Three Gems Natural Skincare is a small business based in sunny Nelson, handcrafting natural skin and body care using only pure ingredients – no chemicals, water or fillers.
The founder of Three Gems, Louise Routledge, says the inspiration to start her skincare business stemmed from the desperation of not being able to find skincare products that didn’t irritate her skin.
“It took me three years of trial and error; I eventually came up with a deodorant formula that is very effective and 100% natural. At the same time, I started making my own skin care – body butters, lip balm, face oil, cleansers and toner. These made great gifts for family and friends, who started wanting to purchase for themselves.”
Fast-forward to today, the business is 18 months old and their customer base has expanded to all of New Zealand, as well as parts of Australia. In addition to selling at the local Nelson markets and retailers, their whole range is available online.
When asked what her favourite thing about her job is, Louise struggled to whittle it down to just one.
“I love creating things from scratch and sharing them with others. It still gives me a real buzz to know that something I’ve created can help someone by giving them the clear complexion they are after, or the confidence that their deodorant will really work for them.”
Louise also expresses a lot of excitement when it comes to creating the products themselves and lets us in on the meaning behind the ‘Three Gems’ in the process as well.
“I’m in my element measuring out the ingredients, mixing them, and carefully spooning them in to their jars or tubes. I can truly say that each and every product is carefully made with love. The three gems are my grandchildren, Jazmin (the sparkling blue diamond), Jake (the greenstone pounamu) and Ruby (the gorgeous ruby). Each time I put a label on a product, I feel like I am giving them a hug.”
As for Louise’s secret to having loyal, returning customers? There is none – “it’s because my products really work!” she says. “They are honest products containing only 100% natural ingredients that need to be there – no water or fillers, so my customers know they are getting value for money.”
One thing that fills Louise with pride are the testimonials from her happy customers.
“The things that are important to me in skin are covered in full by Three Gems! I always get many compliments about my skin and at 46 l feel very happy that l’m using the most natural products l can with the best benefits l have ever experienced from beauty products! Many thanks Three Gems.” Catherine Kent, Nelson.
“I got the Natural Deodorant for my wife to try who’s always struggled with slightly overactive perspiration. She says that it’s amazing and really works!!! We are delighted! Thank you so much.” Damian, Christchurch
We asked Louise if she had any sage advice to offer aspiring business owners.
“Check that there is a demand for what you want to offer – then just do it! And trust your instincts all the way.”
“There is so much to learn, and the best way is by getting advice from the most experienced source you can and taking those first steps – and keep on taking them. I have found the steps are not always forwards – the backward steps are crucial to really finding out what works (and what doesn’t!), and it’s where the best lessons are learnt.” Make sure you protect your business like this one with a business insurance package.
Louise is also offering our lucky readers a 10% discount on purchases. Simply enter BIZCOVER at checkout when ordering online. Or mention BizCover if ordering in person.
