Meet our member: Ibby and Ola from Hyphen London!
For our latest member spotlight we speak to Hyphen London duo, Ibby and Ola, who create quirky and faith inspired stationery. After only 2 years of being in business, we’re certain their stationery will be where their hoping - stocked in major retailers! Find out more about their journey as brand owners so far.
INTRODUCE YOUR BRAND IN THREE WORDS
Inspirational, faith-inspired, quirky.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR?
Since July 2017. So we are just shy of two years!
WHAT DOES HYPHEN LONDON MEAN / STAND FOR?
The word Hyphen originates from a Greek word which means ‘together’ or ‘under one.’ So it’s symbolic of the two of us coming together to do something that we have a shared love for which is stationery as well as our faith!
FAVOURITE DOWN TIME ACTIVITY?
Ola: Binge-watching any noteworthy series. Heading to a coffee shop and getting lost in a good book. Spending time with family.
Ibby: Catching up on my Netflix shows, journaling and trying out a new coffee shop.
WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS? AND YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR?
Seeing something you love and are passionate about take shape. Also connecting with really great people; since starting Hyphen, we have made some amazing connections.
Our biggest achievement so far is being approached by some high profile retailers who are interested in stocking our brand; it was great to have that recognition.
IF YOU COULD GO BACK FIVE YEARS AND TELL YOURSELF ONE THING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Ola: Enjoy the journey and trust the process!
Ibby: Be strong & do it!
WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR BRAND TO BE IN FIVE YEARS TIME?
Stocked in major retailers that resonate with our brand. Hopefully by then we would have developed the philanthropic arm of our business that we are aspiring to create. Lastly, possibly become a bricks and mortar retailer too.
ONE THING YOU COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT?
Ola: My family
Ibby: My faith & my loved ones
YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE FOOD?
Ola: McDonalds double cheeseburger and fries
Ibby: Ben & Jerry Ice cream
BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D GIVE SOMEONE WANTING TO START THEIR OWN BRAND?
Don’t get hung up on what already exists. Believe in your brand and what you bring to the table. Remain authentic and true to your vision.
Contacts, community, advice & support. You can find out more about our memberships and join our members who are already pitching their products to press here.