What inspired the idea to start your retail brand, and how does it resonate with your brand's overarching mission?
Researching deeply into the plastic crisis, I realised that plastic is a symptom, not the problem. The problem is our disconnection. In today’s fast-paced world, we are conditioned to seek out “success”, often at a cost to our physical and mental well-being. We become disconnected with our self and with nature in the process, which is why we make decisions that are non-sensical, like producing and consuming single-use plastic that pollutes our oceans and harms our children’s health. 

I believe the first step in creating change is coming back to our selves. It may sound frivolous, but as a full-time working mum with two young kids, the only time I had for myself was when I was getting ready in the morning or washing up at night (even that’s not guaranteed if you have little ones!). It was an occasion I wanted to turn into a moment of reconnection. 

ReMI is more than skincare. It’s a ritual to slow down and take in the beauty of the present -- of our hard-working bodies, our selves and the world around us. If we reach this space every day, we can make decisions that are better for our selves, our communities and our planet. 

In a competitive retail landscape, what distinctive qualities or values do you believe differentiate your brand from others?
We look at skincare as a holistic practice, a moment to return to our self during our hectic day. We don’t take the problem-solution approach that many skincare brands do to “fix” our skin problems. Our skin is beautiful, it works tirelessly to protect us all day and regenerates constantly. 

Instead, we aim to create a mindful experience of reconnection while we nourish our skin. We’ve simplified the routine with high-performance ingredients – both clinically-backed bioactives and time-tested native botanicals -- so that one product can be used as an eye cream, facial moisturiser, facial oil and lip conditioner – it’s a 4-in-1 skincare. When you take care of your skin, you can slow down, take deep breaths and enjoy a small ritual of self-care. With a product that will completely disappear, leaving no trace or harm behind, because true self-care has to also take care of others and the planet.  

I don’t believe there is a single brand in the world that achieves skincare or self-care in the way that ReMI does.   

Could you share your personal favourite product from your brand's collection and tell us why it holds a special significance for you?
I use both ReMI Moisturisers religiously so it’s hard to choose! If I absolutely have to, I’d choose the Night Moisturiser. The ritual of a mini massage accompanied by deep breathing helps me punctuate my day with a moment of gratitude. It is really a recentring experience for me that I won’t forget because it’s built into my daily habits. I say thanks to the earth, the farmers, the makers and the artists who brought me this moment.  

It makes for a truly great gift as well. You’re gifting not just a skincare product but a beautiful moment of reconnection for your loved ones. Everything is handmade locally in Melbourne, so you’re supporting a small business that’s just starting out.  

Starting a retail venture can be daunting. What were the initial steps you took to launch your brand, and what were the major challenges or concerns you faced?
Solid skincare is a novel concept. As such, product development was a challenging process that took many years and many iterations. There were many turns in the road where I lay in bed tossing and turning, unsure whether I would have the resources (internal and external!) to see it through. We were very lucky to meet amazing collaborators along the way, who generously helped us to shape the product and brand to what it is. 

I’d like to say a special thanks to Ryan L Foote, who collaborated with us to create the beautiful stone shape and the ceramics. He continues to be a steady source of inspiration and guidance. 

What feedback or comments do your customers frequently give about your products and brand, and what aspects do they appreciate the most?
Before purchase, they really love the aesthetics of the brand, the novelty of the “stone” format and the zero waste concept. Post purchase, they love the rituialistic aspect of the product which gives them a chance to slow down and recentre. And of course, the positive change they see on their healthy, radiant skin. It is a skincare product, afterall.  

How did you initially get involved in events like Life Instyle, and what makes these shows a good match for your brand?
It brings like-minded people together who want to create a positive experience for their community. People who appreciate great design, innovation, craftsmanship and of course, strong ethical and sustainable standards. I sincerely believe this is a place where positive consumerism happens. Objects are considered, made and selected for the joy they bring, for a long time. 

Can you highlight some of the proudest achievements or milestones your brand has achieved since its inception?

