Advertorial: PURE to the Power of Crystals

Hello ladies, 

How exciting! This is technically my first advertorial post for a newly set up business. Pure to the Power of Crystals is owned by my dear friend, Karen and yes, when she asked me to do a advertorial on this product, I agreed! I have been using this special product since she started experimenting (we love it when we are the guinea piggos!) so its been approx 5 months since we have been using it. We got 1 time free trial, the rest we paid for it and has been using it because we love it! This product has since been introduced through word of mouth amongst our circle of friends and seems like they enjoy it as much as I do!

Pure to the Power of Crystals is owned by Karen and is a life coach, who has keen interest in alternative healing therapies and came across this form.
Hence, it was a natural progression (in my opinion) for her to start shifting her interest in 'potion' (i honestly dont know what is a better word) My dear friend here, being her 'everything must be the best she can be' she did alot of homework on coming up with various formulas and understanding the history and the properties FOR EACH INGREDIENT and the next we knew, her first trial batch arrived at my door step. 

For now, she has completed 3 types of 'potion' namely Abundance, Magnetism and Self Love. She will be introducing more products in time to come!

Being in the business, naturally I am using alot of 1st two... So now you will ask me, what has it benefited me and what are the results? Did I really make tons of money after I spray them? 

My answer is: I don't know. 

I honestly dont know how it works and I have no scientific proof to answer (maybe karen has it, ask her!) when Mr Ling asked me one day after me spritzing all over my body on whether if I truly believe in this product and show him the science behind it. I honestly DONT HAVE. But I did realise that everytime before I leave the house and spraying this potion all over my body, I keep manifesting that good things will happen to me and good sales will come because I deserve it for the hardwork put in and that I will face all obstables with positivity. And interestingly, when I stepped out of the house, I really feel good about the day ahead. In business, we literally get ups and downs everyday and it is very important for one self to feel good and feel grounded before we set out to our day to day duties.

Since I started using the spray (I also changed my mindset alot since early this year and I changed my lifestyle drastically) I realised that this spray makes me feel good and confident to step out to face the world again. I cannot explain the theory behind but for me to take a big lap of faith to take part in a prestigious fashion show recently is not my usual 'style' as I will be too afraid. I seemed to be attracting only good things now and even if I don't, I have the capacity to contain the emotion and keep moving on. It has now become a habit and I wont go out without it. I have the 3 blends on my make up desk at this moment and one in my travel pouch. Whenever I feel down, I spray it all over me. It reminded me back to my purpose in spraying it and that is to look forward to new and beautiful opportunities...

And for those who may be keen, I particularly want to introduce self love. It is believed that using the spray helps to give the strength of taking care of oneself and helps to heal the pain of being hurt by others especially negative things said by others... (like the upcoming festive period on why you have not lost the weight or why are you still not pregnant, or why you haven't gotten down to your second child?)

It is very important to understand how special we are and no one can strip us down to our lowest through verbal abuse. I know many girls have this experience and it does pains us to witness how cruel people are towards us plus size girls. Self Love is a good choice to those who wish to make a stand for herself. Everyone deserves to be loved and be treasured yes? And for sel love, there is a nice unique rose and geranium essential oils inside and yes, these top grade essential oils are very pricey and Karen was extremely generous in her concoction..

There is 2 versions of these potions, with alcohol and without and you may ask Karen for more info on the difference and she will be able to fill you up on the details....

So there, now that you have read about my take on the cute 'magical' uplifting sprays, why dont you try it? You may try their small bottles (30ml) first in ala carte form or you may wish to take their promotion pack!

Pure to the Power of Crystals potions are available for sale and doing a Xmas promotion right now, do click on her fanpage and understand more about this product! For orders and information on Pure to the Power of Crystals click here >>> Pure to the Power of Crystals

2015, How I love and hate you...

Been thinking about typing this and really didn't wish to find myself reading this again one day... But Mr Ling reminded me that I need to responsible to people who believed in me and trusted me and the brand. I asked him what are the consequences on this blogpost and all he replied calmly was 'I don't see any consequences at all'

2015.... has been a very difficult roller coaster ride. As much as I try to be positive about it, it does sting (maybe the hurt is still 'raw') from time to time again. Theres just so much to talk about for 2015 and all are squashed up in my brains, hence I decided that I will put them in order for easy reading...

If any one of you recalled 2014 December, I made an announcement that I will pull out from Big Box. This huge investment (for small timers like me) has led me into an approximate of $60,000 debt. I used to be so happy and confident with no financial stress. Well, it wasn't a lot, but definitely not in the red. It was a very painful period where suppliers chased me every week for money and all I could think of how to find money. Mr Ling helped me tremendously ( I really cannot ask for more already, he helped me too much) and was my pillar of support. I did managed to pull through and in 2015 February, I was so thankful that I paid up 90percent of my debt in a mere short 1.5 months.

But happiness didn't last too long. By March, I had to make an important decision as to whether I had to leave Far East Plaza or to venture new space. Mr Ling and I did all the calculation and thought out the risk. I am extremely sensitive to the plus size industry in Singapore (and I work darn hard by doing loads of reading and forecasts) so I KNEW that moving out to Far East Plaza was necessary. I needed to improve on my selection of apparels and products because I knew that my promise to customers on improving Kaylene was way overdued. I needed to make a decision to take another round of painful and tiring round of 'financial depletion in our bank account'

July was the kick off for 38A Seah Street. Remember I barely cleared off the RED zone only in Feb, how am I to produce additional 2.5times of the stocks just to sustain for the 1 month launch? A little info incase you are not aware, our boutique has expanded from 375sq ft unit to a 1772 sq ft space. Can you imagine how much of investments I needed to put in to make sure that I can fulfil customers needs and wants? Again I was back in the RED. Oh my gosh, for someone who has been comfortable with finance to 2 reds in less than 6 months, It was a freaking big deal for me. I couldn't take it, I knew it was necessary but my mind was not in the right state at that point. Mental wise I wasn't in the best shape.

