Entrepreneurial Dreams: Stepping Out of Comfort Zones to Become Bosses – Two Post-80s Women: “If You Want to Do It, Dive in Fully, Regardless of Success or Failure | Topick | HKET
March 19, 2021
"JARDIN DES FONTAINES – Where Passion Meets Cultural Craftsmanship"
The Birth of a Brand
Two Hong Kong women, bonded by an entrepreneurship course, took a bold leap during the peak of the pandemic in June 2020. Leaving behind their corporate careers, they founded JARDIN DES FONTAINES (JDF)—a home decor brand that marries elegance with cultural storytelling. What began as a leap of faith has since blossomed into a collection rivaling high-end labels in sophistication.
From TV Production to Design Innovation
Co-founder and CEO Yoyo Yau spent nearly a decade in television production, honing her creative instincts on shows like "Moving Up", which showcased luxury properties. "Seeing those exquisite interiors ignited my desire to create spaces that are both beautiful and soul-nourishing," she recalls. Yet, it wasn’t until she met designer Mon Lim in an entrepreneurship program that her vision took shape.
Their synergy was instant. Amidst the uncertainty of 2020, they launched JDF—a brand born from lockdown frustrations. "People were stuck at home, surrounded by uninspiring decor," Yoyo shares. "We wanted to transform houses into havens of joy and comfort."
Defying the Odds
When asked about the risks of starting a business during an economic downturn, Yoyo’s response was refreshingly resolute:
"I’m not getting any younger. If not now, when? Success isn’t guaranteed, but regret is far scarier."
From an initial lineup of 7-8 collections in September 2020, JDF now boasts 12 distinct series, each a tribute to global cultures—from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the serene landscapes of Kyoto.
Design Philosophy: A Labor of Love
For designer Mon, inspiration is everywhere. "Whether it’s a place we’ve visited or a culture we admire, every pattern and hue is meticulously crafted," she explains. A single collection can take dozens of hours to perfect—a process she describes as all-consuming yet exhilarating.
"These days, it’s just eat, sleep, design—repeat," Mon laughs. "But when customers connect with our work, every sleepless night is worth it."
Official Source: The Hong Kong Economic Times (hket)
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