Always Different, Always Sunny!

2011-01-26T17:47:00.006+08:00

Hi Everyone!

Sunflower has recently welcomed a few more new tenants ! I shall give them a more thorough introduction!

1) First up! We have The Little Clothes shop!

This business is set up by an aspiring working mum who would like to share these colourful, comfortable and afforadable clothes with other parents.

Each garment is hand made in Bali using a special cotton mix which will become softer and more comfy with every wash! Say goodbye to starchy and stiff cotton shirts that makes junior uncomfortable! Comes in different sizes and designs.Do check them out today!

2) The jewellery scene in Sunflower is recently refurbished with really funky and modern pieces.

Handmade statement necklace ! Guaranteed to lend a lift to your safe black dresses on your next dinner function.

exclusively imported Korean rings!

They are of premium quality and can be customized to your ring size!

Definitely not the usual ones you can find in bugis shops!

This two brands ( Zuborah and Trinklets travelouge) caused quite a stir among Sunflower stuff! Delightfully vintage in appearance, the wares range from whimsical owl rings to bunny and ribbon earrings.
Best of all, Zuborah is having an exclusive promotion right now!

every $10 spent will entitle you to 2 pairs of handmade earrings for free!

Whilst stocks lasts! If you're looking for gifts for your gal pals or for yourself, look no further! Come down today before everything is sold!

4) Mother and child is a social enterprise that employs Mothers with young children to create sellable wares . The aim of the organization is to enable these mothers to be financially independent through the sale of these handmade items.

One of the best selling items are the Samsui and Peranakan ladies door stoppers( centre of picture)

They have also vintage chinese 2 tier food carriers and baskets for sale!

The best part is that 100% of sale profits go back to the ladies, thus ensuring continued welfare for them .

Do come down to check out their wares! They have brought in sunflower notepads, batik face towels and quilted blankets as well! All lovingly hand made!

5) " Plant in a bottle" presents to you baby pitcher plants in a bottle!

Yes , i mean the exact same pitcher plants you can find in some rural Amazonian rainforest!

Usually, these pitcher plants ingest insects to supplement their diet , as the nutrient poor soil that they grow in do not provide for it, however these pitcher plants are specially cultivated by an NTU graduate, thus those flourescent gel the plants resides in actually keeps in happy and healthy.

No maintainence needed! Perfect as a quirky housewarming gift!

Definitely surprising and unique. Come grab them today !

They can still grow larger as they are still young plants now :)

Thats all for this post folks! However , do drop by for more exciting product ranges ! Always Sunny, always different!

More Media features!

2011-01-19T15:20:00.004+08:00

Hi Everyone,

Its almost 20 days into the New Year! Time passes really fast isnt it ?

For those more active members among you , some might have noticed the recent slew of good news peppering our Facebook wall !
We are proud and honoured to be recognized in different established publication and portals all over Singapore!
Besides the media coverages, we are also pleased to announce our eco-social intitiative benefitting the ladies in Family care Cambodia!

do read on for more details!

1) Sunflower is named as Goodpaper's top 10 most promising social enterprise!

Good paper 's facebook page

2) We are also featured on AllDealsAsia's promising local business page!

click here to be directed to the link!

3) An article on Sunflower has been published on Channel Newsasia's " Eye on Business"column!

click here to be directed to the link !

4) Sunflower 's socio-charitable intiative benefitting the ladies staying at Family care Shelter in Cambodia!

Our handmade tenants have donated generously for this cause! Look at the bright smiles on their faces!

Lots of handmade goodies, pouches, and lovelies to go around!

All handmade items are made locally by talented crafters using material specially imported from Usa and Japan!

We're glad to be able to make a difference to their day with our handmade goodies!

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if you had not been down to Sunflower recently, here's the time too!
With the Lunar New Year just around the corner, Sunflower is all decked out with festive goodies and specially created one off pieces!
Many of your favourite pouches, brands, and good have all been stocked up!

here's some pictures to tug on your heart strings !

Handcrafted New year cards to usher in the year of the rabbit ! We have valentine cards starting from $2.50 in the same style! come grab them today !

Specially beaded and embroidered passport and luggage tag! The perfect gift for that special friend who loves jetting around the world!

Dress up your tresses with these comfy elastic handmade hairbands today! Stylishly packaged, they are pleasing to the eye and gentle on the wallet ! Going fot $4 only !
Available in a multitude of colours! We're sure there's something here for everyone!

Lovely cupcake purses to keep those angbao loose change in check !
limited pieces for each design !

Lovely patchwork purses in adorable prints!

One of our very newest products!
Marimo is a water based plant all the way from Japan, it seems like a harmless furry floating ball in the water. However, over the days, you might be shocked to discover that your marimo pet has doubled in size!
They are traditionally given as gifts of good luck and love and have been kept as pets in Japan!
Its really cute and takes up minimum space .
It requires minimal maintainence as well!

Comes in a variety of sizes and designs for the containers.

Promo: first 10 customers to purchase $30 and above will recieve a specially decorated beach themed jar with sunflower seeds for growing !

Limited edition handmade Peranankan doll door stoppers.
Made by local social charity that hires mothers with young children to make these products. The aim is to assist women to be more financially and emotionally independent.
Your simple gesture of purchasing from them will help support this cause.
All profits to go directly to Mother and child .

other products such as batik towels, angbaos, samsui women card holders and gift sets are all available in store!

Welcome your guest with this cheery pair of good fortune rabbits today !
Specially imported! Limited pieces available !

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Thats not all!
We have so much more things in store that its impossible to feature all of them ! come down now and be pleasantly surprised! XD

Chrismas Mania in Sunflower

2010-12-15T14:18:00.007+08:00

HoHoHo!

Everyone's favourite season is here once more!

Unless you have been hiding under a rock in a distant forest, you would know that Christmas will be upon us in exactly 10 days!

Lots of people would moan and groan, for the very idea of Christmas will conjure up many a nasty past memory of hassle and trouble.
eg. queuing up to get your gifts wrapped, spending your precious off-day trawling the malls with increasing desperation at finding that perfect gift that is easy on your pocket and suitable for the person in mind.

Worry no more! Sunflower has done all the legwork for you this festive season, and we present to you this long but not exhaustive picture montage of some of our most interesting new offerings to whet your appetite!

What's more, we are having our very own sunflower caption contest! No purchase needed! Just pick up a form from our friendly staff and pen down the witty slogan on what sunflower means to you!
Stand to win prizes up to $500!
More details can be found on our facebook and on the poster below

If you picture wins the most tags on facebook you'll get something from us too! Join our contest now!! XD

Our grand prize! One set only!
chock full of surprises and gifts from our artists!

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we are also having our own promotions from our talented artists !
here's a sneak peak :

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Many christmas-y gift ideas!

The hottest thing to hit town! Wear one of this tiny hats with style, sass and attitude to celebrate the festive season!

Hand arranged bouquets , can be customized!

Many gift boxes for your loved ones

Beautiful musical boxes!
each design has its own tune! Watch in fascination as the horses revolve with the tune!
going for $26.90!

Specially imported this season, these snow globes literally " snows" ! Coupled with working lamp lights and soft christmas carols, its the perfect tabletop ornament! Works with AC current.
One piece for each design only!
Going for just $59.90!
comes with 6 months warranty as well!

No snow in singapore? Don't fret. Soak up the atmosphere with this snow capped christmas tree!
Small enough to place on any table top, its going for only $16.90!
No assembling needed!

Want something that you can use after the season?
Get this fresh pine tree !
Its a real pine tree and comes decked out with fairy lights!
After the festive season, simply repot it in your garden and watch it grow!
going for just $29.90 :)

Hand beaded cards with 3-D elements!
Think a bit of tinsel, white fur and ribbons!
Christmas cards need not be as standard as the hallmark tradition dictates!
going for just $3.90

Handpainted watercolor pop up cards! no two are ever the same ! Going for just $8.50 each!
They are under a local brand and painted by an upcoming local artist!

Retro and whimiscal button earrings made from japanese fabric and buttons.
Lots of one-off pieces and accessories found here!

Living terraniums!
at a fraction of prices found outside! starts from $12.90!
Only needed to be watered once a month!
Live out your dream of having your own garden without the fuss and trouble of taking care of the plants! self sustainable !

classic and gorgeously arranged candle stick holders!
Only the best silk flowers and materials are used.
originally going for $20, but there's a 15% off right now!

whilst stocks lasts!

DIY mosaic art sets available in Sunflower now! New designs updated!
now going 2 for $20! perfect for that party gift exchange!

Hand knitted by cambodian ladies who are disadvantaged!
collect them all today!

Hand made pop up cards! We guarantee you wont be able to find them anywhere else!
starts from $12.90
no assembling needed !
The unique factor in your present right before your eyes!

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We have just stocked up on items not related for christmas too!
we are here for all your gift woes!
take a peek below!
click to see a larger image!

your favourite voodoo characters are making a comeback!
this time around, they are of higher quality and consists of more designs!
Think toy story, naruto even beloved characters like Winnie the Pooh!
come grab them whilst stocks lasts!

Unique Boot bag !

Our best selling slouchy cloth bag has made a comeback in more hues and designs! Going for just $14.90 each!
Able to carry up to 15 kg !
good deal!
Wear it any way you like!

Limited edition shoe bag! stay ahead of the style pack with this forward looking bag!
One piece only!

hand stitched booties for your precious!
now 2 pairs going for $36 instead of $21.90 each! comes with a gift paper box and a cute bow!
No need to wrap anymore!

Newly out of the Sunflwoer oven!
These cupcake goodies will have you wanting more!

Disturbed sleep ?
Feeling under-rested?
With these hand sewn silk-satin eye masks, give your peepers the TLC they need !
Going for just $6.90 each!
one piece per design!

Handcrafted satin notebooks!
comes in two sizes! $14 for the smaller and $16 for the large ones! we have only brought in 12 pieces for this ! Once sold its sold!
come down NOW!

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its the end of this photo montage. Hope you had fun looking through it as i had fun putting it together!
Come down to Sunflower for all your gifting needs! See you there!

This montage is hardly exhaustive and we guarantee we will continue to surprise you in-store with our many different selections!

2010-11-03T12:20:00.002+08:00

Here's introducing the very last Installment of our Fashion week series!

We will be introducing PULSE today !

Pulse is started by a couple who believed that trends can be pursued without parting with a huge portion of our income. Since they had started this business, Pulse has been consistent in offering a wide variety of unique apparels, bags and accessories, sourced from many different countries.
They also offer gown rentals and sale of gift vouchers( hint: best for gifts! Christmas is just around the corner! )

Some of their offerings!

