Bringing her vision of ‘beauty with a conscience’ to life, Analisa Ariss has worked ambitiously to create a luxury beauty brand with natural, sustainable production and fair trade values at the heart of it’s philosophies. Combining these ethics with unapologetic indulgence, Analisa created Maddi Alexander; a collection of luxurious home-spa products, with a more playful side to them. This week the mum-of-two turned businesswoman reveals her key to Friday night family fun, interior design visions and of course, plenty on the guilt-free way to enjoying a little extravagance!
Sunday Brunch Spot:
I love Caffe Vivo in Newcastle, it’s located on the Quayside so it’s perfect for a walk after brunch.
Bliss out treatment:
I love hydrating facials! Anything that can provide immediate radiance within one hour of indulgent relaxation is definitely my treatment of choice.
Tipple:
Martini & lemonade with lots of ice.
Saturday Night - Dancing till dawn or takeaway and a movie?
Definitely a take away and a movie! Dancing sounds amazing, but I’m not sure I’d last till dawn! Life is so busy that Saturday nights are all about catching up with friends and family. There are a couple of lovely Italian restaurants around the corner from my house, so we often pick up some pizza. Oh and the movie would have to be romantic comedy of course.
My Top Products on The Urban Retreat Beautique:
Favourite day of the week and why?
I Love Fridays, I always try to plan for the following week and update my to-do list ready for a Monday and after a hectic week, Friday evenings tend to be a pyjama night with the family.
Top beauty tip:
I always remove my make-up and apply a night cream before going to bed.
Whilst you’re asleep your skin has the chance to repair itself so I take extra care before bed time. I make sure I’ve removed every last trace of make-up – even when I’m exhausted- and I always use a night cream. I like to try new things so I vary what I use but at the moment I’m using a Nutriganics night cream and
Dr. Nick Lowe range.
Top general health tip:
Smile and laughter (both are so infectious).
What inspired the name for your luxury home and beauty brand, Maddi Alexander?
I was walking through Ambleside in the Lake District and I came across a sign which said “let the beauty of what you love, be what you do.” It was one of those moments when you stand still, read something and totally absorb the words. The phrase really inspired me and I decided this would be the ethos of the company. Maddi Alexander’s character is evolving , her journey , travels and adventures inspire the fragrances and our products.
How does Maddi Alexander work to be a beauty brand with a conscience?
Whilst working as an ethical buyer, I loved learning about the stories and the
origins of the products and ingredients . When I started the development I wanted the brand to have a conscience, British made , sustainable , natural ingredients and to work with cooperatives whenever possible. Our Shea Butter is Fair trade body shea butter is from a group of women in Bolgatanga who are building a better life through their cooperative project. We really think about our packaging and always strive for it to be as eco-friendly as possible, whether that be recyclable, compostable, reusable.
When it comes to interior design, what kind of styles and looks do love seeing in a home?
I like to mix contemporary and modern styles together with a touch of glamour. I love homes which radiate warmth and a feeling that you’re welcome.
Who is your ultimate style icon and why?
Coco Chanel - classic yet timeless style , she had such vision.
What are the last three things you bought on your bankcard?
East Coast train ticket Newcastle to London , Chanel aftershave for my husbands birthday
and two pairs of pink shoes from Marks and Spencer for my daughters.