Passion Turns to Profit: Pottery Artist Lands Michelin Clients
UPDATE: Belle Yeoh, a former corporate marketer, has transformed her passion for pottery into a thriving business, Buttersage Pottery, serving prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants in Malaysia. After quitting her job in early 2022, Yeoh now crafts custom pottery for renowned chefs, marking a remarkable journey from burnout to entrepreneurial success.
Yeoh’s venture began with a pottery workshop in March 2022, where she discovered her talent for shaping clay. Feeling disillusioned in her corporate role at an asset management firm, she realized the 9-to-5 life was not her path. “Deep down, I always knew a 9-to-5 wasn’t meant to be my long-term path,” Yeoh shared. This pivotal moment led her to pursue pottery full-time, and by the end of 2022, she officially launched her business.
In her Penang studio, Yeoh produces bespoke pottery, including items for Au Jardin, one of Malaysia’s first Michelin-starred restaurants, and Dewakan, a two-star establishment in Kuala Lumpur. “I’ve made almost 500 pieces for them so far,” she stated, highlighting the growing demand for her creations.
Initially, Yeoh faced challenges in establishing her brand. She began selling online and participated in local pop-up markets, which allowed her to build customer relationships. “Connecting directly with customers gave me a lot of confidence,” she explained. Today, her pricing ranges from 80 to 130 Malaysian ringgit (approximately $20 to $30) for cups, while more complex bowls and plates can cost between 100 to 180 ringgit.
In a significant development, Yeoh opened a retail space called Stride and Pott in May, partnering with her husband, who runs a specialty running store. This dual venture has diversified her sales, with half coming from off-the-shelf items and the other half from custom orders.
Running a small business comes with its challenges. Yeoh admits that the lines between work and personal life often blur. “It’s very difficult to switch off,” she said, emphasizing the emotional investment in her craft. She acknowledges the initial uncertainty every artist faces, advising aspiring entrepreneurs to start their ventures as side hustles for financial security.
Despite her success, Yeoh remains cautious about expansion. “I enjoy working alone,” she noted, indicating that she is not yet ready to hire additional help, which could alter her creative process.
As Yeoh continues to grow her brand, her story resonates with many who dream of turning their passions into viable businesses. For those considering a similar leap, she emphasizes the importance of patience and realistic expectations.
Yeoh’s journey exemplifies the power of pursuing one’s passion and the potential for success in the creative economy. As she crafts her unique pieces, she not only fulfills her artistic dreams but also caters to the culinary elite, showcasing the potential of handmade artistry in a competitive market.
Stay tuned for more updates on Yeoh’s expanding business and her impact on the artisanal pottery scene in Malaysia.
