'I prefer handmade products because they can be tailored to individual needs'

Prasanna Shakya is the Co-founder and Creative Director of Kayo Creative Studio specialising in handcrafted gifts, artwork and decoration. Founded with Sajan Govinda Joshi, the company is leading in traditional, handcrafted and intricate products that serve to commemorate any occasion.

Founded in 2017, the two entrepreneurs focus on luxury crafts of varying scale with the ability to customise designs to consumer needs and market trends. Todays, the Kayo brand is well-known in corporate circles.

“I prefer handmade products because they can be tailored to individual needs and are crafted with emotion. While handmade items may not be 100% perfect, that is the beauty of handwork - finding perfection in imperfection”

In this edition of Business 360, Shakya talks about his choices in brands and business.

Factory made or hand-made

I prefer handmade products because they can be tailored to individual needs and are crafted with emotion. While handmade items may not be 100% perfect, that is the beauty of handwork - finding perfection in imperfection.

Favourite material to work with

I love working with wood because of its natural beauty and luxurious appeal. It is also easier to work with compared to metal and is an environmentally friendly material.

Intricate or minimal

Depends, but I prefer to keep my designs minimal.

Favourite brands for gadgets and vehicles

Apple, Samsung and Volkswagen

Top 3 apps

Instagram, WhatsApp, ChatGPT

Top digital gifts

Gift vouchers, subscription to Netflix, online course

Top 3 dishes

I am not particularly enthusiastic about food, so I keep my meals simple and regular. I prefer dal bhat with any vegetable salad.

Travel in the valley or outside

Although I was born in Lalitpur, within the Kathmandu Valley, there are still many places to explore and learn about. However, I now prefer to visit areas outside Kathmandu Valley to experience greater cultural and geographical diversity.

Travel package

Visit Lumbini, Kapilvastu and Ramgram. These places offer a unique opportunity to explore our rich history while enjoying the natural beauty of the Terai region and experiencing a sense of peace and connection.

On your playlist

• Laijau Malai by Abhaya
• Gurdjieff’s Music
• Om Namah Shivaya by Krishna Das

Favourite Nepali brands

Of course, it's Kayo. In terms of clothing, I prefer Arko and Huba, and in shoes, Caliber.

5 words describing Kayo Creative Studio

Inheritance, Revolution, Craftsmanship, Innovation and Stories

3 things owners can do to promote business

• Share your experiences, work and success stories on social media platforms to engage with your audience and build brand awareness
• Hire the best team
• Build a strong network

Sustainable practices adopted by Kayo

Kayo has implemented several sustainable practices to promote environmental responsibility and long-term impact. The majority of our raw materials are reusable and eco-friendly. For corporate bulk orders, we primarily use wood, ensuring sustainability in our production process. Additionally, all products are packaged in paper boxes and fabric bags to minimise plastic waste.

We are committed to reducing material wastage by repurposing leftover wood into various sizes and shapes for different applications. Rather than following fast fashion trends, we focus on crafting durable, timeless pieces that encourage mindful consumption and minimise waste.

Tips for entrepreneurs in Nepal

Entrepreneurship serves a greater purpose beyond financial gains, as it has the potential to create a meaningful impact. Therefore, it is essential to be thoughtful and deliberate in choosing your reason for starting a business.

However, becoming an entrepreneur is not the only path to success. There are hundreds of other professions that can bring fulfillment and satisfaction.

Discipline is a crucial factor in achieving success. No matter how intelligent or talented you are, without discipline and consistency in your work, you will struggle to reach your goals.

I believe in focusing on work rather than complaining. Dedicate yourself to your work instead of dwelling on obstacles.

Academic degrees do not solely define success. While following your passion is important, remember that achieving greatness often requires overcoming numerous challenges and completing tasks that may not always be interesting.