As I write, the new and already bestselling Neom Happiness Candle is burning peacefully on my desk. Fresh, springy but typically potent, Neom blends are unmistakeable and seriously luxurious. To my delight I was very lucky to catch up with the super busy Nicola Elliott, founder of Neom and general all round inspirational lady!
Emily: What does 2012 have in store for Neom?
Nicola: This is a huge year for us, with the most product launches yet! We have just launched the Happiness Candle which has been received really well, and our new Inspiration Reed Diffuser is out soon (made with violet, chamomile and cedarwood). Spring also sees our Sensuous scent extending into four body and hand products, plus two luxury hand creams and a body cream are launching in May… and that’s only half the year.
Emily: Where did the inspiration come from for the new Happiness fragrance?
Nicola: I’m always looking for something to really lift the spirits when we come out of a long British winter. Neroli is very pampering and healing, and mimosa is great for relieving tension. But as well as something pretty, I wanted the scent to be perky and crisp.
Emily: Which Neom product is your favourite, can’t live without it product?
Nicola: Definitely our Organic Body Oil – it’s seen me through my pregnancies and beyond (and zero stretch marks to prove it!). It has an organic safflower and jojoba base, which is rich in vitamins A and E and essential fatty acids. Unlike many synthetic oils out there, which just sit on the skin’s surface, an organic version like ours sinks right into the skin to nourish it deeply and make it feel super-silky.
Emily: I understand you used to be an editor for various lifestyle and fashion magazines. Can you describe how your day to day working life differs now you are running Neom?
Nicola: Well, there was glamour and fun in magazines, plus I was younger and child-free, living in London. I worked for big publishers which I guess was more limiting compared to what I do now. At Neom no two days are the same: I love that we can do anything we want to – the business is small enough that if we have an idea we can get it straight into production, but big enough that the team can support the launch really well.
Emily: What is your favourite way to relax?
Nicola: Once my kids are firmly in bed, reading a great book and lighting a Sumptuous Candle. Rose and neroli are the most precious oils and they are amazing for making me feel super pampered and helping me de-stress after a hectic day.
Thank you Nicola and thank you Neom for lifting our spirits up when they need a boost.
