Inspired by places around the world that she calls home, Helena Gilmour started her brand to speak to fellow adventurers.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a digital networking platform (with IRL benefits) that encourages connection, business support and community. It’s a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented folks! Looking for inspiration? Check out how Helena Gilmour, the founder of The Place, gets it done like a boss.
Tell us the story behind your business.
Moving abroad at age seven and having lived in nine countries, the concept of “home” has always been multifaceted for me. Each place holds unique memories and a special place in my heart. I founded The Place because I wanted a way to express this deep connection to the different cities and countries that have shaped who I am.
Our bracelets capture the essence of a place through its map outline, serving as a subtle yet meaningful reminder of the experiences and emotions we associate with those locations. They allow us to carry a piece of our special places with us, wherever our journeys may lead.
What are some milestones or achievements you’re most proud of?
I left my 15-year career in banking and finance two years ago to start my own company. While my ideas for the business had been brewing for a while, I decided to go for it on a Monday and handed in my notice that Friday. Looking back now, I’m still amazed I made the leap. It’s been the best decision. I’m much happier now, even though I probably work more than ever.
Share with us a setback that taught you a valuable lesson about running a business.
In my first business (earring brand Studs+Stones), I threw myself into the creative process after a career spent with numbers. I made pieces that I wanted to, hoping that others would like them. I love having creative freedom and making pieces by hand.
But, over time, I realised I had to approach it less as a personal indulgence and more as a business. I shifted my thinking to focusing on the customer and scale. With my second business, I knew I wanted to reach more people and create something lasting that I could take with me wherever I go.
Describe a typical day in your life and what you love most about it.
After I drop my kids at the school bus, I go for a morning walk along the Singapore River down to Marina Bay. I do the same walk each time, and I love the sights. I have a dozen different podcasts that I listen to, so I’m always learning something new.
My work day starts around 10am. First, I prepare and pack our online orders. Then, I’ll work on social media, website updates, creating new designs or making pieces. I’m still deciding if it’s better to spend a day on each task or to do a little of each every day. I try to finish by the time my kids come home, but often I’ll work a little longer so they’ll sit with me and do their homework. The magical afternoon time is one of the things I love about working from home.
What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show that has influenced your entrepreneurial mindset?
My Dream Life by Kristina Karlsson. I’m a stationery lover, so when Swedish-Australian brand Kikki.K started creating books and journals around building the life you want, I was already hooked. I admire what Kristina Karlsson is trying to build with her ‘Dream Life’ movement. It’s about being outrageously optimistic and ambitious, rather than being limited by what we think we can do.
Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Find something you love and something that is authentically yours. When you’re building a business, you’re going to put your time, energy, name and money into it. Make sure you’re creating something you love and wholeheartedly believe in. Also, dream big!
Top tip for maintaining a good work-life balance?
My summers are sacred, and I take two months “off” every year to spend in Sweden with my family. This sets me up for the rest of the year and I love that I can design my year to allow this. It’s all about identifying what’s most important to you.
Favourite thing to do on weekends?
Going on a bubble tea date with my 9-year-old daughter. She loves browsing the shops and running little errands with me. It’s such magical quality time and I’m always fascinated to hear what she wants to talk about.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I was a U-19 national rugby player while at school in Hong Kong. I moved to the UK for university partly to play rugby and thought I had a promising sporting career ahead. My tryout for the England Students team was a painful reality check. I was good, but nowhere near good enough.
Get in touch with Helena Gilmour online.
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