Have you ever walked past a small shop and wondered about the stories behind it? In Singapore, these little stores, often tucked away in bustling neighbourhoods, are more than just places to buy things—they’re pieces of our community, full of history and heart.
But keeping these businesses alive in a digital-first world isn’t always easy. For one light shop in Balestier, the answer to staying relevant came in a surprising form: TikTok. And behind this creative digital pivot is a university student determined to bring her mother’s decades-old business into the spotlight.
Summary
Megan Lee, a 22-year-old Singapore Management University undergraduate, is breathing new life into her mother’s lighting shop, Light + Form Concepts, through the power of TikTok. Her 61-year-old mother, Samantha Ong, has run the Balestier-based shop since the 1990s, but modern challenges like shifting consumer habits, rising costs, and fierce competition from online retailers and cross-border shopping have made survival tough.
Drawing on childhood memories of spending time at the shop, Megan decided to help her mother tackle these challenges head-on. Using TikTok, she launched a creative series to showcase the shop’s curated inventory and behind-the-scenes operations, aiming to capture the attention of younger, tech-savvy audiences. Her efforts paid off—one video went viral, racking up over 10.3 million views and boosting the shop’s visibility.
While Samantha stays committed to keeping the business afloat, Megan balances her university studies with plans to enhance the shop’s e-commerce capabilities and potentially reach international customers. Together, they demonstrate the resilience and adaptability needed to navigate Singapore’s evolving retail landscape.
Shining a Light on Small Businesses: A Story of Resilience and Adaptation
Singapore’s bustling streets are lined with small businesses that quietly form the backbone of our economy. Yet, for many of these businesses, keeping up with digital trends feels like navigating uncharted waters. This is particularly true for niche services, like lighting shops, where the appeal often lies in specialised offerings that are hard to showcase in the fast-paced world of online content.
Take Light + Form Concepts in Balestier, for example. It’s not just a store that sells lights—it’s a family’s livelihood and a legacy that spans decades. But the struggles Samantha Ong, the shop’s 61-year-old owner, faces are emblematic of many small businesses in Singapore. The rise of e-commerce, competition from across the causeway, and soaring costs have made survival a constant challenge.
Enter Megan Lee, Samantha’s 22-year-old daughter and a university student. While many in her position might be preoccupied with grades or internships, Megan decided to help her “boomer mum” by giving the shop a modern makeover on TikTok. The result? A viral video with over 10 million views and a new lease on life for the family business.
Megan’s story highlights an important lesson: traditional businesses can find new audiences by embracing digital tools. Her creative approach to showcasing the shop’s uniqueness, from its curated inventory to its behind-the-scenes operations, demonstrates that even niche services can carve a space in the digital world. But it also takes effort, adaptability, and, as Samantha and Megan have shown, a willingness to learn from each other.
This story is a reminder that small businesses are more than their products—they are stories of resilience, family, and passion. They remind us why supporting local matters. After all, while it might be tempting to click “add to cart” on an online store, visiting places like Light + Form Concepts offers something more: a chance to connect with the people behind the business and keep their dreams alive.
Tips for Consumers Looking for Lighting Shops in Singapore
Finding the right lighting for your home or office can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. To make the process easier and more rewarding, here are some practical tips for navigating Singapore’s vibrant lighting shops while supporting local businesses.
Explore Local Gems
Singapore’s lighting shops often offer unique and curated selections that stand out from mass-market options. Take the time to visit these shops to discover one-of-a-kind pieces that add character to your space.
Consider In-Person Shopping for Service and Advice
While online shopping is convenient, visiting a brick-and-mortar lighting shop provides an opportunity to see the products in person, feel their quality, and consult knowledgeable staff. Many local stores offer personalised advice and can guide you in choosing the right lighting based on your needs, such as room size, purpose, and aesthetic preferences.
Support Local Businesses
By choosing to shop locally, you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting families and small businesses that have been part of Singapore’s economy for decades. Many shop owners, like Samantha Ong of Light + Form Concepts, have deep expertise in the industry and take pride in offering both quality products and exceptional service.
Ask About Customisation Options
Some lighting shops in Singapore provide customisation services or have the ability to source specific designs upon request. Don’t hesitate to ask if you’re looking for a particular style or feature. Customised lighting can elevate your space and make it truly unique.
Follow Shops on Social Media
Lighting shops are leveraging platforms like TikTok and Instagram to showcase their offerings. Following these accounts can give you a sneak peek into their inventory, special promotions, and behind-the-scenes operations.
Check reviews
While it is not wise to take reviews on face value, sometimes reviews do show what is good or bad about a shop. You should always look at reviews to determine if a shop has any common complaints.
Consider Delivery and Installation Services
Lighting products can be fragile and challenging to install, especially for more elaborate designs. Check if the shop offers delivery and installation services, which can save you time and ensure the products are handled with care.
Shop with Sustainability in Mind
Many lighting shops now offer eco-friendly and energy-efficient options, such as LED lights. Choosing sustainable lighting not only helps the environment but can also reduce your electricity bills over time.
Plan Your Visit to Balestier
Balestier is known as a hub for lighting shops in Singapore. If you’re planning a lighting shopping spree, this area is an excellent place to start. Take your time to explore different stores, as each may offer a unique range of products.
Communicate Your Needs Clearly
When visiting a shop, have a clear idea of what you’re looking for—whether it’s a statement chandelier, practical task lighting, or ambient lights for your living space. Bringing photos or dimensions of your rooms can help the staff recommend the most suitable options.
Conclusion
Megan’s journey to help her mother’s light shop isn’t just a story about going viral on TikTok but also a lesson in the power of adaptability, family, and community support. It shows that even in a rapidly changing world, there’s room for tradition and innovation to coexist. So, the next time you’re looking for lights, why not step into one of these local gems? Not only will you find something unique for your home, but you’ll also be part of keeping a family’s story alive. Because in Singapore, every small business has a big heart—and that’s worth shining a light on.
