Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Ong.
Hi Tiffany, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began with transforming a hobby into a small business. I have always enjoyed arts and crafts, drawing characters, doodling, and coloring throughout my childhood. I spent countless hours making bracelets and trinkets. However, as I grew older, I found less time for these activities. One day, I came home and decided to make earrings using melting beads. It was a relaxing experience, serving as an escape from my busy professional life. After creating a few earrings, I ventured into making beadable pens, and it was exciting to see these ideas come to life. It helped to provide a balance between my professional career and something I enjoyed doing for fun.
Once I had crafted several items, I thought about setting up at various markets to sell what I had made. My first thought was that no one would want what I had made. However, I decided to push the negativity aside and send a text to a friend who was starting a market. I mentioned what I had made and asked if this would be something she would be looking for in a vendor. From there, Tiffany’s Trinketopia began and transformed into what it is today. What began as a single table with a few products quickly blossomed into three tables, two grid walls, and a diverse range of items. It has really become a family affair at this point. Our son, aka our “Creative Director,” takes charge of creating the pens and pencils, while I focus on creating the earrings and keychains. Our daughter will assist with the earrings when she has a little bit of downtime. My husband takes pictures of our items, helps with social media, and goes to all of the markets with me to set up and assist all of the wonderful guests we meet. Each of us contributes to this exciting journey, and it has been an incredible experience.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is there ever a truly smooth path? LOL! I can’t think of a single experience in my life that has been without its bumps. Challenges have always been present in one form or another, yet they’ve helped me grow as a person. As I embark on this new journey, I often find myself in a battle with self-doubt.
What I mean is, I frequently question whether my efforts are good enough. You may have heard of “imposter syndrome.” Well, this is something I struggle with. I know I excel as a teacher and understand what my students need to succeed and grow. However, I often struggle with the negativity and anxiety that accompany creativity.
Many people have expressed their appreciation for what I make and their eagerness to see more. Yet, despite this positive feedback, I sometimes question the worthiness of what I’ve created for purchase. Ultimately, this is my personal challenge, and I believe I will overcome it in time… hopefully. ☺️
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am recognized as a teacher, mother, and wife. With two decades of teaching experience, I can’t envision doing anything else. While I have embarked on a new journey, it’s something I can pursue during afternoons and weekends, providing the balance I mentioned earlier.
My greatest pride lies in my children and their accomplishments. Our son is in his final year of middle school and has taken up sports, while our daughter is on the verge of graduating with her doctorate in Pharmacy. Among all my achievements, they are what I cherish the most.
As a very outgoing individual, I genuinely enjoy meeting and talking to new people. I love discovering their interests and what they would like to see. Sometimes, I might chat a bit too much—ha! Too much talking is what I’ve always done since I was a child. What truly sets me apart is my vibrant personality; I have a passion for life and enjoy connecting with others. My aim is to create something that people will love and return to, whether to visit or shop for something new. I am constantly exploring innovative ways to engage our guests and make their experience enjoyable. As a teacher, I have always loved playing games, and I knew I could bring that enthusiasm to our booth with our visitors.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I had a passion for arts and crafts. Drawing, doodling, creating projects, and coloring have always brought me relaxation. Cheerleading was another passion of mine, as it allowed me to be part of something greater than myself. I’ve always been outgoing, often considered a social butterfly. Countless times, I found myself in trouble for chatting too much; every childhood report card noted my tendency to talk excessively. I don’t think I’ve ever met a stranger. If someone initiated a conversation with me, you could bet it would turn into a lively exchange! I’m quite certain I initiated most of those conversations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tiffanystrinketopia.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanys_trinketopia?igsh=N2NjbTlieHlzdnNv&utm_source=qr
