Amelia’s Magazine | Introducing a new luxury candle brand: Sandy Bay London

Sandy Bay London luxury candle by Rebecca Higgins
Blushing Rose Sandy Bay London luxury candle by Rebecca Higgins.

For sumptuous luxury candles at an affordable price look no further than Sandy Bay London, viagra sale hand poured right here in the UK. I caught up with Sandy Burns to find out what inspired her new collection.

Hi Sandy, check I hope you are well. I was just wondering if you could tell me a bit more about your background as an interior designer? How would you describe your style?
Hi Amelia, order I’m great thank you! Firstly, I don’t have a trained background as an interior decorator, but it has always been a huge passion of mine coming from noticing small details and working on small projects. I have tried to translate my style into my candles which is an attention to detail, with the black gloss candles especially my style can be quite sensual and sexy.

Sandy bay London Pomegranate Mini
Mini Pomegranate Rouge candles.

What inspires Sandy Bay London and in particular what inspires your fragrances?
Sandy Bay London was born from my passion for home interiors and accessories and just loving the small spoilings in life. I think about what works well and I think of a setting, a destination or an occasion which giving me a diverse mixture of ideas and moods to work with for my candles.

Sandy Bay London
 
What differentiates Sandy Bay candles from other luxury candles?
Sandy Bay London candles have a different appeal because I see it as personal luxury. They are scents with ingredients that aren’t just a pretty fragrance, it’s the fusion and careful placement of these ingredients that make people feel relaxed and warm but most of all feel at home.

Sandy-Bay-London by Joanne-Oatts
Sandy Bay London candles by Joanne Oatts.

I particularly like the High Gloss Black candles. How important is the presentation of a candle? 
It’s important that people like the look of Sandy Bay London as much as they like the scents and fragrances. Even when the candles are not lit they are going to be sat on a table or on a window sill, which is why presentation matters so much to me.  

sandy bay london Travel Set
Sandy Bay London Pomegranate Rouge Travel Set.

Where can interested customers buy Sandy Bay candles?
Currently they are only sold on my website, Sandy Bay London, but I’m hoping to branch out soon!

Sandy Bay London White Orchid
Sandy Bay London White Orchid.

Do you have any plans to expand the range and if so can you tell us what we can expect from it?
I have so many ideas, so many great things I want to try out! I have been working on a champagne scented candle for a while now and it is almost ready, which is going to be great for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and all kinds of celebrations. I am also looking into a gentlemen’s candle inspired by iconic images of the smoking jacket. As well as this I have a collaboration with Sarah Jones London to come up with a therapeutic range of candles since our products really complement each other.

So it’s a busy time for me right now!

Sandy Bay London Inspiring Spice
Sandy Bay London Inspiring Spice.

Categories ,Blushing Rose, ,candle, ,High Gloss Black, ,Interior Design, ,Joanne Oatts, ,Luxury, ,Mini Pomegranate, ,Pomegranate Rouge, ,Rebecca Higgins, ,Sandy Bay London, ,Sandy Burns, ,Sarah Jones London, ,Smoking Jacket, ,Travel Set, ,Vintage Fig, ,White Orchid

Similar Posts:






Amelia’s Magazine | Introducing a new luxury candle brand: Sandy Bay London

Sandy Bay London luxury candle by Rebecca Higgins
Blushing Rose Sandy Bay London luxury candle by Rebecca Higgins.

For sumptuous luxury candles at an affordable price look no further than Sandy Bay London, viagra sale hand poured right here in the UK. I caught up with Sandy Burns to find out what inspired her new collection.

Hi Sandy, check I hope you are well. I was just wondering if you could tell me a bit more about your background as an interior designer? How would you describe your style?
Hi Amelia, order I’m great thank you! Firstly, I don’t have a trained background as an interior decorator, but it has always been a huge passion of mine coming from noticing small details and working on small projects. I have tried to translate my style into my candles which is an attention to detail, with the black gloss candles especially my style can be quite sensual and sexy.

Sandy bay London Pomegranate Mini
Mini Pomegranate Rouge candles.

What inspires Sandy Bay London and in particular what inspires your fragrances?
Sandy Bay London was born from my passion for home interiors and accessories and just loving the small spoilings in life. I think about what works well and I think of a setting, a destination or an occasion which giving me a diverse mixture of ideas and moods to work with for my candles.

Sandy Bay London
 
What differentiates Sandy Bay candles from other luxury candles?
Sandy Bay London candles have a different appeal because I see it as personal luxury. They are scents with ingredients that aren’t just a pretty fragrance, it’s the fusion and careful placement of these ingredients that make people feel relaxed and warm but most of all feel at home.

Sandy-Bay-London by Joanne-Oatts
Sandy Bay London candles by Joanne Oatts.

I particularly like the High Gloss Black candles. How important is the presentation of a candle? 
It’s important that people like the look of Sandy Bay London as much as they like the scents and fragrances. Even when the candles are not lit they are going to be sat on a table or on a window sill, which is why presentation matters so much to me.  

sandy bay london Travel Set
Sandy Bay London Pomegranate Rouge Travel Set.

