Subscribe to our newsletter to receive business tips, learn about new funding programmes, join upcoming events, take e-learning courses, and more.
Take the first step to successfully starting and growing your business.
Join for free)
Posted: Fri 25th Sep 2026
Founded in 2017 in Hong Kong, My Grandma Vintage transforms vintage buttons and garment materials into meaningful, handmade jewellery pieces.
Here, its founder, Susuki Tang, talks about what prompted her to start the business, the challenges she faced as a new business owner in the UK and how Grow London Local has supported her journey.
My Grandma Vintage started in Hong Kong in 2017 and recently expanded to the UK. We create unique, handmade jewellery using vintage buttons and garment materials. Many of these materials come from old garment shops in Hong Kong that have since closed.
Our aim is to bring these forgotten materials back to life and turn them into something fashionable and meaningful. We also run bespoke workshops where people can experience the jewellery‑making process and explore our collection of vintage buttons, some more than 50 years old.
My grandma. I grew up with her, and she was incredibly fashionable and elegant. She loved beautiful clothing and always expressed herself through style.
After she passed away, I wanted to honour her memory. Using vintage buttons felt very symbolic – a small detail from the past that still holds beauty and value. It became the heart of my brand.
Expanding from Hong Kong to the UK was a huge challenge. I had to learn a new market, build a customer base from zero and adapt to a different retail environment.
Confidence has been another big challenge. English isn’t my first language, and this is actually my first interview in English! Running a business in a second language can be intimidating.
Also, sourcing vintage materials sustainably is always a challenge, as each piece is unique and often limited.
I was looking for support with growing my brand in the UK when another small business owner at the Urban Garden Fair told me about Grow London Local and the free, practical help they offer small businesses.
Business Support Manager Winnie connected me with Shanagher for a business-to-business (b2b) go-to-market strategy consultation, which helped me understand the UK market better. I also received support with marketing, pricing and structuring my website for better visibility.
What I appreciated most was their patience and understanding. They explained everything clearly and helped me build confidence in promoting my business in English.
The impact has been very positive. My workshops now attract more people and my online sales have increased thanks to the improvements I made based on their advice.
I also feel much more secure about growing the brand in London. I no longer feel like I’m doing everything alone; I know there is support behind me.
I hope to open a small studio in London where people can visit, learn and create with me. I also want to collaborate with local designers and vintage shops to expand the collection.
In the long term, I’d love to publish a small book about the stories behind the buttons and the history of Hong Kong’s garment factories.
Being featured in a Hong Kong magazine. It felt amazing to see my story and my designs recognised back home, especially since the brand is inspired by my grandma and Hong Kong’s garment heritage.
Another highlight has been running workshops. Seeing people create something meaningful with their own hands and hearing how they connect to the story behind the buttons is very special. Some even bring their own vintage materials to transform into jewellery.
And of course, expanding to the UK has been a big milestone.
It’s not easy. As a small business owner, you often feel like you have to do everything yourself. I try to keep weekends for rest or creative thinking rather than admin.
I also remind myself that growing slowly is OK. Balance is important if you want to stay creative.
Start with something meaningful – it will give you strength during difficult times. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Support organisations like Grow London Local exist for a reason.
Also, take time to understand your audience and your story. People don’t just buy products; they buy the meaning behind them.
Need help finding support for your business? Our Business Support Managers are here to help. Fill in a short form and we'll get back to you within two working days. Arrange your consultation now
