Calgary Herald

Love these online jewels

- ALEESHA HARRIS POSTMEDIA NEWS

In a virtual space overwhelme­d by online stores, one Canadian site is carving out a not-so-quiet presence. Postmedia caught up with Shut Up I Love This founder and creator Sunny Shum to learn more. What is Shut Up I Love This?

Shut Up I Love This (shutupilov­ethis.com) is a fashion jewelry and accessorie­s e-boutique. I specialize in jewelry but I also carry handbags, tech accessorie­s and some beauty products. How did you come up with that name?

I wanted something quirky and fun. I don’t really take myself too seriously most times. “Shut up I love this” just seemed to be a phrase that a lot of women (including myself) say when they find something they love. What motivated you to start an online boutique?

I’ve worked as a buyer for more than six years on a corporate level and have been involved in all facets of the fashion business. Starting up an online store was a “passion” project. I wanted to combine everything I love about accessorie­s with commerce. What’s new for the upcoming season?

I really hate talking about trends sometimes because I really think jewelry and accessory choices come down to true individual personal style. But I can say one thing for sure, the colour gold will continue to be a main metal and tech accessorie­s will continue to grow as a category. Who is your main market?

My client base is mainly women who want fashionabl­e, trend-right jewelry and accessorie­s at moderate price points.

I have something for the entire family, literally. I have fun hair ties and mobile cases for the young daughter, fashionabl­e trendy statement pieces for your fashionist­a girlfriend and dainty gold necklaces for the mom.

Men come to me as well, desperatel­y seeking gift-giving ideas for their ladies What inspires you?

My friends. I have a great group of girlfriend­s that are all so different from one another. Every time I see something I’m thinking about carrying for the store, I think to myself which of my friends would like it.

I’m also constantly glued to style blogs with a mix of retail and business news blogs. I can’t seem to get myself away from my phone. But it is the best way to keep up to date with trends and business news. The online space, as I am figuring out, is one that changes quickly. What types of brands do you carry?

The majority are Canadian. I also have lines from New York and Los Angeles. What’s the price point of your boutique?

About $50 to $200. If there was one jewelry piece you could own in the entire world, what would it be?

I hope one day in the very near future I will own an engagement ring and wedding band from my boyfriend!

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