Where can interested customers buy Sandy Bay candles?
Currently they are only sold on my website, Sandy Bay London, but I’m hoping to branch out soon!

Sandy Bay London White Orchid
Sandy Bay London White Orchid.

Do you have any plans to expand the range and if so can you tell us what we can expect from it?
I have so many ideas, so many great things I want to try out! I have been working on a champagne scented candle for a while now and it is almost ready, which is going to be great for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and all kinds of celebrations. I am also looking into a gentlemen’s candle inspired by iconic images of the smoking jacket. As well as this I have a collaboration with Sarah Jones London to come up with a therapeutic range of candles since our products really complement each other.

So it’s a busy time for me right now!

Sandy Bay London Inspiring Spice
Sandy Bay London Inspiring Spice.

Categories ,Blushing Rose, ,candle, ,High Gloss Black, ,Interior Design, ,Joanne Oatts, ,Luxury, ,Mini Pomegranate, ,Pomegranate Rouge, ,Rebecca Higgins, ,Sandy Bay London, ,Sandy Burns, ,Sarah Jones London, ,Smoking Jacket, ,Travel Set, ,Vintage Fig, ,White Orchid

Similar Posts:






Amelia’s Magazine | Willow Organics: Luxurious Organic Skincare

lindsey_akamuti_darren fletcher
Why did you decide to set up business?
 
Akamuti grew out of my passion for plants! I’ve always been interested in their role in tree medicine, price herbalism and aromatherapy so it feels very natural to work with all these wonderful ingredients. Akamuti began in 2003 when I was only 20 years old and keen to start my own business. I think that being home schooled from the age of 10 instilled in me a very independent outlook on life and this streak has grown with me! The business started off in a really small way, cialis 40mg mixing up tiny amounts of creams & balms from raw ingredients – always using only the best natural ingredients that we could source. Then I would set off to the local health shops with my little box and try to sell them. It was really exciting to get a positive response and this spurred me on to set up a website so that people could order online. From these humble beginnings the business slowly but surely began to grow. Nowadays the whole family are involved in the business, with five of us working together. Our combined enthusiasm for a holistic way of living, eating and healing keeps our creativity focused, ensuring that our products reflect our ethics.

Why is being part of a family business so satisfying?
Its good to work together because you have people you know that you can rely on in a crisis. We understand each better than anyone else and thankfully we all seem to rub along nicely so we make a good team.

How did you train yourself to make skincare products?
When I was 17 I did a herbal medicine course that taught me how to make balms and macerated oils, which was great fun to do in the kitchen. I loved drying herbs, hanging them from the airer so that they made a mess on the floor. I experimented, researched and got my hands dirty until I found a recipe that I was happy with. I’ve also worked in aromatherapy for many years so I know my ingredients inside out.

How is your organic vegetable garden, and do you grow any of your own ingredients?
I really love gardens and I’ve been trying my best to grow veg for years. This year I managed to coax some lovely potatoes out of the ground as well as salads, tomatoes and a million cucumbers. Sadly, my onions and garlic didn’t even get chance to see the sunshine this year (slugs!) but I plant them every year because it feels wrong not too! We have plenty of space so it’s been a dream of mine to grow our own ingredients for a few years now… I just need to find the time. 
I’m hoping to plant a lavender and rose garden at some point so that I can make a small amount of my own rosewater!  
 
Can you describe the set up in Wales?
We work from our workshop in a beautiful valley in south west Wales overlooking the Brechfa Forest. We have a smallholding so it’s not only home to us but a few unruly animals as well. It’s a truly inspirational place to live, with nature literally on the doorstep and natural beauty around every corner. I love the peace and quiet here, it really nourishes the soul.   

When you have visitors where do you take them out?
I would take them to our little town of Llandeilo to shop for organic bread and homemade ice cream, then we would visit Carreg Cennen Castle, dramatically perched on a limestone outcrop. I’d make sure we visited the seaside where there are countless coves to choose from, so we might just do them all. And to finish, we would end up in our local pub which has the best beer garden in the world!

What are the benefits of being in Wales, and the pitfalls?
I love the wild side of Wales most. It’s great to nip out the door and within minutes you can be in a forest, a meadow, or on a mountain. I love the trees and fields, the castles, the coastline, the views out to the Brecon Beacons, the stunning drive through the Towy Valley. There is a strong craft community here, we have several community run shops, and there is a lot of great food and farm produce about too. The pitfalls… what pitfalls!?
 
Been anywhere else lately?
I’ve just got back from southern Snowdonia where I stayed at the foot of Cadair Idris. There is a beautiful lake there which I love. It is very cool and quiet – you could be anywhere in the world. I’ve also recently discovered the New Forest – I particularly like all the animals wandering freely through the villages.

How do you source your fairtrade organic ingredients?
Thankfully the internet makes this very easy. We find new suppliers quite quickly and many come by word of mouth. A lot of the time I stumble across people doing amazing things which I note down for the future!