Interview with Sunny Entrepreneurs

1. Describe your fashion blogshop concept! (how are u different from the rest?)

We believe that tasteful fashion is not about the latest trends but rather what looks good on our customers and it does not have to come with a hefty price tag. We also try to source for individual pieces, be it clothes, accessories or gift items from different countries we visit - from the US, Hong Kong, Korea, Japan, Nepal, Europe etc.

We also try to play a part by acquiring hand-made gifts from countries we visit in support of their local communities. In addition, we are also supporters of the Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD), 10% of our Sale Proceeds goes to them every month.

2. How did you get started out on this business? (eg. What prompted you to take it from hobby to business?)

We were getting frustrated with the run-of-the-mill stuff selling at prices above their quality just because the bulk of their costs go to advertising and customers end up paying for that rather than quality and unique designs. That's when we decided to go sourcing for our own clothes and accessories from other countries and bringing them in to share with others like us.

3. What do you think is different about Sunflower as compared to other similar concept stores?

Sunflower has a great concept that is catching with the times, by marrying products with hand-made products. The shop is creatively laid out with space for shoppers to explore without feeling congested and tenants are made to feel truly valued with your constant support in terms of publicity and marketing promotions - unlike other stores with a similar 'boxlet' concept.

4. How is your experience with us so far? / What do you personally like best about Sunflower?

Great! Everyone is helpful and loves what they do, great passion and attitude = happy tenants and customers! We love the cheery colours and decor and the creative concept, which is so diff from other concept stores.

5. how do you think that Sunflower has elevated your business? (pls provide suggestions to improve the Fashion Stage)

The fashion stage is a good idea and gives the fashion owners a better chance to showcase their products and individuality. Even better if a mini fashion show can be conducted once or twice a year, featuring our own sunflower girls (and guys?) :)

6. Why did you choose Sunflower?

Love the concept and attitude of the sunflower owners - passionate, supportive and friendly. :)

7. Any burning information to give to our readers on FB/Blog?

Our website: www.feelthepulse.com.sg

The Fashion Stage Week Long Promotion Drive:

Thurs 4 Nov - Fri 5 Nov: 50% Off 3rd Item (of the lowest value)

Sat 6 Nov - Sun 7 Nov: $10 Off regular priced dresses (marked with a green sticker); $8 Off regular priced tops or bottoms (marked with a green sticker)

Mon 8 Nov: 35% off 2nd item (of the lower value)

Tues 9 Nov - Wed 10 Nov: 30% off bracelets, belts and necklaces (except for clay items)

Interview with Sunny Tenants ( IV)

2010-10-27T14:59:00.005+08:00

Hi everyone ! Thanks for the overwhelming feedback and encouragement for our Fashion stage and for our newest column : Interview with Sunny Tenants!

Fashion Stage: Week 4

This week we will be featuring Vogue Indulge!

Vogue indulge specializes in classic staple wears with a funky twist. All apparels and accessories are hand picked by the owner , Adeline, herself, and they reflect her sunny and bright personality with their bold and and youthful prints and designs. Here's some sneak peaks of the items that she is currently having on her website.

candy hued dresses to spice up your day and to stand you out from the common horde of neutral colors!

Specially manufactured prom-esque dresses! Lending you a radiant outlook with these sunny pieces

Hazy days getting you down? Find back your vibrant outlook with this resort styled chiffon dress! Always classic and evergreen, this is a definite keeper ! Perfect for that romantic getaway or for lounging on the beach with the girlfriends

Fun and funky jumpers arre making a huge comeback! Sassy and oh-so-chic, Vogue Indulge have a fabulous collection of jumpers, especially for you! Come get them whilst stocks lasts!

Updated pieces for work and play ! Interesting details keep the whole outlook from being "" normal". Look polished and elegant all the time in these timeless neutrals!

Do take a look at their website : http://vogueindulge.livejournal.com/

Or come down to Sunflower , B1-12A, City Square Mall , for more pieces!

Interview with Sunny Entrepreneurs ( IV)

Featuring Vogue Indulge !

1. Describe your fashion blogshop concept! (how are u different from the rest?)

-- Just one sentence, 'Less is more'

2. How did you get started out on this business? (eg. What prompted you to take it from hobby to business?)
-- well, vogueindulge was started 2 years back with encouragement from my friends becuz they know i am a big fan of fashion. of course, wanting to pass on the fashion passion, vogueindulge was started!

3. What do you think is different about Sunflower as compared to other similar concept stores?
-Sunflower focuses on being eco friendly, which passes down a friendly and healthy message to the public on the importance of caring for the environment.

4. How is your experience with us so far? / What do you personally like best about Sunflower?

-It has been GREAT! staffs are always friendly and helpful and they never say no whenever you need help.

5. How do you think that Sunflower has elevated your business?

Sunflower not only gives me a space to display my products, it also helps to promote my branding, we have tried store concepts but never in an eco friendly store.

6. Why did you choose Sunflower?

- we have total faith in sunflower that they will do the best for the customers as well as for the partners. :)

We have more exciting news coming up! Stay Tuned for more information!

Interview of Sunny tenants ( |||)

2010-10-20T13:42:00.004+08:00

Hi Everyone!

How did you find the previous 2 launches?
if you had thought that the offers were fantastic, then the third weekly installment of our fashion week will blow you away!

Featuring Bon Bon Amour!

They are a local based blogshop who specializes in all things Chic, Korean, and Whimsical! If you are liking how it sounds, read on!

They will be bringing exclusively selected pieces for a huge thank you sale tomorrow, ONLY AT SUNFLOWER!
prices starts from a mere $10!
So, What are you waiting for ? We'll see you all tomorrow for Bon Bon Amour's grand kickoff for her Fashion week debut!
Limited pieces up for grabs!

Bon Bon Amour stocks limited pieces of exclusive imported designs not just for clothes, but for bottoms,bags, accessories and hats!

The links for their web site are at the bottom of this post!

And now for our regular column of Interview with Sunny Entrepreneurs ( |||)

Featuring Bon Bon Amour as well!

1. Describe your fashion blogshop concept! (how are u different from the rest?)

BonBon Amour betoken candy love. A French name, an add-on to the the sweetness with a tinge of Classic.

Thats what BonBon Amour's collection possessed.

“The difference between style and fashion is quality.” & BonBon Amour sure got it.

2. How did you get started out on this business? (eg. What prompted you to take it from hobby to business?)

The Chemical reaction with Passion & Love. The love and passion for dressing up ownself, and dressing up others.

3. What do you think is different about Sunflower as compared to other similar concept stores?

Sunflower gives all out as a platform to the lil buds like BonBon Amour, such as, creative ideas, physical help and promotings.

4. How is your experience with us so far? / What do you personally like best about Sunflower?

I love their sunny crews! They are most friendly and helpful assistants of all. & I simply love their eco-friendly, handmade concept! It was great pleasure for BonBon Amour to be in one of Sunflower's Blogshop Fashion stage.

5. how do you think that Sunflower has elevated your business?

Sunflower had given BonBon Amour & i, our own space for our own style, fashion and creation at the most reasonable price for lil buds like us to start off with.

6. Why did you choose Sunflower?

Sunflower is the most amiable & cheery of all.

7. Any burning information to give to our readers on FB/Blog?

Visit our Vogue Boutique online at:
Www.BonBonAmour.Com

or

our Reading Blog with peachy news all over at:
Www.BonBonAmour-and-i.blogspot.com

Stay Tuned for more Peachy news! ( as Bon Bon Amour would say! )
Do take part in their monthly rummage for the prettiest faces on Facebook! More details on their website! Vote for your friends or submit your photo for consideration!
Fantastic prizes up for grabs!

Fashion Week -Week 2

2010-10-13T15:18:00.004+08:00

How fast time flies!

Here we are with the second week of Fashion Week!
Thank you for everyone's support for our Overwhelming response!

I hope you have enjoyed browsing through My Enchanted Eden's exclusive apparels! For those who have not yet had time to come down, do not worry! Limited pieces of some designs will be making their rounds in Sunflower until the end of this month due to the excellent demand, so come grab them before they end their debut !

And now for the period of 14/10/2010 - 20/10/2010, the fashion spotlight shall swing to our next feature under the Fashion Stage, Beauty Licious!

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Set up by 2 old school friends, the brand boasts a top-to-toe approach, from exclusively imported apparels to Beauty services for you , all under one roof!
( ladies, are you noting this ?? )

Moreover for the span of Sunflower's Birthday Month, they are given away vouchers that can be used with NO MINIMUM PURCHASE! To make the deal sweeter and more irresistible, the vouchers also double as Lucky draw tickets ! The proud winner will walk away with $50 worth of apparels, and free basic beauty services as well!

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Alright,enough of the Intro, we know you're excited ! Here's a first hand sneak peak at the exclusive items that will be launched in Sunflower tomorrow! Especially for you from Beauty licious !

S0168A @ S$30.00

Bohemia Beauty Patterned 2-ways Long Skirt

Fabric: Cotton + Oxford
Descriptions: Length 85cm, Elastic Bust 56-100cm
w/Out Belt
2 ways wear
Elastic Bust

T2352 @ S$24.00

Sweet Barbie Laced Cake Layers Sleeveless Blouse

Fabric: Cotton + Laces

Descriptions: Length 53cm(Straps Excl), Bust 68-78cm, Bottom 92cm

w/ Interlining

Elastic on the back

Adjustable Shoulder Strap

T2440 @ S$28.00

Romance Roses Sewn Shoulder Stripes Tunic

Fabric: Cotton Lycra

Descriptions: Length 69cm, Bust 22-96cm, Shoulder 34cm, Bottom 82cm

Highly Elastic

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These are just some of the goodies that will be on showcase tomorrow! Whilst stocks lasts!
Come down during this week to view all that we have !

Just to remind everyone, Sunflower is still having its Birthday special: $5 rebate off purchases above $50! The promotion has been ongoing for some time, thus it will be ending its run soon, what are you waiting for? You DO NOT want to miss this once-in-a-blue-moon offer!

See all of you in Sunny Sunflower!

Always different, Always sunny!

Interview with Sunny Entrepreneurs(||)

2010-10-13T14:01:00.008+08:00

Hi , How was everyone's week so far?

Its Wednesday again, and today we will be featuring Part 2 of our widely recieved Interview with Sunny Entrepreneurs series!

We are featuring Beauty licious, who is also featured in our very own Fashion Week!

Do read on to see what all the hype is about!

1) How did Beauty licious come about? What does Beauty licious offer?

Beauty Licious was born in late December 2009. It was an idea from 2 old school friends. Our
concept is all about beauty and fashion. That is why our online blogshop offer beauty services and
fashion apparels. Our objectives are to make all ladies to look the best but at affordable prices. We
are working to do this all under one roof. Our services are flexible too!

