BURNT 50K from our savings, but was it worth it?!

When I quit my 9-5 job last December, I had no idea how far this could go. We had a vision but no idea what to expect.

And now, we just wrapped up our 3rd pop-up in ☆New York☆

Even crazier, we’re planning to open our first permanent store in NYC!

Each time, we’ve grown. We’ve learned so much - the good, the bad(iykyk lols….)

I’ve always dreamed of creating a space where you can feel safe, seen, and embraced just as you are. And now it really feels like we’re getting closer.

This chubby Korean girl who once believed she wasn’t “pretty enough” to enjoy fashion is now opening a fun fashion store in New York! How awesome of a plot twist is that?!

Stay tuned, I’ll be sharing every step of this journey hehe ᢉ𐭩

Huge thanks to our sponsors ⋆⭒˚.⋆

@gatchany

@hustleandheart.official

@lazysundaes

@mizulabdrinks

@modelmatcha

@noflex.nyc

@paldofood_global

@pickypic.official

@spotdessertbar

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2025/9/7 Edited to

... Read moreStarting a business, especially in the highly competitive New York fashion scene, requires a mix of passion, resilience, and strategic planning. Burning through every penny of your savings, as experienced in this journey, is a daunting but often necessary step toward turning a vision into reality. Many entrepreneurs share the anxiety of uncertain profits and the pressure of paying bills while building their dream. The extreme weather challenges such as severe heat or unexpected rain can also impact events like pop-ups, affecting turnout and sales, making adaptability essential for success. Building an inclusive fashion brand resonates deeply today, as more consumers demand representation and body positivity. Creating a space where customers feel safe and embraced aligns with rising movements for diversity and self-esteem in fashion. Embracing midsize and Korean fashion styles adds a unique cultural and size-inclusive appeal that distinguishes a fresh store in NYC’s bustling market. Leveraging collaborations with sponsors and local brands not only enhances event experiences but also builds community trust and exposure. Unique elements like viral events, photo booths, and engaging social media campaigns have proven effective in attracting crowds and creating memorable moments. Being an introverted founder can be challenging in highly social roles like pop-ups, but pushing beyond comfort zones often leads to rich personal and professional growth. This story reflects that success is rarely linear. Learning from each pop-up’s highs and lows, managing the financial risk of $50K investment, and incrementally growing towards a permanent store highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication needed. For other aspiring small business owners, this journey underscores the importance of perseverance, community support, and staying true to one’s vision in a demanding industry. For readers interested in transitioning from a traditional job into entrepreneurship, or those passionate about inclusive fashion, this narrative offers an honest, authentic glimpse into the realities of launching a small business in one of the world’s fashion capitals.