What is the first thing you do when you want to invent a new product?
I make myself a coffee, find a comfy spot, get my notebook out and start writing. I think of what I want to achieve with the product and what I would like to go in it and then I start putting them together. I also brainstorm with everyone else. A bit like planning a garden, the best part is picking the plants! 

What exciting new products are you working on at the moment?
I’m working on a flower based perfume at the moment, so I’m playing around with sandalwood, rose, jasmine and a number of other oils to get the best combination. I’ve decided to keep the perfume as an oil, much like the ancient Attar perfumes, which were based on sandalwood oil. I am a big fan of eastern aromatherapy and I like the way the scents make me drift away to the ancient lands of Persia or Anatolia in my mind.  

What is your favourite ingredient to work with and why?
I’ve got a few favourites but I’ll try and narrow them down. My first love is definitely Rose Otto oil – it works so well for many physical and emotional problems, as well as smelling beautiful. I also love working with Neroli essential oil because it is so uplifting. If an oil could have the quality of kindness then this is the one! 

Why should people buy your products?
Because they are good for the skin and the soul! They are made with 100% natural ingredients from start to finish without any additional rubbish, and we try our best to harness all of the natural goodness of trees, plants and flowers in each product so that our customers get the very best we can make. Our products are people and planet friendly, and they are affordable too.
 
Akamuti by Jenny Lloyd
Akamuti by Jenny Lloyd.

Why did you decide to set up business?
 
Akamuti grew out of my passion for plants! I’ve always been interested in their role in tree medicine, click herbalism and aromatherapy so it feels very natural to work with all these wonderful ingredients. Akamuti began in 2003 when I was only 20 years old and keen to start my own business. I think that being home schooled from the age of 10 instilled in me a very independent outlook on life and this streak has grown with me! The business started off in a really small way, doctor mixing up tiny amounts of creams & balms from raw ingredients – always using only the best natural ingredients that we could source. Then I would set off to the local health shops with my little box and try to sell them. It was really exciting to get a positive response and this spurred me on to set up a website so that people could order online. From these humble beginnings the business slowly but surely began to grow. Nowadays the whole family are involved in the business, health with five of us working together. Our combined enthusiasm for a holistic way of living, eating and healing keeps our creativity focused, ensuring that our products reflect our ethics.

Why is being part of a family business so satisfying?
Its good to work together because you have people you know that you can rely on in a crisis. We understand each better than anyone else and thankfully we all seem to rub along nicely so we make a good team.

Akamuti skincare by Karina Yarv
Akamuti skincare by Karina Yarv.

How did you train yourself to make skincare products?
When I was 17 I did a herbal medicine course that taught me how to make balms and macerated oils, which was great fun to do in the kitchen. I loved drying herbs, hanging them from the airer so that they made a mess on the floor. I experimented, researched and got my hands dirty until I found a recipe that I was happy with. I’ve also worked in aromatherapy for many years so I know my ingredients inside out.

How is your organic vegetable garden, and do you grow any of your own ingredients?
I really love gardens and I’ve been trying my best to grow veg for years. This year I managed to coax some lovely potatoes out of the ground as well as salads, tomatoes and a million cucumbers. Sadly, my onions and garlic didn’t even get chance to see the sunshine this year (slugs!) but I plant them every year because it feels wrong not too! We have plenty of space so it’s been a dream of mine to grow our own ingredients for a few years now… I just need to find the time. 
I’m hoping to plant a lavender and rose garden at some point so that I can make a small amount of my own rosewater!  
 
Can you describe the set up in Wales?
We work from our workshop in a beautiful valley in south west Wales overlooking the Brechfa Forest. We have a smallholding so it’s not only home to us but a few unruly animals as well. It’s a truly inspirational place to live, with nature literally on the doorstep and natural beauty around every corner. I love the peace and quiet here, it really nourishes the soul.   

Akamuti-by-Nina-Hunter
Akamuti by Nina Hunter.

When you have visitors where do you take them out?
I would take them to our little town of Llandeilo to shop for organic bread and homemade ice cream, then we would visit Carreg Cennen Castle, dramatically perched on a limestone outcrop. I’d make sure we visited the seaside where there are countless coves to choose from, so we might just do them all. And to finish, we would end up in our local pub which has the best beer garden in the world!

What are the benefits of being in Wales, and the pitfalls?
I love the wild side of Wales most. It’s great to nip out the door and within minutes you can be in a forest, a meadow, or on a mountain. I love the trees and fields, the castles, the coastline, the views out to the Brecon Beacons, the stunning drive through the Towy Valley. There is a strong craft community here, we have several community run shops, and there is a lot of great food and farm produce about too. The pitfalls… what pitfalls!?
 
lindsey_akamuti_darren fletcher
Lindsey by Darren Fletcher.

