Sarah Jane LeeWith the rising trend of online and Instagram businesses, it can be tricky searching for an outstanding product you know you can’t find anywhere else. Sometimes, one handbag looks like another and there just isn’t that special “something” you’re looking for. Whether you’re gifting a loved one or indulging in some retail therapy, here are five unique businesses in Singapore to #supportlocal (trust us, you’ll definitely want to)!
1. Batik apparel
Batik (‘to write’/’dot’) is a traditional, wax-resist textile dyeing technique that dates back to as early traditions in Java, Indonesia. Till today, Batik forms the bread and butter of artisans in rural areas there.
Mass production of these intricately designed Batik prints result in a loss of these delicate details. With fast fashion ruling over people’s wardrobes and retail choices, it is crucial to preserve this intangible heritage by reinventing them for everyday use.
Image credit: aNERDstore
And that’s exactly what aNERDstore has done. Founders Tony Sugiarta and Hannah Angsana have built their emporium of Batik apparel ranging from masks and dining sets to men and women’s clothing. The best part? No two pieces being entirely the same. They hope that adding a modern twist to a Batik’s intangible heritage will preserve batik‘s beauty for generations to come.
Image credit: aNERDstore
2. Rubber Stamps
We always imagine rubber stamps to be old-school and relatively plain in designs. As the years pass, its novelty has worn off and finding stamp sets easily are become less common.
Image credit: Droolstamps
Rachel Ma was inspired to turn everyday objects and experiences into something lighthearted and fun. That’s where Droolstamps came into the picture.
She handcrafts every stamp and designs range from Taiwanese all-time favourites to customisable couple stamps (in case flowers aren’t your thing). Droolstamps runs workshops and corporate events as well to let people try their hand at this unique craft.
Image credit: Droolstamps
They even have a boba milk tea stamp set. It can’t get any cuter than that!
Image credit: Droolstamps
3. Handmade soap
One might think of The Body Shop or Bath & Body Works when it comes to finding delicate gift sets or hand and body scrub packages to gift our friends. MIRA, however, turns the tables by being a homegrown skincare brand offering artisan soaps and skincare products made in Singapore.
Image credit: MIRA
You can be sure that extra care and precision are put into providing the best for their customers as batches are made in small quantities. In addition, MIRA also organises private workshops that teach you the fundamentals of soap making along with customising your own scents from their generous selection of essential oils.
Image credit: MIRA
4. Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented sweet tea is known for its wide range of health benefits, including weight loss and warding off high blood pressure. It’s no surprise then that the global trend of chasing this ‘hipster’ drink has sent people hunting for the best kombucha in town.
Lucky for us, local company Le Vyr has brought homemade, authentically Singaporean kombucha to the next level. Apart from their beverages, they have kombucha starter kits and even a Singapore Sling kombucha!
Image credit: Le Vyr
For kombucha-lovers out there who want a little bit of everything, Le Vyr has a 5-pack tasting bundle to quench your thirst. Indeed, we’re spoiled for choice with their wide selection of familiar local tastes.
Image credit: Le Vyr
5. Eco-friendly flower bouquets
Who doesn’t love a good bouquet on a special occasion? However, finding an affordable floral bouquet isn’t the easiest.
Singapore-based 5AM Flowers is motivated to approach floral arrangement with a low-waste, eco-friendly mindset. Using up-cycled jars and repurposing excess flower stocks are some ways florist Lim Chingying runs her business.
Image credit: 5AM Flowers
As Phase Three begins in Singapore, capacity for weddings and occasions have gradually increased too. Why not go green to celebrate your special moments!
Image credit: 5AM Flowers
Despite a gradual progression to reviving dampened economic spirits, businesses in Singapore are still experiencing a significant dent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the economy begins rebuilding itself, we hope to look towards these unique businesses in Singapore to #supportlocal and recognise their presence in the rapidly-changing retail landscape.
