have “Merry,” who has become not just our nanny but a cherished family member.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced?
Biggest challenges, of course is being away from family. However, when they visit its quality time. Chad works away, for his construction business which makes things hard, but when he returns, he gets to enjoy the place he believes is home.
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about Bali, and how would you correct them?
I strongly disagree with both of these statements: the idea that every child who comes to Bali will get “Bali Belly” and that kids won’t receive a quality education here. These are the two questions I get every time I’m in Australia. People freak out but I believe it’s because they have never been to Bali or lived an expat life. The kids get an incredible education, I believe the environment in pre-school is 10 times better than Australia.
What would you say is the best thing about living in Bali?
Best thing, is freedom and not listening to the Australian news. You can get away with a small budget if you need to and having a helping hand so you can focus on our children and business.
What are some factors that families looking to live in Bali should consider?
Come for 3 months, experiment the idea. Live like an expat, don’t go to beach clubs every day or go out to eat every day. Enjoy the lifestyle, put the kids into a preschool to make sure your happy with that aspect. Along with be prepared to pay rent upfront.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience living in Bali that we haven’t covered yet?
In July 2022, Chad and I eloped at Munduk Cabins in Bali, it was one of the most surreal and beautiful moments surround by our two beautiful friends and stillness with Pastor Wita by our side. The essence of a wedding lies in being with the person you love and Pastor Wita made this possible.
Follow our journeys @tessaprosser @kokosfell @teens_unleashed @trik_con