Been anywhere else lately?
I’ve just got back from southern Snowdonia where I stayed at the foot of Cadair Idris. There is a beautiful lake there which I love. It is very cool and quiet – you could be anywhere in the world. I’ve also recently discovered the New Forest – I particularly like all the animals wandering freely through the villages.

How do you source your fairtrade organic ingredients?
Thankfully the internet makes this very easy. We find new suppliers quite quickly and many come by word of mouth. A lot of the time I stumble across people doing amazing things which I note down for the future!

What is the first thing you do when you want to invent a new product?
I make myself a coffee, find a comfy spot, get my notebook out and start writing. I think of what I want to achieve with the product and what I would like to go in it and then I start putting them together. I also brainstorm with everyone else. A bit like planning a garden, the best part is picking the plants! 

What exciting new products are you working on at the moment?
I’m working on a flower based perfume at the moment, so I’m playing around with sandalwood, rose, jasmine and a number of other oils to get the best combination. I’ve decided to keep the perfume as an oil, much like the ancient Attar perfumes, which were based on sandalwood oil. I am a big fan of eastern aromatherapy and I like the way the scents make me drift away to the ancient lands of Persia or Anatolia in my mind.  

What is your favourite ingredient to work with and why?
I’ve got a few favourites but I’ll try and narrow them down. My first love is definitely Rose Otto oil – it works so well for many physical and emotional problems, as well as smelling beautiful. I also love working with Neroli essential oil because it is so uplifting. If an oil could have the quality of kindness then this is the one! 

Why should people buy your products?
Because they are good for the skin and the soul! They are made with 100% natural ingredients from start to finish without any additional rubbish, and we try our best to harness all of the natural goodness of trees, plants and flowers in each product so that our customers get the very best we can make. Our products are people and planet friendly, and they are affordable too.
 
Akamuti by Jenny Lloyd
Akamuti by Jenny Lloyd.

Why did you decide to set up business?
 
Akamuti grew out of my passion for plants! I’ve always been interested in their role in tree medicine, and herbalism and aromatherapy so it feels very natural to work with all these wonderful ingredients. Akamuti began in 2003 when I was only 20 years old and keen to start my own business. I think that being home schooled from the age of 10 instilled in me a very independent outlook on life and this streak has grown with me! The business started off in a really small way, mixing up tiny amounts of creams & balms from raw ingredients – always using only the best natural ingredients that we could source. Then I would set off to the local health shops with my little box and try to sell them. It was really exciting to get a positive response and this spurred me on to set up a website so that people could order online. From these humble beginnings the business slowly but surely began to grow. Nowadays the whole family are involved in the business, with five of us working together. Our combined enthusiasm for a holistic way of living, eating and healing keeps our creativity focused, ensuring that our products reflect our ethics.

Why is being part of a family business so satisfying?
Its good to work together because you have people you know that you can rely on in a crisis. We understand each better than anyone else and thankfully we all seem to rub along nicely so we make a good team.

Akamuti skincare by Karina Yarv
Akamuti skincare by Karina Yarv.

How did you train yourself to make skincare products?
When I was 17 I did a herbal medicine course that taught me how to make balms and macerated oils, which was great fun to do in the kitchen. I loved drying herbs, hanging them from the airer so that they made a mess on the floor. I experimented, researched and got my hands dirty until I found a recipe that I was happy with. I’ve also worked in aromatherapy for many years so I know my ingredients inside out.

How is your organic vegetable garden, and do you grow any of your own ingredients?
I really love gardens and I’ve been trying my best to grow veg for years. This year I managed to coax some lovely potatoes out of the ground as well as salads, tomatoes and a million cucumbers. Sadly, my onions and garlic didn’t even get chance to see the sunshine this year (slugs!) but I plant them every year because it feels wrong not too! We have plenty of space so it’s been a dream of mine to grow our own ingredients for a few years now… I just need to find the time. 
I’m hoping to plant a lavender and rose garden at some point so that I can make a small amount of my own rosewater!  
 
Can you describe the set up in Wales?
We work from our workshop in a beautiful valley in south west Wales overlooking the Brechfa Forest. We have a smallholding so it’s not only home to us but a few unruly animals as well. It’s a truly inspirational place to live, with nature literally on the doorstep and natural beauty around every corner. I love the peace and quiet here, it really nourishes the soul.   

Akamuti-by-Nina-Hunter
Akamuti by Nina Hunter.

When you have visitors where do you take them out?
I would take them to our little town of Llandeilo to shop for organic bread and homemade ice cream, then we would visit Carreg Cennen Castle, dramatically perched on a limestone outcrop. I’d make sure we visited the seaside where there are countless coves to choose from, so we might just do them all. And to finish, we would end up in our local pub which has the best beer garden in the world!

What are the benefits of being in Wales, and the pitfalls?
I love the wild side of Wales most. It’s great to nip out the door and within minutes you can be in a forest, a meadow, or on a mountain. I love the trees and fields, the castles, the coastline, the views out to the Brecon Beacons, the stunning drive through the Towy Valley. There is a strong craft community here, we have several community run shops, and there is a lot of great food and farm produce about too. The pitfalls… what pitfalls!?
 
lindsey_akamuti_darren fletcher
Lindsey by Darren Fletcher.