Shortly after, in September, I pulled myself out of this and I was so proud of saying it is time to build up the finance all over again. I was so ready to go and then came an email which I LOVE and HATE so much. Mercedes-Benz STLYO Asia Fashion Week invited me to showcase our work in KL. For those who are unaware, it is a FREAKING BIG DEAL for indie plus size shop like me. Kaylene for the ONLY plus size boutique to represent on the main stage (YES, not small stage) and it is almost every designers dream, and that is to showcase the works to the rest of the world. BUT BUT BUT, I barely recovered from my finance! Mr Ling once again told me that this is something which we will never get a 2nd chance. I thought about how much this project can increase Kaylene's portfolio and bring the brand to the next level. You may say I am silly and theres no need to brand Kaylene at this point of time. But no, in my honest opinion. The whole 8 years journey to what we have achieved this far was only to ensure that there is a value add to all customers. To us, branding is part of value adding to our customers and because of this, I took up the project which estimated to cost $12,000.

During this period, I was diagnosed with 2 things, pre cancerous cells were found and also 'unidentified cells' The doctor told me that I had to do MRI scan immediately and gosh those are a hell lot of moolah. I just kept paying and paying. Yes, I have insurance, but upfront cash first remember? Again, allow me to highlight that I was barely afloat for my finance.. Thank God, the results shown that there was no cancers spread to other parts of my body (I don't really know why he said those) but I needed to continue to fix my pre cancerous cells. Medication and further D and C (some day procedure) is needed.

Today is December that that simply summarised the whole year I have gone through. It is really scary roller coaster and sometimes I wonder why the heck I have to go through all these. But I thought hard about it. These were necessary moves for the better of everyone. It is painful, but definitely for the better.

I had learnt a lot from this years of lesson actually and I am so glad I have realised these despite the crazy stress I have. I have learnt that I have an extremely wonderful team and family to stand by me. I remembered declaring this to my girls just 1 day before the official VIP party, 'Girls, I have $296 left in my bank as of till today. I don't know how I am going to make it work, but lets do it' They told me that they will stand by me and work damn hard to ensure I will cover back all the 'losses' in no time. And they did honour their words. My family is best too, they helped my financially and kept telling me that everything is going to be fine... This is something not everyone gets to hear and I am extremely thankful for that. I also learnt that I have a super wonderful husband who didn't judge me and my decisions. We were so broke once till we joked who has the lesser digits in our bank account. For him to go through this with me, I sometimes find it embaressing to be his wife.

The important thing I have learnt about this 2015 journey is that I am stronger than I think I am. And I tell you, whoever is reading this and going through whatever painful  circumstance you encounter, TRUST ME, you can overcome it and you are stronger than you think. I know my story may not be terrible enough etc, but everyone has their own 'terrible' moments. If I am to compare to someone who is dying with illness, I am considered very fortunate and I KNOW THAT. So to whom may be going through tough times, You are a lot stronger than you think. It is times like this, then you will know how incredible you are. Last but not the least, I found that despite all the financial difficulties I have finally pulled through (yes, I have conquered the debts, well except Mr Lings, give me a few more weeks babe!) we still managed to give back. I know I don't have big budget to do it, but every single bit counts. This year we are not doing 1 but two charity donations (together with friends like Prissy from Pristique Make Up Artistry and Karen from Pure to the Power of Crystals.) It was purely by chance I got a way to help little children in Cambodia! It must be God's calling or something, because the opportunity to give back was through a customer!

So there, this is my 2015. What was yours like? After typing this blog post, I will be preparing myself for 2016 forecast. I am so determined not to go through a '2015' again and I am so going to make sure it wont happen again! For it is time for my staffs to stop worrying for me, anxious for me. For it is time for me to start really understanding what life is all about and not run like a headless chicken.. I am going to make it things change and I know I will be able to do it. So now the question is, 'will you stay with me and ride through 2016 and do you trust that I can make it through this upcoming year?

Before I sign off, remember that you are stronger than you think, more awesome than you believe and more beautiful than you think...

Kayde Ling

New LOGO, New Beginning for Kaylene - Plus Size Designer Boutique

Well, theres been a slight delay...... when I decided to change logo upon moving to the new unit. To be honest, I had advice from a wise lady and she advised me to give the company a fresh start since I am moving to a brand new place! I thought to myself, 'since it has been a tiring 2 years and that I have taken a big jump on this expansion, I might as well follow her advice!"






I really couldnt think of anything that will suit the brand new Kaylene because I didnt know how else I could make the logo look good with a 'hourglass (must be) in the logo' I mean, how did an hourglass has in relation to my brand? I wear plus size apparels! I thought hard about it and decided that maybe a plus size mannequin can replace the hourglass! I asked for approval and the next I know I decided to zoom straight into coming up with a logo with a mannequin...

I figured and doodled, ouuuu mai gosh.. it was tough and I got no inspiration. I was so desperate and that was when I decided to ask for help. I got 2 professionals for help on seperate occasion and it still wasnt speaking to me. There wasnt a nice 'ooomph' feel to it. It was not getting anywhere and some samples here for you to understand why I thought it wasnt 'the one'

 

I was that close to pulling my hair off because time was running out! How can i go to the upcoming Mercedes Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week 2015 without a logo? I was really stressed out. The name cards, the printouts, the stand up banner all needed a new logo... I was on a brink of giving up when one day it just happened. As crazy as it sounds, it was as though the universe heard my desperation and decided to give me some help! I was staring on my notepad and miraculously I just started to draw....

I was very clear with what I want. I want my mannequin to be dressed in a nice flowy dress because this is our signature! Kaylene is all about flow and sass! I added a globe because I wanted a representation and reminder that Kaylene - Plus Size Designer Boutiquue deserves to have a international presence and attention. The rest were simple, Firm fonts with clean words, clear to read.




With the clear direction I had in mind and approval, I engaged the 2nd designer again to help on making my logo into reality. In the end, I made some final tweaking and viola! A brand new logo has born...

I hope this brand new logo will enhance and have a better representation on the brand. Let's grow Kaylene - Plus Size Designer Boutique and bring her to greater heights! Let her shine bright across the globe so that more will be able to dress pretty and be confident!

