From Concept to Celebrity: The Rise of Thing In Itself and My Story Plate
April 16, 2025, 3:41 am
In the world of design, creativity often finds its voice in unexpected places. Two recent stories exemplify this journey: the rise of Singaporean jewelry brand Thing In Itself and the innovative My Story Plate, crafted by a frustrated mother. Both narratives showcase the power of observation, persistence, and a touch of whimsy.
Chua’s designs are organic, flowing like water. She draws inspiration from nature, creating pieces that mimic the fluidity of life. The brand’s name, Thing In Itself, reflects a philosophical concept: objects exist beyond human perception. Each piece invites wearers to ascribe their own meaning, making jewelry a personal narrative.
The journey to recognition wasn’t easy. Chua faced skepticism from manufacturers hesitant to produce her unconventional designs. Yet, persistence paid off. After numerous rejections, she found the right partners in Italy, turning her vision into reality. The initial investment was hefty, but the payoff has been worth it. Today, her pieces are celebrated in boutiques across Asia and beyond.
The breakthrough came when celebrity stylist Dani Michelle discovered Thing In Itself on Instagram. The subsequent exposure catapulted the brand into the limelight. Celebrities wearing her designs are not just endorsements; they are validation of Chua’s artistic journey. Each piece tells a story, evolving from one design to the next, creating a continuous dialogue in the world of fashion.
In a moment of inspiration, Raeburn envisioned a plate with numbered pods. This design would make meals less intimidating for children. The concept was simple yet profound: smaller portions could ease the anxiety of trying new foods. The plate’s five pods, each numbered, guide children through their meal, turning eating into a game.
Raeburn’s design process was meticulous. She listened to feedback, adjusted the pod sizes, and ensured the base was rounded for easy scooping. The result? A plate that not only looks appealing but also serves a functional purpose. Made from eco-friendly bamboo fiber, My Story Plate is safe for children and sustainable for the planet.
The launch of My Story Plate in 2022 marked a turning point. Oia, now more adventurous with food, embraced mealtimes. The plate transformed the dining experience, reducing meal times from an hour to just 15-20 minutes. Parents reported similar successes, with children more engaged and willing to try new foods.
Moreover, both stories emphasize the significance of personal connection. Chua’s jewelry invites wearers to find their own meaning, while Raeburn’s plate fosters a sense of storytelling at mealtimes. These products are not just items; they are experiences that resonate with individuals and families.
In a world filled with mass production, these stories remind us of the beauty of individuality. They celebrate the journey of turning ideas into reality, proving that with creativity and determination, anything is possible. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry or a child’s plate, the impact of thoughtful design can change lives, one creation at a time.
In the end, both Thing In Itself and My Story Plate serve as beacons of hope and inspiration. They remind us that innovation often arises from the simplest observations and that the journey of creation is as valuable as the final product. As we wear our jewelry and gather around our tables, let us celebrate the stories behind these creations, for they are the heart of design.
Thing In Itself: A Jewel of Innovation
When Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber donned pieces from Thing In Itself, a spark ignited. This Singaporean jewelry brand, founded by Xin Chua in 2019, has quickly captured attention with its unique designs. Chua, a trained graphic designer, shifted from the digital realm to tangible artistry. Her creations, made from recycled sterling silver and 18K gold vermeil, are not just accessories; they are statements.Chua’s designs are organic, flowing like water. She draws inspiration from nature, creating pieces that mimic the fluidity of life. The brand’s name, Thing In Itself, reflects a philosophical concept: objects exist beyond human perception. Each piece invites wearers to ascribe their own meaning, making jewelry a personal narrative.
The journey to recognition wasn’t easy. Chua faced skepticism from manufacturers hesitant to produce her unconventional designs. Yet, persistence paid off. After numerous rejections, she found the right partners in Italy, turning her vision into reality. The initial investment was hefty, but the payoff has been worth it. Today, her pieces are celebrated in boutiques across Asia and beyond.
The breakthrough came when celebrity stylist Dani Michelle discovered Thing In Itself on Instagram. The subsequent exposure catapulted the brand into the limelight. Celebrities wearing her designs are not just endorsements; they are validation of Chua’s artistic journey. Each piece tells a story, evolving from one design to the next, creating a continuous dialogue in the world of fashion.
My Story Plate: A Mother’s Solution
On the other side of the globe, Rachel Raeburn faced a different challenge. Her daughter, Oia, was a fussy eater. Mealtimes were a battlefield, with distractions and reluctance turning every meal into a struggle. Raeburn, a public relations professional, found herself at her wit's end. Traditional plates did little to encourage her daughter to eat.In a moment of inspiration, Raeburn envisioned a plate with numbered pods. This design would make meals less intimidating for children. The concept was simple yet profound: smaller portions could ease the anxiety of trying new foods. The plate’s five pods, each numbered, guide children through their meal, turning eating into a game.
Raeburn’s design process was meticulous. She listened to feedback, adjusted the pod sizes, and ensured the base was rounded for easy scooping. The result? A plate that not only looks appealing but also serves a functional purpose. Made from eco-friendly bamboo fiber, My Story Plate is safe for children and sustainable for the planet.
The launch of My Story Plate in 2022 marked a turning point. Oia, now more adventurous with food, embraced mealtimes. The plate transformed the dining experience, reducing meal times from an hour to just 15-20 minutes. Parents reported similar successes, with children more engaged and willing to try new foods.
Common Threads: Creativity and Resilience
Both Thing In Itself and My Story Plate share a common thread: the power of creativity to solve problems. Chua and Raeburn observed challenges in their respective worlds and responded with innovative solutions. Their journeys highlight the importance of resilience. Each faced obstacles, from industry skepticism to personal struggles, yet both persevered.Moreover, both stories emphasize the significance of personal connection. Chua’s jewelry invites wearers to find their own meaning, while Raeburn’s plate fosters a sense of storytelling at mealtimes. These products are not just items; they are experiences that resonate with individuals and families.
Looking Ahead
As Thing In Itself continues to grow, Chua dreams of expanding her brand’s reach. She envisions a future where her designs are accessible worldwide, connecting with audiences in person. Meanwhile, Raeburn is exploring new designs for My Story Plate, considering incorporating more elements to enhance the dining experience for children.In a world filled with mass production, these stories remind us of the beauty of individuality. They celebrate the journey of turning ideas into reality, proving that with creativity and determination, anything is possible. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry or a child’s plate, the impact of thoughtful design can change lives, one creation at a time.
In the end, both Thing In Itself and My Story Plate serve as beacons of hope and inspiration. They remind us that innovation often arises from the simplest observations and that the journey of creation is as valuable as the final product. As we wear our jewelry and gather around our tables, let us celebrate the stories behind these creations, for they are the heart of design.