EXPERT EYES

Home stylist JEANETTE LING chats to us about her inspirations, business and home décor tips.

- AMY BROOK-PARTRIDGE

Tell us a little about yourself and what you were doing before moving into home styling.

I was born and raised in Singapore, but spent almost 18 years living abroad, working mainly for multinationals in the media and art auction industries. I met my British husband in Hong Kong and our son was born there. We relocated to Singapore a few years back for my hubby’s work.

I’ve had a very fulfilling legal career but there has always been, in parallel, a creative itch waiting to be scratched. Last year, I decided to take the plunge and went back to (design) school. I had already been assisting family and friends for several years with home styling, as well as practising this craft for many years when relocating across various countries in no less than 15 moves both as a tenant and homeowner.

What inspired you to set up your business? 

Returning to Singapore, I came across homeowners who had trouble finding interior designers with either the bandwidth or willingness to take on smaller projects. I also had friends and colleagues who were renting and wanted an interiors makeover yet couldn’t undertake renovation. So StyledbyJeanette was born to fill this niche and offer such services.

While it isn’t the easiest being a small business owner having to juggle all aspects of work by yourself, I’m fuelled by a passion to see the happiness on my clients’ faces. I love hearing their stories and incorporating what they love into their homes.

What makes you stand out in a crowded industry?