Love Languages: The Co-Founders Of Soilboy On The Importance Of Spending Quality Time Together

"Working together and spending the rest of our lives together, I don’t think it would have been possible if it was someone else"
Love languages: This festive season, we interview the co-founders of Soilboy, where they share how they spend quality time together

Each holiday season, we bring together creative families— from siblings and couples to dynamic collectives—to celebrate the unique bonds that define their relationships. These families remind us that creativity isn’t just about artistic expression; it’s about connection. The magic of the season lies not only in the shared creativity but in the moments where love flows through thoughtful gestures, quality time, and the language that speaks to the heart. Next up on our “Love Languages” series is the power couple behind local plants and ceramics business Soilboy. Here, the brains behind the brand—Angeline Goh and Ivan Woo–talk about what it means to move through the business and through life as partners.

In three words, how would you describe the relationship you have with each other?

Soilboy (SB): Supportive, resilient and collaborative

Angeline, how would you describe Ivan? What is his role in your life?

Angeline Goh (AG): Ivan is incredibly motivated and hardworking, always striving for excellence in everything he does. We are life partners, each other’s biggest supporters and motivators. We constantly inspire one another to grow and succeed in the goals that we set for ourselves. Our biggest goal that we have together is to grow Soilboy.

How do you each like to express your love and support to one another?

SB: We express our love and support by facing challenges together, working through them side by side and helping each other navigate the tough moments. 

AG: Besides that, both of us share the love language of quality time, so spending time together working on Soilboy has been incredibly meaningful for us.

What is something unique or special about the bond you share with each other, that you don’t experience with anyone else?

AG: Although we have very different perspectives on life and business, it’s fascinating how our end goals and vision for the future naturally align.

Ivan Woo (IW): Working together and spending the rest of our lives together, I don’t think it would have been possible if it was someone else.

What have you learned from each other about loving and supporting someone?

AG: Being sensitive to each other’s needs, offering time and space when needed, and striving for deeper understanding have been key for us. Whenever differences or conflicts arise, we focus on looking beyond them, building each other up, and prioritising a healthy relationship. It’s not perfect from the start, but keeping this mindset ensures we don’t lose sight of what truly matters—and when the intention is clear, the right actions naturally follow.

What is one of your favourite ways to spend time together?

AG: Watching shows together is one of our favourite ways to spend time—it helps us relax and unwind.

IW: When we have the chance, we enjoy exploring new places and spending time in nature. Singapore has some really beautiful scenic spots and parks that are perfect for a laid-back outing.

What is something that Angeline/Ivan has said to you that has stuck with you?

AG: For me, it’s “don’t worry.” Those words give me so much assurance that everything will be okay and remind me that I have someone who’s got my back.

IW: When she says, “I can do it” or “let me help,” it makes the days feel less overwhelming and reassures me that everything is under control.

What is the most memorable gift you have received from each other?

IW: It was a pot of Sansevieria Whalefin—my very first plant. It was the one plant that I have kept alive till now. And this plant also marked the beginning of Soilboy.

AG: For me, it was a pair of Nike sneakers. Back then, I didn’t have many comfortable shoes, and Ivan offered to find me a good pair. Now, they’ve become my most worn shoes.

What do you look out for when shopping for the perfect gift for someone?

AG: From the receiver’s perspective, any gift is meaningful when it shows thoughtfulness and consideration for the person. Lifestyle items make excellent gifts because they’re functional and practical, while novelty items can add a fun and unique touch. Figurines and decorative pieces are especially popular now, as they help personalise and add character to a space. For example, I might choose an animal-themed ceramic pot—it could hold a plant or serve another purpose. I once got a cute glazed dog pot, which I now use to hold my dog’s toothbrush and toothpaste.

IW: It really depends on who you’re buying the gift for. For homeowners, gifting a plant can symbolise a celebration of new beginnings. For those who already have plants, consider something that complements their collection, like a plant stand, a decorative accessory, an aesthetic watering can, or even another small plant to celebrate their success in nurturing the first one. Cultivating plants often becomes a rewarding passion and a lifelong hobby.

How do you spend the holidays meaningfully?

SB: We both agree that the holidays are best spent surrounded by friends and family. We love hosting gatherings at home, where we can all relax, play board games, exchange thoughtful gifts, and truly catch up on life. It’s a time for meaningful conversations, laughter, and creating memories together—whether we’re reminiscing about the past year or sharing our hopes for the future.

This story first appeared in the December/January 2025 issue of GRAZIA Singapore.

PHOTOGRAPHY ZANTZ HAN
ART DIRECTION MARISA XIN
STYLING KELLY HSU
HAIR SOPHIA SOH/THE SUBURBS STUDIO, USING KEVIN MURPHY
MAKEUP SVITLANA KLYN/ THE SUBURBS STUDIO, USING JUNGSAEMMOOL BEAUTY
PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANTS ALEX NG, MICHELLE YAP
FASHION ASSISTANT LAURA LOUIS

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