2) How did you come to know about Sunflower?

Sunflower was recommended to us by Gift Give when we sounded our intention to find a place to
put our items in a shop apart from our beauty services in the neighbourhood shop.

3) Why did you choose Sunflower

After
considering, we decided to choose Sunflower because of their warmness and the first concept shop
in Singapore based of H.U.E.S (Handmade, Unique, Eco-friendly, Socially-conscious). We
collaborate with Sunflower in early August 2010. From that day onward, Sunflower has never
fail in guiding us in selling our items there as we have got no experience in doing so.

4) What do you personally like about Sunflower?

What we like
the most is Sunflower online inventory / sales report tracking, it is so efficient. Final sales report
is prompt too!

5) Any Burning information to give our readers on FB/Blog?

We are planning to hold a mini-event space on the weekend in front of Sunflower. So check that
out soon!
In conjunction with celebrating Sunflower 1st Birthday Bash, we have give away vouchers and
free gifts on 25-26 September 2010. Our vouchers are special because there are divided into 3 parts
which is online blogshop, Sunflower shop and beauty services. Most importantly, these vouchers
act as a lucky draw coupon too. Drawing date will close on 26 November 2010 by midnight.
Result can be view at www.beautylicious2010.multiply.com by 01 December 2010. The winner
will receive S$50.00 worth of Beauty Licious apparels plus FREE basic beauty services. A
notification will be sent to the winner via email. All purchase must be registered by furnishing full
details such as name, date of birth, NRIC, address, contact number and item code via email at
beauty.licious@live.com to qualify for the lucky draw. A lucky draw number will be send via email
within 24 hours from us. Vouchers and lucky draw coupons are one time entry for each part.
Validity is from 25 September to 26 November 2010. There is no minimum purchase!
Due to the overwhelming response, we are generous enough to send you the vouchers by email! Just
email us your request at beauty.licious@live.com now!
Last but not least, we are taking this opportunity to thank you for supporting Beauty Licious. (“,)

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Wow, that does sounds very interesting!

Lucky draws + vouchers + a free makeover!
What are you waiting for ladies! Come and get those coveted vouchers whilst stocks lasts!
Only at Sunflower , City Square Mall B1-12A !

Next up we will be featuring some of their fashion Week Exclusives , which will be available in Sunflower, starting tomorrow

Stay Tuned!

Launch of Fashion Week!

2010-10-07T19:25:00.005+08:00

Sunflower has officially launched its very own exclusive Fashion Stage!

Meant to be a warm and cosy haven for Shopaholics, we have partnered with various blogshop owners to bring to you quality, unique and one-of-a-kind apparels and accessories! .

And we are hereby announcing the start of Sunflower's Fashion Stage , ( not to be mistaken with Milan's version, but you can equate it to be of the same hype ! ) by featuring 3 of our Brands involved in the Fashion stage.

The first week we shall kick off with : My Enchanted Eden

My Enchanted Eden is set up by 2 working ladies (Alethea and Clarie), who are ardent fans of shopping, barely 7 months ago.

However being part of the busy working class, they find that it is difficult for their peers and themselves to find time to shop in malls, and the selection for working gear online are not great.

Thus My Enchanted Eden was born , in which they feature exclusively designed and manufactured shoes and apparels, all of which are hand-picked!

Prices are intentionally kept low , but Quality of their items are never compromised! ( Good news for all the ladies out there! )

Here are some of the sneak peeks on the items that they will be EXCLUSIVELY featuring through Sunflower during their Fashion week from 7/10/2010- 13/10/2010

We call this the Power dress! Comes in slate grey, Fuschia and Ivory.

Channel your inner femme fatale for that high level presentation through this nifty and interesting dress ! It will enhance your figure as well through the well placed dash of color.
While stocks lasts!

In Slate Grey

In Ivory

In Fuschia

Black Rosette Work dress

Who said black is boring had not seen this dress!

With an interesting V neck line and artsy rose prints, this is perfect for the office, yet still far from dull.

The neutral colors make it easy to match with accessories as well! Pile some on for that after-work event!
Audrey Hepburn inspired shift dress in Monotone

Comes with a free black sash to accentuate your figure!

Classic and elegant, this updated and chic number will never go wrong!

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Want more pieces? Seen something you like already?

Exclusively available in Sunflower! Only Featuring for this week only! Grab a buddy and hurry down now to Sunflower after work!

We are located at City Square Mall, B1-12A

(directly linked to Farrer Park station )

More exciting news coming up! Stay Tuned!

Interviews with Sunny Entrepreneurs

2010-10-05T21:08:00.002+08:00

Sunflower is Launching a new column : Interviews with Sunny Entrepreneurs

Through this brand new column, we will be featuring some of our Partners on their thoughts on handmade things, their experiences in running their own business, and also on Sunflower.

Thus, all aspriring entrepreneurs , please sit up! Watch out for this column, only EXCLUSIVELY featured on this blog! Follow us on our facebook for more updates or follow our blog to know more!

Today we will be kickstarting the column with one of our newest partner:

My Enchanted Eden!

1. Describe your fashion blogshop concept! (how are u different from the rest?)

We understand how busy young working ladies like us, could be too busy to go shopping with the tight busy work schedule & various other commitments.

We hope that our blogshop can reach out to the busy working ladies, so they can shop online at their own leisure time.

All material and designs for clothing & shoes are hand-picked by us & pricing is kept affordable. So we can now get to try on various chic work-wear designs, without worrying about burning a big hole in our pocket every month before pay day!

Online retail therapy has never been better with such convenience & affordable pricing!

2. How did you get started out on this business? (eg. What prompted you to take it from hobby to business?)

My Enchanted Eden was started by Alethea and Claire, who love shopping online for its reasonable pricing & convenience.

As we are both working ladies and find that there aren’t many choices for working apparels and shoes online.

Alethea happened to be travelling and came across a shoe factory and started working with the factory to select & manufacture shoes suitable for work.

Shortly after, Alethea invited her friend Claire, to work hand-in-hand, to bring in quality work & casual clothes.

It has been only 7 months since My Enchanted Eden has made its debut, but slowly & steadily we hope for success in the years ahead, with everyone’s support.

3. What do you think is different about Sunflower as compared to other similar concept stores?

Sunflower has a bright and sunny ambience, which captured our attention. They feature many different talents who bring in all sorts of handicraft and accessories. It is always interesting to visit Sunflower each time to check out the extensive range of merchandise there.

4. How is your experience with us so far? / What do you personally like best about Sunflower?

Sunflower gives us the freedom in doing up our own showcase of our apparels. The staff are always ready and share with us their views on improving our showcase.

5. How do you think that Sunflower has elevated your business? (pls provide suggestions to improve the Fashion Stage)

We are able to displayy some of our favourite apparels in a physical shop, which allows our customers to have a real “feel” & also try them on.. It has also brought in new customers, who came to know about us after visiting Sunflower.

6. Why did you choose Sunflower?

We discovered Sunflower by chance via a close friend’s Facebook page.

Subsequent discussions took place with Boon Cheong, the owner of Sunflower, and we discovered that Sunflower is also interested in bringing in some work apparels for the ladies working in the vicinity.

The rest, as they say, is history. And now My Enchanted Eden is a happy tenant of Sunflower.

7. Any burning information to give to our readers on FB/Blog?

My Enchanted Eden works very closely with our shoe manufacturers and apparel suppliers to make sure that we bring in only quality, trendy, boutique standard items that are reasonably priced.

We understand the need of dressing well for both the office environment and dressing chic on casual days. Never fret about what to wear for work or play again, with our range of designs. Neither do you have to worry about high prices.

Our biggest sense of achievement is seeing our satisfied customers strutting confidently in our apparels & shoes! J

We welcome all feedback & comments, so we can improve ourselves all the time, to serve our customers better. So please feel free to drop us an email. We don’t bite :P

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and there you have it, My Enchanted Eden, up close and personal!
If you're interested in their items, or know more about them, do come down to Sunflower which is located at City Sqaure Mall, B1-12A,

or go to their websites in which they have regular collections to browse through!

http://myenchantededen.livejournal.com/

Last but not least, look out for our Fashion Week in which we will be launching our very own exclusive Fashion stage!

stay tuned for more soundbites, only on Sunflower's blog!
Up close and personal, with me , your mysterious sunny blogger. XD

Media attention, Events & More!

2010-10-04T21:23:00.011+08:00

Recently, Sunflower has been blessed with a deluge of Media attention!

Firstly, we have been featured in

A Green Mark Singapore" TV Programme on CNA, presented by Building and Construction Authority !

Building and Construction Authority (BCA) is proud to present a special 2-part television programme entitled. "A Green Mark Singapore" to share Singapore's experience in developing a green built environment. Do tune in to watch the programme!

The second episode will be re-aired on Channel 8 on 9th October, 10.30 pm !

Secondly,

we have also been featured on the Youngstartups portal !

Do read about us here!

Young startups feature !

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Do you know that our birthday celebration has kicked off? In case you're not sure, here's a summary of what has been happening! ( and what YOU are missing out on! )

Goodie bags for grabs with $20 spenditure storewide in Sunflower!

Free sunflowers with every purchase made!

Bright colors welcoming you to Sunflower

Festive decorations!

Donate your $5 rebate for purchase above $50 to Make-a-wish foundation, Sunflower's adopted Charity!

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We have also had our recent event spaces!
Now featuring Ohroses especially!
They specialize in uniquely imported items, accessories, and apparels , all at a very competitive price!

Pictures of their event follows:

Accessories galore!

Ladies crowding around to take a look at the display!

The happy owners of Ohroses

There are new items added every other week , so drop down now to take a look at their collection today! Do join their facebook Ohroses as well, for further updates regarding exclusive online releases!

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Sunflower has also been visited by an invasion of Owls recently!
Oh no, there is no need to call the Jurong Bird Park! These owls are entirely handmade drawstring sling bags, and are hoping for someone to adopt them home!

No two owls are the same! Grab them whilst stocks lasts! Available exclusively in Sunflower!

That's all for now, but do keep track of our latest happenings through our facebook, and bookmark our blog today !

Sunflower, always different, always sunny!

We've turned ONE!

2010-09-20T20:48:00.005+08:00

SUNFLOWER is turning ONE!

Thanks to everyone who believed in us, and who have witnessed our growth since we first opened on the 26th of September 2009.
How Time flies! And now with a bigger, better, brighter outlet at a Prominent spot in Basement 1-12A, we promise that things will only get BETTER! :)

Coming right up, we have a whole slew of fun and exciting activities to commemorate our special day with all of you!

