From wedding consultant and host, to marketing, business, management, and now COO in the new media industry, Esther has worn many hats. In this interview, she opens up about her career transitions, the challenges of stepping into leadership, and how working remotely from abroad has helped her grow.
Starting Out in the Wedding Industry
Esther shared that her decision to join the wedding industry wasn’t based on her academic background, but simply because “it seemed cool, and helping people with one of the biggest days of their lives sounded joyful!” Despite struggling with self-doubt and fear, she still stepped into the unknown. “I realized that my desire to try was stronger than my fear. Through that, I discovered new sides of myself and my potential.”
A Turning Point: “I didn’t want to be hosting weddings at 50”
Esther found passion and a strong sense of accomplishment as a wedding host, but eventually admitted, “I couldn’t imagine myself on stage at 50.” That image sparked the beginning of her career shift. She set a goal to leave the industry by age 35 and began exploring her next path. By reviewing her past experiences and strengths, she found her way into the then-emerging new media industry. “Just like when I entered the wedding world, curiosity led me again.”
Communication and Resilience as Core Strengths
Whether working with clients or creators, Esther applied her high-pressure communication experience from weddings to her new roles. “Weddings taught me to adapt in real time, even in stressful situations. That kind of flexibility and resilience is valuable in every job.” When she joined CAPSULE, she took on a business development role for gaming brands. Though unfamiliar with games and Japanese business practices, she relied on her coordination and communication skills to succeed.
Becoming a Manager
Talking about her transition from executor to manager, Esther admitted her biggest worry was how it would change relationships with colleagues and the weight of decision-making. She eventually chose to communicate that being a “manager” is simply a functional role—one that helps everyone focus on goals, mobilize resources, and solve problems together. “In other words, we’re partners working toward the same goal. I’m not a commander, and I’m not here to create pressure.” She realized: “Everyone worries when making decisions, but what matters is staying focused on the goal, not fearing failure.” Her view on leadership: “I don’t want to be a god or a superhero. Real leadership is finding talented people, giving them a stage, and helping them thrive.”
Found Rhythm and Balance in France
Now living in France, Esther works remotely with her team in Taiwan. While time zone and cultural differences can be challenging, she found that it can actually improve her skill of time management and quality of life. “I go to bed early, wake up early, and work more efficiently. I even have time to study French and meet friends. For once, I truly feel the essence of work life balance.”
A word for people in the workplace: Get closer to opportunities, not away from them
At the end of the interview, Esther smiled and said, “We’re not supposed to have all the answers all the time—and that’s okay. When you’re unsure, don’t be afraid. Saying yes to opportunities, and seize them, reveal your true interest. Life is a journey of moving towards opportunity. Even when you don’t have the solution, take a step down—the answer will appeal by itself.”