We were lucky to catch up with Gia Huynh recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Gia, thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Growing up very poor in Vietnam, we didn’t have a lot of opportunities but the one thing that we did love is our beloved crystal candy treats “mut rau cau” and we only got the opportunity to enjoy it once a year during Lunar New Year or “Tet Every year my mom and grandma would make these candied crystallized treats called “Mứt” as a family tradition that was passed down from my grandmas – great grandmas over decades, We put all of our sweets in a tray to treat our guests to come visit for the new year, we like to treat them with sweet treats and tea as our tradition. But I remember the taste and how happy I was whenever I was able to get this special treat. I always said when I grew up I wanted to share my favorite childhood treat with the world. With only a 5th grade education, I came to the United States about 7 years ago and I taught myself English by watching song lyrics and reading closed captions on television shows.

After working as a nail technician for several years and overcoming an extremely abusive relationship, I decided it was time to start my business. One year ago I started this company, scared and determined. In that time I have built this company to become an amazing business and have had the opportunities to help many families, including single women by allowing them to be a part of this company end empowering women, such as myself, to become the best version of themselves. Being a single mother and taking care of my entire family, I hope that this company embodies all that “women power” is.

Gia, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Silky Gem crystal candies are inspired by Vietnamese Lunar new year traditions, which have started since the Thục Dynasty (257–207 BC)

These treats are used to serve our guests with tea or rice wine and are known to bring health, wealth and good fortune in the new year.

We make hand make, cut and package these treats. There are no machines or fancy tools, just our hands that the skills taught to us from generations this family tradition.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Social media has been a huge part of growing our clientele. It has really helped boost my company to where it is today.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I came from a very poor background and only a 5th grade education. I was determined to learn English so I learned by reading song lyrics and watching closed captioning on television. After being a nail technician and having a son in an abusive relationship I decided that I needed to do something to get out of the situation I was in and make changes that are best for not only myself but for my son. I started this business scared, unsure and alone but through it all, I have succeeded in a way I never knew that I would.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.silkygem.com
• Instagram: @silky.gem
• Facebook: Silky Gem
• Other: TikTok @silkygem

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