Happy birthday hazelle

hazelle turns 1 today!

It’s been a crazy but fulfilling year<3
When I launched hazelle, I didn’t think the products were ready to be released.
I would have kept refining or making changes to the products if it wasn’t for my friends who PUSHED me to get it started.

hazelle launch party at Nakameguro Lounge, June 2019

Once I’ve made that leap, and hazelle was recognized by my peers and real customers, I was faced with a new level of decision making and responsibilities—

From factory runs to customer service and department store pop ups, a lot of people got involved. Managing hazelle was a huge learning curve for me and it happened so fast. 

Looking back, I’m glad that I was forced to put my vulnerable self out there. This year made me realize that the products are never finished or far from ‘perfect’ because it constantly grows.

DIY business cards with custom made stamp from Tokyo Hands. 
Making small batches of everything takes time and a lot of work. But this was ideal for my small business because it allowed me to revisit the designs or content and tweek them until they were perfect!

The love that hazelle gets from customers are truly gratifying, and it gets me motivated.
The brand connected me with amazing people I would have never met or worked with otherwise.

photo by Mott House Tokyo

And we’re just getting started!

As I expand the next production, I want to prioritize establishing a fluid production so I can focus more on developing new products and building a strong community around the brand.

Here’s what I learned through this experience-

Your fabulous ideas will never be realized unless you put it out there. Out of your mind, on the paper, and in action. It’s ok to mess up. It’s ok to ask for help. People will recognize how much you believe in your idea if you can show it! The work you put into it will never go to waste because it is yours and it will always be a part of you. 

Never give up. Do it out of love, believe in yourself, and I promise that things will start to fall into place!

Sew FYI- a co-working studio in a warehouse building in Downtown LA. I found them when I needed to fix a sample before visiting the factory. They have all your sewing needs and assistance to finish your project!

Special thanks:

I couldn’t have done this with out the continuous love and support from my friends. Thank you for pushing me and believing in me.
Thank you to hazelle customers who always inspire me and makes me want to do better.