Casting Call - Mercedes-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week - 4 to 7 November 2015, Kuala Lumpur

Click on image to see bigger picture. Kindly read the criteria.

AND YES, WE FINALLY GOT THE DETAILS!

I recently got back from my business trip and oh my gosh, the response for the catwalk is OVERWHELMING, incredible ladies! Thanks to many wonderful support from Ratna (Adevi Clothing), Aarti (Curvesbecomeher), business friends from Kuala Lumpur, ladies from Kagumi Group, the word spread and yes, there are so many plus size ladies on fire and want to be on stage to make a presence in the fashion industry! Thank you ladies, you are soooo kind and too kind to us! 

The ladies from Kagumi are TOO WELL CONNECTED! They were so kind to introduce me to a celebrity in KL and after exchanging conversations, she would like to hop on and help us out!

I am so thankful for the support and indeed blessed. After a late night meeting yesterday, we have concluded that this event is toooo important to even just 'pick some girls and go'. We need the highest calibre of girls who knows how to be able to handgle hundred of people staring at them while they take on the stage. This casting call is absolutely necessary and yes, from this event, we will be on a lookout for Kaylene's next face as well. Same rule applies for our product shoot model; she has to own the 'stage' and give us specific looks for the product shoot.

For this project, I have been humbled by Cate Lim and Prissy to lend a hand on the casting call. They will be your 'big sisters' for this project and giving you tips and training (we will fly to KL and get trainings there and give back to the selected models) to make sure you will be equipped and ready for the final big walk.

***KINDLY note that for the KL ladies who are keen in this walk, there WILL BE ANOTHER CASTING CALL with a celebrity and cheorographer in Kuala Lumpur. The dates will further announce for the KL LADIES yes?
For those who are keen in taking a bold step, kindly wadsap kayde at 94777028 on the time you will arrive to prevent a sudden influx of ladies and long wait.

Are you one of the 15 to rock the stage in Malaysia for Mercedes-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week 2015? Are you the one?

Opportunity only knocks once.... right?

Hello ladies!

Last week was indeed a week of Highs and Lows for Kaylene and myself... 

First:

We had some production issues and I had to make the painful decisions to reject the goodies to retouch on them in order to make sure you girls get the best pieces. Some of the designs will be delayed but we are positive you girls will fall in love with them instantly the moment you see the images.

Second:

My day surgery (it was no incision procedure) went well but the report didnt come too good. I did my crying already and I am ready to embrace what I was given.  It sucked isnt it? At times like this, I am scheduled to do MRI soon and pray nothing more will happen that what I have already found out. Don't worry about me, I am under medication and I have already told the girls to cut down my schedule drastically in order to be able to change my lifestyle. During this period I may encounter fatigue and irrational moods as side effects so I ernestly hope you can bear with me if I am not up to service to you.

Third: 

I finally paid off my HUGE LAST debt incurred during the massive move to 38A Seah Street! I am now back to ZERO again but then I told myself it is okay, all the planning and decision for the move was calculated. I could finally say it is time to rebuild the finances when I received an email....

Fourth:

I am invited to showcase KAYLENE in

In case you are not familiar.... this fashion show is DA FASHION SHOW OF THE FASHON SHOWS LA!!!!!! Okay, maybe not, but definitely one of the most high profile ones. 

About this show....

Mercedes Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week

The Mercedes Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week is the first ever Asia wide collaboration of top emerging designers in the one media event, taking place once a year in each Asian host city. The event is a collaboration of 12 official fashion associations across Asia, with the likes of China, Korea, Japan, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam, showcasing their best designers in one central location. This international platform also plays hosts to the top buyers, media, editors, retailers, celebrities and VIPs from around the world.

Asia – The 5th fashion capital of the world.

Another link on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_Fashion_Week

From my understanding MBSTYLOAFW will be held during Malaysia Fashion Week. Isnt it cooool? Mr Jimmy Choo will be involved in this show too and he will be selecting 3 of his favourite designers to London and be mentored by him! Wooot~

To be honest, when I got the email, I threw my mouse and it flung a few centimetres away from me.... I WAS SO BL****Y ANGRY!!! Why? 

Because just when I am all broke and ready to build this Kaylene's funds back to normal again, I have to be invited of ALL times to take part in this show. I was FURIOUS! I felt why God has to be so cheeky and made fun of me. I was really upset because I really wanted to focus on my health too. So I texted Mr Ling and he simply replied: 

'Good. isnt it a good news?' 'Didnt you always dream of being in such big scale show?'

Yes, I know many of you will say it is an opportunity not to be missed. I also know! I am willing to eat bread just to be able to bring PLUS SIZE FASHION onto the main stage and above all, ITS MERCEDES-BENZ LA!

This show is not free, we estimate a total of 5 figure to complete this event. AND just when I am ready to eat bread, I was informed that...

There is no plus size models for me for this show 

I honestly do not blame or peeved with them. Because we potentially are THE ONLY plus size (till date) to showcase to the world (there will be guests from Asia including Japan, Korea, Middle East, Europe) and it does not make sense for them to hunt plus size models for us. Yeah, you got it right, Again another expenditure.... I spoke to Mr Ling about it and he was thinking why not get help from you ladies. because it is a very prestigious event to be part of and for those aspiring models, it will be a dream come true for them as well. The problem is this.

I do not have enough funds to sponsor my 15 models 

 
Yes. I did my calculations, I have just enough to bring Kaylene to the show, I do not have capacity to bring 15 models to KL for the show. So far, I have 4 volunteers from Singapore and they are willing to fork out for their own. I am eternally grateful for these wonderful girls. I still need 11 ladies. To cut the story short, I am in desperate need to look for:

1) girls who are plus size and knows how to rock the stage (there will be training we promise but confidence is something that comes from within which cannot be trained overnight)

2) girls who is willing to come to KL for 2 days (1 day for actual show and 1 day for the briefing and training and fitting)

3) girls who can pay for their own trip. I am seriously very embaressed about this but I really need help in this. The math is simple, no show = no models, no models = no show =  no way to show the world that plus size models exist, plus size clothing industry. I have done all I can to try do the sums but we know it is really impossible for now. 

