Passion in Clay Jewellery Birthed During Trip to NZ

What is your business about?

Almost Idyllic is a clay jewelry business! We mostly make earrings but occasionally make trinkets & rings as well. Our philosophy is “Timeless & Classy” — for our wears are designed to be simple yet elevated, and are meant to accompany you on your numerous adventures!

What made you decide to start your business? When did you start?

I started in Almost Idyllic in May 2020, during Circuit Breaker - yes, it’s been almost 2 years! I first got to know of clay earrings on a holiday in New Zealand a year before, and was super intrigued & wanted to give it a go!

Thus, I spent the months after my A Levels experimenting with clay and creating numerous prototypes before launching my first batch in May. I picked up jewelry making from scratch by myself, learning from YouTube & fellow makers in the clay jewellery market.

It wasn’t an easy venture at all but my love for the arts, combined with the experience of entrepreneurship, motivated me to stay the course.

Why did you choose to take part in SEM?

I chose to take part in the SEM because I thought it would be a good opportunity to try running a physical booth out! It’s my first time having the space to sell my works, so I’m looking forward to learning lots! I want to gain more experience in the field of entrepreneurship, and think this first hand experience will be beneficial for me in the long run. I also wish to expand my business to NUS students and that’s why I decided to take the leap of faith and apply for SEM!

What are some of the challenges you face as a student entrepreneur?

The main challenge I face would be time management. Making earrings is an extremely time consuming process, and takes hours to make on end. Hence, it is hard to balance other commitments whilst running a small business due to the limited amount of time one has. As someone who lives on campus during the weekdays, I would make my earrings at home over the weekend. I often make numerous prototypes before releasing the final product as well. Hence, sacrifices need to be made inevitably, but I consider it a worthwhile pursuit.

Another challenge I face would be that my business is a one man show, and having to do the making, marketing, liaising from start to end is generally quite taxing! It does get tiring, so it’s important to take breaks too!

What is one tip that has helped you in juggling your responsibilities as a student and entrepreneur well?

Prioritise, and don’t be afraid to just try!

It’s important to prioritise because of the 101 things we University students have on our plates. I tend to panic and get overwhelmed when there are too many things to do, so I usually break them down into smaller things to be accomplished! Also, it’s important to remember that you are a student first before your business, and that has guided me in my decision making over the past 2 years.

What motivates you and keeps you going in your business?

When I get to spread joy through my earrings and when people are able to appreciate my artwork! I started this business as a hobby, and had no real intention of growing it. Today, it has grown significant and I’m curious to see how far this venture of mine can go!

My friends and family have been incredibly encouraging. I’m really thankful for all their support over the years!

Looking forward, I’m excited to meet more new people & sincerely seek your support in my venture! ❤️

Natalie is a Year 2 undergraduate student from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Her works are currently on sale at NUS Co-op@Central Forum under the Student Entrepreneur’s Market (SEM) programme.

Instagram: @almost__idyllic