Everybody has a story to tell and one of the best ways to tell your story is through what you wear. Two Perth entrepreneurs are telling their own story – and yours – through beautifully handcrafted jewellery pieces, each with an edgy twist. TAMMI IRELAND caught up with Andi and Thuy of storybox. to find out who writes their story.
Andrea (Andi) Cho and Thuy Dong are tiny packages of style. Each with a different look, their one similarity lies in the stacks of bracelets on their wrists and long, falling necklaces. It’s no surprise, really, considering jewellery is their love and latest venture, with the launch of their label, storybox.
“The storybox. girl is stylish, quirky and fun,” says Andi. “She is passionate, driven and vivacious. A tree and people hugger, she cares about the world we live in.”
After meeting through a mutual friend, Andi and Thuy new they would become close. The big decision had to be made as to whether they’d be able to maintain a friendship through starting a business with one another.
“Andrea has such an amazing personality and is the funniest person I know,” says Thuy. “She can make me laugh like no one else can, which is why I knew we would be able to be in business together.”
Andi agrees: “It can be tough starting a business with a friend, however we share the same philosophy of working hard, keeping it fun and most importantly, our friendship comes first.”
When asked about their inspirations, both girls squeal and start talking about celebs like Alexa Chung and Rachel Bilson, the environment and their favourite designers – Chanel and the late Alexander McQueen. In fact, skulls featured heavily in their debut collection, while the powder blue recently showcased at Chanel’s Cruise Collection is the basis for several turquoise storybox. pieces. The people and city of Perth are also an inspiration.
“I love Perth because it has a unique and surprising factor about it,” explains Thuy.
“We may not be big with our skyscrapers or multiplex shopping centres, but it’s filled with talented individuals who have made us proud.
“Perth has some of the best cafes and shopping areas, in my opinion. There are so many hidden boutiques where you can find some amazing things.”
Andi and Thuy may love to find those things themselves, but we’ve discovered something amazing in their storybox. collection.
http://storyboxjewellery.wordpress.com
*From now until June 18, every storybox. Pearl Key bracelet sold will see 100 per cent of the profits donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation’s ‘Purple Bra Day’ initiative.