Been anywhere else lately?
I’ve just got back from southern Snowdonia where I stayed at the foot of Cadair Idris. There is a beautiful lake there which I love. It is very cool and quiet – you could be anywhere in the world. I’ve also recently discovered the New Forest – I particularly like all the animals wandering freely through the villages.

How do you source your fairtrade organic ingredients?
Thankfully the internet makes this very easy. We find new suppliers quite quickly and many come by word of mouth. A lot of the time I stumble across people doing amazing things which I note down for the future!

What is the first thing you do when you want to invent a new product?
I make myself a coffee, find a comfy spot, get my notebook out and start writing. I think of what I want to achieve with the product and what I would like to go in it and then I start putting them together. I also brainstorm with everyone else. A bit like planning a garden, the best part is picking the plants! 

What exciting new products are you working on at the moment?
I’m working on a flower based perfume at the moment, so I’m playing around with sandalwood, rose, jasmine and a number of other oils to get the best combination. I’ve decided to keep the perfume as an oil, much like the ancient Attar perfumes, which were based on sandalwood oil. I am a big fan of eastern aromatherapy and I like the way the scents make me drift away to the ancient lands of Persia or Anatolia in my mind.  

What is your favourite ingredient to work with and why?
I’ve got a few favourites but I’ll try and narrow them down. My first love is definitely Rose Otto oil – it works so well for many physical and emotional problems, as well as smelling beautiful. I also love working with Neroli essential oil because it is so uplifting. If an oil could have the quality of kindness then this is the one! 

Why should people buy your products?
Because they are good for the skin and the soul! They are made with 100% natural ingredients from start to finish without any additional rubbish, and we try our best to harness all of the natural goodness of trees, plants and flowers in each product so that our customers get the very best we can make. Our products are people and planet friendly, and they are affordable too.
 
Akamuti by Jenny Lloyd
Akamuti by Jenny Lloyd.

Why did you decide to set up business?
 
Akamuti grew out of my passion for plants! I’ve always been interested in their role in tree medicine, prescription herbalism and aromatherapy so it feels very natural to work with all these wonderful ingredients. Akamuti began in 2003 when I was only 20 years old and keen to start my own business. I think that being home schooled from the age of 10 instilled in me a very independent outlook on life and this streak has grown with me! The business started off in a really small way, mixing up tiny amounts of creams & balms from raw ingredients – always using only the best natural ingredients that we could source. Then I would set off to the local health shops with my little box and try to sell them. It was really exciting to get a positive response and this spurred me on to set up a website so that people could order online. From these humble beginnings the business slowly but surely began to grow. Nowadays the whole family are involved in the business, with five of us working together. Our combined enthusiasm for a holistic way of living, eating and healing keeps our creativity focused, ensuring that our products reflect our ethics.

Why is being part of a family business so satisfying?
Its good to work together because you have people you know that you can rely on in a crisis. We understand each better than anyone else and thankfully we all seem to rub along nicely so we make a good team.

Akamuti skincare by Karina Yarv
Akamuti skincare by Karina Yarv.

How did you train yourself to make skincare products?
When I was 17 I did a herbal medicine course that taught me how to make balms and macerated oils, which was great fun to do in the kitchen. I loved drying herbs, hanging them from the airer so that they made a mess on the floor. I experimented, researched and got my hands dirty until I found a recipe that I was happy with. I’ve also worked in aromatherapy for many years so I know my ingredients inside out.

How is your organic vegetable garden, and do you grow any of your own ingredients?
I really love gardens and I’ve been trying my best to grow veg for years. This year I managed to coax some lovely potatoes out of the ground as well as salads, tomatoes and a million cucumbers. Sadly, my onions and garlic didn’t even get chance to see the sunshine this year (slugs!) but I plant them every year because it feels wrong not too! We have plenty of space so it’s been a dream of mine to grow our own ingredients for a few years now… I just need to find the time. I’m hoping to plant a lavender and rose garden at some point so that I can make a small amount of my own rosewater!  
 
Can you describe the set up in Wales?
We work from our workshop in a beautiful valley in south west Wales overlooking the Brechfa Forest. We have a smallholding so it’s not only home to us but a few unruly animals as well. It’s a truly inspirational place to live, with nature literally on the doorstep and natural beauty around every corner. I love the peace and quiet here, it really nourishes the soul.   

Akamuti-by-Nina-Hunter
Akamuti by Nina Hunter.

When you have visitors where do you take them out?
I would take them to our little town of Llandeilo to shop for organic bread and homemade ice cream, then we would visit Carreg Cennen Castle, dramatically perched on a limestone outcrop. I’d make sure we visited the seaside where there are countless coves to choose from, so we might just do them all. And to finish, we would end up in our local pub which has the best beer garden in the world!

