Lisa Cheng Kim is the quintessential modern-day queen. She is a woman who is takes life by the reigns, finding joy in the many roles she plays—as mother, wife, and girl boss. It’s been 10 years from the time Lisa first launched her brainchild, SHEER Lingerie. “I had recently moved to Hong Kong and couldn’t find a decent strapless bra… The lace of lingerie options in Hong Kong spurred me into action. The more I researched, the more I saw an opportunity in the market for a sophisticated and modern lingerie multi-brand boutique in Hong Kong.” She has since added a family and two children into the mix. Throughout her journey, Lisa has shared that doses of self-love, teamwork and good jewellery are secrets to living life like a modern-day royal. Lisa emphasizes, “it takes a village to raise a family and a team to build a company. I wouldn’t be able to do either one alone.”

1. What keeps you busy these days?

My business has kept me busy for the past ten years. I’ve added two beautiful children into the mix so now they all keep me very busy. I also try to carve out much needed “me” time once in a while which brings back balance to my life.

2. What is it about your work or career that you enjoy most? 

Doing what I love is one of the greatest joys in my life! It is a luxury and I don’t take it for granted. There are times when it gets tough and I’m tempted to give up, but at the end of the day, I’m proud of what my team and I have achieved. I still look forward to what the future holds. 

3. What do you consider to be “hazards of the job?”

As an entrepreneur, you can easily “burn out” if you’re not careful. You become obsessed with your work and you think about it day and night. The stress of your own business can be fully encompassing and can affect everything about you. It’s important to take a breath and remove yourself from it from time to time.

4. For women who aspire for similar careers, what would be your advice?

Seasoned entrepreneurs will tell you that nothing is as easy as you thought it would be. That is the biggest lesson I have learned throughout my journey as an entrepreneur. There will be so much disappointment and frustration, but make sure you have the resilience to learn and grow from your mistakes.

5. How do you balance work and family life? What are activities that enable you to bond with family?

As a working parent, I balance work and family by letting go and being okay with that decision. It’s not possible for men or women to “have it all”, as they so often say. It’s not so much a balance but rather what works for you and what you’re comfortable with.

6. How do you unwind or rewind? Any favorite spots in your current city that you consider as your me-time haven?

Me-time is spa time. Whenever I’m feeling run down and need to unwind, I’ll book myself into the spa for a treatment and spend quiet time alone. It’s the perfect pick-me-up and dose of self-love that keeps me going.

7.  How would you describe your personal style? What are three your wardrobe essentials? 

I like to keep things simple but modern. I’m not always updated with the latest trends because it’s too time consuming and fleeting. I also make sure everything I wear is well fitted and tailored. Three essentials are jeans, white cashmere sweater and Gianvito Rossi nude suede pumps.

8. What is a good investment piece? Kindly cite examples of pieces in your current wardrobe. 

I don’t buy designer clothing, but I do invest in my jewellery. Jewellery is timeless, appreciates in value and will become a family heirloom I can pass down to my children. My favorite pieces are gifts from my husband over the years and they all hold sentimental value.

9. What do pearls mean to you?

Pearls mean motherly love to me. For my 21st birthday, my mom gifted me a set of pearl stud earrings and a pearl necklace. Simple and elegant. I wore my pearl necklace on my wedding day.