Rebecca Saunders - Seekology

How would you describe what you do?

I'm the Founder + CEO of Seekology, the destination to shop for the best independent beauty and wellbeing brands. 

Whilst being a CEO sounds grand since Seekology is a very early stage business, this means I am responsible for everything, from brand relationships and landlord negotiations to being chief of printer paper!

What inspired you to found Seekology?

I was previously the beauty buyer for John Lewis and also worked at notonthehighstreet where I fell in love with working with smaller brands. However, I felt that something was missing in beauty and wellbeing retail, categories where customers want to feel and smell products before making a decision. And that an environment with impartial advice focused on discovering new brands would be a welcome addition to the high street.

Can you tell us a bit more about Seekology?

Seekology launched in November 2019 as the place to find a curated selection of the very best indie brands (like Elan!) in an environment focused on inspiration, education, and discovery. I also wanted to create a community of independent brands that could support one another to grow. It’s been a real roller coaster 18 months since launch, with our shops opening and closing according to Covid restrictions... but we are excited about the future and especially about our activities for British Beauty Week in Covent Garden.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I love helping small brands to grow - it's inspiring to work alongside so many fabulous founders. And I love the variety of being an entrepreneur, as every day is different.  

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of both launching a business baby and having an actual baby simultaneously. There have been many sleepless nights, but anything is possible when you put your mind to it (and when you ask for a lot of help).

What does wellbeing mean to you?

I think well-being is all about balance. I really like working, so I don't need a lot of time "off," but I do need time to myself every day. This could be a walk in the park, having a bath, or doing a little skincare ritual at home. Wellbeing is all about what's right for you as an individual, and I am definitely not preachy about it... in fact, my wellbeing also often involves chocolate and wine!

What is your self-care ritual?

I don't get to do this very often, but I love to relax in the bath with a candle, some music, and a magazine, using some delicious smelling bath products, of course. I follow this with some facial massage and a luxurious serum, like Elan Skincare's Dream Couple. 

Why Elan Skincare?

I was drawn to Elan Skincare due to Joanna's passion and the brand's blend of art and science, and once I tried the products, I was hooked! The serums are fantastic and are some of our bestsellers, and I know the chocolate orange flavoured body scrub is on several Christmas wish lists already. I have found a true collaborator in Joanna, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next for the brand!