An East Lothian skin therapist has launched a partnership with a local skincare brand following support from Business Gateway.
Caryn Fower Advanced Skin Therapy is led by skin therapist Caryn Fower, whose approach is grounded in clinical expertise and holistic care, and has recently evolved through a new collaboration with fellow East Lothian business Raven Botanicals which creates all-natural, ethically produced skincare formulations.
Raven Botanicals was set up by sisters Arabella and Charlotte Harvey to create a range of natural, sustainable skincare products to care for and nourish the skin at every stage in life.
Caryn is now using and promoting Raven Botanicals natural formulations as part of her treatments, as well as developing a Raven signature facial, offering products for clients to take home as well.
Caryn has now expanded into new premises and is bringing together fellow sole traders in the spare treatment room to offer extended services to her growing client base.
Both businesses were finalists in the recent Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, which recognises the achievements of those who have demonstrated excellence in their field.
Caryn reached out to Business Gateway for support when she first started her business.
She received one-to-one advice on start-up planning, financial projections and successfully secured a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) New Business Support Grant from East Lothian Council, which helped cover essential set-up costs including her treatment licence, website domain and accounting software.
Caryn also regularly attends Business Gateway workshops and networking events to continue developing her business skills.
Arabella and Charlotte also reached out to Business Gateway when they started their business and worked initially with a start-up adviser.
They are now working with a growth officer and have had support in international trading from both Business Gateway and Scottish Enterprise as well as a UKSPF Business Growth and Innovation Grant, e-commerce and help from East Lothian Council.
Caryn Fower, founder of Caryn Fower Advanced Skin Therapy said: “Business Gateway helped me from the start, giving me practical advice, reassurance and the right introductions at the right time.
“Their support has been a big part of my journey to this point.
“Working with Raven Botanicals has been such a natural next step for my business.
“Our values around skincare and wellbeing are so well aligned, and the feedback from clients has been amazing.
“We wouldn’t have been brought together without Business Gateway, so we have them to thank for this partnership.”
Irene Ramsay, Business Gateway East Lothian adviser said: “This is a fantastic example of local expertise and female entrepreneurship coming together.
“Caryn, Arabella and Charlotte are committed, professional and focused on making a real impact in their field.
“Their collaboration shows how valuable the local business network can be, and we’re proud to have played a role in their continued success.”
