Innovative Coconut Decoration Business for Tet

Le Van Hien, a 29-year-old from Ho Chi Minh City’s Hoc Mon District, has created a buzz with his seasonal business of decorating coconuts for Tet. Blending his creativity and love for fitness, he manages to earn between 18 and 24 million VND (approximately $750–$1,000) in the week leading up to the holiday.

Hien’s venture into coconut decoration started in 2021 when he discovered the concept through social media. With a background in art and experience working with children, he first decorated a few coconuts as gifts for loved ones.

The colorful designs, featuring elements such as apricot blossoms and peach flowers, quickly caught people’s attention. Motivated by the positive response, Hien transformed his hobby into a business, selling pairs of his decorated coconuts for 250,000–300,000 VND ($10–$12) during his inaugural year.

As time passed, he honed his skills, introducing new designs and perfecting his techniques to satisfy increasing customer demand.

For Tet 2025, Hien has developed an innovative technique that involves using clay flowers for coconut decoration. After a month of practice, he mastered this method, utilizing special clay sourced from China to create detailed floral designs.

This clay is safe to use and does not compromise the coconut water, although most clients display the coconuts rather than consume them.

The crafting of these coconuts is a careful process. Hien selects mature coconuts and applies a base coat of paint in colors chosen by customers.

Following the paint, he includes calligraphy and dragon motifs before incorporating the clay flowers. The flowers are designed with cake-piping tools for a realistic look. After being shaped, the flowers are thoroughly dried to maintain their form before attachment.

A pair of these clay-decorated coconuts retails for 600,000 VND ($25) and can maintain their charm for up to three months.

Hien usually starts his decorations around the 20th to 23rd day of the lunar month before Tet, completing orders within 5 to 7 days. He also continues to offer painted coconuts that are priced between 500,000–600,000 VND ($20–$25) per pair.

While the work is challenging and often requires him to work through the night, Hien finds fulfillment in the appreciation from his customers. “Their satisfaction and encouragement make all the hard work worthwhile,” he said.

In addition to his artistic skills, Hien has a passion for bodybuilding, a hobby he’s pursued for six years. His robust physique humorously contrasts with the fragile beauty of his coconut decorations, leaving his followers both impressed and entertained.

He often shares images of himself showing off his muscles alongside his intricately designed coconuts, captivating his audience with this unusual mix of strength and artistry.