Misty Rose Korea makes designs for life's great moments
Lola Stephanie models one of her Misty Rose Korea shirts. Courtesy of Misty Rose Korea
In Gyeonggi Province, nestled between traditional Korean homes, resides a woman whose creativity and entrepreneurial spirit have woven a tapestry of joy into the lives of many residents, both local and foreign. Meet Lola Stephanie, the vivacious artist behind Misty Rose Korea, a custom shirt business that has been brightening up special events for several years.
Stephanie, born and raised in the heart of Paris, France, embarked on an unconventional journey that led her to Korea on a working holiday visa in 2014. "I craved to explore Asia more intimately," she said. Little did she know that this exploration would not just introduce her to a new culture but also spark a creative venture that would later become her life's passion.
Initially, an English teacher, Stephanie's transition into the world of artistry began with a need for teaching materials. "I wanted my classes to be engaging and fun," she recalled. Faced with the high cost of pre-made items, she took matters into her own hands, quite literally, buying a cutting machine. Little did she know that this simple investment would lay the foundation for Misty Rose Korea.
From cutting felt for teaching materials to experiment with heat transfer vinyl (HTV) to create unique shirts for her daughter, Stephanie found herself falling in love with the entire creative process. Three years down the line, Misty Rose Korea stands as a testament to Stephanie's dedication and artistic flair, offering an array of custom shirts, baby onesies, eco-bags, Christmas stockings and more.
"I create to add a touch of joy to people's lives," she explained. Her style, characterized as "girly and cute," adapts to customer preferences, aiming to make special events even more memorable.
Matching baby and mama shirts from Misty Rose Korea / Courtesy of Misty Rose Korea
Being a foreign entrepreneur in Korea, Stephanie reflects on her journey positively, stating she hasn't encountered significant hurdles. "Koreans have been quite receptive," she remarked, expressing her gratitude for local support while acknowledging that her primary target remains the foreign community.
When asked about her sources of inspiration, Stephanie credits the people around her, especially her daughter and acquaintances. "Observing people sparks my creativity," she said. "Not in a creepy way, though!"
Misty Rose Korea isn't just about crafting shirts; it's about weaving stories. Stephanie fondly recalls customers who allowed her to be a part of their most cherished moments, from weddings to the arrival of their children, birthdays and Christmas. "It's like I'm on this journey with them, watching their kids grow up through my designs," she shared with a glint of pride.
Lola Stephanie shows off one of her Misty Rose Korea outfits for infants. Courtesy of Misty Rose Korea
While managing a work-life balance remains a humorous challenge for Dubois, she finds solace and motivation in the smiles and satisfaction of her customers. "Seeing people happy with what I create is the biggest reward," she said. "More than the art itself, it's the process that brings me immense joy."
Social media has played a pivotal role in her business's growth, especially through platforms like the HMK online market on Facebook, where she participates regularly in online events. Stephanie's preferred means of contact and display of her creations are Instagram and Facebook, where her designs resonate with a growing audience.
Stephanie's Misty Rose Korea continues to sprinkle a little happiness into the lives of those who adorn her creations. As she crafts each piece, she embodies her belief that her art represents happiness — a sentiment that is vividly echoed in the smiles of her satisfied customers.
For those seeking a touch of bespoke joy in their lives, Stephanie's Misty Rose Korea welcomes all, inviting them to be part of the creative journey she cherishes dearly.
Visit @mistyrose.kr on Instagram or fb.com/mistyrosekorea for more information and to explore Stephanie's creative designs.
Chantal Terblanche, from South Africa, lives here with her dog, Samsung. She runs the blog ClumsyinKorea.com and the Korea Events group on Facebook.