I talk to a maker about the steps she has taken over the last few years to grow her successful skincare brand. Elaine Kennedy is based on the shores of Lough Carra at the foot of the Partry Mountains in the West of Ireland. After living in London for a number of years, Elaine made the decision to return to rural Ireland and develop a craft business on my family farm. Taking inspiration from the rich natural heritage all around her, she created Hawthorn Handmade Skincare. Her philosophy is simple, to create skin nourishing products using 100% natural ingredients.

Topics:

• Starting out in retail
• Developing the brand, an exclusive!
• The impact retailers and customers have on developing a product range
• #ShopLocal
• Sustainability
• Plans for the next few months