What are the benefits of being in Wales, and the pitfalls?
I love the wild side of Wales most. It’s great to nip out the door and within minutes you can be in a forest, a meadow, or on a mountain. I love the trees and fields, the castles, the coastline, the views out to the Brecon Beacons, the stunning drive through the Towy Valley. There is a strong craft community here, we have several community run shops, and there is a lot of great food and farm produce about too. The pitfalls… what pitfalls!?
 
lindsey_akamuti_darren fletcher
Lindsey by Darren Fletcher.

Been anywhere else lately?
I’ve just got back from southern Snowdonia where I stayed at the foot of Cadair Idris. There is a beautiful lake there which I love. It is very cool and quiet – you could be anywhere in the world. I’ve also recently discovered the New Forest – I particularly like all the animals wandering freely through the villages.

How do you source your fairtrade organic ingredients?
Thankfully the internet makes this very easy. We find new suppliers quite quickly and many come by word of mouth. A lot of the time I stumble across people doing amazing things which I note down for the future!

What is the first thing you do when you want to invent a new product?
I make myself a coffee, find a comfy spot, get my notebook out and start writing. I think of what I want to achieve with the product and what I would like to go in it and then I start putting them together. I also brainstorm with everyone else. A bit like planning a garden, the best part is picking the plants! 

What exciting new products are you working on at the moment?
I’m working on a flower based perfume at the moment, so I’m playing around with sandalwood, rose, jasmine and a number of other oils to get the best combination. I’ve decided to keep the perfume as an oil, much like the ancient Attar perfumes, which were based on sandalwood oil. I am a big fan of eastern aromatherapy and I like the way the scents make me drift away to the ancient lands of Persia or Anatolia in my mind.  

What is your favourite ingredient to work with and why?
I’ve got a few favourites but I’ll try and narrow them down. My first love is definitely Rose Otto oil – it works so well for many physical and emotional problems, as well as smelling beautiful. I also love working with Neroli essential oil because it is so uplifting. If an oil could have the quality of kindness then this is the one! 

Why should people buy your products?
Because they are good for the skin and the soul! They are made with 100% natural ingredients from start to finish without any additional rubbish, and we try our best to harness all of the natural goodness of trees, plants and flowers in each product so that our customers get the very best we can make. Our products are people and planet friendly, and they are affordable too.
 
Willow by Sandra Contreras
Illustration by Sandra Contreras

Willow Organics was founded by Sue Stowell in 2005. Just a few weeks ago she opened her first pop up shop in London’s Kings Road, ailment so we decided to track her down and find out more about this luxury organic skincare brand.

What made you first approach skincare in an organic and natural way?
For a long time I have believed that eating organic food unadulterated by artificial additives is better for our health. We have had an organic vegetable garden for the past 18 years and grow all of our own vegetables as well as keeping free range chickens. There are many harmful chemicals used in farming and in the making of conventional beauty products and we don’t know the long term effect on our selves or our environment, so luxury organic beauty products were the only route I wanted to take when I started Willow Organic. I was also adamant from the start that I would use biodegradable and recyclable packaging that would fit in with Willow as a luxury brand.

Sue Stowell by Avril Kelly
Sue Stowell by Avril Kelly.

How did you set up Willow Organics?
I had been an interior designer for several years when I decided to make a career change. I was asked to design a Thai themed spa at Careys Manor Hotel, Brockenhurst in The New Forest and became involved in finding organic products for use in the spa treatments. There were very few if any beautifully packaged and genuinely organic products, many claimed to have 100% organic oils but when you looked at the ingredients they only had say 3% oils and the rest was made of synthetic materials. Many had cheap plastic packaging. I travelled to Thailand to look for artefacts to put in the spa and when I saw these beautiful silk boxes I had a Eureka moment; I thought how lovely the products would look in these gorgeous boxes. I saw a gap in the market for genuine organic beauty products in luxurious boxes. It wasn’t easy to find manufacturers who were able to make organic products because preservation can be tricky – in fact it was far more complex than I had imagined. We had to use different companies to make the fragrance and the final products, the bottle manufacturers wanted had a huge (to us anyway) minimum order of 10,000 units and the pumps to fit these bottles were only sold in 15,000 lots. The labels and ribbons were made by yet more companies and the European legislation was a nightmare. But we got there eventually and started selling at charity fairs to raise brand awareness and create a data base.

Why did you decide to make Willow a luxury brand?
I think that girls appreciate beautiful things. All of our boxes can be kept and used for storing trinkets and they look lovely in the bathroom or on dressing tables. And of course being a luxury brand does make us stand out… but that wasn’t the initial idea.

