Today we’d like to introduce you to Nen-Nen Devoy.
Hi Nen-Nen, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My passion for origami started from a young age when I used to fold paper cranes for family and friends as a good luck charm. I reignited my interest for origami during COVID and decided to start selling them online as a little extra income. HiCocoMango was born in March 2020 where I started out on Etsy, as there were no in person markets going on during COVID. People have been liking my Lucky Star jars and I got many positive reactions that I decided to try out a market in Utah. From that moment on I knew I wanted to introduce Utah to the paper art that is Origami, to spread some of my Asian cultures as there aren’t many Asian makers.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The initial setup was difficult as not many people know what origami is. It was hard to get accepted into markets, because I had no proof of market experience and I only had a few products to showcase. Now I’m more known in the maker’s scene and people start to know about me. They started to recognize my business and I’m now more known as the “origami girl”.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My flagship product is my Lucky Star jars. Each star has a little quote or saying inside them that people can unfold and read. I’ve recently branched out to origami earrings and lucky star bouquets. The unique thing about origami is that there are no limits. You can do anything with origami, as long as you’re creative. What sets my business apart from others is that I mainly focus on origami stars. My motto is to “Spread happiness and positivity, one star at a time”. I feel that you can do so much with origami stars and I want to explore the endless options and show them to my customers who are looking for a unique gift.
How do you think about luck?
I think having a positive outlook can turn anything into a good situation. Having an adaptable mind helps you find the best options regardless of what comes your way. I’ve been lucky to meet some amazing people who have been supportive from the beginning. Thanks to their feedback I have been able to grow in a short amount of time. Thanks to all the markets and events I have some amazing Asian artists as my close friends.
My approach to business is to go with the flow mentality and keep my finger on the pulse of what people are interested in. Most of my creations have actually come from customers and friends who want me to succeed and help me create new products.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hicocomango.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/hicocomango
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/hicocomango
