Model Folio: NakedLab’s Joyce Lau on Being the Queen of Consolation
Joyce Lau started NakedLab in 2018 with one goal and one product in mind: quality bedsheets that could help ease her young daughter’s eczema-prone skin.
Fast forward to 2024, Lau’s empire continues to grow, with a new line of towels on the horizon as well as plans for global expansion. We touch base with the entrepreneur and Prestige 40 Under 40 honouree to find out how she stays focused and stylish while running her business and being a doting mother of two.
Describe your everyday style.
My everyday style is a perfect blend of comfort and chic. I love the simplicity and versatility of a classic white T-shirt paired with mommy jeans. Alternatively, I often opt for stylish gym wear from brands like Lululemon or Alo, effortlessly transitioning from workouts to casual outings. Keep it moving for busy mama!
What was the last thing you bought and loved?
The last thing I bought and absolutely loved is the Moncler Pink Parana Short Down Jacket. It’s both stylish and functional, keeping me warm and cosy during the colder months while adding a pop of colour to my outfits. The quality and attention to detail are truly impressive, making it a cherished addition to my wardrobe.
Do you have any style icons?
Victoria Beckham – chic and minimalistic – is definitely my cup of tea.
Which beauty staple can’t you live without?
Can I have two? Definitely eye-lash extensions and lip stains. I’m currently loving the Huda Beauty Lip Blush Cream Lip & Cheek Stain in shade 5.
What’s your favourite self-care routine?
It revolves around staying consistent with my workouts. I prioritise setting aside dedicated time for physical activity. To be honest, I just spend 20 minutes on an online programme. I don’t focus on specific weight goals or metrics, but rather the overall feeling post-workout. The sense of accomplishment and the endorphin rush I get from exercising leave me feeling energised, refreshed and mentally clear. It’s a simple yet effective way for me to take care of my physical and mental wellbeing, and it’s a practice I truly enjoy.
What’s your greatest motivation in 2024?
It’s to build upon the experimentation and new discoveries of 2023. Last year with NakedLab we pushed boundaries and tried innovative approaches. This year, my motivation is to ensure those valuable findings and insights don’t go to waste. We’re taking bold steps by entering three new markets, expanding our reach globally. It’s truly exhilarating to see how far we’ve come from when NakedLab was just a side hustle five years ago. I’m determined to seize these opportunities and make a lasting impact.
What’s next on your travel list?
My travel list for the near future is already set, thanks to our big plans. If you’ve seen
my Instagram, you’ll know that we’ve meticulously planned out our family goals and calendar for 2024. While there’ll
be some work trips sprinkled in, I’m particularly thrilled about attending the French Open in June. Can’t wait!
What’s an essential item when you travel?
Lip balm. I can’t stand dry lips.
When things get tough, what do you do to give yourself a boost in self-confidence?
When times get tough, my go-to source for a boost in self-confidence is my team. I’ll be honest: I often find myself doubting things and experiencing anxiety, particularly when it comes to self-confidence (work-wise). However, my team is always there to remind me of how far we’ve come together. Their support and reminders of past successes help me regain perspective and trust in my abilities. Knowing I have a strong team behind me gives me the confidence to overcome challenges and keep moving forward. I’m so grateful for them.
You’re also a strong believer in goal setting.
Goals provide a clear direction and keep us motivated. They act as reminders of where we’re heading and make our journey more engaging, like a bone for a dog. Setting goals with a plan in place breaks down aspirations into manageable steps, increasing our chances of success. It’s a powerful tool to stay focused and achieve desired outcomes.
Where do you hope NakedLab will be at the end of 2024?
Going global this year! And launching one of my dream products.
Tell us more.
What a journey, because before launching NakedLab bedding, towels were the one product I was really passionate about – and really wanted to find the best towel. I wasn’t happy with towels on the market and couldn’t find one that met all my criteria: a balance between sustainability, a soft and fluffy texture, thickness that isn’t too difficult to dry, and avoiding the unpleasant smell of wet towels, especially in a humid place like Hong Kong. We launched NakedLab bedding but I didn’t forget about towels, so I’ve been searching for years. But the good news is that after five years of searching we’ve discovered the perfect towel! We’re thrilled to announce we’ll be launching it very soon, so stay tuned for updates on this exciting addition to our product range.
What’s the best advice you ever received?
I’ve received lots of valuable advice over the years, especially from my husband. However, one particular piece of advice has always stayed with me: it’s the reminder always to embrace change and adaptability. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and being open to change allows us to grow, learn and make the most of the new opportunities that come our way. It’s a reminder to stay flexible, resilient and open-minded, which has proved to be invaluable guidance in both the personal and professional aspects of my life.
And the most rewarding part of your job?
That’s undoubtedly the connection with our customers and hearing their positive feedback about NakedLab products. It brings me immense joy and satisfaction to know our products have made a positive impact in their lives. Building a brand and creating products that resonate with people is incredibly fulfilling. It motivates me to continue innovating and delivering the best possible experience to our customers. Their happiness and satisfaction are the ultimate reward and the driving force behind our work.
Source: Prestige Online