4) girls who are willing to have Kaylene vouchers (amount yet decide) as a token of appreciation.

5) girls FROM KUALA LUMPUR!!!!! We need you! We really need more girls from KL so that we can reduce the stress for the model head count.

6) We are looking for 10 models from bust 42 to bust 52 (approx UK 12/14 to 20/22)


I know it sounds really crazy and ridiculous, if you know anyone who believes in Kaylene, in the plus size industry and is as affectionate as we are, please recommend them to us. Get them to email us at kayleneonline@gmail.com with header 'Mercedes-Benz Fashion Show Models'

Please help spread the word. This show is really our 1 golden ticket to showcase to the world that plus size designer exist and that we are capable of modelling and dressing up! 

I know many will ask me just like my fellow designer friend Khun Wat, he asked me to wait till next year. After serious consideration, my reply to him was 'Opportunity only knocks once, right?' Do you agree with me? Do you want to embark this journey with me? Do you believe you can rock the stage, potentially the first in Asia?
 

Updates on Kaylene

Hello ladies! Its been a good 2 months since I posted something here and I thought since tonight I am nursing this very odd gastric (I took pills in hope it will be okay) and I cannot sleep, I might as well do a blog post now! 

Since 19th July when Kaylene - Plus Size Designer Boutique has reopened her doors to you, we have been settling down pretty fast. It was really crazy and almost everyday we worked really hard to make sure things will settle down ASAP. Stocks arrangements is one huge issue on top of the massive stock take. Preparing for our online sales is also another issue. We STILL are lacking some vital tools to complete the unit but for now we are counting our blessings in every possible ways. Afterall, one step at a time right?

I have been in the shop almost everyday since early July and yes thank God for awesome people, past few weeks was good, I get to have 2 days rest (but I dont 'rest rest'... how is it EVER possible?! Not complaining though... enjoying max!) Things are really settling and during these period, we constantly asked customers if they liked the new premise. Their response? They LOVE it. The only glitche to this beautiful place is that we have a flight of steps and customers find it tiring... I know ladies! It is tiring, but this is the best place we can find. Although they hate the steps, the moment they enter this spacious unit, they melt. In this gorgeous place, we have ample space to relax and rest with refreshments like Nespresso coffee machine, soft drinks, water and even 2 huge bowls of sweets and chocolates! We have solved the aircon issue and had fixed up fans and now the boutique is so much cooler, sometimes even cold... All are really falling into places and I am very thankful for that.

Stocks wise has been more or less been settled as well as now we have firmed up with new factories to produce more pieces for our customers. We HEAR you requests too, by increasing our sizes from XS to XXXL which is a whopping 7 sizes! It is indeed a big deal from the old 4 sizes to now 7 sizes.. Increasing sizes is not a fun thing to do although we felt it was extremely necessary. Increasing sizes actually means we have to increase our quantity per designs and it can be really tormenting in terms of the budget. The Kaylene Babes and I ALWAYS debate on this issue but in the end we really felt it was necessary to work on 7 sizes in order to cater to the needs of a plus size lady. We have significantly cut down on 'Free Sizes' as we do feel that it is not true one size fits all.... It is not easy! But we are weaning off, bit by bit, step by step...

Finance wise, hmmm... lets just say we are very thankful for very good suppliers and factories who allowed us to clear of bills bit by bit. While I am still having a huge load of bills that yet to be paid, it is heartwarming to know that I am almost debt free soon... I just need a couple of weeks and I believe I can clear up all the $$$... Except my boss.. his bill... has to wait a little longer la! But on a serious note.... Thank God I am clearing off these huge debts in no time and I am so looking forward to a fresh new start! In case you are wondering, YES it takes alot of money to build this brand new place. With higher rental, higher electricity, doubled increase in stocks and more and more money spent on our designs, it is unavoidable to incurr a debt. But we are positive with it and hence still went ahead with the expansion despite the prediction of this problem.

So you can see, things ARE REALLY falling into place and I am loving this place. Kaylene is now a respectable plus size designer boutique with ladies across the globe visiting us. In just 1 week, we have tourists from Germany, Indonesia and Australia! How awesome is that? We are counting our blessings though, proud of the achievements but humbled by the opportunities given...

Thank you for being such a wonderful person supporting us all the way. You indeed has seen us grow and through your love stretched us into making ourselves better for you. For the new customers, Thank you for trusting us and allowing us to dress you. This is extremely heartwarming to know and we will keep working on impressing you with our designs. We want to let you know that it is you who makes us evolve to where we are today. We aim to impress you with our own designs and match your status. Because we know you are unique and special and we want to do this together with you... Thank you once again for all that goodness that is happening upon us.

(okay, I need to rest. This gastro meds IS NOT working...))
Till then ladies! 
Good night!

Move to Greater, Magical Possibilities...

Hello ladies,
It is time for me to update my blog and tell you about the recent happenings... I was hesitating if I should bare it all and tell you what went on for months. I wasnt sure if by baring it all will show the weak side of me. But after consideration, I thought it was important that you girls know the process of the new shop hunt because in every tiny ways, you are part of Kaylene and I needed to be responsible in keeping you girls updated. 


Since March, I have been on a serious hunt to a new space for the new premise for Kaylene. It was indeed crazy! I had many places to go, things to do for the new place, new products launch (hence the many discussions) and on top of all these, I had to make sure Kaylene is running smoothly for her daily operations.
I am alot lesser in the shop these days due to the new shop hunt and new product launches but every time I am in the shop, I had comments from people telling me that Kaylene has fallen short of new designs and they are no longer impressed with our lack of updates and new launches. I thought hard about it and I agreed on it due to overwhelming new tasks I had to do and I take every responsibility for all of that. I had distractions from various 'to do list' and I was spreading myself too thin. Many told me to delegate the job which I tried but the mere fact that I couldnt even sit down with them to tell the girls on my to do list and ask for help was something which frustrated me. I end up doing most alone for I know I was running out of time. I have been very blessed and very fortunated to have good team who supported me and I must THANK these ladies namely Juliah, Evelyn and Fern for making sure that Kaylene is going to be in good hands while I go hunt for the ideal space. JUST by them staying put and holding the 'fort' and making sure Kaylene can run smoothly already warms my heart. They are the ones who made sure all goes smoothly and I know I could depend on them 100%. Just purely for this, they DESERVE every single applause from us!