For a Green Cause: We have officially kickstarted our one-of-a-kind Bag Recycling Program!
Everyone is encouraged to pick up a recyclable paper/woven bag from our collection outside the shop for future use.
Or even better, Donate your own and contribute in saving Mother Earth!

Everyday so many bags are thrown away, a recent survey stated that if everyone in singapore throws a plastic bag daily, that would amount to 423 tonnes of excess rubbish a year! Think of all the wastage, and the harm it would cause on Mother Earth!
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Printing woven bags will just create to the problem as they are still made from new material leading to wastage, thus , BRING YOUR OWN BAGS TO SUNFLOWER! JOIN US IN DOING YOUR BIT FOR THE EARTH!

Birthday Activities!

1) $5 rebate for every $50 spent!
OR
Donate the rebate to our adopted charity " Make a Wish" which aims to fulfill the wishes of children with terminal illnesses.

2) Free Mystery Goodie Bag with Purchases above $20! Whilst stocks lasts!

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So Hurry down now ! Promotions good from 25th -26th! Come celebrate with us! See you in Sunflower!

We can't wait to share our joy with you!

New Garden, New Location, New Sunflower!

2010-08-24T23:44:00.003+08:00

Sunflower has moved to Basement 1, unit #12-A !

Many exciting things have happened since we have gone down, and here are some sneak peaks at the non-stop action!

We thank all those we came down to support and we will strive to be better to serve you better always!

Enjoy the photos!

The night before the opening! Many hands make light work,a snapshot of everyone bustling in and out of the shop. That really helped to tie up the loose ends!

Tenants coming to arrange their items

Almost ready for the soft opening on the 6th!

The shop looking all ready for the soft opening on the 6th of August! A remarkable feat only achievable through everyone's hard work in getting everything done in record time!

Our Official opening on the 8th of August was graced by the Lion dance troupe to " bless " the shop and usher in prosperity and good luck for the business. Look at the amount of onlookers!

The action was brought into the shop as well!

Beautiful and heartwarming gifts by out tenants claimed the front spot in our central display! Aren't they beautiful? we also had our own Pebble Project!

Customers and friends alike are welcome to pick up a pebble from our counter and decorate it with anything they like. These pebbles will be permanently displayed in our shop as a lasting decoration, reminding everyone that Sunflower could not have made it thus far without everyone's support, as we gathered forward " pebble by pebble " to where we are now!

Check out the mindboggling variety of masterpieces in our shop TODAY!

Delighted children with their masterpieces!

With every $20 spent, customers were presented with a stalk of fresh sunflower, completely FOC to show our appreciation for the support over the last 10 months!

Our very loyal " VIP" customer Yvonne with her very cute daughter!

Happy faces abound.With the opening of Sunflower in a bigger, brighter and more exciting setting, we certainly am aiming for greater heights, and greener pastures!

Do not forget however, we are still continuing with your famous " mini event space " every weekend, right outside our retail space!
WHICH IS NOW #B1-12A!

and for this week we are delighted to present you with an exciting range of solutions for your Teacher's day gift woes!

Featuring Cheryl Floral from Agiftforthesweetheart, who excels in making hand arranged bouquets, and in classically approved gifts with a modern twist!

Drop by Sunflower for more fun this weekend!

Dun forget, we will be having our special event this Friday, Saturday and Sunday!

See you there , and watch this space for more exciting news!

2010-08-07T21:05:00.000+08:00

Singapore garden festival 2010

2010-07-23T12:46:00.003+08:00

Have you ever been to Singapore's annual Garden Festival? Now here's a good incentive for you to do so!

Sunflower is participating in the Annual Singapore Garden Festival!

Many types of Sunflower in the show!

Where there are gardens and flowers of life, there will always be sunflowers. In Singapore Garden Festival 2010, which is currently opened from now until 22th July, Sunflower is happy to be part of the festival as a merchant in the Festival Shop.

We have bags handwoven from Natural Jute from Nurah,

Handmade notebooks made by Andy of Roomofthecraftsman,

Everlasting and zero maintenance flowers from Japan!

Organic and natural soap bars, perfumes and body soaps handmade by local talent HolyRose of Nature's little treasures.

A snap shot of the Festival market!

Do drop by to take a look if you have not done so, festival will be ending on 1st of August!
There will be many new and interesting items never seen before in store on display at the market away, so hop down now and be pleasantly surprised by Sunflower!

See you there!

Always different, Always Sunny!

Shifting to New Patures!

2010-07-21T18:03:00.003+08:00

The latest news on the grapevine!

Sunflower is expanding!

Sunflower is relocating to #B1-12A on 6th August! Our last day on level #03-16 is on 25th July. Sunflower will be bigger and always different, always sunny!

Sunflower's new location in B1 come 6th August! We're right next to TS video store, and is directly in front of the escalator in B1! We are also a stone throwaway from Macdonald, NTUC , the lifts and also the taxi stand! Check us out on that day!

Here's some pictures of our renovation process!

started out with a cavernous floor space! Sunflower is going to be at least twice as big as the existing retail space in August! More space, means more items , means more cool stuff!
We're really excited! Aren't you?

The air conditioning and the structures are shaping up nicely!

Our counter and shelving units, from scratch!

The front display as of 20th July!

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Check us out on our opening day on 6th August!

here's some of our promotions that we 'll be having!

1) FREE sunflower with every purchase worth $45! ( 7-9th August)

2) FREE gift with every $20 spent! * ( while stocks lasts!)

3) Celebrate National day with Sunflower with our Buy 1 get 1 free Flashing National day badges!

we have a lot of other varieties for the flashing badges as well!

Here's how it looks like when worn!

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It does seems as if all the action is going to start when we shift down isn't it?
However , we have more events lined up for all of you right in our current retail shop!

Yes! that's right! Freebies for everyone! While stocks lasts! Come celebrate our joy at expanding to a larger shop, to serve you better!

So if you think that the GSS is over and there's no more promotions, you're wrong!
Hop down to Sunflower now for more cheery fun!

Always different, Always Sunny!
Seeing you soon!

Handmade nation!

2010-06-24T12:21:00.005+08:00

An Exclusive review for Handmade Nation!

We at Sunflower pride ourselves on being one of the few platforms available locally supporting the handmade community.
And coming across such a fabulous documentary such as Handmade Nation narrating the efforts of a single woman in unifying the different elements in the handmade community, we feel we just have to cover it!
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This documentary is by one of our in-house handmade talents, Yanting.

here is Yanting during one of her Art jamming session at Myartspace.

Sunflower is proud to be in partnership with Myartspace in offering individualized and flexible sessions aimed at helping adults with improving their creative flair and discovering more about themselves through the exploration of art and music elements, some courses of interest would be wine tasting cum art classes.

Yanting is an avid hobby crafter and she specializes in making beautiful cards made from craft paper. In fact, her items are only available in limited quantities for each design, making each piece unique and different.
and the best thing of all, her cards are priced from $1- $4.50!

come grab them whilst stocks lasts!

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" Interested in handicrafts and arts but feel that you cannot make a business out of it? Then you should watch Handmade Nation. This 1 hour documentary made by Faythe Levine to showcase the movement of DIY art, craft and design in USA is an inspiring piece and a work of art itself."

Faythe Levine

Handmade Nation, in which Faythe Levine actually travelled to 15 cities and covered more than 19,000 miles to compile artists, crafters, makers, curators and community members' view on DIY, showcase many varieties of crafts such as glass beading and quiltted wall ornaments. It also showed different ways in which people rebel against capitalism. One very memorable group was Knitta, a group of anonmyous avid knitters who started the "knit graffiti" movement AKA "yarnbombing". To them, using their knitted items to decorate the boring lampposts or trees is their method of beautifying public space.

Knitta !

" yarn-bombed" public bus!

Many crafters and artists also shared their point of view on handmade items and on why they decided to focus mainly on sharing their crafts with the world. One such crafter actually stated that the mundane day to day working for the sake of earning money was not as fulfilling and satisfying as compared to spending one whole day lovingly making items to share with everyone else, a view which I totally agree. The satisfaction of creation and the joy of knowing that other people showed their appreciation via purchasing of your creation are simply indescribable and it definitely beats the rush you get when you get a pay raise (That’s my point of view anyway)

sharing views with everyone

However, just crafting will not bring the bread to the table. In fact, without other people to support handmade items, it would be sooner or later before the crafters give up on their love. Supportive retail such as buyolympia.com (made up of 2 friends who consolidate the DIY items on their website) and Sunflower help to make the waves of DIY movement bigger and more easily accessible to the general public. Without their support, the individual artists would only resemble the ripples on the water surface. All in all, this is an inspirational and motivational piece which I strongly recommend to all crafters to watch at least once. In fact, pss… you can get the video from buyolympia.com, which also holds products of many crafters featured in the documentary.

You may also be able to find it in your nearest art speciality store!

Watch it today! You will never view handmade items or handcrafters in the same light again! :)

A must-see for all who's interested in knowing more about the handmade community, packed full of interesting insights and un-conventional artists!

Ipod winner revealed!

2010-06-11T14:16:00.009+08:00

Still remember our exclusive Ipod touch grand draw??

Wait no more! We will be revealing the winner right here and now!

Here's announcing the long awaited winner for the Sunflower's exclusive Ipod touch grand draw!

Fiona

Its Fiona's lucky day in Sunflower! Walking away with the coveted Ipod touch, a free iphone solar charger, and an exclusively handmade iphone pouch, she has all the reasons to smile!

Congrats to Fiona ! we know we'll be seeing a lot of her in Sunflower after this really lucky break!
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As for all of you out there, don't be too disappointed!
We are giving everyone more reasons to smile!

If you had not already known, for the period of the Great Singapore Sale, Sunflower is having a SURE-WIN Bingo game for everyone, thus everyone's a winner! Every ball will win you something, and prizes will be rotated and replenished every-week!

wait a minute, doesnt this sound as if type of prize is limited?

C-ORRECT!

Like most of the things in Sunflower, they are of limited edition and unique, come grab them today!

So, will you be the next Fiona? We bet you will have more reasons to have a smile this broad , only at Sunflower!

2010-06-02T23:50:00.002+08:00

Whew! So much's been happening!
Here's a mini update on what Sunflower has been up to since May.

1) Mini Bazaar in Jurong Point on 8-9th of May

Sunflower was at Jurong Point, over the weekend on May 8-9th on Mother's day's week, where we collaborated with Singapore Youth Hub and ITE East College to sell our lovely handmade and prearranged flowers from our brands, illumnis and agiftforsweetheart. We are very proud and happy to be part of a youth social movement. Needless to say, we achieved quite some good sales too ;)

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Illumis is one of our newest partners. They are couple in which they specialize in making hand-arranged floral arrangments.

