The Pro Feature is a series where we shift the spotlight onto the people who have made countless “big day” dreams come true. Working behind the scenes, they each carry their own stories that are often too beautiful and intriguing not to share.
Every story has its main characters. And in every love story, there is no denying that the wedding couple deserves this leading title.
This has always been what kept the wedding industry going; the unspoken desire to see every couple embark on their new journey in the most immaculate and perfect way possible.
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However, just for a while, let us shift the spotlight onto the people who have made countless “big day” dreams come true. They each carry their own stories that are often equally beautiful and intriguing not to share.
This week we shine the limelight on San, the co-founder of The Proposal and Trinity Gallery.
The Proposal & Trinity Gallery
Since 2015, The Proposal Bridal & Trinity Gallery has made international wedding designer gown accessible to brides in the region. Carrying wedding dresses from renowned labels such as ELIE SAAB, Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhuiller, Galia Lahav, Carolina Herrera, Pronovias and Reem Acra just to name a few, the boutique has sent many brides down the aisle in their dream wedding gown.
We sat down with San on a lazy afternoon and only got up after a conversation that took us through the pandemic woes businesses are facing, to light-hearted tales of cooking and baking and even to shopping for live seafood!
Similarly, that is how this feature will go, we will start with business first and then pry a little deeper into San’s leisure time 😉
Q: What made you start the business?
When shopping with my wife for her wedding gown during the wedding planning stage. It was 2012, 8 years ago. We went to numerous boutiques and couldn’t find “the dress” for her. That was when we feel there is something missing in the industry.
Q: What’s the best piece of business advice given to you when you were starting out?
“Only an entrepreneur will understand what another entrepreneur will go through.” And it couldn’t have been more true because only a fellow business owner will know or understand the struggles you’re going through.
Q: What is success to you?
There is no other store in Asia that can carry so many brands under one roof. Success to me is seeing “The Proposal” as the leading international luxury bridal store in Singapore and the region.
Q: Any words of advice to share with other business owners?
Be mindful of cost. Cashflow is the lifeline of every business.
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Q: What is your favourite wedding venue?
Cinque Terre, Italy. To me, it is the 2nd most romantic place in the world and so so beautiful especially during sunset.
Q: Do you have any favourite book of the moment?
I don’t have a “Favourite Book of the Moment”, but I do have a “Favourite Book of All Time” – Tuesdays with Morrie. It really moved and changed my life. I’ve read everything written by the author but none of them were as impactful as that.
TWM Notes: We often like to think books find us at the right time. Isn’t it uncanny that a play of the same name is on right now? Find out more here and give your support to the local art scene!
Q: What are you passionate about outside of weddings?
Football. I am very competitive in football (laugh)!
Q: What is your favourite wedding song?
Kissing you by Des’ree from the soundtrack of Romeo + Juliet.
It was in fact the wedding march-in song we had. Brenna (San’s wife) and I wanted a quartet to play it live at the wedding and our criteria when selecting the quartet was whether they can play the piece for us!
Our conversation with San has reminded us of the dedication it takes to build a business and the need to have a fulfilling way to spend time outside of work. We hope it also inspires you and brings you closer to understanding the people who are building the local brands and businesses we love!
If you’re just starting to look, is currently still looking or simply seeking inspiration for your wedding gown, we have recently shared with you the latest FW 2021 Bridal Collection from several designer labels housed under The Proposal Bridal! Check them out here!