Say what you want about Chryseis Tan, but there’s no denying that she puts 100 per cent into everything she does. Just take a look at her skincare brand LUMI Beauty and how involved she is as the face of her brand, or her close-knit family and how they travel quite nearly everywhere together. Her exponential rise as an entrepreneur is bolstered by the success and recognition that LUMI Beauty and The Curate Group have.
But beyond entrepreneurial success, Chryseis’ most fulfilling role in recent years has been becoming a mother. Her two children have, in her words, taught her “patience, resilience, and unconditional love”. As a woman in her 30s, Chryseis can confidently say she is content with where she is in life right now.
Dressed in designer gowns from The Ivory, Chryseis told GRAZIA Malaysia that wearing something that makes her feel good can reflect in her energy—something that women around the world can relate to. Below, we dive deeper into her interpretation of womanhood and its many facets.
You’re 36 this year, a mother of two, and an entrepreneur for multiple businesses. Do you feel like this is an achievement your younger self would have been proud of?
Looking back at my younger self, I really did dream big and often thought about making an impact and having a fulfilling career. But today I can honestly tell you that I’m content. The life that I’ve built balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship has made me think that this is actually the life I want and I’m contented with what I’ve achieved today.
10 years ago, maybe even 20, did you see yourself where you are today?
I’ve always wanted to get into business and be an entrepreneur. However, I never expected how much motherhood would come and mix with my work life. But what I’m doing today, being a mother of two, and also being a business owner really makes me happy and content. Of course, managing the kids and juggling multiple ventures has turned out to be quite chaotic yet also very rewarding at the same time.
Do you feel that in your 30s, you have more confidence to make your decisions?
Definitely, it has really brought a deeper understanding of my strengths and values. I’ve really learned to trust my instincts more and make decisions that align with my vision both personally and professionally. It’s honestly quite empowering and nice to know that I can navigate challenges with a clearer sense of purpose.
What do you love about being in your 30s?
I honestly love being in my 30s. I love the clarity I have now. Obviously, I feel more confident in who I am and what I want compared to when I was in my 20s. I’m also less worried about fitting into other people’s expectations. I am who I am, I’m happy, and again, content with who I have become. And also throughout my journey, I’ve built an amazing network of supportive women in business who inspire me every day. It’s such an exciting time to do what I’m passionate about and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.
Can you tell us more about your entrepreneurial roles? What’s keeping you busy these days?
I’m juggling a beauty brand, LUMI Beauty, and also a restaurant group—The Curate Group—and each one really taps into my creativity and strategic thinking, which keeps things really interesting. Right now, I’m focused on expanding the beauty line at LUMI Beauty and it is very exciting because I enjoy what I’m doing.
Which of your businesses do you feel is your “baby”?
My beauty brand definitely feels like my baby because it’s truly my passion project, which I started because I also want to make others feel confident and beautiful through my product offerings. Watching this business grow and seeing the positive impact it has on my customers’ lives is really so rewarding. I’m quite thrilled to see how it goes next.
Speaking of babies, do you feel that motherhood has changed who you are as a woman and how you navigate life?
Absolutely. Motherhood has taught me patience, resilience, and unconditional love. It has shaped my priorities and also made me more empathetic. I’ve learned to be more present and cherish small moments which has a profound impact on how I approach parenting and my work.
What are you looking forward to in the coming years of your life, such as entering your 40s?
In my 40s, I’m looking forward to embracing some new challenges and opportunities. I hope to continue growing my businesses and perhaps even mentor younger women and entrepreneurs. I want to focus more on self care and finding balance, ensuring I’m thriving both personally and professionally. I think it’s very important to have a work-life balance.
You’re dressed in some beautiful dresses from The Ivory today. Does dressing up make you feel like your best self?
I truly believe how we present ourselves can influence our mindset. So when I wear something that makes me feel good, it reflects in my energy and how I interact with others. It’s a small act that reminds me to embrace my femininity while taking on the world of business. Dressing up occasionally really makes me feel more confident.
The Ivory is a Singaporean-based brand specialising in designer couture gowns and ready-to-wear wedding dresses. Their Kuala Lumpur boutique is located at The MET Corporate Towers in Mont Kiara. Book an appointment with them here.
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Photography: Chuan Looi
Creative Direction: Ian Loh
Hair: Ckay Liow
Makeup: Sharman Yee
Styling: Sarah Chong
Art Direction: Shane Rohaizad
Models: Sebastian Comann / WU Models, Kris Lim / WU Models, Bruno Santana / Icon Models KL