However it comes with a twist! The male party is the one making all the flowers this time around and here's some pics of their latest offerings, to be found in Sunflower!

Prices around $20+ only! One piece for each arrangement! grab them whilst stocks lasts!

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2) Mother's Day event space by Agiftfromtheheart

It was a really successful event as fresh carnations were selling from as low as $3.50! What a steal! Options to decorate the flower with different packaging was available as well. For those looking for more lasting options, they took delight in the hand folded paper carnations as depicted above! Bouquets still available in Sunflower

Cheryl, the lady behind agiftfromtheheart concept, is an ex-florist and she employs her vast knowledge of floral arrangments to create the very best just for you!

She is currently running a customization service where you can order fresh or paper arrangements for any occasion, there's even the option of home delivery!

Prices are so much cheaper than elsewhere!
Come now and take a look! :)

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3) Of event spaces and Loyal customers

Besides the event space on Mother's day, we had our usual Mini weekend event space, just a happy news to report, we are booked full til August!

we are really glad that its such a success and we thank all our partners and customers who had supported us over the launching of this idea!

Many partners did not see immediate rise in sale just by one event ( then it would be called magic "sure-earn" event already, sales is never an immediate thing)

HOWEVER i would dare say that those who kept booking the event space regularly and take pains to make use of our facebook network to build their brand name, rapport with the customers and work at increasing their customer base has the last laugh. We are really proud of them!

Like we had mentioned, Sunflower is a space/platform dedicated to helping you grow your business. It takes two hands to clap, whilst you work hard at building your business, you can be sure the Sunflower team is behind you 100% . That's what we are for .
It saddens me to hear that some would just label us as " just another box shop" where you " throw you items there and whether you earn money or not at the end of the day its your own business".

Thus, without further ado, here's some more heartening pictures of the many events we had throughout the month of May! Thanks for all of your support!

Bon Bon amour! Our first Korean clothes partner! All pieces are imported in really limited quantities, ensuring a unique feel for you while you strut down the street confidently, without worrying if you might bump into your " doppelganger" halfway through.

Set up by Jesslin( left ) and helped by her sister! we say nice hats girls!

special sale for returning customers that day! Many pieces snapped up within hours!

Regular customers of Bon Bon Amour! Special picture with the owner!

Another picture of regular customers! Nothing beats the satisfaction and joy we get when we are appreciated for our effort! when you're happy, we're happier! :)

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Kim with her cans handicraft. All items are made from recycled cans (think tiger beer, green tea, lemon tea etc..) These seemingly "worthless" cans are transformed into lasting works of art and fashion accessories on the daily through Kim's talented pair of hands.

Each piece is lovingly handcrafted. Though it looks simple, each takes an unbelievable 1-2 hours to craft. Talk about patience and passion!
This also ensures that there are limited pieces for each designs, and even so, each piece are decidedly different.

we have rings, mini vans, necklaces, earrings, brooches, hair clips... the list goes on!

Be eco-friendly, yet be stylish at the same time! Perfect for a gift!
Prices start from a pocket friendly $3.90!
Come down now to prevent disappointment!

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4) Retail Managment talk at Ngee Ann Poly!

Now we've reached the highlight of this post!

On the 2oth of May, Sunflower was invited to give a talk to Ngee Ann's business students on How Sunflower overcame challenges as a fledging business to become where we are today.
That is really a huge pat on the shoulder for us!
Recieving recognition is always gratifying after all the hard work we have put in!

As Fhank once said, it feels really good for the other party to recognize you BEFORE you pass them your name card.

20th May is a really special date for us, as Fhank conceptualized the whole idea of Sunflower on that day itself. Thus it was really deja vu and heartening to be able present this talk on the anniversary !

According to Fhank and Booncheong, it was a truly exhilarating and eye-opening experience.

Look at the number of students , all busily taking down notes! ( or doodling on their papers perhaps.. ah, the carefree lives of students )
I guess the both of them can add " lecturers" to their resume now.

Its not everyday that you get the opportunity to share your passion and hard work with a roomful of eager bright students. Un-nerving yes, but exciting and DIFFERENT !

We hope that this stint will help to give courage to the next wave of young entrepreneurs! May the entrepreneurial spirit strive on!

5) Being nominated for "Entrant of the year " by Singapore Retailers Association!

Being nominated is already a really great surprise for us ! We thank everyone who had helped Sunflower in one way or another, there's no way we could have reached this stage without all of you! Once again, Always different, always sunny!
We will always be striving forward forever for the sky is the limit!

Hope to bring more new delights and surprises to all of you soon!

And now we have a huge renovation project in the wings!
I'm not revealing anymore here, for things have not been confirmed yet, but its definitely happening!

Sorry for the cliffhanger people!

Stay tuned for more exciting news, coming straight at you, right from the heart of Sunflower!

June Holiday Activities

2010-06-02T15:05:00.013+08:00

June Holidays are here again! ( at least for some of us..)
Besides the compulsory therapy indulgence during the GSS, and the impulse resort stay overseas, June is a month where many will find that they have a little more free time on their hands.

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Looking for something exciting/different/challenging to do instead of the boring ho-hum shopping activities and endless social gatherings?

Ever felt amazed by all the handmade offerings in Sunflower?

Be amazed no more!

For the very first time, Sunflower is co-organizing craft workshops with PenguinCANdance studio!

Learn to make your very own scented soaps, unleash your creativity with a new found talent in watercolor painting, and get busy making something functional for the car.

Our talented partners who are involved in teaching the workshops are namely,
Annie Chong of AppleRain, Andy of RoomsoftheCraftsMan, and HolyRose of Nature's little Treasures.

All classes will be held in comfort in penguinCANdance's Huge studio, fully furbished with aircon, fans, full length mirrors, sound system and storage space.

The address is as follows: ( just beside Holiday Inn! can go for a holiday stay there and spare 2 hours to learn something new and fun! )

315 Outram Road, #14-01
Tan Boon Liat Building (S) 169074

do contact

Rachel @ +65-9111-7778

to book a slot or to enquire on how to reach the venue.

Like our slogan for these workshops, A series of “good vibes” workshops for the body and soul in you and your child this June holiday 2010!

First up, we Have watercolor painting classes by Annie Chong of AppleRain workshop!

Annie Chong is a local artist who is exceptionally talented in watercolor creations. She is commonly seen participating in MAAD bazaars and flea markets all over the nation. She is also the lovely contributor who created Sunflower's layout for one of our Media feature in CHIC magazine :

here's a few snapshot from her facebook of her products:

and one more ...

Beautiful ain't it ? You will also be learning the skills of watercolor painting so you can illustrate any thing that you desire.

Annie is a very friendly and sociable lady who is very down to earth despite being so talented! You will definitely find it difficult not to be influenced by her infectious and outward passion for art. Don't miss this chance! Anyone can draw! Best if you are able to attend with your little one, this creates a perfect chance to bond as well.
Sign up today!

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Secondly, we have Handicraft lessons by Andy Lee of RoomOfcraftman!

Andy is a fatherly, easy-going middle aged man who has a knack of making beautiful and functional crafts such as gift boxes, photo frames and notebooks.

here are some snap shots on some of his past products: ( his note books and frames are also selling in Sunflower! )

Hangers...

and plaques..

he is also currently having a customization service in which he can make items to your specifications.
The best thing is, most of his supplies in the creation are bric-a-brac everyday items that you will have no problem getting at all.
All materials are provided in this workshop of course, but we bet that after the workshop, you won't be seeing your everyday " junk" in the same way anymore!

Recycle , Reduce, and Reuse!

Create masterpieces out of ordinary items, you'll be amazed yourself, talk about a paradigm shift!

Being green is easy after all!

Third up, but not the least,

we have Soap and lotion making workshop by HolyRose from Nature's Little Treasures!

HolyRose ( yes, that's her real name, printed on her ic, we checked :) ) seems to be a serious lady at first glance. Anyone would be struck by how much knowledge she has on soaps, perfumes and the ingredients needed and not forgetting , the process on making them.

Ask her anything and she will be able to rattle off the ingredient's names, the time needed to "cool" the soap, and so on..

Holy turns out to be a very jolly, enthusiastic and outgoing person, who is bursting to share her passion for her art of creating soaps and perfumes and the like.

With these rare skills, you will be able to blend your very own custom made soap,with a unique scent that is not found in the market. Subsequent lessons will touch on how to make your perfume( coolness plus!) and your own lip balms.

Holyrose's popular roll on perfume series! they are oil based thus able to last 5-6 hours at least! say good bye to those diluted concoctions that only last 2-3 hours at most!

Best of all, her soaps are made of natural ingredients, and thus safe for people with sensitive skin.

So if you have been interested in learning something out of the box, this might just be the thing for you!

or you could just hop down to Sunflower for more pre-made goodies! all shown pictures are ready for sale in Sunflower!

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So folks, what are you waiting for?

Sign up today and if you sign up for all three we'll throw in a free bingo turn! :)

Handmade from the heart and soul

Either contact Rachel @+65-9111-7778 to book a slot or

book instore at Sunflower!

We hope to see you !

Always different, Always Sunny!

2010-05-29T16:08:00.005+08:00

So!
The Ipod touch promotion is over, you smile wistfully at our facebook updates and think to yourself, too late to participate! Oh wells, nothing else to look forward to anymore, you muse as you start to close down the window.

HALT ! STOP !

Don't blink cuz we're coming up with another rocking event to rock your socks off! ( inside joke: if you know what i mean! *wink )

The annual nationwide craze that starts in May and end in June is here! No clue yet?
perhaps this picture will give you a hint

the Great Singapore sale 2010 is here again, and Sunflower is happy to be part of it !

here's what we have in store for you!
We bought a bingo set specially for this, and every $26.09 that you spend, you will get a chance to spin our spherical ball of luck!
Every ball wins, every one's a winner! This is to give back to all you who had faithfully supported us ever since we opened last year on 26th September.

Prizes are limited! Kindly sponsored by our fellow in house partners, and PenguinCANdance, and myartspace

Here's a sneek peek at what you can get..

1)$5 voucher redeemable in Sunflower!

2)

Remember the highly sought after eco-friendly LED flickering tea lights we gave out last Christmas? Its making a last comeback this time in limited quanities! Grab it whilst stocks lasts!
Yours when you roll ball 20-29!
Come try your luck!

3)
Belated Mother's day present? Smart event coming up? Limited pieces of Authentic freshwater pearl pendants for grabs ! Yours when you roll anything from numbers 50-70!

