Unveiling the charm of vintage treasures, cultural delights

By Nurin Maisarah Bt Zenal Abidin

Located at Carpenter Street in Kuching, Alysha Flower & Gift is more than a store; it symbolises the convergence of enthusiasm for antique items, entrepreneurial energy, and legacy.

We learned the background of this distinctive business — which sells various nostalgic goods and acts as a cultural ambassador for the area — in an exclusive interview with Alysha, the proud owner.

Alysha, who hails from Kuching, welcomed us with open arms, and her heritage was evident from the well-chosen assortment that covered her store.

Alysha at her shop.

Alysha Flower & Gift’s total experience is enhanced by the harmonic combination of regional influences created by her husband, who is from Sibu, joining her in this business.

The entrepreneurial adventure began in August of the previous year, turning an interest in each other’s backgrounds into the thriving business it is today.

It’s like discovering a historical treasure trove when you walk into Alysha Flower & Gift. The shop specialises in vintage items, focusing on the iconic lucky cat.

As Alysha clarified, these antique treasures represent wealth, good fortune, and the overall wellbeing of individuals who accept them. They are more than just decorative accents.

The belief that the lucky cat, with its beckoning paw, serves a purpose beyond mere decoration — potentially aiding in saving money and safeguarding health — is deeply rooted in cultural customs.

Beyond the daily operations within the shop, Alysha and her husband have embraced a dynamic approach to their business.

During the Mooncake Festival, a traditional celebration in the region, they set up an enchanting booth in front of their shop, adding a festive touch to the cultural tapestry they weave.

This shop is full of beautiful antiques.

When Alysha recalled their past attempts at mall-based sales, she did so with nostalgia, demonstrating their capacity to adjust and persevere to reach a wide range of customers.

Alysha’s business, open daily from 12pm to 5.30pm, has developed into a cultural haven that draws locals and tourists alike looking for a special look into Kuching’s rich history.

The well-considered hours of operation provide an environment ideal for unhurried exploration, enabling visitors to fully experience the nostalgic appeal of the historic objects on exhibit.

The checkout counter.

Alysha Flower & Gift has effectively used the power of social media for promotion in the digital age when connectivity is crucial.

To maintain community engagement and reach a wider audience, Alysha stressed the significance of social media sites like Facebook and Instagram.

Their social media presence builds a feeling of community among its followers by showcasing not only the antique treasures found within the shop but also offering a virtual glimpse into the lively personality of Alysha Flower & Gift.

The surprises at Alysha Flower & Gift extend beyond vintage wonders; the shop caters to those with a sweet tooth, offering a delightful selection of coconut and ice cream.

This modern twist adds a contemporary layer to the overall experience, inviting patrons to enjoy exploring vintage treasures while savouring a scoop of refreshing ice cream — a harmonious blend of tradition and modern indulgence that sets Alysha’s establishment apart.

Towards the end of our talk, Alysha kindly revealed her identity and expressed her sincere goals for the store.

Beautiful plates, teapots, cups, small flowerpots and others.

Antique items such as flowerpots can be used as decoration in the home to enhance its appearance.

According to her, Alysha Flower & Gift is more than simply a gift shop; it celebrates cultural legacy.

The store creates an enduring story with each vintage item that is carefully chosen and each scoop of ice cream that is given.

Though it is straightforward, Alysha has high hopes for the shop; that it will succeed in spreading the luck of the lucky cat and be a vital part of the community for many years to come.

In a non-strategic location, facing challenges in attracting significant footfall, Alysha and her husband persevered, driven by a vision of prosperity, cultural enrichment, and the enduring legacy of Alysha Flower & Gift in the heart of Kuching.

• This article was written by a student from the Strategic Communication Programme at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, UNIMAS.