Meet Kiran and Jessica Tiwana. These sisters are the founders and owners of Pearl & Clover Co, a Vancouver-based boutique clothing company that carefully curates clothing for women of all sizes. They are both stylists that have a love of fashion and home design. In addition, Kiran is an entrepreneur and works for the Federal Government, while Jessica is also an HR Professional within the Federal Government sector.
Tell us about your journey? How did you get involved in your industry?
Kiran, “I have always wanted to be in the fashion industry since I can remember. My love for fashion and design started from an early age and was influenced by various designers that I grew up with. The fashion industry can be a little intimidating, so starting an online business was scary at first. I’m lucky to have a supportive family and a great partner which made it easier. Pearl and Clover Co started a year ago as an idea and now has grown beyond my imagination. The company did require a lot of research, developing connections, researching manufacturers, learning import processes etc, to get it started.”
Jessica, “For me, from a young age I have always enjoyed dressing up and shopping. Retail therapy is my favorite type of therapy! I absolutely love high quality clothing and accessories. Early this year, I decided to pursue my passion for fashion and shopping by launching Pearl and Clover Co alongside my sister.”
What is the hardest challenge you have come up against in your personal/professional life?
Kiran, “The hardest challenge I have had is to be myself and do what makes me happy. It’s a hard lesson to learn and not easy at times, I still struggle with it at times, but it definitely makes life easier and more enjoyable. I learned this in my personal life when I made some major life decisions that not necessarily made others happy. In my business as it grows, I have learned that choices will need to be made but I need to make them accordingly.”
Jessica, “My hardest challenge is finding a work/life balance. I have two young kids, 6 and 8, so I have had to find a way to balance my career, pursue my passions and also be an active engaged mother.”
What advice would you give young South Asian women wanting to do what you do?
Just do it, if you want to start something just start. Start small if your not able commit 100%. Take the steps to do research about what you want to start and do it. There will never be the right time to start, and it will never be perfect. We heard a quote that stuck with us, “Isn’t it better to maybe fail at something you love than maybe fail at something you hate?”
What do you do to help South Asian women/non-binary individuals feel empowered?
We do our best to share our experiences and lend a helping hand to other individuals who are in the same industry who may not have the same resources as we do or support. We have been fortunate to have a physical space which allows us to give new up and coming women entrepreneurs an opportunity to showcase their products at our pop-ups free of cost. This has provided them exposure to a large audience to touch and feel their products first hand.
If you could tell your teenage self something, what would it be?
Kiran, “You don’t need to figure it all out right now. Let life happen and trust your gut; you will never make everyone happy no matter how hard you try. Its ok to explore different options in school and take your time it’s a long road hunny.”
Jessica, “I have a Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology from UBC, if I could go back in time I would encourage myself to continue with my plans to pursue a Masters in Biopsychology. Education is very important and priceless!”
What is your personal motto or mission statement?
Kiran, “I still don’t think I have one, to be honest I’m still learning what it is. I think it has changed as the phases of my life have changed, right now I think its “let it go, let it go, let it go”
Jessica, “Work hard and do it now.”
Besides your work, what are you passionate about?
Jessica, “I am passionate about fashion, nature, food and cooking. I love spending time outdoors with my puppy and kids, I have to walk everyday for at least 30 minutes! It helps me de-stress and collect my thoughts. I absolutely love to cook and bake, when I’m at home, you’ll find me whipping up home cooked meals for my family. Most holidays, my kids and I spend lots of time baking together. I am also passionate about NAPS! I find I am my best if I find time to take a cat nap after work.
Kiran, “Self improvement, fashion, exploring the city when the weather allows in the summer.”
Stay connected with Kiran and Jessica
Instagram: @pearlandcloverco, @foodfashionandfrolicking, @misstiwanak
UPCOMING EVENTS
On November 19th, the BYOBF Network is partnering with Pearl & Clover Co for a Sip N’ Shop Networking event in South Surrey. Preregistration required. For more info visit https://byobfnetwork.com/nov-19-sip-n-shop-networking-event/
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