In 2016 Lizzy B started making products as a form of therapy. After failed IVF had left her feeling completely lost and she felt like such a failure. At the time, her stepfather had terminal cancer and it was devastating to watch him get so ill and pass away. It was a stressful few years to say the least but from these struggles, her brand B Loved was born.
Lizzy is not just inspiring, she is the the ultimate Bossbabe and her determination and drive is enough to kick even the most demotivated up the a**! We spent some time with her to find out more…
Tell us the journey that led you to launching your brand, B Loved…
I started making products as a form of therapy after failed IVF and losing my stepfather to cancer. I was lost in a sea of grief and a huge sense of failure. Making gave me something to focus on and using essential oils helped to lift my mood and bring a sense of calm and balance. I loved using the oils, but I wanted to make sure I was using them safely and effectively, so I did a 2 year diploma in aromatherapy and essential oil science. This inspired me further and took B Loved to a new level.
Your story is so inspiring, you turned a negative experience and channelled it into something creative.
What was the biggest hurdle you had to overcome to achieve this?
Self-confidence! My confidence had been shattered on a few levels, so I had to build myself up again. Doing the right qualifications with the best aromatherapists and teachers in the business, ensured that I was ready to believe in myself. Knowledge is power and customers appreciate expertise.
You talk openly about issues with mental health, especially after working in recruitment. What does self-care mean to you?
I’ve learned that self-care is a package for me. Eating correctly, exercising, reducing my alcohol intake and taking time to read or having a bath with essential oils, getting enough sleep, these are things I need to incorporate into daily life to function as best I can.
I tend to put a lot of pressure on myself. Working in recruitment, I was very hard on myself and I never took a break. I have learned that taking time out each day is essential to being healthy and successful. You don’t burn out so easily when you make time for yourself.
Travel is also important to me. I have lived and worked in different countries and I need to travel to feel inspired and restored.
For any aspiring entrepreneurs just starting out, what advice would you offer them?
Have the courage but also have the work ethic. Work hard and don’t try to cut corners. Don’t try and jump on a popular bandwagon without ensuring you are 100% interested, committed and the most skilled you can be in that sector; consumers know when you’re busking it.
Be sure of what your brand represents. Learn as much as possible before launching. Understand the importance of publicity and networking. Opportunities rarely fall into your lap; you have to go out and get them.
Get your prices right. Don’t ask friends and family what your prices should be. They may not be your target audience. Ensure you are making enough of a profit once you have accounted for all of your costs. Nothing comes easily but hard work pays off. Be prepared to work incredibly hard and to create your own opportunities.
How did you had to pivot during 2020?
I haven’t been able to trade at markets and events, but I have done some brilliant online events which have really paid off. It’s been a case of changing how I do things but ensuring that I still do things rather than complaining that things are not the same.
I also do therapies and that has switched to online where possible. I have been teaching facial techniques via zoom which isn’t quite the same, but my clients are able to treat themselves and ensure they are getting some time for self-care. We’ve all had to adapt, and this has brought a new skill set to many which is very positive.
Looking back since launching the brand, what has been your biggest achievement?
Winning two awards early on was incredibly positive and reassuring! I sell products all over the UK, mostly online, that is pretty amazing to me as I do all the publicity myself. People are taking a chance by purchasing online as they can’t smell or test the products. But I always get great feedback and have loyal customers. I have learned a great deal about PR and marketing. I feel like I am constantly adding to my skillset which is perfect for me as I like to be active and learning all the time.
Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?
Ah so many. I love to travel too. I was supposed to be going trekking in Cambodia for the first time in October. Obviously, it was cancelled due to Covid, but I hope to visit in the future.
Where can people find out more?
You can visit my website www.blovedcandles.com and my Instagram @blovedcandles.
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