Inspirational Journal — A Conversation with Bertilla Wong

This week, we launched our Inspirational Journal together with our collaborator, The Hidden Good. In the spirit of spreading good energy, we invited five women who inspire us — Bertilla Wong (co-founder, The Closet Lover), Beatrice Tan (founder, Klarra), Aarika Lee (marketing director of Elementary Co and musician), Krystal Tan (director, Blue Sky Escapes) and The Hidden Good’s board of director Wu Jiezhen — to give us a little glimpse into their inner garden: What inspires them? Which of the five words — Joy, Still, Light, Vision or Bloom — do they feel a special connection with at this moment? How are they overcoming the challenges that have come with 2020? And more. Kicking things off, here’s our conversation with Bertilla.

Bertilla Wong

I believe in looking on the positive side of things  

Co-Founder of The Closet Lover

What inspires you to do what you do?

Bertilla Wong: I have come a long way on my entrepreneurial journey. What I love most about it is the connection that I have built with our customers. When I got pregnant, I received so many kind messages from customers who told me that they feel so connected to my journey because they practically “grew up” with me, from being teenagers and students together to being a mother. I have customers who reach out to me not only to ask about clothes, but also about everyday life, and this is the part I enjoy the most.

To me, this is more than a business because I recognise familiar names and faces, and this feeling of having been with them for years is just something words can’t sufficiently describe. So to answer your question, my customers inspire me and spurs me on. I want our brand to be there with and for them through their journeys.

Which word — Joy, Light, Still, Vision, Bloom — resonates most with you? What does it mean to you?

BW: The word ‘light’ makes me think of sunshine. I am somebody who believes in looking on the positive side of things. Imagine my delight when I opened the journal to find all the positive and encouraging quotes I live by! What a timely reminder. :) 


How has Covid-19 impacted you, and how did you overcome it?

BW: My first concern was the business of course, and I was going to be giving birth during a pandemic! Thankfully, our team worked hard to switch our content to adapt to working from home and continued to build the connections we have with our customers. I am very thankful to not only have a wonderful team, but our customers have been very understanding and supportive of any new initiatives we had. 


Share with us 1 inspirational quote you live by.

BW: Turn your face to the sunshine and the shadows will fall behind you.

Who would you gift the journal(s) to, and why?

BW: I want to gift it to someone who is feeling burnt out, down and is in need of some positivity and encouragement in their lives. Sometimes, all we need is a gentle reminder to look on the bright side and appreciate all the good that has happened for us so far.