Hwee Ling | Wild Matters
We spoke to Hwee Ling in May 2022 about her journey in building Wild Matters.
How long has the brand Wild Matters been?
Technically four years but it really started during Circuit breaker, so about 2 years.
What floral arrangements do you like to do most?
I still like to do bridal bouquets more. It is more challenging but there is a greater sense of satisfaction.
They include bridal bouquets, corsages and car decorations. I am also trying to expand into venue decor.
“The experience of doing your business is going to be more valuable than just doing sales.”
I was in Business Development for a number of years after graduation before I decide to do this full time. I was always interested in handicrafts, not just flowers actually. My ex-boss was telling me to do it. I started trying when I still have my full time job.
I learnt along the way.
During the circuit breaker period, I have a lot more time at time so I thought I can try to grow the business. I thought when I am older, I really want to have my own place to do flowers. I am thinking a bit far, but if we are going to have kids in future, I rather I can bring them up myself. So having this might give me the flexible arrangement for me.
There are a lot of challenges along the way.
Challenges vary month to month.
What is the most tiring or time consuming?
You really need to be disciplined. I have the flexibility to say I am so tired so I can turn it off and there will be no orders for the day. For us, once you stop the income stops so I think that is the struggle. I have to force myself to work and be disciplined.
There is a point in time where you don’t enjoy certain parts of your work. Then you need to force yourself to do it.
What are your favourite flowers?
Roses for sure. There are so many varieties and sometimes they might not be look like roses too.
Finally, what do you need to be a good florist?
An eye for beautiful things. You also need to be very detailed and passionate about what you do.