Lets face this fact. Market has indeed been diluted and what seemed like a need is now a want. Being extremely sensitive to the plus size market, I knew that if I were to do an expansion now will be a very dangerous move. I had too many sleepless night, too many panic attacks whenever I think of this. But after various discussions, I knew that by moving forward is the only way. Many tried to convince me to stay put in the 370 sq ft unit because the customers care for my wellbeing. I am no longer the young me as before and I do wish to have my own kiddo. With such stress befall upon me, they question me if my decision was a wise one. I truly appreciate their kind support and concern but I know in order to grow, 'changing a new pair of shoes was necessary so that the feet will grow' I had many things that I promised my customers before and I really want to fulfil them. I know I may be late, but I always believe that it is better to be late than to never achieve. Hence, because I want to attempt to fulfil every single wish the girls wants, Mr Ling and I decided that a move was necessary.

My girls are awesome too, Karen kept telling me that it is time to spread my wings and soar. Pris kept telling me that she will support my decision no matter what, Jenah and Cate kept telling me that should we need help, they will be the first to offer. It was all these encouragement that I know I have a good support and trust. I knew that my decision whether good or bad will be supported by these good people surrounding me. 

My family is really awesome too, many times, I hear them asking around for items that I need and they really tried their best in helping me. My sister is awesome too, telling me to do what was needed first and the rest can wait. So with all these fabulouse people and you supporting me, how is it possible for me to let you down? I cannot, I do not wish to either!

I decided that I MUST TELL YOU THE process of getting this gorgeous 1772 sq ft unit. IT IS REALLY NOT EASY. Prior to even signing the tenancy agreement, I had to make sure this unit has proper certification. The person in charge of this unit has showed lack lustre service towards me but to be fair, I was really a small pea compared to his other clients. I felt small and was challanged if I can take on such a big unit. Even after we got hold of the keys, there were leakage issues as this is a heritage building. Just when we thought we can look forward to getting the renovation done, there was a serious miscommunication and up till today, nothing has been done to this new place. Reinstatement to the current unit is FREAKING expensive too! The amount was horrifying (just a couple short to 10 grand) There was also things like insurance that we have to deal with. In short, too many paperwork, too many problems!!!! It hasnt been a easy journey as almost EVERYDAY, I get new shocks and dramas for the current and new shop. IT IS INSANE. On good days, I am positive and look forward to solving my '30 to do list' (its really amazing how I ALWAYS have more than 30 to do list) but on bad days, it can be scary...

I really hope by telling you all these you will be understanding on why I am seldom in the shop, and why I have 'lesser' products to launch. I will not give up and I KNOW that the new premise will be a gorgeous gorgeous GORGEOUS place to be in. I will be focusing on international orders and zoom straight into ecommerce as I want to fulfil many customers desire to purchase from us online.I will continue to work my butt off and continue to give you the best. Meanwhile, please stay with me, wait for me for I know for sure the new premise will change your perception on Kaylene.

Now the question is where and when Kaylene will be moving to? Kindly note that we will be moving to our NEW PREMISE:

38A Seah Street

With new opening hours: 

12pm - 8pm (Monday to Sunday) 

*for visits after 7.45pm, just give us a call and we will wait for you

And we are scheduled to move by:

19th July 2015

So ladies, are you excited to see the new place? Are you ready to come see this new place? Lets do a countdown with us! We will be doing a MASSIVE MOVING OUT SALE right now and the prices are RIDICULOUS! Come visit us and we will tell you more on the new unit! 

Thank you ladies for reading this. This is important to us and do click like via our Fanpage to show support! We love you and we know you love us too! Till we meet again ladies! See you in MID JULY! Onward Kaylene goes! To newer, greater and magical new possibilities!

Asian Dare To Bare PART 2

Sorry ladies for the late post! Its been really a hectic period and not many will truly understand what I mean by 'occupied with things for the new shop' Please pardon my lack of updates and constantly late replies.. Not many understands the whole actualy situation Kaylene and myself has been in and we have been really stressing on doing things to MAKE SURE all of you will get to enjoy Kaylene in terms of service and products. It is not easy and I often how I will be able to pull this through but I am extremely positive and making sure I am ONLY surrounded by positive people and vibe in order to keep going... FOCUS is the key and positivity is the the 'fuel' that keeps me going on...

My purpose for this post is not to talk about the craziness I am going through now, more on what the header says! Yup, too many of you ladies have been coming up to us and asking us questions on why the respective models chose the taglines and how long did it actually take to make this short clip. In this video, it is explained in details on their thoughts etc. Go deeper and understand them better through this clip and ask yourself if you are one of them. Did you have to go through what they had been in? 

This video may seem shoddy and lack lustre but it was the best the team could do because of the lack of experience and professional tools to make this work. Prissy has done all she can to make this video work and lets give her a resounding applause for her effort. We should also thank the team (Prissy, Jenah, Karen, Cate and myself) for making time and effort in making this a successful clip yet again. Do support these girls as they are working their butts off despite their busy schedule (most of us are business owners) to make effort in reaching out to you all. The bottom line is we LOVE YOU very much and we want to help you in any possible way and we hope through this channel you will be inspired to be more confident and learn to love yourself instead of hate.

Enjoy this video! Please click like and share this post and encourage the girls! More positive engagements will be lined up for you ladies and we hope you can hop on this wagon and enjoy self love, self worth. It is a journey that should include a bunch of like minded people! View the video here:

alrighty, I need to go! Need to firm up on the new collection and I bet you are as excited as the Kaylene babes! Ciao ciao!

Love 
K

We are MOVING!!!!!

It has been a nerve wreaking period for us as we have been stressing out the new home for Kaylene. We had so many unforeseen hiccups and hurdles due to the fact that the unit we fell in love with was a heritage building/shophouse which requires more attention before renting this space. After days and weeks of preparation, stressing over certifications, license, we finally got our keys yesterday!

