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In recent times, small yet impactful popup stores have become all the rage. A popup store, as its name implies, refers to a temporary shop that 'pops up' unexpectedly and then disappears, selling various products and holding various events over a short period. Although these are transient setups that can open and close at any moment, they maximize sales through exclusivity and offer a unique appeal to consumers, combining diverse sights and foods. Thus, they present a win-win opportunity for both participating vendors and consumers.
For the first time in a while, the "Mom & I Happy Our Talk" corner has brought together young CEOs of popup stores, organized and promoted by the head office. As the proprietors share their striking ideas, unique products, and individual business strategies, their valuable conversations grow increasingly fascinating.
Written by Cho Gabi, Editor
Photos by Bae Kangsu, Grace Kim, Editor, Makeup by Jane Cho, Venue: The Party House
It's an honor to host potential corporate giants here. Could each vendor briefly introduce their company and products?
Gemwelove
Hello, this is Han Kwon and Jeeun Yoon. We majored in architecture and graphics, and run Gemwelove, where we create and sell home decor products by merging these fields. Our offerings include lamps, diffusers, and concrete pots for planting, as well as cards and calendars using graphics. Our products stand out by developing everyday items with new ideas, aiming to bring joy and aesthetic pleasure to your life.
Anishines
Hello, I'm Minjung Koo from Anishines. I studied jewelry design and primarily designed fine jewelry. However, I wanted to offer practical products at more affordable prices, leading me to create custom jewelry. The products range from earrings and necklaces to bracelets, with prices from $10 to $300. My design approach follows a minimalist style for easy wear and purchase. Through this endeavor, I hope to promote custom fine jewelry and grow alongside fellow vendors.
Where’s My Candle
I'm Jooyeon Lee, selling products under the name Where’s My Candle. Most items are eco-friendly, made from harmless natural materials. We offer candles made from 100% pure soy wax, natural diffusers with essential oils, and soaps. Once someone tries our products, they often become regulars, confident in their purchases. Prices are around $20, suitable for effortless purchase.
La Bleu Studi, Inc
Hello, I'm Joogyeong Lee, leading La Bleu Studi, Inc. I hold the South and North American rights for ALO glasses, a popular brand in Korea with 60 outlets nationwide, and aim to increase awareness through popup stores. I graduated top of my class in Jewelry Design at FIT following my education at Seoul Arts High School and have worked with major jewelry firms. This background helps me enthusiastically promote the ALO business. Although high-priced in Korea, ALO is available at popup stores for $150-$200.
HyoniHoney
Hello, I'm Hyoni, selling organic raw honey. Initially, I promoted through social media, but found its limits. However, partnering with Mom & I's popup store increased cost-efficiency in promotions. Our honey, produced naturally in Pennsylvania's Amish Town, is challenging to advertise due to its nature as a health food, but Mom & I's magazines and webzines have been instrumental in getting the word out.
Simply Juiced & D4 Boutique
I'm Jenny, focusing on selling health juices this time. With heightened consumer interest in health, we are committed to 100% fresh organic vegetable and fruit juices. Our gluten-free juices serve as a substantial breakfast. We offer detox juices, smoothies, and vegan-friendly products. Large sizes are around $10, small ones around $6.
Haeyum & Massitgo
I'm Hyunjeong Kim and Yongshil Song, selling traditional Korean confectionery and ceramics. Our wagashi is a premium delight made without flour, using only sweet rice and bean paste. Our anko breads replace chocolate cravings with healthful, high-end flavors. We've built a reputation in New York and hope to expand in New Jersey. Haeyum’s practical ceramics are already well-introduced by media, offering useful everyday items like plates and mugs.
Roymom Bakery
I'm Roy Mom, delighted to offer sweet creations made with fresh, healthy ingredients. Our fully handmade selections include walnut pie, coffee pecan pie, and various breads. They are visually appealing, making great gifts.
Kimbap, Tteokbokki, Egg Roll & NakataKonny
I'm "Jihyeon's Mother," providing lunchtime solutions with kimbap and cup tteokbokki. We offer a lunch set with five varieties, crafted with fresh, selected ingredients. Additionally, homemade egg rolls using Korean, not Chinese, ingredients are available. Concerned about calories post-meal? We sell NakataKonny Japanese diet products that eliminate over 50% of post-meal calorie intake. A 40-meal supply is $20, and a 90-meal supply is $40, so enjoy our meals without worry.
Bon Bien/De Cru NY
Hello, we are Jayoun Hong, Nayoung An, and Yunnam Kim, selling home decors and natural fragrance products. We provide handmade items using 100% organic materials. Our scented products include soy candles, plaster diffusers, and natural soaps. Using scented plaster, we create car air fresheners and dried flower arrangements. We also offer vintage decorative items, aged tea cups, and handmade knit products.
Gems & Tools
I’m Eunis from Gems and Tools, designing handmade custom jewelry. Our products utilize 100% natural materials like gemstones and crystals. Offering casual, yet elegant designs suitable for any look, we have high-quality products for special occasions. Prices range from $25 to $100, including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. I run the Gems & Tools jewelry workshop.
Gemwelove
One major trend in retail is the integration of various fields into a single platform. Fashion, food, and culture are merging, appealing to a fast-paced lifestyle where one can enjoy coffee and shop in a single space. Thus, I foresee continued expansion of popup stores.
As we look forward to a bright future, we hope these stores become cultural platforms for direct interaction with customers. Beyond simple sales, we aim to provide experiential and emotional engagement through popup stores, with dedicated promotional efforts from Mom & I Magazine.
Thank you for joining us.
"See you at Mom & I Popup Stores."