Willow_necklace_abby_wright
The website also sells jewellery such as this Champagne Ribbon and White Pearl Bracelet. Illustration by Abby Wright

What is the philosophy of Willow Organic and what makes it so special?
Organic and Gorgeous. There are now many organic skincare brands on the market that seem to favour the pharmaceutical style packaging or the brown paper and string look, so we would like to think that Willow stands out because of our luxury silk packaging and first rate organic formulations, as well as the fact that all Willow Beauty Products are made in England. We make organic products that really look, feel and smell beautiful and they really work. Willow Organic products have soft natural scents rather than over powering chemical fragrances, so you can pamper yourself with a clear conscience. There are lots of other brands out there that call themselves ‘organic’ but their ingredients are not certified organic and in fact their products contain only a small minority of organic ingredients.

willow_organics_ KAYLEIGH BLUCK
Illustration by Kayleigh Bluck.

You have a prominent men’s skincare section on your website; why is this market important to you?
Men are taking more care of themselves, and they are conscious of the environment. We have regular male clientele who buy our products – the face and body wash and black rice exfoliating soap in cedarwood and spicy citrus are particularly popular. We sell a great many of our men’s gift boxes at Christmas, and have been told that they made a very pleasant change from socks and ties!

On average, what percentage of organic ingredients do you use in Willow products?
On average our products are over 85% organic and some are 100%, but that isn’t to say that the remaining 15% are not organic. The Soil Association has strict guide lines, so for example if an oil is changed, perhaps by heating or separating, or if the fragrance from organic Jasmine flower buds is extracted by means of alcohol, then they may not choose to allow it to be called organic under their criteria. In order to be certified organic all the ingredients must be approved.

How easy is it to use all biodegradable and recyclable packaging?
All of our packaging is biodegradable and/or recyclable and meets high standards of sustainability – for example our filler is made of corn chips which you can put on the compost heap. It is a fine line however, because people obviously don’t want their products damaged when they receive them, so we use the minimum of packaging but enough to protect the products whilst in transit.

Willow by Werner Fismer
Illustration by Werner Fismer

What key product would you suggest for an individual thinking of moving towards a an organic skincare regime?
A good place to start would be replacing the soap that you use on a daily basis. As well as lovely hand soap we make a very gentle hand wash in two delightful fragrances; Lime & Lavender and Orange Lime & Bergamot. We make everything you need for a daily routine: lovely cleanser, toner, exfoliator, face mask and a wonderful moisturising face balm.

As Christmas is fast approaching, do you have any gift products to recommend to our readers?
Yes, our gorgeous limited edition Gold, Frankincense and Myrhh candle costs £38. and the oils it contains are very expensive so it really smells of Christmas. These precious oils have been used since biblical times for their soothing, calming and spiritually uplifting properties. The candle contains a piece of real gold leaf and comes in a gold box with a gold organza ribbon.

What else would you like to do with the Willow Organics brand in the future?
We would love to have several shops in London; in Sloane Square, Marylebone, Covent Garden, Notting Hill, and perhaps Richmond. Then we’d like to expand into Manchester, Bath, Bristol, Edinburgh, Birmingham. And of course we are planning to export into Europe and then the Middle East and the Far East: China and Japan are very enthusiastic about beautifully packaged organic luxury beauty products.

You can visit the Willow Organics pop up shop at 340 Kings Road, London SW3 5UR (between Cath Kidston and Bora). There’s a special shopping evening on 8th December, with mince pies and mulled wine plus 10% off everything and free gift wrapping. Nice!

Categories ,Abby Wright, ,Avril Kelly, ,Black Rice, ,candle, ,Careys Manor Hotel, ,Certified organic, ,Cleanser, ,Exfoliator, ,face and body wash, ,face balm, ,Face Mask, ,Frankincense, ,Gold, ,hand wash, ,Kayleigh Bluck, ,Men’s skincare, ,Myrhh, ,Sandra Contreras, ,Soap, ,Soil Association, ,Sue Stowell, ,Toner, ,Werner Fismer, ,Willow Organics

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Amelia’s Magazine | The Very Best Scented Christmas Candles

Willow candle by daria hlazatova
Willow Organic Gold Frankincense and Myrrh candle by Daria Hlazatova.

I don’t know what it is about candles that gets me so excited. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that I love beautiful smells. My house may be a mess but I quite often spritz my office with a sweetly scented room spray or light a candle to imbue a relaxing mood. I think that this is the nub of what is so brilliant about candles, viagra especially the really high quality ones that contain high quantities of essential oils – they are the simplest way to create a delightfully relaxing and cosy feeling within a space.

willow organics candle

And of course Christmas is all about candles. Since I lived in Sweden as a little girl my family has had a tradition of lighting advent candles during the month of December – and whilst I don’t spend much time at my parent’s home anymore, rx I always look forward to candlelit dinners when I return for Christmas. Candles impart a certain cosiness which the Danish call “hygge” – and during these bitterly cold dark winter months is most sorely appreciated.

Gold Frankincense and Myrrh candle by Daria Hlazatova
Gold Frankincense and Myrrh candle by Daria Hlazatova.

This year my favourite discovery is the Willow Organic Gold Frankincense and Myrrh candle. It comes beautifully presented in a beribboned fold out box and utilises the naturally healing and calming effects of precious oils that have been synonymous with Christmas since biblical times.