This unit is very very huge! It spans more than 1770 square feet (think as it is 1.5times bigger than a typical 5 room flat) and has a gorgeous spiral stairways to a mezzanine area. With this ample space as we promised our customers, this will be a comfortable and safe environment for ladies and their friends who come by to visit us. We plan in details like how we can make the ladies comfortable and even to the husbands/partners/family to settle at ease when they come too! 

We will be expanding our products and variety and yes, we have included items like cocktail pieces, accessories and shoes! Yes ladies, we are finally bringing in shoes too! The first batch will be small for now as we are really new to the new product but we believe this collection will grow as the days progresses.

To those who ask when we will be moving to this gorgeous new premise, hang in there! We schedule to move in mid July and will be doing a grand REOPENING for this joyous occasion. We will be working really hard to impress you with the new location and products and we believe you will love it too!

We will be updating the progress from time to time and once we have the details, we will inform you! So click like in our Facebook! Support this beautiful shift to the new and upgraded Kaylene and encourage Juliah, Evelyn and Fern who work hard to make this unit a beautiful place for you! Onward we go!

Plus Size Asian Dare to Bare

Hey hey ladies hope your weekend was awesome! And the time is finally here! PHEW~~~ from a tiny idea that sparked off and became reality, OUR VIDEO IS READY!!!!!

A little more on this project, it was purely for fun to be honest! 3 weeks ago, the girls and I went for a spa treat and I noticed how comfortable these girls are with their body. During the session, I took a peek at the girls' curves and realised how gorgeous these lines are, I had a crazy idea and suggested it to Priscilla. Read up more on HERE Thinking that it will be done as for fun and purely to remind customers how important it is to be at peace with your body  (judging from this clip you can tell we are very close to each other!) 

Now let me fill you up on the day we met for the shoot! In total for this project for the shoot, the girls started as early as 8am and all the way till it ended at 11pm. We split this time into 3 parts, make-up, videography and photography. I was in the one behind the lens and Karen was the excutive director assisting this project. The girls were professional, knowing that we only had that few hours to complete this tight schedule. We executed it well and went home extremely excited but extremely EXHAUSTED...

Fast forward 3 weeks later, our little project is done! The girls who helped out in assisting me to fulfil this clip were awesome and we spent many nights together fine tuning it! I must add on that while I was in KL attending a intensive business seminar, the girls met up a couple more times to discuss further. AMAZING JOB LADIES, YOUR ARE AMAZING AND AWESOME, I LOVE YOU! The photos was in-charged by myself while Priscilla were busy editing the video and Karen and Jena were busy preparing press release for this project.So... the time is here! Take a look at the video that was specially done for you!

 We knew our roles and excuted our duties diligently. I did some minor editing with the photos and I love love LOVE every image! I thank God for me being able to capture the essence of EACH photo and I would like to share them with you!

I also did some close up shot of them and I love the images too!

We hope you have enjoyed what we have done for you and really can support this together with Lane Bryant's #imnoangel campaign! Remember to subscribe to I AM too as Priscilla has also done all these for you plus size ladies. It is the love we have for you that fuel what we are doing and we hope you can return your love back to us by liking our page on the following link!

Plus Initiative: I am 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgRXOt5io40
www.facebook.com/iamiam
 

Kaylene Plus size boutique 

www.kayleneonline.com

www.facebook.com/kayleneonline

Alrighty ladies! Its 3am soon! I need to continue my work and before I sign off, I would like to tell you that you are as beautiful as these girls featured in the clip! 

Have a fabulous Monday! 

 xoxo

I am Kayde and I am a Plus Size Blogger

#imnoangel by Lane Bryant

I was reading through my usual 'stack' of articles relating to plus size industry world wide and I noticed a very huge and viral post on Lane Bryant's latest new campaign ' #imnoangel ' Click the youtube clip above and take a look!

During my meeting with the Kaylene Babes, we were discussing on how this campaign will affect us or 'support' us in any aspects. We talked mostly about the pros of this campaign about how people ought to be reminded that it is okay not to own a VS model body in order to feel like an 'angel' or to be slim in order to be 'perfect' We also talked about how extensive this campaign Lane Bryant had spent on and were discussing what could be the potential reason for doing such a powerful advertisement. (Bear in mind ladies, there never have been one powerful and strong impacted advertisement previously) This is probably the few rare times where a leader in the plus size industry decided to take a big leap and make a stand. Interesting isnt it? We are not sure what their main core objective is and how huge amount of guts to do this massive campaign but regardless what it may be, we are sure applauding for their courage in our opinion.

One highlight mentioned by Eve was that looking at the other side of the coin where there will be a group of girls who are born too skinny due to the genetics or are sickly. They feel threatened by the campaign saying that the ad is insensitive toward the underweight girls who are did not become skinny just to make themselves blend with the 'society'. I was still unsure if in return we will be one nasty bully in future and hence I went to do a little more homework and found a very good response from Lane Bryant. From what I understand, they created this campaign to redefine what beauty is and they are challanging that. That I can accept and agree! Find out more from the following clip:

After watching this clip, I was assured that the direction Lane Bryant is trying to achieve positivity rather than shaming the 'skinny' girls. Their main motto is to enforce that everyone is BEAUTIFUL and SEXY despite size. 

I am really very happy that more and more ladies are beginning to accept themselves for who they are and truly be happy and loving themselves. And simply for this effort, I applaud and support Lane Bryant's campaign.

After going through the quick investigation through various bloggers posts and Youtube videos and online article, I am proud to say that at the end of the day, the message that was trying to get across is that Beauty comes in all size and Sexy simply comes from within. i am proud to say that because of this positivity notion to allow more ladies accept themselves for who they are, 

KAYLENE supports Lane Bryant's campaign on #imnoangel 

What about you? Do you support Lane Bryant's #imnoangel campaign? Tell us!

Days after the campaign broke the internet, I was too intrigued and super charged up and got really 'silly excited'. I met up with some of my girls and told them about how I felt about this campaign. AND THEN IT HIT ME.... I wanna do something more than just typing it here and proclaiming my support for Lane Bryant's movement. I spoke to the founder of I AM - a youtube channel that specially caters for the plus size girls and told her my 'silly excitement'. Instead of her laughing it off, she simply replied; "let's do it!"

