During the global pandemic in 2020, a friend introduced me to essential oils - which in turn opened my eyes to a whole new world of natural possibility. 

It also alerted me to the many harmful synthetic chemicals that are routinely included in the thousands of off-the-shelf consumer products that we so obliviously use in our homes and - more importantly - on our bodies and those of our children. This realisation led me on a quest to eradicate synthetic chemicals from my home - as much as was reasonably (and financially) feasible. And to gradually replace these with natural alternatives.

Gradually my search led me on a journey of discovering the incredible world of botanicals, essential oils and their vast array of benefits and uses. But the greatest bonus to me, was an introduction to the fascinating realm of natural skincare formulation... The very thought that I could make it myself! My unusual "nerdy" affinity for chemistry finally coming into clear focus (1st year University Chemistry being in the very distant past).

This strange new development in my life is not something I could ever have foreseen or envisioned for my own life. I believe with all my heart that this was divinely ordained by a God who already had a plan and purpose for my life. Clearly not the one I had intended. But oh, so much more rewarding!

I suddenly discovered a keen interest that I never would have imagined - fervently delving into learning as much as I possibly could from the expansive supply of information that is so freely available on the internet. But I quickly learned that too often the information shared by well intended DIY bloggers and self proclaimed wellness "experts", were frequently unreliable, incorrect or downright questionable. Apart from that, I wanted to understand what I was doing and why. 

The rabbit hole of cyber space eventually led me to a free Masterclass offered by Formula Botanica (one of the world's leading formulation schools) with their enticing motto "everyone can formulate". I promptly signed up and bought the required ingredients in great anticipation. This short series of classes turned out to be a fantastic introduction to formulating - I was irrevocably hooked! 

Shortly thereafter, I signed up for the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation at the UK based School of Natural Skincare, International; with which I was awarded in 2022. I have since started making many of the personal care products we use in our home myself. 

At a young age my mother instilled in me the importance of making the best possible efforts to take exceptional care of the most valuable assets I have been blessed with - my health and body. And therefore investing in the best quality skin- and haircare products I could afford. Over the years, I have made a conscious effort to prioritise this principle - which is definitely a value that I, in turn, wish to convey to my own girls. With age, I can finally see the fruits of my efforts paying off. It has however made it challenging to transition from quality conventional products to similar or ideally, superior natural ones. 

In my pursuit to replace products with natural alternatives, I found many promising options for Skincare products, but disappointingly little in the way of quality Haircare products. I tried a few liquid versions, which left me feeling decidedly underwhelmed. During my search I eventually came across solid shampoo and conditioner bars - which are not only naturally derived, but also an environmentally conscious, zero waste alternative. I was intrigued. And inspired. Again, I tried a few different options, but struggled to find a product that I really loved and that also met the standards I was looking for. At which point I resolved to learn how to make it myself and dedicated my efforts to developing the ideal solid shampoo bar. 

I have since completed several short courses and workshops in solid haircare formulation and am currently in the process of completing my Diploma in Natural Haircare Formulation as well. I continue to spend countless hours learning, researching and perfecting my craft - dedicating the majority of the past two years to developing, tweaking and perfecting the ultimate shampoo bar.

And as the saying goes, the rest is history!

I do hope that you enjoy my products as much as I do developing and making them. I would love your feedback.