Two local businesses, led by friends of more than 30 years, have joined forces and are launching their new trading premises.
Skin + Scent is made up of So27skincare and Koto Candles, led by Derry women Deborah Lamberton and Catriona Hutton respectively.
After featuring in the Re:Imagine pop-up in Foyleside Shopping Centre, these two local businesses decided to bring back their physical shop floor.
Read more: Meet the inspirational Derry mum behind inclusive annual ‘Shining Light’ pageant
Skin + Scent are situated in Cabin Number 6, North West Business Complex in Skeoge Industrial Park.
Speaking to MyDerry about this new stage of their businesses, Deborah said: "We were trading separately as So27skincare and Koto Candles producing locally made natural skincare and candles. Following the success of the Re:imagine project funded by Derry & Strabane District Council and led by the fashion hub in Derry we decided to come together as Skin + Scent.
"We want to establish a local independent business that is really a one stop shop for the gift market. We create special collaboration packages that incorporates other locally made products and put that together for something that is a real treat for someone special."
Both Deborah and Catriona gained confidence and skills from the Re:Imagine pop-up, which brought local businesses together in their own trading space.
Deborah said: "The Re:Imagine project initially brought together 10 local designer and makers and gave us a unit in Foyleside Shopping centre to take over and use as our very own retail space. The experience was absolutely invaluable. We learned from each other, we learned how to make retail work for us, we built up a local customer base and gained experience in running a shop.
"It gave us the confidence, experience and motivation to take that next step. If it hadn't been for the Re:imagine project I don't think we would have had the skillset. So it really helped us minimise the risk aspect of taking on a physical space.
"Myself and Catriona just thought it would be such a waste to not try to build on the success of the Re:imagine project."
Already friends, these two Derry women pursued their individual dreams of opening their own business, and one day bringing them together.
Deborah said: "Turning a passion into business has been a pure joy. While there are aspects of running a business that we don't necessarily enjoy, it makes it easier because we love what we do. We genuinely believe that we are giving something new to the market with our focus on using natural ingredients.
"Myself and Catriona make a good pairing. We have been friends for nearly 30 years and always said we would start a business together some day."
READ NEXT:
- Derry mum wins national award after business venture inspired by family's life-threatening asthma attacks
- New Derry walking tour shines light on Inspirational Women of the Walled City
- ARC Fitness reflects on four years helping Derry people combat addiction
- Derry Girls actress hails "fitting tribute" to Mo Mowlam in Derry campus
To get the latest breaking news from Co Derry straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter.
