meet: ally lau of aruri
aruri is such a fun shop full of everything cute that i want. everything is simple and perfect. it's so sweet, with the perfect amount of personality. it gets even better when you get to hear ally's story behind aruri, and so inspiring!
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what is your background?
i am actually from a scientific background. i obtained a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology and i’m currently working in a research laboratory. but i have always dabbled in arts along the way. there was a point in my life when i was really confused! but it has been this way for so long, so i just kept going because it made me happy. i get the best from both worlds!
how did you get started designing & selling?
i started making cards and bookmarks out of plain cardstocks, pressed leaves and plants, way before the world of scrapbooking and all the marvelous tools existed, and not to mentioned before the internet! times have definitely changed. i continued pursuing my passion in arts and craft as a hobby, until in 2008, i finally decided to sell my products online, on etsy, which i manage part-time. so, i’m a science geek by day, and a crafter by night, it’s all about balance! my journey in design and creating has been so fun and experimental. now i have handmade cards, pouches, bags, soft toys, bow ties, games and rubber stamps. it’s a crazy, but happy collection!
what inspires you?
my inspiration comes mostly from scandinavian and japanese designs. i love simple, natural and happy elements in my products. but once in a while, i do something crazy with colors and patterns.
what is your favorite item in your shop?
my favorite item is the collage greeting card, which it all began with. i just love adding different materials and texture on a simple plain card. i use patterned papers, felt, fabric, lace or buttons to embellishment my cards. it just feels very handmade and personal, not something that can be mass-produced.
what’s the most challenging thing about owning your own business?
the most challenging thing about owning my own business is the branding and promoting. i think i have a lot to learn and do! i see a lot of successful shops that have huge followers on facebook and instagram. i wish i weren’t such an introvert on social media.
what advice would you give to makers who are just getting started?
keep on going, don’t give up! make sure your photos are attractive ie. taken in natural light, on a simple and clean background, maybe add a lovely prop or two but the keep the focus on your product. good photos and descriptions are a good start, and from there you can improve or expand your designs or varieties to show that you are constantly moving ahead. and just keep going!
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ally's story is soooo inspiring to me as i am an accountant by day and a crafter by night. it's so motivating to see someone in the same position who has done it and done it so well! i will just take a peak at this post whenever i get a little too relaxed, this'll get me up & working!
check out more of ally's work at her etsy, instagram and facebook. keep on keepin' on, and we can't wait to see what you come up with next! thanks so much, ally!