Meet Grace Cheng | Model, Entrepreneur & Founder of Mylk Labs

We had the good fortune of connecting with Grace Cheng and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Grace, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I don’t think anyone grows up dreaming of starting an oatmeal company because it’s really not the sexiest thing out there.

However, amid my crazy life of modeling, business school and traveling, oatmeal was the one constant that got me through my busiest years. It was my morning hug, jolt of energy and support system that I always looked forward to having. While I created Mylk Labs to solve my problems, I wanted to share it with the world in a way that was accessible and affordable so here we are today! 🙂

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Mylk Labs is a woman & AAPI-owned food start-up based in sunny California! Launched in 2018, we are committed to sharing our better-for-you oatmeal that can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere.

I’m not a food scientist, nor do I have a background or degree in food R&D. There are companies that do the whole shebang and add all sorts of things to their products and I’ll let them lead that trend. I’m here to deliver the best tasting, nutrition-packed products using minimal ingredients, lower sugar, and no added flavors– ever.

By now, we should all know that nothing in life is easy, and the toughest situations make the best lessons. Just like how the worst experiences make the best stories! I am still learning as I go but it definitely helps to consult with other founder friends and remind yourself that you are not alone in all of this madness of starting a CPG company!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I was born and raised just outside of LA and when you’re local, it’s easy to take things for granted. One place I absolutely LOVE, but took me 20 years to visit, is Palos Verdes. I would bike along the coast and just enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Words don’t do it justice… you just have to see it for yourself. There are also places in nearby cities where you can get a scoop of ice cream or some delicious fresh seafood. You really can’t go wrong!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Dad! I owe him the most because, without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I don’t think I fully understood him when I was young, but I always looked up to his values, how he treats others, and his work ethic (he also has his own business and it’s been around for over 35 years). I take after him a lot… in a good way. Things like… always paying your vendors on time, creating meaningful relationships in business, and more.

Most importantly, he taught me to enjoy the journey and not just focus on chasing the end goal. It’s life-changing advice if you ask me.

Website: https://www.mylklabs.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mylklabs

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracepcheng/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mylklabs