Willow candle box
willow candle box open

From the wonderful scents to the gold leaf that floats glittering in the top of the wax, it doesn’t get more christmassy than this. The Willow Organic shop in Kings Road, Chelsea is open until the 23rd December, so there’s still time to grab a fabulous Christmas candle before the big day.

Cire_Trudon_by_Megan_Piontkowski
Cire Trudon by Megan Piontkowski.

Earlier this year I discovered the French Cire Trudon brand, which has been in operation in various guises since 1643. Alongside very high quality candles presented in beautiful glass pots with heraldic shields, they also produce stunning room sprays in statement bottles and a boxed set containing a room spray, candle and illustrated fairy tale – the idea being to encourage children to enjoy evocative scents from a very young age. Not for the hard up these boxed sets don’t come cheap, but I love the idea and the illustrated booklets are a delight.

Sinbad the Sailor - Fairy Tale Box - Cire Trudon

Recently discovered: the Albam independent menswear clothing store in Spitalfields stocks three yummy varieties of candle, my favourite being the figgy one. When I went in they were also testing out a new scent called Library, which was suitably masculine. Unfortunately I don’t think you can buy these online but it’s definitely worth taking a trip down to this great little store. I have since discovered that these candles are made by ecological candle makers True Grace. You can find a whole host of flavours online for a very reasonable price here.

Spitalfields Candle Co by ellie sutton
Spitalfields Candle Co and Tocca candles by Ellie Sutton.

There is also the Spitalfields Candle Co. which uses sustainably sourced soya wax in all candles. It was hard to choose my favourite from such a yummy range only briefly sniffed in the Inspitalfields gift store, but I think it has to be Lemon Verbena – I just love that clean bright scent.

Diptyque Candle - The Cloud Commission
Diptyque Candle by The Cloud Commission.

Tocca are a high end scent company that stock in Liberty – I particularly like the sound of the Bianca candle which contains Green Tea and Lemon. Each year the Parisian brand Diptyque creates a special Christmas range, in beautifully decorated coloured glass jars. The Orange Epicee sounds yummy, as does the Canelle.

Jo Malone by Gareth A Hopkins
Jo Malone by Gareth A Hopkins.

Lastly but no means least Jo Malone offers incredibly classy scents, all tastefully presented in cream boxes with crisp branding. The limited edition Pine & Eucalyptus Collection sounds glorious, and how about a giant candle with not one but four wicks to make a major statement?

Right, I’m off to get on with my present wrapping by the scent of my Willow Organic candle. Have a glorious Christmas everyone.

Categories ,Advent, ,Albam, ,Beauty, ,candle, ,Christmas, ,Cire Trudon, ,Danish, ,Daria Hlazatova, ,Diptyque, ,Ellie Sutton, ,Essential Oils, ,Fig, ,Gareth A Hopkins, ,gifts, ,Gold Frankincense and Myrrh candle, ,hygge, ,Jo Malone, ,Kings Road, ,liberty, ,Megan Piontkowski, ,organic, ,Pine & Eucalyptus Collection, ,spitalfields, ,Spitalfields Candle Co., ,sweden, ,The Cloud Commission, ,Tocca, ,True Grace, ,Village Classic Candle, ,Willow Organic

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Amelia’s Magazine | Live Review: Tasseomancy at CAMP Basement

Tasseomancy by Claire Kearns
Tasseomancy by Claire Kearns.

Thanks to a combination of insouciance and lost leads Tasseomancy opened the launch show for new album Ulalume nearly 45 minutes late. Keeping true to their psychedelic gothic imaginings the twins sat inside a blood red projection looped with dancing white satyrs. Behind them on keys stood their friend and sometime band member, approved Princess Century.

Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
Tasseomancy at CAMP Basement. All photography by Amelia Gregory.

The show began with a guttural growl that echoed ominously around CAMP Basement, and then the first lilting notes kicked in, angelic voices rising alternately, aided by mandolin and guitar.

Tasseomancy by Sarah-Jayne
Tasseomancy by Sarah-Jayne.

Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
There were home made cakes on the door on arrival, a lovely touch.

Tasseomancy have just been on tour with Arcade Fire as part of Austra and after a few woozy songs they paused for a moment to regale us with tales of life with a band at the peak of the game: a private ping pong table and basketball court provided for their relaxation.

Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory

I am afraid that due to the late start I didn’t stay for the whole set, but I urge you to check out Tasseomancy‘s new album, which has been released (a world first!) on a specially designed candle with the digital download by Turf Records. Naturally, they hope that it will provide an appropriate ambiance when listening to the music. You can also read my interview with Tasseomancy right here.

Tasseomancy at Camp Basement Ulalume 2011 photography by Amelia Gregory
The Ulalume candle.

Categories ,Arcade Fire, ,Austra, ,Camp Basement, ,candle, ,Claire Kearns, ,Digital Download, ,gothic, ,Princess Century, ,psychedelic, ,Sarah-Jayne, ,Tasseomancy, ,Toronto, ,Turf Records, ,Ulalume

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