4)

Premium prize! Specially hand-sewn tote bag by Wahtever! bags.
Terribly unique , there is only 1 piece! Yours when you roll ball 1 or 2. ( this is starting to seem that Russian Roulette eh? Focus your mind on that coveted prize, check whether your lucky four leaf clover is functioning and spin the handle! )

more pictures of some of the bags that wahtever! bags have for sale in the shop. Proudly modelled by our lovely Claris

come get these limited edition items whilst stocks lasts!

5)
Always Harbored secret dreams of wowing everyone on the dance floor? Ever wondered how those superstars seem to move so effortlessly in those Music videos and live performances? Want to become sexier, healthier, fitter? look no further? With this (free) opportunity to try out one of the most sensual dances in modern era, what are you waiting for?

All lessons are fully guided with step by step run through from the patient instructors. A chance to see to prove those around you that, yes, even penguinsCANdance!

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PenguinCANdance is a multi faceted studio which offers many forms of dance and fitness classes. Sunflower is also collaborating with them for workshops held by some of our handmake talents!
Look out for more information regarding the workshops!

6)

$30 off 8-week Art Exploration class in My Art Space (U.P. $360)*!!
Located in 21 Tanjong Pagar Road, #04-01, MyArtSpace offers art classes by professional local artists for adults aged 16 and above.

Cultivate your inner artist with the patient guidance of the instructors. Invoke your inspiration and discover your artistic flair with the different styles of painting, drawing and doodling you will be learning.

7)

Lovely handmade pouches by Nepal women who's disadvantaged in their community! Each piece is strictly one off. Woven , dyed and sewn using the purest cotton spun from Cotton plants, each piece is of the highest quality ensuring a long time of usage for you! Sponsored by Handmade link
Limited pieces! spin balls above the numbers of 50 to score these!

8)
angelic figurines to decorate your desk! 20 of these up for grabs! spin balls between 30-39 to get these!

9)
Cute animal bags and pouches up for grabs! Limited pieces as well!
If this is not cute enough for you, how about this?

lovely ain't it?

we'll be giving away pencil cases from this series, do grab them while stocks lasts!

10) AND FINALLY but definitely not last.

we have lovely eco-fiber felt charms to be given away.
Made with heart and time, they are all original pieces and no two charms are ever the same

some photos to whet your appetite!

and that's not all! this is just for week 1!
more coming up! we will be changing the prizes every fortnight! Come down to Sunflower to soak up the fun!

We have a date yea? See you in Sunflower!

2010-05-28T15:57:00.003+08:00

The Ipod touch promotion is finally over!
Right now all we're excited about is WHO the winner is !

Thank you for all of your support! ( we couldnt stop shaking the box, it was so heavy! )
we're really surprised by the overwhelming participation from everyone! :)

Look at the overflowing entries! We will be doing the draw over the next few days, but before that we will be checking the entries ( you know , in case of counterfeit slips, all the more chances for all of you with them out of the way! )

we couldnt resist sneeking peeks at the coveted Ipod touch( latest version ok!) lying impressively in our shop.

Cross your fingers! we'll be announcing the winner after we have gotten in touch with him ( or her )

Watch this space everyone! it could just be you!

2010-05-08T21:47:00.007+08:00

Catch Sunflower's ad on page 72 & 73 of the latest CHIC magazine!

Out at all major newstands now!

Featuring a few of our hottest offerings! Hop down now for more fun stuff! Present this ad to us when you spend $10 in our shop and get a free mystery gift!
While stocks lasts!

April Mania!

2010-05-05T16:00:00.010+08:00

As April draws to a close, we are bursting with happy news to tell all of you! So many things have happened and will happen!

First things first, Are you aware that we have successfully launched our very own exclusive lucky draw? Top prize is a 32 GB Ipod Touch worth about $450-500! And that's not all! We are also throwing in a complimentary Ipod touch solar charger( being green is easy! Never be caught with low batt outside again! sponsored by our partner: Econcept) and a handmade ipod holder!( from our partner Needleslovethread)

psst: Chances of winning are also higher as this lucky draw is exclusive to Sunflower only! So what are you waiting for? Draw date is on the 27th of May, there's still 22 more days, and we have just stocked out with a whole range of exciting and interesting gifts, products and solutions for you!
Come visit us today!

We are also featured in CHIC's april issue A ! Did you catch this advertisment ?

For more information regarding this promotion do check out this link: " Psst, we are giving away a 32 GB ipod touch! "

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On March 28th, we were also feature in City Square mall's Fashion week showcase

The crochet bear that the little girl is holding is found in our shop! They are actually part of a special range of handicrafts made by physically challenged elderly and the elderly who live below the poverty line in Singapore. There are limited pieces available for each design and color!
Come show your support today! give from the heart, Give from the consious as well!
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Sunflower has also been actively involved in giving back to the Society.
Remember our Earth day feature in the last post? We mentioned that we are giving a part of our profits to Charity Journal.

you can check it out at this link! Charity Journal
Sunflower is proud of being featured as one of the top sponsors!

WWF appreciation dinner!

Also, we were presented with this certificate by WWF at an appreciation dinner for our involvement and participation in Earth Hour 2010!

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Now for something fun! Ever wondered just exactly who is involved in Sunflower?
Ever wondered who writes this blog? How we look like?
We , the fun people at Sunflower, has come up with a photo album on facebook for your viewing pleasure! Give in to your voyeuristic desires now and take a peek into our Sunflower " family!"

Here's a snapshot of our newest staff claris to give you more reason to do so! see more at this link! Sunny people in a sunny shop!

Drop by today and say hi to us! Believe me, a kind word and a warm smile from you, our loyal customers, never fail to brighten up our day!

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We were also featured in April's issue of CHIC magazine! Did you catch us once again?

If you had not made your way down to our shop before, do not hesitate anymore! With this handy floor guide you wont have any excuse not to drop by!

We are very proud to have been featured so extensively in media releases ever since we started out last year September! here's a hint: we will be emphasizing on the day in which Sunflower started very very soon! Keep a look out for our launch of this news in this space!

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I hope everyone's as excited about this sunday as I am!
If you had not known, its Mother's day this sunday! The special day to celebrate and pamper the woman in your life who has always been supporting and caring for you ever since you were born!
Sunflower is also launching a Mother's day special corner right in our little shop.
Do drop down and take a look!

Lovely poster done by our creative director booncheong, for those who dun know, the russian doll motif has long been used as a symbol for motherly love, how apt for Sunflower's promotion of showing love to that special woman in our life!
Our little cosy corner.
from specially printed mugs and cards, to handmade pots of flowers and pouches, even to soap petals shaped in the form of a rose, we have a wide variety of items to surprise her!

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For the busy you, I have already done the shopping legwork, so here's a few rad recommendations if you're pressed for time!

1) for the traditional mum ( flowers never fail!)
a)Hand-moulded using premium Japanese Deco clay, these gorgeous blooms never fail to brighten up any surface. Best of all, they are customizable, unique and lifelike. Unlike seasonal flowers, they are in season any time, and their bright hues and intricate detailings are a joy to behold! Extremely beautiful, optional choice to scent it!

b) meticulously arranged flower baskets containing paper/foam/real flowers. Made by a professional florist but at half the prices!

check out our wide array of choices in store! Delivery to doorstep available!

c) Hand arrange pots of blooms in various old-time favourite varieties! Wholly arranged by a guy, reasonable prices starts form $20 for a full pot. Whimsical touches such as tiny pinwheels and unexpected dangling hearts brighten up our day anytime!d)Imported from Japan, these lovelies are still alive! they require ZERO MAINTAINENCE. No watering and light needed. Petals will close when moist and open in dry surroundings. You have to see it to believe it! 10% off ALL designs, while stocks last. Come down for a live demo right now!

2)For the elegant Mom

a)
Beautiful and elegant, these intricate jewellery boxes will leave you spolit for choice! made of frosted glass, premium silver and colored glass, the vines and flourishes will leave an impact on your recipient! going at 10% off just for mother's day! pamper her today!

b)A classy combination of evergreen floral motifs and french lace, these handmade lined notebooks are handy enough to fit into the average handbag and perfect for recording Mom's thoughts.

3) For the Functional Mom

a)
Gorgeous novelty Thumbdrives( yes they are all thumbdrives) add a touch of fun to her workday.Comes in 2 GB and 4GB in a leather bound gift box. Free chain for pendants and keyrings for keychains, while stocks lasts!

b)
Surprise your mom with this nifty bumper signs, cheeky and funny, they are just the thing needed to brighten up her day. More designs instore. Promotion Buy 2 get 1 free now on!

c)Handmade hangers for photos and for clothes, fully customizable with her name for that special touch. Retailing at $16 each!

d)this picture does not do it justice! A wonderful way to spruce up your mom's room! Lavender has relaxing properties, help mom to destress with this charming purple sachet.

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Besides welcoming a whole array of new and exciting items, Sunflower has been busy going to bazaars as well.
We went to this bazaar held on the 24th and 25th , which had the Punggol GRC's MP as guest of honor!

Our little booth..Chock full of items, doesnt it look colorful? Say, would you approach our booth if you were there?

A full view , we made full use of all the space, we even brought along our trolley to make a makeshift "table"

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DO LOOK OUT FOR US! we are going to be featured in CHIC's may issue ! Coming out at major newstands near you in a few days time!

p.s, if you still remember two posts back, i mentioned that Annie's art work is going to be featured, here it is ! Do check in store for more of her art pieces!

and last but not least, here's a snapshot of some funky people in Sunflower!
If you like our service and our sunny approach, do take a picture with us, and link it to our facebook! Best picture might even win something from all of us at Sunflower! So get your creative juices flowing and stop any of our friendly sunflower staffs to take a picture together with you today!

Til the next post! ( which will be up realllly reallly soon with tantalizing pictures of some of the items i'm currently gaga over now! )

2010-03-31T18:58:00.011+08:00

Happiness walks on busy feet.

-Kitte Turmell

Indeed. Since February, Sunflower had been so busy with events, updates and bazaars that we didn't had time to contemplate about being busy. Luckily we did our proper planning hence things didn't go out of hand! However, it was a very happy, satisfying and rewarding month for all of us.

For starters, we went to 4 bazaars last month! Way beyond our initial target of at least 1 bazaar/ month.

here we are at NUS, our first bazaar there, which is held over 8-12th march.
We were sharing booth with 2 of our tenants, AppleRain and Xia Letni.

I totally love our huge sunflower, ( although its such a pain to transport from our shop, which is in the farrer park, all the way to the west ! ) it never fails to brighten up our booth( and the area). Also, its become a bright and sunny( pun intended) " sign-post" for the crowd there. As we were there for 4 days, sometimes we will overhear students talking on the phone near our booth, " i'll meet you at the big sunflower ok... ? " .

