Shay Ho is the founder and Lead Designer of Made Up Studio. This fully-distributed independent studio specialises in creating bespoke websites & apps for creative SMBs & tech-enabled startups. Having been in the tech industry as a Designer for almost a decade, Shay has a wide range of experience working on notable local and international brands. They started Made Up Studio in 2021 to support online businesses across borders.
For more details, visit madeup.studio
Here we sit down with Shay, to know a bit more about his journey as an entrepreneur.
Q. What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
Shay: My parents. They started out with almost nothing after Vietnam (or, as the Vietnamese call it, the American) War. My mum later started her own businesses and sold two before she semi-retired. My dad began his career as a hotel receptionist and went on to run multiple hotel and construction businesses.
I come from a long line of strong and hard-working people. They inspire me every day.
Q. How did you get started?
Shay: When I was young, Mum wanted to get me out of the house, so I started to attend drawing classes (one of many extra curricula I had). I still draw today, more than 20 years later. Later on, I was fascinated with computers. Those two interests naturally evolve into a career in digital design.
In recent years, no-code tools have become more and more popular. It gives me the same feeling I had years ago when discovering art and computers. With my design background, jumping into these tools and getting my hands dirty was a joy, even if I had to spend time working after my day job. Then, I decided to take it to the next level and founded Made Up Studio.
Q. What was your biggest startup challenge? What steps did you take to overcome it? What did you learn?
Shay: I’m an immigrant, so no friends and family seed round. And like everyone else, I have bills to pay, and in the meantime, finding the time to dedicate to developing the business has been challenging.
In saying that, to me, design is honourable and fulfilling work. Contrary to common beliefs, the design craft, especially in tech, goes beyond pretty aesthetics. I know there are a lot of businesses out there we can help using design skills, and hopefully, along the way, some non-designers may see the design through a different lens.
Q. What is the Most Memorable Thing You’ve Done Since you Started your Business?
Shay: Leading projects from early days of discovery all the way to delivery. And then winning my first global design awards! These recognitions are a big milestone for me.
Q. What is one book you recommend, and why?
Shay: Ruined by Design by Mike Monteiro. Because, yes, Design can be evil, too. And, no, this book is not just for Designers.
Q. What are your top 3 favourite online apps, tools, or resources and what do you love about them?
Shay: This is a hard question because I love trying out new tools, it’s one of the best things about the digital world. I have a new favourite tool every other month. I even created a database to collect them all, which is called CreateBetter.xyz, in case I remember a tool and resource I was into 12 months ago.
Currently, I really like Mega Creator by Icon8, Airtable, and UX Collective for industry news and updates.
Q. In terms of legacy, what is the mark you’d like to leave on the world?
Shay: Sharing the craft of design with designers and non-designers alike, and how we all can use this craft to better not only products but also use its principles and apply them to everyday life. Design is a mindset; sometimes, it’s a lifestyle. Other times, it can help shift the world (for the better or worse).
Q. In one sentence, what’s the best advice you’d give to someone just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey?
Shay: Be patient, play the long game.
To keep up to date with Shay and his journey, connect with him on Instagram.
