Encounter Noelene, a Proponent of Home Holism Simplicity

Encounter Noelene, a Proponent of Home Holism Simplicity

Article

April 27, 2022 | Behind the Brands

Veteran aromatherapist Noelene Coleman has infused her holistic lifestyle values into Simple Home Holism, a homegrown Northern Irish brand crafting exquisite aromatherapy products. Born from her garden studio in Saintfield, this sustainable collection of soaps, balms, butters, candles, and self-care kits is inspired by a rich tapestry of life experiences and nature.

Raised in a household where everything was made from scratch, Noelene gained a penchant for handcrafted goods. Faced with her mother's cancer diagnosis, this dedication to self-sufficiency evolved into a fascination with essential oils. Years later, she took the leap to formal education, enrolling in a 2-year HND in Applied Sciences to learn the intricacies of holistic therapies.

Her whirlwind global journey saw her work in spas and yoga retreats across France, Italy, and Spain, where she continued to learn from other practitioners and immerse herself in a healing lifestyle. Returning home, she started creating products for friends and family. A treatment room at home evolved into the birth of Simple Home Holism, offering home spa experiences designed to connect users with nature.

Q&A

1. Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to start Simple Home Holism?

My mother and grandmother made everything from scratch, crafting natural remedies with essential oils when I was growing up. I was always by their side, learning the art of making things by hand. My mother was diagnosed with cancer, and she sought natural solutions using essential oils. Years later, I realized I wanted to become an aromatherapist, helping others through the power of aromatherapy. I studied holistic therapies and travelled the world learning, working, and experiencing the benefits of aromatherapy.

1. You offer an array of well-being products, each with unique scents, ingredients, and beneficial properties. What sparked the inspiration for these products and fragrances?

The creation process is inspired by life experiences. Most blends are an essence of an experience I've had that I want to share with customers. For example, I taught English in China, which was an incredibly impressionable experience for me. There, I discovered rice water had many benefits for the skin. The scent of rice cooking and ginger will always remind me of that time.

1. How does your brand align with a holistic lifestyle?

Holistic living is about making deliberate choices to consume only what is necessary, buying high-quality items, and considering the environmental impact of daily decisions. Slowing down and appreciating life fully is essential to this approach. With Simple Home Holism, I promote considered choices, quality, and sustainability in everyday decisions.

1. Sustainability is an essential aspect of your business. Does it influence the way you operate and create your products?

I believe it's crucial for everyone to live more sustainably. With Simple Home Holism, I carefully research my suppliers to ensure their practices align with my brand values. I source local ingredients whenever possible and avoid compromising quality, even if it means waiting for the perfect suppliers to appear. This commitment to quality ensures the authenticity of my products.

1. In addition to your online presence, you can find Simple Home Holism at local markets and workshops. Is there a specific workshop you particularly enjoy?

The workshops are the most gratifying part of my work. I have always wanted to teach, and these sessions give me an opportunity to share my knowledge and inspire others. Watching people create their own blends and products fuel my passion for aromatherapy.

1. Where do you work from, and what does your production process look like?

I work from my garden studio outside Saintfield. It was formerly my mother's sewing room. I create one blend per day to avoid sensory overload and carefully weigh ingredients before mixing. Some products, like soap, require a curing period of six weeks.

1. What is your best-selling product and why do customers love it so much?

The Sea Salt, Lemongrass & Peppermint Soap is the most popular item. Its fresh blend of lemongrass and peppermint appeals to a wide range of customers, offering a creamy and hydrating bar that works well for people with hormonal acne, oily or dry skin, or weather-damaged skin.

1. Are there any new projects or upcoming launches you'd like to share with us?

I've been working on a new collection of products for quite some time now and am excited to introduce them. I am also collaborating with a local charity, creating a special product that aligns with our values. I'm looking forward to sharing more when the time is right.

1. What is the greatest joy you derive from your work?

Hearing feedback from customers about how my products have improved their lives or lifted their spirits.

1. As a small creative business owner, is there anything you struggle with, and how do you handle it?

Running a business can be overwhelming, but I find it liberating to rely on my skills to create beautiful products. My greatest challenge lies in the aspects detached from my craft, like accounting, marketing, and photography. Balancing these tasks with my primary focus requires patience and dedication, but I am more than up for the challenge.

1. Do you have a favorite season or time of year, and why?

Autumn is absolutely my favorite season. The cooler, quieter atmosphere, the beautiful russet-toned leaves, and the crunching sound they make underfoot offer a sense of calm and relaxation. Walking the dogs outside during autumn is a daily joy.

1. What are some other interests or passions that you pursue in your free time?

I enjoy various outdoor activities, like swimming in the sea and hiking, as well as practicing yoga and meditating daily. When I have time, I also crochet small projects to keep my hands busy.

1. What does slow living mean to you?

Slow living is all about taking time for life's small pleasures, such as good food, relaxation, and spending time in nature. It's about being mindful of your daily decisions and making the most of the time you have with friends, family, and yourself.

The Tool Box

Materials/Resources- Collaboration with other local artists and makers- Yoga and mindful decision-making- Tea to help concentrate and stay focused

Working Habits- Morning sessions for product creation- Afternoon hours for writing and administration

Resources- Tea- iPod with jazz music- Inspirational brands such as Good Juju Herbal, Octo London, The Tides Wellness, Kinfolk, Phoenix & Providence, and our platform

Trade Secret- Delegate tasks to experts who excel at them- Utilize your time effectively and wisely

1. Small Home Holism promotes a holistic lifestyle by encouraging considered choices, quality, and sustainability, aligning with the philosophy of slow living.
2. Noelene draws inspiration for her product fragrances from life experiences, reflecting the holistic concept of connecting personal growth with nature.
3. Beyond the online store, Simple Home Holism collaborates with other local artists and makers, supporting small businesses in the fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden, and education-and-self-development sectors.
4. Noelene's passion for holistic living extends to her financial management, investing in high-quality materials and researching suppliers who align with her brand values.
5. Simple Home Holism continues to evolve, with new projects in the pipeline, including collaborations that address home, lifestyle, and personal-growth areas, ultimately contributing to a more holistic living experience.

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