Laughs, which is just brillant for us, as more crowd gather around our table.

Here are the 2 ladies hard at work...

AppleRain workshop is set up by a very talented local artist who aims to evoke our hidden dreams with her bright and cheery watercolor paintings. However, the missus is trained in jewellery design. Through this sharing of bazaar space with Xia Letni ( who handmakes a wide assortment of swarovski based and vintage inspired accessories) she is properly inspired to turn back to jewellery making.

Here's something you wont see everyday! order something and see it materialize before your eyes, that's the power and allure of customizations folks! :)

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here's a hint coming up, do look out for our huge spread in May's first issue of CHIC magazine, where you will see more of Apple rain works!

Next up, Sunflower collaborated with PUB to organize a flea market to be held at the newly opened, and widely raved lifestyle spot, Marina Barrage in conjunction with World's Water Day.
here's a banner showing us as one of the partners! A first time for Sunflower! With this experience, we will be able to move on to bigger and better things! Do stay in touch with us, we might even organize our own sunflower themed bazaar one day!

here's a picture of our booth! it was one of the biggest tables we have ever been given in all the bazaars we have ever went to, it even comes with the skirting ! We had to utilize the table properly to make use of all that space! In the end we came up with a novel way of propping up the racks and securing them with cable ties! totally novel as we could hang things both ways!

a wider range of eco-friendly products brought that day, as PUB requested for environmentally friendly items, to promote conservation of our naturaly resources such as water.

so we had solar chargers, and handmade rattan and jute pouches just to name a few.
One of our partner, Gina who joined us, Sunflower was the co-organizer in charge of collaborating with stall owners. FOC for all of sunflower's partners!

Gina specialises in hand painted pouches and shoes! Her talent has earned the admiration of many a passerbys!

Here 's a photo of Forever blooms! Their life like floral arrangements will never fail to entice a " so nice..." comment out of any customer, no matter how tight lipped!
They are also having a new collection in Sunflower specially for the fast approaching Mother's day!
here's a picture of one of my very favourite creations!

pretty ain't it! Act fast as there's only one piece for each design, so its extremely limited and exclusive!

Next we went to NUSSU-Arts bazaar on the 22nd and 23rd of March!
There were live performances this time around , hence the crowd was really thriving!

Our mini booth, this time around, we brought along our own in-house fahsion brand, the Sunfashion! Demand for it was really encouraging, and we sold out of a few designs! Were you there, if you were from NUS?

Do look out for us as we were be going to more educational institutions over the next few months.

a beautifully edited photo showing our products. This time around we brought along our famous 3D cards which were imported from germany ,and new pouches from one of our newest partner, Periwinkle Sue!

After a successful collaboration with Xia Letni and Apple rain, we decided to go to this bazaar with them again. and i must say, they have outdid themselves!

Their array of new offerings were mind boggling, from intricately beaded bracelets to whimiscal story-line necklaces.

Do check out their items in store, for both are having promotions for the up coming Mother's Day!

We also took part in the annual EARTH hour project on 27th March, 8.30pm-9.30pm. Though lights are very important in retail line, and to our sunny image, we gamely agreed to turn off the lights so as to drive the message across that all it takes is a little change on our part to be green.

On top of participating in the project, 10% of our profits from the sale of our very own Sun candles will be donated to EARTH hour!

We also managed to rope in a few of our partners to donate to EARTH hour as well ! The partner featured here is that of Hourstyle, a local based firm who specialize in customized clocks. Love photography? Bring down your favourite picture and have it printed on canvas! Just married! Immortalize your love for each other on the wall with a customized wall clock cum art piece!

Special promotions! do drop by to take a look!

So, where will you on 27th March ? Did you participate in the project as well? Feel free to comment to this post!

The shop in 90% darkness, with only our front display lights on.. Let the darkness fall!

Surprisingly, the crowd in the shop increased 3 fold compared to normal days! We're really glad we made an impact on our resolve to be a green ambassdor.

Just look at the crowd! hmmm, perhaps we should switch off the lights from now on? at least once a week, can save electricity bills as well! ( laughs!)

March is also the month in which we finally came up with our very own slogan and tagline!

Hence " Always different, Always sunny! " is immortalized as Sunflower's tagline. We will be using it in all of our media releases from now on.

- the amount of work behind was so tremendous its kind of unbelievable! Imagine waking up suddenly at 3 am because you had a sudden brainwave on the tagline, den feverishly writing them down before mooting it in our regular meetings the next day. well, at least that's what happened to me.

Simplicity is always the hardest to achieve! How do you summarize the sheer amount of hard work, passion, and our past, present and future endeavours into a mere oneliner! Through endless brainstorming, that's how!

Our creative director also came up with this lovely collage of past and present events and happenings. This serves as a reminder that we still have a long way to go ahead, with trepidation and excitement, we shall bravely forge ahead! Thank you to everyone who have always supported Sunflower!

As for our media releases, we were featured in a varsity newspaper! A two page feature in volume 5 of Good paper, which features everything good! To what we know, it is available in educational institutions and newstands and this volume has been fully distributed! Have you seen our feature? :)

A local parenting magazine also feature our bee swimsuit! It makes any baby look 3 times more adorable instantly! Perfect for that unofficial photo shoot you have been thinking of doing for Junior!

Now available in different sizes in our shop! Fits children up to 6 years old! It even comes with a complimentary bumble feeler cap! Totally kaiwaii! I can hear the mums squealing in excitement already, XD drop by today! limited pieces only! It comes in pink as well.

For little boys who want to more macho, we have an adorable frog themed wetsuit as well! comes with a zip down front for moms who want an easier time getting junior into the suit!

We are also featured in CHIC magazine march issue! Did you catch us?

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Do stay tuned to this blog! More exciting news, pictures and events coming up! We do not jest, read it to believe it! More coming up soon!

I also want to check, been thinking of a mailing list to inform you guys of updates whenever explosive new contents have been posted. Do comment to this post with you views!

Tata! Til the next post!

Always different Always sunny!

2010 with a bang

2010-03-27T18:00:00.003+08:00

2010 started with a bang literally.

I still remembered that someone once told me that 2010 would be when the world ends. This goes to show how unpredictable everything is , ( as we're safely going into the 3rd month of the year, and nothing has happened to Singapore yet. I mean, you would know wouldn't you? as Singapore is in constant danger of getting swallowed by the seas surrounding her, should there be any upheaval of tectonic plates, aka Day After Tomorrow style.) because no one ever knows what will happen unless you try it.

Thus with that mindset firmly in place, we lept forward and tried new things for the new year of 2010.

After our successful debut at bazaars last December, we decided that Sunflower will go to at least one bazaar per month so that we can:

(1) create more exposure for our shop by giving out flyers and name-cards over there

(2) create more awareness to a different group of people

(3) be a mobile shop that travels to different parts of Singapore( usually the people who visits a mall are those who are living near it most of the time, so if people wont travel to a certain part of singapore, We will travel to them)

Hence we took part in the flea market at Clarke Quay on the 29th and 30th of January.

This time we were much more prepared. Amazing how experience can make someone seem so smart.

I remembered for the first bazaar, we started preparing 2 weeks in advance. Armed with to-do lists, research info from jaded bazaar-goers, and to-bring lists, we nervously packed and unpacked the things that feel had " potential" over in Clarke Quay.

Alas, nerves took over on the actual day itself. In spite of all the preparation, we actually forgot to bring lights and a whole lot of other misc hardware items that seem totally insignificant until we reached there.

So out came our improvisation skills and techniques, we had to " borrow" plugs and wires to attempt to light up our booth, ( no lights at night, how to sell things? )

And here we are, standing happily beside our booth.

Having learnt things the hard way the first time around, we were more careful, and with only 2 days of preparation, we managed to bring all that we need. Fhank also managed to obtain two Ikea lamps that lit up our table splendidly.

( Ikea has a brillant marketing strategy--make all your items so cheap, while knowing that all business owners who's starting up will need such items, so that everyone will get your products. Totally ingenious , I must say, for half the lamps used in the bazaars were from Ikea )

Close up of our table , doesn't the heart lights look gorgeous at night?

Here's a snapshot of Gina, one of our partners, with whom we are sharing tables with. She paints gorgeous shoes, with customization of names, lace, background and ribbons.

Not convinced of her talent? Here's a photo for you to check out. This is one of her best selling designs in the shop. The border looks so much like real lace, many customers fell in love with this at first sight.

While we were away in Clarke Quay, our retail shop is not forgotten. City Square Mall held a Haiti Haiti charity Concert to raise funds for the refugees in Haiti, and Sunflower is proud to say that we were one of the sponsors for the event.

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Also catch Boon Cheong in action on the dance floor as part of the salsa performance team during the event.

He is part of a local dance studio called Twoleftfeet.

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Not to be out-done, we were also having our biggest ever valentine day event outside our shop by our very famous partner, Lien, who's the founder of the Hugplush series.

here are more snapshots of what happened in the shop.

Lien hard at work. Her newest creations of matching handphone and iphone covers is literally flying off the shelf, both online and in store.

Next up, we went to our second bazaar of the month! Exceeding our orignial plan of at least one bazzar per month. It took place from 1-4th Feb, which lands just mere days away from our Clarke Quay bazaar.

Our poster on Facebook

It was a first for us to conduct a bazaar inside a school. This was also the longest bazaar that we have ever went to ( a record 4 days! )

And we came away from it happy and satisfied. After the bazaar our facebook fans increased from 700 to an astonishing 1229 as stated in the first post! Perhaps this means that we have made an impact on students on establishing ourselves, or perhaps it just means young people are more IT savvy?

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Throngs of excited students browsing through our items. The handmade pouches from MumluvDiy, GiveGifts and Hugplush proved to be the most popular, with many designs being snapped up in mere minutes after we displayed them out.

So mark your calendars everyone, for MumLuvDiy will be coming down this very weekend on the 28th of Feb to customize pouches and everyday items, just for you!

If you have not heard of them before, do check our their webpage through their banner below now!

A bird's eye view of our space. As we were located near to the canteen, we were ensured of a steady stream of crowd.However, one major pullback was that the area that the bazaar was held in was quite stuffy as its quite enclosed. It resembles a long tunnel with two openings for students to weave their way through to grab a bit in between classes. Hence, most of us were " suffocating " by mid-day, as throngs of sweaty students piled into the already congested area to look through the wares.

And after this experience,we realized that the old saying that " xin jin zhi ran liang" does not hold true. ( it means that if you calm your heart down you will feel cooler) Hot means hot, stuffy means stuffy, and true enough, by the second day, its the norm to see other vendors whipping out hand-held fans, and other devices in a bid to keep cool.

