Editor’s note: Iona Yeung is Chief Pickle at Pretty Pickles. “What’s that?” I hear you ask – Pretty Pickles is a one-stop-shop for quirky, bespoke party supplies. It’s not just pretty paper straws and luscious lolly bags – every product is biodegradable and handmade. What started out as a hobby for Iona has turned into a flourishing business and now she loves every part of the job that she does. Read here about how she got started, and where she sees it going.

Every business has a story. Mine started with a few aprons and some wooden cutlery. They say most business ideas come from need and mine couldn’t be any truer. I planned parties as a hobby and had trouble locating unique party supplies that shared the attributes I sought in partyware – eco-friendly, practical and pretty.

After months of scouring the internet, I encountered many talented artists and suppliers who specialised in boutique party supplies that fit the brief. This gave me the push to start an online party shop where people could access boutique partyware from all over the world. With my savings and a credit card in tow, Pretty Pickles was created.

I take pride in knowing that with every sale, someone out there is celebrating with gorgeous and eco-friendly partyware. At Pretty Pickles we admire the personal touches these artists put into their craft and hope that their creative magic can add a dash of special touch to birthdays, bridal showers and other soirees.

There are big dreams and aspirations for Pretty Pickles. Having spent years in a traditional 9-5pm (at best) work model has inspired me to create a workplace that offers time to nurture creativity, flexible working hours and a fun office culture that makes people want to go into work every day.

I am passionate about entrepreneurship and e-commerce and hope you will join me in this exciting new chapter in the Pretty Pickles story. Woman.com.au has created a great sense of community and I look forward to sharing my story and reading yours.

Dream it. Do it. Join me on my entrepreneurial pursuits, adventures beyond the 9-5 and the laughs along the way.

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