While many of you are intrigued with what KAYLENE + I AM can possibly do, lets keep it in suspense! In days to come, we will launching a short video clip painstakingly directed and editted by Prissy, Karen being the "PUSH lady" (cos she is ALWAYS the one encouraging and guiding us in every aspect, bravely taking their first step and modeled by Jena, Cat and Prissy and lastly filmed(shoddy job) and shot by yours truly...

It is a very amatuerish work.. but we took pride and gave our best. We hope you will like it and enjoy the clip. Till then, stay healthy and excited for us!

 

I am Kayde and I am a plus size blogger

The truth about Elizabeth and the Lion...

*Kindly note this post is in my own opinion and my belief. It is not a religion related post.*

This is a super wee hour blog post and yes, I wrote this post a week ago and decided that I would like to share it with you. In this way, I get 1 week to think about my thoughts on this blog post and to see if I am really ready to share this with you. And by the time you manage to read this post, you would have known by now that yes, I have decided to open up and tell you whats on my mind. I would warn you first because this post is very personal to me and I am not sure how much you would like to know about myself but I am willing to try to open up a little more.

Tonight at a girlfriends house, I had 3 cards infront of me. One particular one was named 'Elizabeth and the Lion' and I was very intrigued.

While deciphering what this gorgeous card was trying to tell me, the sentence below 'Elizabeth and the Lion' was so strong and powerful. 

 'It is time to be a great leader'

 This definitely caught me off guard! The message from a simple card was so powerful till I cannot sleep. While reading what this message meant, I was so overwhelmed and had a lot of flashbacks on the past 8 years running this business. I had so many ridicules, mockery from others on how I run my business, how meek I am, how weak and how dare I call myself as one of the leaders in the local plus size industry. I was pushed aside and couldnt make a point, I was told to stand aside and watch how the others perform while I silently take it all in even when the company was being ridiculed and slandered as 'Money Making Machine'. I have grown since then naturally and somehow I overcame each ridicule and treated them as stones for me to step on to be higher than the rest. I have always been the one with 'no voice' although most of you know I am the sincere one who tries her best to work on giving her best. I am now much more mature as day by day I find my 'voice' and is totally at peace with myself. I do get hiccups often (still) but I definitely has handled them better and better. The 'noises' are now much softer and weaker and I no longer am too bothered by them. But this message sent to me and telling me to be a great leader is something I am not ready of. I was asked before I left the house 'The message is clear, and now the question is 'Are you ready to take on this role?' I couldnt answer and all I replied was; 'Something to think about, let me think about it'

I really do not know if I am ever able to be THE ONE trailblazer for my community and I am definitely unsure about me being able to even be part of one. But I know deep down, I know I have to. It is because 8 years ago, I decided to take a leap of faith and I took this amazing ride to be part of this plus size industry and I work very hard to where I am today. And as time passed, I found myself so involved in my business and I am sincerely concern about you and I am serious about making you a better and more confident person through my designs. I love the idea and am so proud of you calling to tell me your good news, you coming to me and tell me how much I have brightened your life, that how much I have solved your problems. I also love it when you trust me with your fears and concerns, your sorrows and even cry to me. I really am very grateful for the trust bestowed upon me and believed in me. But seriously, to be a great leader? Woah, I do not know man!

I will seriously think about what message the card truly want to convey to me and indeed it hit my straight to the heart. 

Will I ever be Elizabeth and the Lion? Will I ever be one? 

After consideration, I decided to ask my dearest wisest friend on what the card was trying to tell me. After an in-depth discussion, I was thrown a question as to what I should do in order to be good enough and be a true leader and lead these plus size ladies. Indeed there will be hurdles along the way and it is not going to be easy especially when i have too much on my plate right now. It is going to be a tough jurney and quote from her 'it's a matter of finding that right balance' and doing it right when the time arrives. She also mentioned that as much as is 'sounds cliche but everything happens for a reason and now you know who are the friends you can rely on' Indeed it is true, I have been so blessed with so many wonderful people whom I know can be depended on and give me 100% should I ever need help. Naturally I will be scared right, because I am only just a 'Kayde' and not someone who possess great powers. I have so much fear in me till I rather shut it out than to take a step forward and test my boundaries. 

Its been days since I last wrote this post (yup, this post has been editted a couple of times) and I am STILL pondering over what I can be. Will I be able to be like Elizabeth and the Lion? Should I even try to be one? After serious thoughts about it, I made the executive decision to at least give it a shot. I honestly dont know tonight on how this will turn out, but I am willing to explore to find out. Because only through taking this first step will then I know if I can be a true Elizabeth and the Lion... Will you be with me and stay with me, go through this journey with me till I become one? I am unsure of this myself, but I am more than willing to welcome you on board and ride with me...

XOXO

Kayde

 I am Kayde and I am a Plus Size Blogger

When I made my second visit... and I wonder

Recently I went to a famous steamboat restaurant and the next I knew I was there for the 2nd time. I am quite a 'steamboat' person but never did I encounter being able to visit twice the reataurant in less than 10 days. In these 2 trips, I found really interesting bits and pieces on why this place has entranced me into going there and even looking forward to the 3rd visit! I would like to share my experience with you and perhaps you can guess which restaurant I am talking about!

During dinner, my girl and I were talking about the food and praising how this place never fail to amaze her each time and she even felt like she has betrayed the other steamboat place where she frequents TOO often hahaha. Then she asked me why she always feel happy sitting there and taking approx 2 hours (she did a mental note every time she visits there) and she feel extremely happy despite this restaurant is FAMOUS for at least 2-3 hours wait on a regular meal time hours. I thought about it and thought I would like to share with you why I think she will keep going there again and again and again....

First up, from the moment you step in the restaurant entrance, you will be pampered with snacks and BEST PART, comfy cozy seats that is not shared with others. It was indeed a bingo because most of the time, we are hungry hence we look for food. But we tend to give up after a wait because the rest of your friends will be too hungry to withstand another 2 hr wait. My girl and I were busy eating the snacks and were caught catching up with each other DESPITE seeing her almost weekly. We talked about things we seldom dwell into, and enjoyed the little titbits they offered. They were refillable and no extra charges. I like the idea that they were SO attentive till they have a manicure corner for the ladies and a playroom corner for kiddos. Can you imagine that? 

