TURNING five is a pretty momentous occasion for anyone. For Mariposa – a tiny niche fragrance and skincare store tucked away in Mt Lawley – it is an amazing feat.
“The support has been really heartwarming,” owner Bree Taylor said.
“It is a great feeling to have people love what you are doing; it’s like making new friends every day.
“My proudest achievement in the five years is that my staff have all pretty much been with me from the beginning.
“Coming to work every day is a pleasure. It is like having a little sisterhood in a shop full of beauty.
“I love my girls (unofficially and affectionately labelled The Spice Girls); without them Mariposa would not be as special as it is and my life wouldn’t be as warm and entertaining”.
Taylor studied colour therapy in her early 20s with her mum, who is a herbalist, naturopath, kinesiologist and colour therapist.
Growing up surrounded by books on herbs and aromatherapy, she showed a keen interest in health and well being.
Taylor said she could not imagine working anywhere else but Mt Lawley.
“I love the sense of community that Mt Lawley has; so many of my friends own businesses or work on Beaufort Street. It’s neat to come to work every day and see people you love.”
Taylor is inspired by strong, poetic women and lucky enough to have some of these women work in store.
“I truly believe if you have a vision, stick to it,” she said.
“I don’t want to cover all bases. I want to do what I believe in. I love skincare, fragrance, candles and make-up. That is my passion and I’d prefer to excel at what I love.”
“Every day when I get home, I take off my shoes and light a candle. That relaxes me instantly.
“Being a grown-up now and being in business for five years, life is full and busy; it’s why we need candles and a relaxing skincare routine, or just an amazing fragrance to get us through the days.”