1. Being selected as a Vogue Vanguard 2024 
2. Being a finalist for the Marie Claire Sustainability Award 2024 
3. Last but not least, winning this Life InStyle New Breed Scholarship!

Is there a piece of business advice that has significantly influenced your journey as a retail brand owner?
I have learned that the highs are higher and lows are lower when it’s your own business. I take a deep breath and remind myself that it’s not meant to be easy, there’s a reason I’m doing what I’m doing and to look back at how far I’ve come. 

I now look at every little store I pass by with so much respect, because I know what the store owner went through to open the doors.   

Are there any brands in your industry or related sectors that you admire or draw inspiration from?
I’m currently obsessed with High Tea with Mrs Woo, a Sydney slow fashion label run by three sisters whom I had the pleasure of meeting at The Big Design Market. They turn the established fashion model on its head sensibly, stylishly and with such confidence! Each piece feels like a gift they joyfully made for you. You will wear it with pride and care for it with love. The sisters nail the experience at every touchpoint because they are clear about what they do and do it to the tune of their own beat (it’s a damn good beat!).   

What strategies does your brand employ to stay ahead of evolving consumer trends and preferences in the retail realm?
We looked at a lot of trends when we were first developing the product, but now it’s all about perfecting our user experience and communicating it well. We take the same approach for retail partners. It’s looking at things from the retailers’ point of view, anticipating their needs, taking on their feedback and continuously improving so that retailers can effectively introduce this new product to their shoppers.  

Could you outline the core values that steer your brand's decision-making processes and relationships with customers?
Connection, Sustainability, Simplicity.

We aim to create a connection with our customers by taking great care of them and offering a truly sustainable solution. Our approach is simplicity, as it’s a way be more liberated and appreciative of what we have. The process of getting there can be complicated, and we do use advanced chemistry to achieve our means, but the experience that is delivered to our customers is always simple and connected.

How do you envision the future trajectory of your brand, and what are your long-term aspirations and goals for its growth and evolution?

We’d love to help more and more people find a moment of mindfulness in their day, which I believe is the starting point for all big changes that need to happen in this world. We look forward to partnering with like-minded retailers to get our products in the hands of more people. 

We will always keep the portfolio simple and streamlined, but we will be evolving the range of solid skincare to address more needs. 

Rapid Fire Questions: Kiyoung Sung

What is the most interesting place you've travelled to recently?
We visited Seoul over the summer. I’m originally from Korea, but hadn’t been back in 15 years. It’s the closest place I have to a “motherland”, but I never felt fully accepted, having spent most of my life outside of it. Anyways, I felt like I was stepping into the future, but then a few subway stations away, it’s like stepping into the past. The rampant consumerism is fully at display, but then you read more on the history behind it. It’s a country that’s gone through an astonishing rate of development in 70 years, literally from war-torn poverty to a global powerhouse. With such growth comes people’s need to differentiate themselves through consumption, particularly of luxury brands. 

Top designers, top innovation, and yes, top food selection! Highly recommend you visit!  

Do you have a personal motto or mantra that keeps you motivated?
Our life is our message. 

When I say this to myself, it makes me sit up a little straighter and focus a little better. This is it. How we live our lives every day. 

If you could have dinner with anybody, who would it be and why?
Thich Nhat Hanh. He was a beloved teacher to so many and a true warrior. His words have gotten me through the hard times in my life and continue to give me guidance. The strong community that is carrying out his legacy is a testament to his great love and impact. 

What is your favourite book, and how has it influenced your perspective on business and life?
Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet by Thich Nhat Hanh. I read every word slowly and underlined almost every one because I wanted it to be a part of me. Written with piercing, simple words, with as much urgency as hope, the book rallies everyone to come together.  

What's a hobby or interest of yours that people might be surprised to learn about?
I’m a pretty open book! This is more a fact, I had lived in 7 countries by the age of 14 (US, Korea, Uganda, Japan, Egypt, Norway, Pakistan) and went to just as many schools. It makes me adaptable to most situations, and I can get along with almost anyone, but I am terrible at keeping in touch.

Thank you! I look forward to meeting everyone in August.