Founder Story
Mourning Paper began as a deeply personal journey for its founders, a brother and sister duo born and raised in the UK as second-generation Chinese immigrants. Their story is one of love, loss, and the search for meaningful ways to honour their heritage.
During an unimaginably difficult time, they faced the loss of their father and, more recently, their brother, whose passing during the pandemic brought unique challenges. Organising and preparing traditional Chinese funeral rites felt overwhelming, especially against the backdrop of grief and the constraints of lockdowns.
As individuals with a Western upbringing but a profound respect for Chinese traditions, they felt a deep need to connect to their roots during these times of mourning. The rituals, they realised, were more than just customs—they were a vital way to pay respect to their loved ones and provide comfort to their souls in the afterlife.
However, navigating these traditions in the digital age proved challenging. Information about Chinese mourning ceremonies was sparse and scattered online. Purchasing essential items like joss paper often required buying in bulk or making do with limited options. It became clear that what was meant to be a meaningful process was weighed down by unnecessary obstacles.
Out of this experience, Mourning Paper was born. The founders envisioned a platform that would not only provide accessible, curated products but also educate and guide people through the intricacies of Chinese mourning traditions. Their mission is simple yet profound: to help others honour their loved ones, respect the afterlife, and find solace in connecting to tradition during times of loss.
Today, Mourning Paper stands as a bridge between heritage and modernity, offering thoughtful resources and products that simplify yet dignify the mourning process. Through this endeavour, the founders hope to bring comfort to others, just as they sought to find it themselves.
During an unimaginably difficult time, they faced the loss of their father and, more recently, their brother, whose passing during the pandemic brought unique challenges. Organising and preparing traditional Chinese funeral rites felt overwhelming, especially against the backdrop of grief and the constraints of lockdowns.
As individuals with a Western upbringing but a profound respect for Chinese traditions, they felt a deep need to connect to their roots during these times of mourning. The rituals, they realised, were more than just customs—they were a vital way to pay respect to their loved ones and provide comfort to their souls in the afterlife.
However, navigating these traditions in the digital age proved challenging. Information about Chinese mourning ceremonies was sparse and scattered online. Purchasing essential items like joss paper often required buying in bulk or making do with limited options. It became clear that what was meant to be a meaningful process was weighed down by unnecessary obstacles.
Out of this experience, Mourning Paper was born. The founders envisioned a platform that would not only provide accessible, curated products but also educate and guide people through the intricacies of Chinese mourning traditions. Their mission is simple yet profound: to help others honour their loved ones, respect the afterlife, and find solace in connecting to tradition during times of loss.
Today, Mourning Paper stands as a bridge between heritage and modernity, offering thoughtful resources and products that simplify yet dignify the mourning process. Through this endeavour, the founders hope to bring comfort to others, just as they sought to find it themselves.