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Spotlight: May Kurniawan of Pirapir

Sometimes you come across a clothing line and you know it is something special. Maybe it was one piece that caught your eye or perhaps it was a whole collection. For today’s brand Spotlight on Pirapir it was a little of both. Then, to add to this, all it took was a few email conversations with the owner/creator May Kurniawan and it was clear that these designs were created with love by a kind person. There is no better combination in the world! So, enjoy the clothes, the words of inspiration, and the awesome 20 percent discount being given to MCbJ readers now until April 20th. Don’t miss out! xx


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MCbJ: When did you start Pirapir and what was your inspiration behind the line?
MK: I started Pirapír on October 7, 2013 with my Mom Imelda Villasin and my sister Hazel Villasin. Growing up, our mom had a brick and mortar shop where she sold men’s and women’s clothing. She recently closed the shop after over 25 years. Our inspiration to open Pirapír as an online shop was the opportunity for us to spend more time and communicate more with each other. We wanted to showcase our mom’s ability in sewing and ours in designing. The idea came to us after we all took a getaway trip to New York City.

MCbJ: What were the first items (or item) that you created? How has that influenced future designs?
MK: Our first items were tie-on head wraps and infinity scarves for adults. Our line has expanded to children’s apparel and we’re having a blast!

MCbJ: You have one child. Has it been difficult juggling your business and being an available mom?
MK: Being a mother and running Pirapír has its challenges and I wouldn’t be able to do it without my mom and sister and the support of my husband. My mom makes every single item in the shop and my sister takes care of all the shipping and accounting. I handle all the supply orders, marketing, customer service, and social media outreach. We all take part in the design and editing of each piece and we balance each other out. I spend as much time as I can with my son and husband on outings or just reading together.

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MCbJ: What advice do you have for new moms with dreams of having their own business?
MK: My advice for moms who are considering taking on a business venture is first of all, go for it. Secondly, do your research and make sure it will be something you love. Thirdly, be patient but persistent. Fourthly, try not compare your beginning to someone else’s middle or end. We all started somewhere.

MCbJ:Anything new in the works we should know about?

MK: We currently are releasing our Spring/ Summer 2015 Wanderlust Collection, which was inspired by our cultures and travels to Indonesia and Philippines. We highlight beautiful fabrics procured from local artisans and we are excited to share how we designed pieces around those fabrics.

MCbJ: How would you describe your own personal style?
MK: I would describe my own personal style as classic, comfortable, and chic. I’m in love with clean lines but I do love odd or unexpected details. That type of style catches my eye.
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Pirapir is offering an exclusive discount for MCbJ followers. Enter code ‘mommychic20‘ for 20% off your purchase. *Expires on 4.20.15.

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