I love how these business owners unapologetically put their Asian culture and heritage front and center! Here’s how to do Lunar New Year …
To begin with you have to start the new year off looking fresh. 1587 is the first documented year that Asians landed in America. It’s also the first sneaker brand in the US owned, designed, and inspired by Asian American culture, founded by Sam Hyun and Adam King. This brand won’t let you forget: leave your shoes at the door!
Next up get some new clothes to match your shoes. Paulina Hoong is a 2nd generation Chinese-American and self-described “Chinese restaurant kid" who grew up spending more time in her parent’s restaurant than at home. It shows in her AAPI-inspired watercolor art. Wear it proudly!
Now you’re ready to visit with the relatives. After you take your shoes off, go right away and “baisun" (light joss sticks at the family alter) to pay your respects to the ancestors. Remember that smell? It’s the power to bring back memories that inspired Brandon Leung to start his nostalgic Asian scented candle business.
It’s time to face the relatives and the Aunties never fail this important annual tradition – the uncomfortable questions about your personal life. Who here has not been asked:
There’s a 9.9 in 10 chance that whatever answer you give will be met with a “Yau Mo Gaw Choh Ah?" politely translated as “Are You Freakin’ Kidding Me!?!". Christine Chee & Cassie Leung’s business nicely captures this and other favorite Asian-isms we can’t live without!
After that heat in the kitchen, cool yourself off with some award winning hard seltzer. Kevin Wong and Sean Ro’s drinks not only rep Asian flavors, they donate a portion of monthly proceeds to various AAPI-focused non-profits!
You made it! Before you head home, pick up some snacks to go. These red bean and coconut pudding Mahjong Tiles by Aurelia Au and Wayne Poon look almost too real to eat!
And that’s how you do Lunar New Year. Welcome to the Year of the Snake! Happy Lunar New Year, Gong Xi Fa Cai and Kung Hei Fat Choy to all!
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