Meet Michelle, owner of the newest biz in town Ohsella Shop; a charm and candle bar and the perfect place for parties and events located in the Brick Walk! Everything is handmade by Michelle herself, a mom of a college son who loves being located in Fairfield County! Follow @ohsellashop on insta to see everything she has to offer!
Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Fairfield?
I’m originally from South Korea and came to the U.S. with my family about 40 years ago. I moved to Westport in 2008 when my son was two and lived there until 2022, when I moved to Southport.
Tell us about your family!
I have one son, Matthew, who’s 19. He graduated from Staples High School in 2024 and is now a sophomore at Berklee College of Music in Boston. He’s incredibly talented on the electric guitar and always creating.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Before starting Ohsella, I ran my own textile design studio with a team of artists creating original collections for home-furnishing manufacturers. That background — interior design, textiles, color, graphics — became my secret advantage in everything I do today, from designing my store layout to creating candle labels, packaging, and jewelry boxes.
One thing you wish someone would have told you about motherhood?
I wish someone had told me how overwhelming the love would be. Nothing prepares you for how deeply you can love your child — it changes everything.
What’s your favorite thing about raising a family in Fairfield?
I raised my son in Westport, and what I loved most about Fairfield County is the combination of top-tier schools, supportive families, and a warm community. My son built friendships that have lasted since first grade — the kind of lifelong connections you can’t manufacture.
Best mom hack that makes your life easier?
There’s honestly no magic hack. Motherhood is constant thinking and constant heart. You’re always figuring out what’s best — when to be firm, when to be gentle, when to protect, and when to step back so your child can learn their own lessons. It isn’t easy, but that balance is what makes you a stronger mom.
Tell us about your business?
My business started when my son was five. I was a stay-at-home mom and needed a creative outlet, so in 2011 I began selling handmade jewelry on Etsy. By 2018, I felt ready to grow personally and professionally, and I opened a retail store. My idea was simple: I wanted to do what I loved and bring joy to others through my products. The journey has had ups and downs, but persistence and creativity brought me here.
Tell us about the different services that you offer?
At Ohsella, we offer a mix of experiences and products. Our retail store features handmade jewelry, candles, and personalized gift items. Beyond shopping, we specialize in hands-on, memorable experiences. Our charm bar parties are our most popular — guests choose from over 800 charms, including initials, birthstones, zodiac signs, and fun designs like hearts, bows, and sports charms, and we make the jewelry on the spot. It’s perfect for daughters, moms, grandparents, or any special occasion.
We also host candle-making birthday parties and workshops, which are growing in popularity — a fun way for kids and adults to create something special together.
All the handmade jewelry in our store is created by me, featuring semi-precious stones and 18K gold-filled pieces. Personalized experiences and high-quality, one-of-a-kind products are what make Ohsella so special.
What is your background and what did you do before these career choices?
I studied Interior Design at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn and started as a residential interior designer. Later, I ran my own textile design studios, leading a small team of artists to create original collections for home-furnishing manufacturers. After having my son, I stayed home with him until he was 12, which eventually led me to start my own business and retail store.
Best advice for moms who experience the inevitable MOM GUILT handling a career and raising a family?
I spent the first 12 years of my son’s life raising him full-time, and I’m so glad I did — I was there for every first smile, step, and milestone. When I started my business, I stepped back a bit, and yes, there was some guilt, but I made sure to be fully present for his concerts and music gigs. I believe actions speak louder than words. Showing your child that you pursue your passions and work hard sets a powerful example. Kids will respect your dedication, and it teaches them that following your dreams and being a loving parent can go hand in hand.
Who has most influenced you to be the mom that you are today?
No single person influenced me the most — I’ve learned a lot from books on life and philosophy. I’ve always focused on raising my son with good character, teaching humility, respect, and the value of growth over talent or intelligence
What advice would you share with a new mom or other moms?
Having a child is one of the best things you’ll ever do — and yes, it’s hard work. Being a mom is a full-time job! Love them endlessly, but don’t forget to set limits. You can’t give them everything they want — guide them, teach them boundaries, and remember: be their mom, not their friend. They’ll have plenty of friends, but only one mom
