How 2 founders run a boutique agency with more than 100K followers and 2M likes on TikTok

In one line, what do you do and what is your most significant achievement?

I run a boutique agency in Singapore specializing in a wide range of creative services, including branding, design, social media marketing, and digital marketing and in a short span of time, we managed to get ourselves recognised on TikTok, with more than 100K followers and 2M likes.

Who are you and what business did you start?

I'm a co-founder and creative director of Two Sleepy Heads (TSH). TSH is a creative agency in Singapore that service brands both locally and internationally, focusing on branding and creative services, social media marketing, and digital marketing. Our focus is simple – to infuse every project with an unconventional blend of innovation and excitement, ensuring that your brand resonates with your target audience and leaves a lasting impact.

On the side, I'm also the founder and artist for Just Some Simple Things, an art for mental health brand that works on illustrations, gifts and collaborations. Focusing on breaking the stigma of mental health through art and also to encourage the community to be self aware of their mental health state and feel their feelings.

What's your backstory?

I studied interior design back in school but when being thrown into the real world, I realised that I've always liked graphic design and digital media more. It was a tough route trying to switch industry especially with only a diploma in interior design. The graphics design and social media companies were definitely sceptical to hiring me.

I managed to work in a BTL advertising firm and although it was kind of a tough few years for me, I managed to learn a lot of things and finally got a clearer idea of what I wanted to do for my career path.

Two Sleepy Heads came about when me and my business partner were mainly doing freelancing on digital and graphic services work as a side hustle back in 2018/2019. We feel that we wanted to provide more services in terms of the digital marketing aspect other than just freelancing. The name Two Sleepy Heads came about when the both of us were working very late nights to meet project deadlines. We thought it would be quite an interesting name to name a creative agency.

What should be the first steps to take to enter your industry?

Honestly I just jumped right into it but I guess patience and the willpower to fail and pick yourself up again is important as this industry is a little too competitive and the market is overly saturated in Singapore.

Probably a little more research and networking with people in similar industries is important as well to gain some insights and tactics before throwing yourself into the sea of sharks.

How did you spend your First 100 Days of launching your business?

Research and executing. There wasn't a specific start date but as soon as our hearts were set on the business full time, we began to build our online presence and throw out cold emails to different companies.

Since launch, what has worked to attract and retain partnerships/customers?

Brand building and consistency.

As well as having a unique sense of identity when it comes to our graphic presence. Some clients just really love our different approach to digital marketing where we focus a lot more on creativity and that sense of quirk.

Having a strong online presence allow us to engage with clients on social media platforms, and actively manage online reviews and feedback.

We also foster an authentic and strong relationship with long term clients to build trust and loyalty.

What has taken you from 0 to 100?

I think to have a strong, fearless and determined mindset. Putting in consistent effort as well as stepping out of my comfort zone and being more open to new ideas, opportunities and embracing challenges. Always remember that life is happening for you, not to you.

What is one underrated thing in your industry that business owners should start doing/using?

Focusing on brand building and personal building. This may be very tedious for many business owners, but it is crucial to strengthen the brand as a whole in the long run. Personal branding is also important for people to relate closely to you and trust you. We do help to do personal branding on social media as well, so hit us up if you need help with that 😉

What was one failure you had to go through that others in your industry should look out for?

Failures are bound to happen when you are running your business, it's a trial and error kind of formula, hit or miss kind of thing. I wouldn't say failure, but more of regrets. One regret that I have is not starting my business earlier. It was something that was always at the back of my head.

What platform/tools do you use for your business?

We conduct our business on Social media platforms, as well as productivity tools like Google drive, Notion, and Adobe softwares. We also use AI platforms like ChatGPT and Midjourney to enhance our work creativity and productivity.

How are you doing today and what does the future look like?

Our studio is growing and we have plans to expand our team and business overseas in the near future.