Tell us about the journey that led you to launch your brand Noor & Vasl…

I have always had an interest in beauty and fashion, but never pursued these industries. Then it all began when I had my son 4 years ago. Becoming a first-time mum, I instinctively wanted what was best for my baby. What he wore, what I bathed him with, what I ate when breastfeeding him and so on. My whole outlook completely changed as I always took him into consideration. This led to looking into good quality, natural and sustainable alternatives. Which then led me to think about myself and my husband, becoming more aware of what we use as consumers.

Whilst being a mum, looking after my family, running my home AND working full time in finance in a corporate office, I realised I became so busy that there were not enough hours in the day to do what I want. I was simply firefighting life’s daily battles and surviving for the next day. I decided to make changes to my life and put myself first. I started to treat myself more to some “me time” and would pamper myself. Sometimes at home and sometimes at a salon or spa. This is what brought me to creating Noor and Vasl UK. It can be so difficult to find good quality skincare that is 100% natural. I had spent upto 10 months just researching on what was out there. I came across some amazing products and decided to create Noor and Vasl UK to bring more awareness of what’s out there and promote selfcare.

The name translates to radiance (Noor) and passion (Vasl).

What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge I have faced is when Covid pandemic hit the UK. It caused a lot of delays on my stock to arrive. I was in the process of introducing an Australian brand and Australia had a much stricter lockdown. During this time, I was able to find another brand in the UK to work with. I was able to get back on track and source my products on time.

If you to were to describe your business mantra in three words, what would they be?

Put yourself first.

What advice would you offer anyone interested in venturing into online sales of skincare products?

Don’t let it intimidate you. Do your research thoroughly. If anything seems odd or ridiculous, don’t be afraid to look into it. There are lots of resources and tips online.

Most importantly, you may get some questionable advice from people you know and there is nothing wrong with listening to family or friends. But ALWAYS trust your gut instinct.

Talk us through an average business day in your life…

In the morning after I have done the school run, I always go for brisk walk for approximately 35 – 45 minutes whatever the weather. I like to think of the day’s tasks ahead of me whilst I am walking.

I mainly work from home so I log onto my laptop by 9:30am the latest. I go through my emails, customer queries and work on the orders received. At 12:15pm I always step away from the screen and have a light lunch. I also fit in a 10 – 20 minute yoga session using the Fiit app. By 1pm I am back on my laptop working on the social media side creating content, reading up on tips for selfcare, or the admin/bookkeeping. At 3pm I go for another little walk before doing the school run, bring home my son and get him settled at home.
3:30 pm, I carry on working on whatever was left over before the school run. 6pm, I finish for the day and start to make dinner for me and my family.

Business can be an upward struggle at times, what do you do to stay positive?

Yes, it can. When those moments happen it’s very easy to overthink things and let your mind run away with you. For me I like to go for a short brisk walk along a canal that runs behind my neighborhood. Sometimes I will grab a mocha from a café that is near the canal and return home with my mind feeling clearer from the walk.

I always practice gratitude. It always brings a smile to my face when I look back at the hard work I’ve put into my brand and the progress I’ve made.

I have a wonderful supportive husband who is always happy to listen. Sometimes as I speak to him about an issue I may have, he is so good at looking at things from a different angle and tell me his point of view/ideas or I’ll have an epiphany and answer my own question. It really helps to surround yourself with your loved ones as they know you best.

What is your go to quote when lacking motivation?

Success never comes from the comfort zone.

How much has social media played a role in the success of your brand?

Social media has helped immensely. It makes it easier to showcase products on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. It has helped me gain customers from Bournemouth to al the way up to Aberdeen. It helps potential customers to get in touch and ask anything they want. Getting exposure on social media definitely helps with the growth of company.

How do you want people to feel when they first visit your website and buy skincare products?

I want people to feel excited about discovering new things. I want them to feel at ease and special. I want people to feel the release of serotonin (which is a chemical that makes you feel good) release in their minds when they click add to basket and be completely guilt free in the knowledge that their purchase will genuinely be good for them. They can explore what we have to offer and look forward to their order when it arrives.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list, and which of your product from the Noor & Vasl website would you take travelling with you?

For me I would love to travel to Japan to see the cherry blossom season at Fuji Fives lakes. With the view of Mount Fuji in the background, there is just something whimsical and special about it.

Products I would take with me are:

– The Khol Facial Cleansing Face Balm and the Mirage Milky Facial Cleanser both by Hammamii. I always double cleanse before I got to bed and this combination is amazing for thoroughly removing any debris and make up.
– The Green Balm by Magic Organic Apothecary. As well as for cleansing, this versatile balm is definitely a family product and essential for any trip. This can be used to help soothe, nourish and renew dry itchy skin conditions, bumps, bites, stings, grazes and minor burns.
– The Silver Rain Mystical Toner by Magic Organic Apothecary. This little spray is so revitalizing and hydrating. It makes the perfect travel companion and can be used as a yoga mat/pillow spray or to cool and refresh whenever feeling hot and bothered.
– Australian Buddha Wood & Bergamot shampoo and conditioner by Nereus London. The award winning everyday premium shampoo and conditioner are formulated with 100% natural fragrances and leaves your hair feeling so rejuvenated and nourished.

What’s next for you and your brand?

I am going to continue promoting selfcare and the amazing brands we have on board. As Noor and Vasl grows I will be looking into more natural and sustainable resources that are out there and possibly create our own selection of skincare and self-care products.

Where can people find out more about Noor & Vasl?

Noor and Vasl UK is on Google. We are also on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Our handle is @noorandvasl.

Author

A veteran in global travel, Rachel also loves to explore hidden gems on home turf. She’s a writing connoisseur of Britain’s best hotels, luxury beauty products, and UK food and drink launches.

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