Eleni Lasheen - Founder of So Fab London

How would you describe what you do?

I am the Co-Founder and Co-Director of So Fab London with over 14 years' experience in the industry. I trained with some of the most renowned names in each sector to perfect my skills.

What inspired you to found So Fab London?

I worked in the fashion industry for 15 years before setting up So Fab. As much as I loved the industry, I wanted a job where I felt I made a difference to people.
Coming from high-stress jobs that made it difficult to find a work/life balance, I realised how important it was for people to have a place where they could sit, relax and have some ‘me time’, away from the stress of everyday life. And so, So Fab beauty salon was born.

Can you tell us a bit more about So Fab London?

A friendly beauty salon and go-to destination. We use only premium beauty products and specialise in Bio Sculpture Gel, Elim Pedicures, LVL & Perron Rigot Wax Services. Our client base is from London, and is both national and international. It’s really important to us and the team that our clients feel they’ve spent quality time and are happy with the service we’ve given them. It makes our day when people leave the salon with a spring in their step – we feel our mission has been accomplished.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I just love meeting people. We are so lucky to have such a diverse client base and I love learning about different people and cultures. You are never too old to learn new things. But mostly, I enjoy uplifting others and making women feel good about themselves. Even just the simple compliment can make someone’s day, and as one of my favourite quotes says, ‘If you can be anything, be kind.’

What are you most proud of?

Firstly, I am so proud of Little Miss Fab and the amazing, strong, independent, resilient young lady she is turning out to be! She makes me so proud every day!

Secondly, we made it through all the Lockdowns!!!

But it was TOUGH.

We decided to keep busy by enrolling on extra beauty and business courses, starting up our online store and our ‘FAB BOX’ business. And of course, there was home-schooling! We definitely didn't sit still.

I am a fighter! And as much as I had dark days, the support of our amazing clients, family and friends made it all worthwhile and gave me the strength to keep fighting to keep So Fab alive.

Although last year was tough for lots of industries, the pandemic brought home how important our roles are to the community. People were so grateful when we re-opened and we realised that people really need our services to boost their confidence and self-esteem. We want to give them a sense of well-being or just be there to listen. This is why we love what we do.

What does wellbeing mean to you?

If you asked me this question before the pandemic, I would have found it difficult to answer as I always put myself last and soldier through. I now realise that I cannot be the best version of myself without making sure I do what works for me and making sure I have a bit of ‘me time’. Sometimes that might be 10 minutes and sometimes it might be a few hours. But the most important thing is to take time for yourself doing something you enjoy.

What is your self-care ritual?

I try to exercise 3-4 times a week and follow a healthy eating plan. It doesn't always go to plan but I don’t beat myself up about it, I just do what I can and listen to my body. (It’s taken a long time for me to achieve this mindset.)

In the morning after my workout, I apply Elan’s Face Cleanser while I am brushing my teeth. Then I shower using the chocolate/orange body scrub on my legs, butt cheeks and arms, and I use a hot flannel to wipe the oil cleanser off my face. I love how my skin feels after these products.

In the evening, I use the cleanser again. It's great for taking off make-up - especially mascara. Then I use either the Whisper Serum or the Vitamin C Serum + Hyaluronic Acid Serum Duo.

Why Elan Skincare?

I first invested in Elan Skincare in November 2020 after one of my clients told me about it. I liked the ethos of Elan Skincare and when I spoke to the founder Joanna over the phone, I immediately loved her passion, honesty and product knowledge. So, without even trying the product, following my gut and what my trusted client had told me, we placed our first order. Our clients absolutely loved the products, and so did we! We don’t invest in something unless we believe in it. As quick as our orders arrive, they fly off the shelves. Quality ingredients with fantastic results.