An elevator convo with Charlotte Tsuei. See here for more from our Next Up series.
What do you do?
I am the founder of Caelum Greene, a lifestyle fashion concept with a store on Hollywood Road — and currently a pop-up location at the Landmark as well. We like to be known as Hong Kong’s first athleisure destination, but our product offering extends beyond activewear and includes fashion, swim, beauty and home accessories.
How does your business work?
We offer a unique shopping experience where style meets wellness. This experience is delivered through our commitment to active and mindful decision-making as a business: from the store design, to our curated product offering, as well as our efforts in bringing positive change to the community with meaningful partnerships and various wellness-related workshops.
How did you get started?
Prior to starting CG, I worked in various roles within the fashion industry, from merchandising and e-commerce to business management. I absolutely love the industry, but it pained me to learn that it is the second-most polluting industry after oil. After considering the industry ecosystem, I felt that there were a lot of opportunities to create change in retail — since it’s the platform that interacts with both designers and consumers. In the hopes of creating a more sustainable future for fashion, CG was born.
Who are your customers?
Women who seek to shop more mindfully, without compromising on style and quality.
Can you give us a rundown of a day in your working life?
I start my work days at 7 am with a 20-minute meditation and some basic stretches to wake up the body. I’ll catch up on industry news over a wholesome breakfast at home before tackling the day. Being a startup in fashion, no two days are ever the same. From sales and buying activities to community and partnership discussions and marketing agendas, I work very closely with my lean-but-mean team on all fronts. I’m notorious for sending emails well into the wee hours, but no matter how busy I am, I try to make time for a workout or a yoga practice at least two to three times during the work week.
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
In 5 years, I hope to be able to grow Caelum Greene into a leading shopping destination in Asia with a few but strong flagship stores that fully embody the Caelum Green message and lifestyle.