COVID was the catalyst for Ella Zheng to begin making unique pieces of floral jewellery.
What’s your story?
Hi, I’m Ella Zheng, the founder of Trigger Happy—a slow-made, hand-beaded jewellery brand for colourful individuals. What started as a lifeline soon became my career. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I faced severe burnout and depression, struggling to continue my decade-long work as an illustrator. At my partner’s suggestion to try something new, beading became my lifeline—unaware that this simple act would evolve into something much greater.
What excites you most about your industry?
What excites me most about this industry is its incredible diversity—people of all ages and backgrounds create unique styles of jewellery. It’s especially inspiring to see so many young artists turning their passion into a career. Every day, there’s something new and exciting to discover, and the constant creativity keeps the community feeling fresh and dynamic. I also love how supportive we are of one another, always uplifting our peers by sharing their work on social media whenever we can.
What drives you in your career to push beyond what other people consider normal?
What is ‘normal’? It’s a question I often find myself pondering. In my teens, I realized that my version of ‘normal’ didn’t quite align with everyone else’s. My perspective was always a little different from my peers, so I chose to embrace it. Instead of fitting in, I followed what felt natural—standing out. I am an artist and I simply wanted to create things for the world.
What have been the most useful skills you have learnt and applied in your journey?
The art of working with what you have. People often chase the most extraordinary things to impress the world, forgetting that everything they need is already right in front of them. Isn’t it more powerful to take the ordinary and turn it into something extraordinary?
Living in a small country like Singapore—unlike the vast resources of the US, Japan, or China—I’ve learned to make the most of what’s available. Limited materials have taught me to be resourceful, saving time, cutting costs, and ultimately fuelling creativity.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Make your decisions right. Instead of worrying about whether you made the right choice, focus on making it work for you.
Who inspires you?
Rather than a single person, I draw inspiration from an entire community of creators.
What have you learnt recently that blew you away?
I recently moved to Japan and discovered that I can thrive in a much smaller space. Back in Singapore, I lived in a 4-room flat of about 90 sq/m, but here in Japan, I’m comfortably settling into a 23 sq/m apartment—and it’s working perfectly for me.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I wouldn’t do anything different. I have never regretted any choices I have made in my life.
How do you unwind?
I enjoy gaming because it provides a mental escape, challenges me in unique ways, and offers a great opportunity to connect with both friends and strangers. I recommend Helldivers, this game teaches you communication and working as a team.
What is a major mindset change, belief shift or ‘ah ha’ moment that you’ve experienced in relation to your career?
About a year ago, my partner and I launched a one-year pop up store and quickly realized we had little time to stress over anything. We learned to let go of the small worries—when you’re focused on bigger things, you realize those little concerns don’t matter as much as you once thought.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Introducing Culture Identities: Design for Museums, Theaters and Cultural Institutions by Robert Klanten
Shameless plug for your business or career:
Trigger Happy is a slow-made, hand-beaded jewellery brand designed for vibrant individuals. Each of our creations is one-of-a-kind, because we believe every piece should be as unique as the person who owns it. If you’re looking for a special handmade jewellery piece, come check us out!
How can people connect with you?
They can connect with me by Instagram @triggerhappysg.
Social Media Links?
https://www.instagram.com/triggerhappysg
This interview is part of the CallumConnects series.