Hello, Ms. Chau Le Thu Hang. As a flight attendant with 20 years of experience, what has this career taught you?
Being a flight attendant gave me so many wonderful experiences—traveling to many places and meeting diverse people. Most importantly, this profession demands near-absolute perfection. Even a traditional Ao Dai isn’t allowed to have a single wrinkle, and your lipstick shade must be just right. My years in the sky trained me to be meticulous and organized, both in my professional and personal life.
With such extensive experience, why did you decide to leave a career that many dream of?
After starting a family, I began flying less and eventually stopped altogether. It was a very difficult decision; I hesitated many times. The reason, however, is simple: I love children and wanted to spend more time with mine. A flight attendant’s life often means being away from home on an unpredictable schedule, so I chose to prioritize my family. Additionally, I wanted to nurture my passion for opening a dessert shop called Sweet Mood – Vietnamese Chè & Macarons.
What is your current line of work?
My main occupation now is real estate. Furthermore, since my time in Vietnam, I have always loved Vietnamese sweet soup and various pastries. That passion became the foundation for me to open a shop selling sweet soup and macarons in the U.S. in February 2025. Currently, I mostly work online, which allows me more time for my family.
You always appear with a vibrant and fashionable image. What is your secret to maintaining such positive energy?
I truly believe that no matter how busy we are, women must know how to take care of themselves. I don’t let my body or mind sink into sadness. Whenever I feel down, I pick out a colorful outfit, spray a bit of perfume, and head out to relax. Just a small shift in energy makes everything feel lighter. I maintain good health and wake up a bit earlier every day to do my makeup and prepare before heading out. I also want to look my best for my children, so they can feel proud of their mother.
We understand your husband lives in Vietnam and only visits the U.S. occasionally. How do you maintain a happy marriage while living apart?
I think the most important thing is to take care of yourself first. When you are stable, happy, and appreciative of life, all your relationships will improve. We are both adults who understand right from wrong, so respect and trust are our most important foundations. Despite the distance, we share everything, big or small. We call each other many times a day. If we disagree, we resolve it right then and there and don’t let it linger.
Do you have a secret for bonding with your children?
I am very close to my children; we are almost like friends. Not just my kids, but even their friends feel comfortable confiding in me. My children even talk to me openly about their romantic lives.
Many people who settle in the U.S. raise their children in a purely American style. How about you? How do you educate your children?
I don’t want my children to lose their roots while living abroad. Even before we moved, when they were small, I had them study Vietnamese formally and properly. Vietnamese culture, language, and etiquette are things I always want them to understand and preserve.
Besides work and family, do you have any other hobbies?
I love reading. I read many genres, from self-development and biographies to novels. I believe that every book, regardless of the genre, offers different lessons and experiences.
What is your philosophy on life?
I think life only lasts a few decades, so you must do what you love. At the same time, you must know how to earn and save money to provide for yourself, your family, and those around you when they are truly in need. I don’t need to be a “power woman”; being a normal woman who is happy and cherished by family and friends is enough.
Thank you, Ms. Chau Le Thu Hang, for this delightful conversation. Wishing you much happiness and continued success with your business!
SWEET MOOD: VIETNAMESE CHÈ & MACARONS
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