In Conversation
With Clare McColl, founder of FENN - Paddington's renowned skincare oasis, offering a holistic approach to skin health and wellness, alongside a considered concept store.
How are you finding the balance between FENN and being a new mum? Some days are certainly easier than others, but that's ok! I'm learning to be more efficient and to go with my instincts (with both FENN and motherhood) there's always room for improvement, but I'm only human.
Has your perspective on your business and the way you view success changed since becoming a mum? I'm still striving for all the things I wanted before I had my son, I'm now just being a little more flexible with the timeframe that those things are achieved in and I'm totally ok with that. I don't want FENN to be a 5-minute fad, I'm building the business with longevity in mind and I believe it will continue to be successful 10 years down the track. That's what success would like to me, a long standing and reliable business our clients can always count on.
Are there any lessons you’ve learnt in motherhood that you feel you can apply to your business? Patience, self-awareness, understanding, don't sweat the small stuff, and perfection doesn't exist. To name a few...Has your skincare regime changed since becoming a mum? Not a whole lot to be honest, I've just reintroduced retinol (praise be) - I've just finished BF. Oh, and I do a sleep mask 2-3 times per week, best tired Mum hack. It makes your skin look super glowy, even though on the inside you're probably not feeling too crash hot.
What treatments do you recommend for new mums or anyone going through pregnancy? Honestly, and I know I'm biased but literally any of the facials we offer at FENN. I dream about that cloud bed...a lot! I need to do more treatments - it's such a special treat and source of self care. You're having a treatment for yourself so you can't go wrong.
What is the best advice you’ve received on motherhood? Get a goddam nipple shield!! And one line my cousin, Rosie, often quoted to me - particularly in the depths of the newborn trench.. "this too shall pass" and it does, and it gets better and better!
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