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The only vendor who did not do so, sells iced yoghurt. After all she had a whole fridge to herself, and business was booming for her due to the stuffy conditions. ( laughs)

For the NTU bazaar, we tried the response of different items by alternating the displays everyday. If any tenants are interested to share our future bazaar space , do contact BoonCheong for more information.

Our colorful displays of handmade goodies! Guaranteed to melt your heart! For the guys, our revolving stand of top quality 3-D cards from Germany will bound to catch your attention.Also, Encanto ( Everlasting real flowers that have been frozen in Japan,and which reacts to humidity) was doing a roaring trade as both guys and girls bought them for their significant others as Valentine day is just around the corner. ( We even had requests to buy our huge sunflower! )

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One of our partners also took a video of us in action on the first day. Do check out the video on facebook below!

All in all, the NTU bazaar was a huge success in any sense. We also caught the attention of the NTU student council who invited us to join the NTU matrix card scheme. ( Listen up all you NTU matrix card holders! )

There will be a Discount for all card holders who flash their matrix cards in our shop!

Do drop by for more items, we will have new items every single week!

or else for more updates, please join our facebook at:

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Next up, we are proud to announce that we are the sponsor for 93.3 FM's 20th Anniversary celebrations and live recording party in City Square Mall!

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Sunflower is getting star- struck again! Just that this time around, we have upgraded to international stars!

Renowned mandopop band F.I.R will be having their exclusive autograph session right downstairs in City Square mall!

Do come and soak up the fun! Dun forget to pop by Sunflower for a visit, we have just updated with new items galore!

Also, announcing, we are going to have a media feature in CHIC magazine!

Do look out for us in the first March Issue!

We will be having a mystery gift for all those who flash the page featuring our shop! See you soon!

MarchA

Tis 's all for now, but dun forget to mark this space!

Exciting news will be coming really really soon, with juicy pictures of our 3 bazaars taking centre stage!

You know you dun wanna miss it!

The start of something new

2010-03-27T17:56:00.001+08:00

Hi everyone!

Sunflower wishes you a happy and prosperous lunar new year!

Its a brand new year , and there is always a flurry of activity and hope associated with that special date.

Technically its now the ninth day of the Lunar Chinese new year and everyone everywhere is settling back into their comfortable work-life pace again. Sighs, no more angbao's and long weekends.

However there is still much to look forward to, here's a hint from me , Sunflower will be embarking on something really new and its a period of excitement for all of us.

And since this is the virgin post of Sunflower's spanking new blog, here's a summary of what Sunflower's been through in the year of 2009!

Sunflower is started by a pair of brothers, Boon Kiat( Fhank) and Boon Cheong, ( quite similar to Charles and Keith eh) who brought their complementary strengths into this business. Usually opening a business requires a lot of unnecessary red tapes and boring procedures, but after setting their minds on it, Sunflower was opened after a mere 2 months of preparation (quite a mean feat!)

when everything was still bare and empty..

the "seeding" process, the shelves and structure of the shop emerging.

just a fun fact: Do you know that all of our construction materials are eco-friendly? Bet you didn't know that!

tadah! the " garden" is completed, now for the " flowers" and the items to adorn those empty shelves.

Official opening on the 2nd of october, we welcomed our first few tenants. Doesn't it look cosy with the yellow lightings, we are now ready for business!

A selection of our products, many of which are handmade, unique and eco-friendly.

And the giantic sunflower, which a lot of people use to recognize us. There are 4 of our giant sunflowers placed all around City Square mall, do you know where all of them are? Look our for it yea?

We also bring this sunny flower to many of our bazaars, which you'll know more about in a while .

"everyone has a sunflower day" promotion during our opening week( left)

a collage of the sunflower identity(right), there's a saying here , we just want others to know that we own the shop and not the items, the products are all from individuals who have gathered together to join the sunflower family under our banner of the H.U.E.S concept, which stands for handmade, unique, eco-friendly and Socially conscious .

Hence, its like we're a collection of special and handmade items under one roof. All the more easier for eveyone to browse with everything located in one place

in our second month, we're star-struck! see if you can recognize any of the Mediacorp stars! Besides occasional star gazing,this is the period in which we recieved the most media attention and coverage.

we were featured on CHIC magazine, and also appeared on the front cover of I -weekly 's supplement, with Evelyn , no less!

Pictures speak better for themselves, so here's some snapshots of those glossy covers!

for those who's not friends with the Chinese language, its an article on eco-friendly and green items within City Square mall which is Singapore's first eco-mall.

And Sunflower is proud to say that we have a wide variety of green items, from the organic bedsheets to recycled aluminium bottles down to bikes. Bikes? you might ask, yes, even bikes, and a retro styled, back pedal brake model to boot.

p.s, its the same one that evelyn is sitting pretty on.

This concludes her brief but exciting debut in Sunflower, She's truly real in person and is fun, friendly, interesting and really tall.( or it might partly be because of her 4.5 inch heels--she's towering over Fhank in this picture here)

and we've all joined her fan page on facebook XD

Next up, we were featured on Housewives Pte ltd, a prime-time 8pm variety show which features housewives who are also involved with home businesses. One of our partners , Lien,who is the creator of the handmade brand " Hugplush" , is the focus of the episode. And just like that, she became famous overnight, with the demand for her shooting up so much that she is constantly busy.

here's a link to the media feature on mediacorp:

Sunflower on housewife pte ltd

The show was hosted by experienced Taiwanese born host, Quan Yi Feng. It was an absolute thrill to see her in person, and her professionalism can be said to be stunning.

and of course the compulsory photo with the host:

Most of Lien's Huplush series have been sold out ever since, and even now after she have just stocked up, most of her items have been snapped up by adoring fans of her brand. But fret not, she has specially introduced a UNIQUE series EXCLUSIVE to sunflower.

hence Introducing her baa baa sheep series!

there are limited pieces left as it was launched before valentine's day. ( many were gone during the last few days before valentine's day, so many a lucky girls out there now owns part of the limited edition baa baa series! )

come get us before we're all gone! XD

we were also featured in CHIC magazine in their December issue , did anyone see it?

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Speaking of December, it was another fun packed, exciting month for us all, as CHRISTMAS IS COMING!

And what better way to celebrate it than with freebies? ( who doesn't love freebies in Singapore?)

For Christmas, we came up with new media posters and flyers that entitled the holder to discounts, as the date draws closer to Christmas Day, we gave out free Sun Candles . ( LED eco-friendly candles that flickers like real flame)

Our new media posters festooned all around our retail shop's wall

Promotions galore for the month of December, in collaboration with Royals cafe and with City Square Mall.

look at the popularity of the freebies, the queues were snaking all the way to the lift! Funny how orderly Singaporean can be? as long as there's freebies, queues will form. We even had to break up the time in which we gave out the candles as the queues were getting a little too long.

here's a snapshot of what's being given out.

pretty isn't it? The ones that were given out were that of the on/off switch version, whereas we are currently selling another version of the same LED candles ,just that it activates by sensors and will turn on and off just by a light touch.

its going for 3 for $9.90, and comes in 6 colors!

The freebies team, though tired, but their bright cheery smiles still captured the hearts of many passerbys.

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Coming up will be more pictures of our roving santa and santarinas with our giant sunflower. They have been tasked with the serious mission of brightening up shopper's Christmas. so here's to a sunny sunny christmas!

giving out the sunflower flyers with complimentary candy and discount vouchers

A happy team at the end of the day

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December was also a first for us as we started going go bazaars to gain more experience and to create more exposure for our shop. Some of you might have seen our giant sunflower in different parts of Singapore, if you do see us , do come and say hello!

Believe me, it'll totally make our day!

First we went to Bazaar En Route's Clarke Quay bazzar on 11th and 12th December. It was really hot at first as we were situated right under the canopy, however we changed our mind when night hits. The cool night breeze coupled with the laidback relaxed air all around as expatriates and locals looking to rewind mingled all around.

It was a really delightful experience and we were all sad when its time to pack up and go..

Our Giant Sunflower lights up our booth, Voodoo dolls are our specialty as well, and sales for them are always very encouraging at bazaars.

Our debut at Bazaars!

we also met our partner , Crystal Dollies, there. They make gorgeous vintage inspired accessories, and now they are currently having a promotion of 2 for $25, is that cheap or what? Own a lovingly handmade and unique necklace or earring for just $12.50!

p.s, We'll be going to bazaars at NUS, Marina Barrage and Clarke Quay very very soon! watch this space for the details! Be there to soak up the fun and happiness!

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Due to a sudden brainwave that Fhank had after attending the Clarke Quay bazaars, we started our very own mini event tables. Every weekend, we will invite any of our tenants and partners to make use of the table so that it feels like there is a " live" bazaar outside our shop. Til now, we are the only handmade concept store that organizes weekly mini events. As most of our items are all handmade, many of our partners have held live demonstrations and mini workshops at the table to the delight of many of the shoppers.

This is a snapshot of one of the events in which live flowers which are preserved forever and could react to humidity are being sold. The crowd just cant get enough of them!

The event tables are certified crowd pullers, if you had not come to our shop during any mini event, WHAT are you waiting for? we'll be having our next event on the 28th of Feb. Featuring MumLuvDiy, which is a handmade brand offering customized pouches, bags, passport covers and more in your favourite japanese fabrics. See you there!

Hard at work..

handmade= love + time, from the creator to you.

Bright smiles all around. Sunflower is glad to be able to bring the process of handmaking closer to everyone.

Recently, have heard someone commenting that even though that our items are handmade, its very good in quality. This remark saddens me a lot, since when have the word handmade be synonymous with inferior quality? I guess, if there were more exposure on how handmade items are created, this might increase more awareness about handmade items in Singapore. Overseas, handicraft fairs are available abundantly, whereas locally, handicraft is generally deemed not to be a viable livelihood. Hopefully this perspective will change over time with the appropriate exposure.

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Also, Sunflower have reached another milestone. OUR 500TH FACEBOOK FAN, which happened just after 2.5 months of operation, this is definitely something to be cheery about!

Congrats to Valerie! Thanks for supporting Sunflower, and thanks to all our fans who have joined us!

At present count, we have a strong 1,229 fan base. We could not have achieve what we have without all of your help. Thank you everyone~!

And as the year 2009 draws to a close, We were contented for just a moment , and look back at the journey we have made over the 3 months that we have been operating.

But all our success story could not happen without all of your support, so once again, with heartfelt gratefulness, we thank all of the people who have supported us from the very beginning when we were " just another shop " out there.

The next post will be a continuation of what Sunflower have gone through for the brand new year of 2010, and of what's coming up, so mark this space!

whatever happens, you know you heard it from me first!