Today, as part of our Behind the Seams with A.K. Rikk’s series, we would like to introduce you to the latest addition to our marketing team, Hong Tran! Hong is the definition of a hard worker and started as an intern in the marketing department. She has also become our resident candy jar filler (and her specialty is gummies).
What initially drew you to A.K. Rikk's?
I’d only heard about A.K. Rikk’s from my parents who had shopped at the store. After graduating from college in a pandemic and having a difficult time finding a job, I applied for an internship. I did some research and came across the Join Our Team video on Instagram and saw the unique family like atmosphere and knew I needed to be a part of it. Not only that, I was shocked by all the amazing events and I had never seen anything like that before in retail and it was right here in Grand Rapids.
What is your favorite part of working at A.K. Rikk's so far?
Definitely the people. I genuinely wake up every day and get so excited to see my co-workers who are like family now. Everyone is wildly talented and supportive. We are always joking around but when it comes down to a person needing help, someone is always willing to step up. Having a great work environment is so important to me and being surrounded by people that truly care about my well-being is something that I never thought I’d find at my first job out of college.
What is your favorite brand?
Nanushka. The brand is so chic yet sexy and cool at the same time. I also love their neutral tones. Each time we get a new collection in, I want every single piece.
What was your last fashion purchase?
Fear of God x Pacsun collab mock neck sweatshirt. I have been wanting an Essential sweatshirt for the longest time but it is a bit on the pricier side plus it was always sold out. However, when I saw that Pacsun was having a collab with them, I knew I had to get it because the price was much more affordable. I have an obsession with collecting sweatshirts.
Are you a sneakers or heels kind of girl?
I used to be such a heels girl because I love the extra height that it gives me for being 5’1. However, I’ve found myself constantly reaching for my white sneakers every day even when I go out on weekends. I’ve learned that I’d rather be comfortable all day and night.
Who would you say is your number one fashion inspiration?
Hailey Bieber. She has such cool streetwear style, whether that is a good oversized blazer with baggy jeans, a monochromatic outfit or a sleek bun with bold earrings. I’m obsessed with everything she wears and I use it as inspo in my daily outfits.
What is the first thing you notice about a person?
Their smile. Sometimes you can tell how inviting someone is by their smile. Also, you can see their teeth. I have a weird thing for a perfect set of nice teeth.
If you could learn the answer to one question about your future, what would the question be?
I would ask if I am happy? No matter where I end up or what I end up doing, I just hope that I am genuinely happy with my life because that is the most important thing to me.
What’s the best meal your mom cooks?
My mom is probably one of the best cooks I’ve ever known, next to my dad of course. She has cooked many delicious meals over the course of my life but my favorite one would have to be her Kimchi Tofu soup. It’s so yummy, full of flavors and great for when I’m sick!
If you had intro music, what song would it be? Why?
“Truth Hurts” by Lizzo because it is such an empowering song about self-love. It’s a fun and upbeat song that always gets me dancing! It can turn my mood around real quick if I’m feeling down.
If you were able to relive a day in your life, which day would that be and why?
I think about this day often. It would have to be the first music festival in NYC called Electric Zoo. There is truly no feeling like dancing your face off in a sweaty crowd with your friends. You feel so carefree and have genuine happiness. I miss it so much. I can’t wait for the day I get to do that again!
What’s the last show you binge-watched?
Bling Empire on Netflix. It’s like Crazy Rich Asians meets Keeping Up With The Kardashians. I’m a sucker for a good reality television show. It was definitely a breath of fresh air seeing a show based around Asian-American people and our culture getting noticed. I need season 2 ASAP!
This concludes our Behind the Seams interview. In the future, when you stop into the store to drop off consignment, you may get to meet Hong as she spearheads that department as well. Make sure you say hello and get to know who we consider to be the next big thing at the store.