Cover Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson (right) with good friend May Chen at a rare children-free celebratory dinner in Singapore (Photo: Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson)
Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson (right) with good friend May Chen at a rare children-free celebratory dinner in Singapore (Photo: Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson)
1 / 1
In this special Mother’s Day series, the founder of activewear and lifestyle retailer Caelum Greene, Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson, expresses gratitude to her good friend May Chen in this heartfelt letter
Dear May,
Happy Mother’s Day!
While this day traditionally celebrates those with children of their own, I can’t imagine letting it pass without recognising the incredible maternal love and support you’ve provided to my family and me. You’ve been the village it takes to raise a child, or children in my case. On this special day, I want to honour you, the most remarkable “auntie” my children could ever wish for.
You’ve been a great friend, but as I embarked on the journey of motherhood six years ago, you’ve also become a steadfast mother figure and an unshakeable pillar in my life. From your legendary appearances at the kids’ parties—where your costumes often outshine even the most enthusiastic for-hire princesses—to your magical ability to produce fruit rollups from your purse when needed, your love and care add sparkle to our lives.
Above May and Charlotte’s daughter, Isabelle, at her princess-themed third birthday party (Photo: Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson)
Above Charlotte and her son, Isaac, with May at Charlotte’s childrens’ joint Aladdin-themed birthday party (Photo: Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson)
May and Charlotte’s daughter, Isabelle, at her princess-themed third birthday party (Photo: Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson)
1 / 2
One of my most treasured memories is when I was grappling with my executive master’s degree at Insead in France. Amid the stress of studies and the uncertainty brought by Covid-19, you, fresh from your business trip to Paris, detoured to Fontainebleau. You weren’t just visiting, but stepping into the chaos of my life and bringing order and peace.
Watching you help our new nanny look after my then eight-month-old, ensuring he was happy and cared for, allowed me to focus on my lectures in the day without a fret. For those two weeks, you weren’t just my rock, you were my lifeline.
You embody what it means to love and care with no bounds. Your heart, just like your presence, is a sanctuary of warmth and wisdom. Whether it’s celebrating milestones or merely navigating the daily whirlwinds of life, you are always there, not just in presence but in spirit.
So, on this Mother’s Day, I celebrate you, May. Thank you for being our “Auntie May”, the godmother to my son, a guardian angel to our family and a cherished friend whose impact is as profound as the most devoted mothers. We love you more than words can express.
With all my love and immense gratitude,
Charlotte
Charlotte, six months pregnant with her third child, and May, at a mutual friend’s nuptial ceremony in matching outfits (Photo: Charlotte Tsuei-Robinson)
1 / 4
This letter is part of a special Mother’s Day series featuring personally written notes by startup founders to their mum, child or a mother figure in their life.
NOW READ
Mother’s Day 2024: 9 memorable experiences to enjoy with mum
Lessons from Dad: Alvin Ea on his entrepreneur father’s quiet influence
How Burgreens and Green Rebel’s Helga Angelina Tjahjadi turned a pandemic crisis into a business
Topics
