Exquisitely British - The British Entrepreneur Club for Luxury Brands 

An Interview with...

Lubna Ahmad

Founder of London Butterflies

By Clare Heighway - 3rd February 2015

Tell us about what yourself Lubna.

 

I had been working full time in London, first at the BBC World Service, then at a large Investment Bank for several years. I returned to work after the birth of my second child, but found myself in a bit of a rut so decided to take a career break. During my break my interest grew first from gardening and then into the benefits of using naturally active ingredients in everyday skin care. As my interest and passion grew I decided re-train and started making my own individual hand-made body care products. 

 

Where did the idea to start London Butterflies come from? 

 

Initially I made my products exclusively for myself. I enjoy the process of mixing and blending, trying different ingredients, natural oils and essences. But quickly I started to make products for family and friends, as I was able to offer personalised ingredients and scents to suit each individual customer, my reputation grew until I was taking small orders.  At that time I hadn’t even thought of the name London Butterflies, but then in 2012 on a trip to the Middle East I had my ‘light bulb’ moment! Quality British products are very well regarded - here in the UK and overseas. So a founding principle was to partner with only UK based companies. I am very proud to call my company after London the great city I call home and Butterflies, the whimsical creature attracted to delicate fragrances. 

 

Who is your ideal customer?

 

My ideal customers are ladies who enjoy looking after their skin. They enjoy using products which are paraben free, use botanicals and natural oils. Ladies who appreciate and support home grown products and companies.  We have had some wonderful comments and feedback from ladies which has given me great pleasure and encouragement.  And finally, ladies who enjoy the serious art of being pampered! 

What's been your biggest challenge?

 

As with many budding entrepreneurs, there are big challenges at different stages of the business journey.  Initially, trying to find a manufacturer to formulate, develop and produce products to my personal specification was a challenge. I now proudly work with some amazing UK based companies. 

 

What's been your biggest highlight?

 

Again, there have been many highlights from seeing my final products for the first time, seeing the website going live, the products being accepted by notonthehighstreet.com and more recently working with Birchbox UK to supply samples for their Valentine Day box.  

 

Who or what are you inspired by?

 

I totally admire, respect and am inspired by anyone who is willing to take an idea and turn it into a flourishing business.  I am especially inspired by female entrepreneurs such as Julie Deane, Cath Kidston, Victoria Beckham and Jo Malone.

 

Do you have any advice for other entrepreneurs?

 

Firstly, you should have passion, courage and conviction. Research and network with like-minded people as when things are not going to plan their support is invaluable. Be prepared as you may find yourself wearing several different hats in areas that you have no experience with. If possible work with a business mentor. Most importantly, enjoy the journey. 

 

What does your "typical" work day look like?

 

Like many entrepreneurs and business owners there is not a typical day. I have a home office so am usually at my desk by 8.00 answering and sending emails. The day can consist of meetings in London meeting suppliers and clients. Most days I am packing products to send out to customers later in the day, ready for next day collection. Some evenings I may find myself working until 11.00pm.  

 

Do you have any favourite British brands?

 

There are some amazing world class British brands to choose from however, I love the Cambridge Satchel Co, Anya Hindmarch, Boodles and Burberry plus many more.  

 

What do you think is important in developing a successful British brand?

 

Staying true to the founding principles. Go for quality over quantity and be prepared to work extremely hard as we are competing in a global market.  

 

What are your plans for the future?

 

Short term plans are to grow London Butterflies product range here in our home market. Then hopefully will be able to export to countries where quality British products are popular and finally long-term to grow London Butterflies into a lifestyle brand. 

 

 

To view London Butterflies' full collection visit them online at www.londonbutterflies.com.

 

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