By KLTV Newsdesk
A creative Yorkshire candle maker has the sweet smell of success – inspiring a healthy mind and body in these troubled times.
Maureen Connor, the founder of Huddersfield-based Snug Aromatics, manufactures her own range of unique scents, with aromatherapy oils infused into handmade natural wax candles and reed diffusers.
Ambitious Maureen says she is aiming to double her business’ turnover to £250,000 over the next 12 months, recruiting staff and creating jobs as part of her growth strategy.
Maureen sells her candles in stores and to other businesses such as spas and hotels, and she also offers a subscription service and direct sales through her website.
Maureen also offers a unique ‘scent your wedding’ service which can start at pillar candles in the church and candles at the venue – to capture the scent of the whole day for lasting memories.
With 18 years of experience as an aromatherapist and perfumer, Maureen says the sense of smell is often underrated.
“One of the biggest things that can invoke memories, apart from music, is scent.
“Attached to a memory, it can instantly transport you back to a happy place and moment in time.
“Scent is more powerful than most people realise.”
Maureen’s business began three years ago and is based on natural ingredients and 10 distinctive and unique scents.
Pastel and pillar candles are the latest additions – joining her Snugglers Club – a subscription service where Maureen’s candles are delivered every month to loyal members at a discounted price.
Along with a commitment to quality, Maureen says passion and adaptability are key elements in Snug’s growth as shown by the response to two recent Snug innovations – the rainbow candle, and the Snug funded ‘nomination offer’ of a free votive for NHS staff and key workers, and contributions to local hospices.
Maureen says she is already preparing her Christmas collection and is excitedly planning the launch of an ethical ‘green’ toiletries range this Autumn, with bottles made of 100% fully recyclable and compostable sugar cane.
“Word of mouth, Snugglers Club and sending Snug products as gifts have helped the company grow at an impressive rate,” Maureen says.
“I also enjoy collaborating with customers to create bespoke scents.”
She says she’s extremely excited about her new toiletries range, created in response to repeated requests from our customers.
Maureen says Snug Aromatics recently won a business competition and has three MBA students working with her. As part of their studies, they recently created a questionnaire which was sent to all customers, and their positive feedback left Mo humbled – all five-star reviews.
“I didn’t know what to expect and it’s been very emotional since I have so much passion for what I do and I pride myself on customer service and the personal touch.”
Maureen emphasises: “I do everything myself. I create the scents and manufacture the products from start to finish, so every product is genuinely handmade and unique. And to receive such glowing comments makes it all worthwhile.
“In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to relax and unwind. My candles and diffusers are the perfect way to transport yourself to a calmer and more peaceful place.
“They can even create a romantic atmosphere and ambience. I’m hoping more and more people will enjoy the experience as my business burns even brighter.”
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