Smallprint: keepsakes that last you a lifetime
Smallprint
Tel: 8399 6189, www.smallp.sg Email: aileen@smallp.sg
Business established: More than three years
Niche: Handcrafted silver jewellery
Smallprint began in the UK in 2004 under the direction of Maija Pykett who turned her hobby of making fingerprint jewellery into a business. Believing other mums might be interested in such a venture, Maija decided to franchise the business and Smallprint today has 130 franchisees in 20 countries. Most of the franchisees are mums and consider themselves as part of a "family" of jewellers.
Aileen decided to commence the Smallprint franchise in Singapore almost four years ago because it allows her to work flexible hours, do something she loves and not compromise on spending quality time with her five year old son Lucas. She makes handcrafted silver keepsakes bearing finger, hand or footprints and in some cases drawings and text.
TF: What's unique about Smallprint?
AA: The jewellery we make is very personal. The piece you wear is not made with a cast or a mould, but has actually been touched by your child or loved one. We maintain a personal contact with every customer, making sure they enjoy the Smallprint experience.
TF: Besides keepsakes for babies, what are your other product ranges?
AA: We have a range for "grown ups". Tender Touch textures pendants or cufflinks with your fingerprints, Loving Kisses captures your kiss as a silver keepsake while Love Letters holds a little message for your special someone - a great way to pop the big question!
TF: Any unusual print requests?
AA: I have customers who want their pet's paw prints. So far, we've created three dog print casts and a cat print.
TF: What happens during a Smallprint party?
AA: It's a very casual event where a group of mums or friends get together to facilitate a play date for their kids and then I showcase my samples. I'll take orders and organise the prints right there. The host of the party also receives a 20 percent discount.
TF: What do you enjoy about your job?
AA: The emotional surprise and absolute delight on a customer's face when they see the final product for the first time. Once, a customer cried when she received her twins' prints on a pair of cufflinks. I feel like I've got the best job in the world!
Posted Nov 2011
