Today we’d like to introduce you to Jae Rattanakongkham.
Hi Jae, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
When I was younger, I had a dog who was the light of my life. We had moved to a new area, and he began developing allergies. His medicine quickly got expensive, so we couldn’t just randomly buy toys for him anymore. I wanted to give my dog the whole world, but as a 14-year-old, that’s pretty hard. I watched lots of YouTubers who sold handmade plushies, various K-pop merchandise, and even squishies. I thought to myself, “Hey, I can do that! I got this!” From there, I did lots of research and started my small business trying to make money to buy my dog new toys and treats. I, unfortunately, did not really “blow up” or find lots of success until late 2021. It breaks my heart to think about it as my dog passed in June 2021. He didn’t get to see where I am now, but I hope he sees it from doggy heaven 🙂
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think every business goes through its ups and downs, mine included. I wish it were a smooth road, but I live by the saying, “It wouldn’t be impressive if it were easy.” I am currently living with depression and anxiety, which has caused many struggles for me. While I have been able to coexist with the two as of recent, young me had a hard time digesting the defeat and financial struggles that come with a business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I handmake stickers, charms, plushies, etc. I specialize in K-pop and anime-themed goods. At events, I’m well known for my slogans and Jujutsu Kaisen series of merch. Those are the two things I’m actually the proudest of! A lot of customers across all the events I have attended always tell me they can recognize my blue setup anywhere. I would say that’s the biggest thing that sets me apart from others. Most businesses are pink-themed or all-black. I’m the blue sheep at events, if you will!
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I would say I have the traditional view of “high risk, high reward.” I always ALWAYS ask for second opinions before I do anything crazy, though. For example, I took a huge risk of spending close to $1000 on new product despite my events being 4 months away. I was hesitant at first, but with encouragement from those close to me, I did it. In the end, I was able to find high success in the risk I took.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://spawnofsoo.storenvy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spawnofsoo/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/jewelz12000
- Other: https://jrfolio.carrd.co/
