“After reassessing my priorities during covid lockdowns and stress-related health issues, I wanted to work on my own terms. I've always been inspired by traveling abroad, interior design, architecture, and Joanna Gaines of Magnolia.”
“Pretty places and baskets are my passion! So if Joanna can do it, I can also bring my own style and cultural perspective to home decor and build a business with a personal touch.“
“My full Lao maiden name is Deravanh Teso Boungnaseng. After I got married it's Deravanh ('Dera' for short) Teso Campbell. Teso is my Dad's last name, and Boungnaseng is my Mom's last name.”
“I've always wanted to be an entrepreneur, use my creativity, and showcase the beautiful Lao and Thai handmade crafted designs to a wider audience.
“I took a break from my successful career in the corporate world of media advertising and where I had worked hard to be one of the few Asian females on the executive team, to pursue my dream of owning a small business, even if it meant a no guarantee on stable income.”
“I've learned that being an entrepreneur is harder than it looks! If you're used to having co-workers, expense accounts, or following a company's roadmap, then to doing everything by yourself is very humbling, yet ultimately rewarding.”
“I have the freedom and flexibility to put as much effort as I want into my own business, while being a mom to three kids, wife, and board member of a nonprofit.”
“Learn from
every mistake.”
“Say "yes" to new things and "no" when
you
feel overwhelmed.”
“Keep going even when it's challenging.”
“Approach hard things with a positive attitude, as these experiences teach you life skills about resilience, setting boundaries, and problem solving. It's not possible to build something from scratch if you are not disciplined and intentional in the beginning.”
“I hope to expand
my partnerships
with female entrepreneurs
and artisans across Laos.”
“As a result of COVID, logistically it has been difficult to manage the high prices of shipping. It has also been difficult to find collaborators that create contemporary designs through the Lao traditional weaving methods as a means to appeal to the clientele of modern style.
“By 2027, I want to see more Lao Americans lead in sourcing, merchandising, and telling stories about our own heritage.”
Read Dera’s blog, “Supporting Female-owned Local Businesses.”
“Why are there more people than us who are owning and commercializing our culture and products?”
“I hope that Lao artisanal designs will soon become as mainstream as our delicious Lao food as we continue to highlight Lao crafts that are elegant, modern, and sustainable.“
“I love homemade Lao food and desserts, and how we're always planning the next meal while eating the current one.”
“I didn't appreciate the community aspect of being Lao when I was younger, but now I can't imagine life without it. I'm the youngest of 5 siblings, and if you grew up in a big family like mine, it can be exhausting to keep up!”
“It is common to have in the kitchen 20+ family members like aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws at Lao gatherings. The atmosphere is always loud and fun. Lao people are extremely generous. We will always make too much food and insist that everyone take leftovers home!”
“I'm proud that I have a richer and more fulfilling purpose now that I've embraced doing more of the things I love. I surround myself with supportive people.”
“We have a great community of buyers, sellers, and followers. Through Kurated Style, I've met other Lao small business owners and creatives who share similar passions. We want to elevate what Lao artisans create for others to enjoy.”
Visit Dera’s business Kurated Style homepage
“I try to incorporate both western and eastern aesthetics to design and actively curate our collections, so I think my unique personal lens and emphasis on handmade products is what sets us apart.”