Shortly after we got our seat (which was 1.5hours wait, I mean, 1.5hrs of catching up instead of standing and hungry and feeling frustrated) and we were seated comfortably. We had cloth to clean our glasses, aprons to wear, covers to protect our bags and even a ziplock to cover my mobile phone! These little details literally won my heart because they really understood what we need and would like to have. And once these 'problems' are solved, we will naturally end up having an enjoyable meal! 

Just when I was leaving, I saw what I thought was the 'ULTIMATUM', a baby cot being push out because there was a sleeping baby from another table. OMGOSH... a baby cot? In a restaurant? Thumbs up man... and while witnessing this, it suddenly occured to me 'What will happen to the other restaurants of similar trade?' 

By the end of the meal, I left the place full belly and superbly satisfied. The price is on the higher side but I thought every cent was well spent. I thought about my experience and why I would like to go back there again (which I did in less than 10days) The quality of the food, the proper ventilation (no greasy smell after I left), the minute attentive little actions they provide, the awesome service they provide (they moved aside and bowed a little with arms stretched to a direction where I was heading to when they found out they had blocked me by accident) the baby cot (??!!! are you kidding me, in a restaurant!) All these adds up to leading customer loyalty. They are pricey yes I agree BUT if we look into the quality of food, you will agree it is well spent. These customers will come again because this place foresee beyond focusing only on fresh food. They focused on every other aspect on having an ideal dining experience and this if you ask me, makes a successful business and I am indeed impressed.

Now the question to you now is that 'What makes you go back to this place again?  Do you feel extremely in distressed when you visit a manicure or hair salon for they keep insisting on you buying products and how bad your nail or hair condition is? Do you like to feel special every time you visit a place and patronise at ease and comfort? Are you a price conscious person or you would like to feel special and pampered every time you do a visit? Do you believe in quality over price? What kind of service would you like to have?

I asked myself if I can ever achieve this and I try my best in every way we can for the business. I am very far behind this restaurant's business operation but I am willing to learn and change along the way. In a couple of weeks I told myself there ought to be some change for KAYLENE. I am still learning and I will continue to progress which is going to be exciting and I cant wait for all these to be able to happen....

And for those who are asking me if I will go to the restaurant again, my answer will be YES YES YES! I will continue to enjoy this place for it brings me comfort and feels like a VIP the moment I step in.

I am Kayde and I am a plus size blogger

And Other than Just for the Fashion Show.....

Kayde and friends went to play! Well, more like a detox for my brain and very tired body. Since September last year, I have been working extremely hard for a project (which didnt work out) and days passed too quickly and next we knew it was the festive period. Juliah got ill during the period and my other collegues were burnt out. We worked too hard and yeap, before I could even slow down, I fell extremely sick. I fell sick for about 2 weeks and it streched all the way AFTER cny... It was crazy, I was miserable and cranky. I had no voice and strength to carry on. In short, I FINALLY GOT BURNED OUT. 

I had too much concerns for the shop as we just cleared our huge debt from the recent business failure and I was super stressed out. I be honest, it was one of the worst dark period for me to endure. I was blessed, I had good team and support. In short, I WAS STRESS and almost at my breaking point... my girls supported me whereever possible and allowed me to hop on the plane without any regrets
 
The trip came very timely despite there were too much to do for the shop, but Thank God for the divine timing, Juliah was back from her MC and the girls are rested and ready to work. I quickly packed my luggage and the next I knew I was on plane and headed to Australia. In this trip, I tried my best NOT TO TOUCH the laptop (and for some weird reason, my laptop REFUSED to function properly). My girls are really awesome, constantly reminding me that the shop is doing well and they got it covered. I am VERY THANKFUL for that. ***sending out love and virtual hugs to them***  

Putting all these aside, and now that it is over, I would like to show you some of the highlights I had in this trip! For those who are heading to Australia, here are some highlights of my trip and you can have some cool tips/ideas on these gorgeous place!

 

stumbled upon this gorgeous place and found a lady who makes her own Lavender products... really awesom products I must say!

We went to Brown Brothers to find out the history of their wine... Love it!

How can we not visit kangeroos and koalas? At Healesville Sanctuary

Groupie shot before we say goodbye to the sleepy koala!

Hoppidy Hop! Kangeroos in action!

And we are at Bondi Beach! I felt peace annd tranquility with the sea facing me and the gorgeous sky..

Mandatory jump shot, somehow I found a way to look like I jump very high! Hehe

Fish Market! We ATE TOO MUCH SEAFOOD!!!!

 

It was fun 'acting a scene' for this shot. Love the end result! At Queen Victoria Market.. Regretted not getting MORE SALAMIs

We went to watch Madaman Butterly - a popular opera. Surprisingly, I wept and enjoyed it! It should be a must go to watch an opera for any tourist in Sydney Opera House

So fortunate to be able to have some fun on St Patricks Day! Booze time!!!! We went pub hopping! IT WAS SUPER FUN LA!

wish they were all mine, but not! If I recall well, I didnt buy much during tt shopping trip!

me in my dress... am so thankful that a few came up to me and complimented this dress and asked where this is from. Of course, I was proud to say 'Singapore, by KAYLENE, by Yours Truly!'

love this shot taken by Pris, She captured the happiness and how grateful we were to be able to attend the show

Need I say more? Highlight for this trip! Its TESS HOLLIDAY! She was so enthusiastic and game to take crazy shots with us! Woooohooo

Braved myself and went to Eureka Skydeck... A little known fact about me: I have height phobia to a certain extend

Lets go GIRLS!!!!

You can tell how EXCITED I am from this shot..... :P

Alrighty! I dont wish to bomb anymore images! There were too many great shots for this trip and I am fully recharged... I am ready to go and work!!! Hope you like my images and be inspired to get to Australia and be wowed by this lovely place!

Love,

K