While we have all been thinking about how we can better support our local retailers of essential groceries, it is also the time to consider searching out your local producers of skincare. Here I talk to Jennifer at Coronation Soaps about life and business in lockdown.
Please tell us about your business and what you offer?
My business is called Coronation Soap. I sell handmade vegan lip balms, candles and soaps as well as resin-made items including coasters, artwork and ashtrays.
How long have you been based in Brighton?
I've been based in Brighton since the business started in November 2018.
What challenges has your business faced since we went into lockdown?
All the events I was booked for have been cancelled which means I've lost a lot of potential income I would've generated and lost out on growing my audience/customer base. It's been difficult to obtain materials needed to make custom orders due to delays in the post. The delays in the post also means any customers I do get are having to wait for their orders longer than usual. I'm chronically ill so I can't go out too much so I can only do post runs twice a week at maximum.
Would you say that the Support Local Facebook group and Brighton Quarantine website have been a help to your business?
The Brighton Quarantine website has been a help for me and I'm quite sure one of my latest orders came from someone who found me on there. The Support Local Facebook group has been interesting to read and helpful also.
What advice would you give to anyone who is struggling right now?
It's okay not to be productive everyday. We're going through collective trauma and that takes its toll on everyone in different ways. It's okay to do nothing sometimes.
What happy song makes you dance in your kitchen?!
"I'm Still Standing" by Elton John.
Anything further you'd like to tell us?
I organise a charity challenge called '12 Hour Charity Craftathon Challenge'. I'm organising the next one for the end of May to raise money for Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals Charity. I live stream the challenges free to watch on Twitch. I am going to set up the links to the JustGiving very soon.
Coronation Soaps can be found on Instagram at @coronationsoap
If you would like your business to feature in our Support Local series, email jo@co-women.org
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