From solo founder to double award winner, Nadya of EssencesByNadya has carved a niche in the UK’s handmade skincare market with her thoughtful, hands-on approach to wellness. After winning the Online Marketplace Maker of the Year award in 2024, Nadya returned to the 2025 Maker Awards and claimed the title of Lone Wolf Maker of the Year, a category created to spotlight those creating exceptional impact entirely on their own.

EssencesByNadya is a handmade, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare brand offering natural oils for the face, body, hair and scalp, along with nourishing lip balms. Nadya handles every aspect of the business herself, from formulation and packaging to customer care, marketing, and logistics, all while balancing full-time work and parenting. Her Luxury Facial Oil, crafted in small batches and designed with sensitive skin in mind, has become a standout product that reflects her values of simplicity, care, and connection.

We caught up with Nadya following her latest award win to talk about the story behind the brand, the challenges she’s faced, and what’s next on her journey.

In Conversation with Nadya, Founder of EssencesByNadya

Please provide a brief overview of your business or what do you do within the company.

My name is Nadya, and I’m the founder of EssencesByNadya — a multi-award-winning, handmade, vegan, cruelty-free skincare and wellness brand rooted in love, tradition, and healing. We specialise in luxurious, all-natural oils for the face, body, hair, and lips, crafted gently to nourish not just the skin, but the soul too.

Our products are designed for those who seek authenticity, simplicity, and connection in their self-care rituals. As the founder, I lead everything from product formulation and customer care to branding, events, and growth strategy. I also speak directly to our beautiful community at events and online, because for me, it’s not just about selling products — it’s about creating a brand that feels like home.

What would you attribute as the main reason for your success?

The Heart. Every drop of every bottle we create is infused with love, care, and intention. I think our success comes from staying deeply connected to our values: authenticity, integrity, and genuine service. I take out the time to speak to all my followers and customers every day.

I’ve always put our customers at the centre of the journey — listening to their stories, their needs, and offering them more than skincare. It’s a connection, a feeling, a reminder to slow down and honour yourself.

I also believe consistency, resilience, and faith have played a big part. Building a business while working full-time and raising two teenage boys as a single mum hasn’t been easy — but my purpose has always kept me going.

What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome?

The biggest challenge has been juggling it all — full-time work, motherhood, and building a brand with no team, no investors, and limited time. There have been late nights, financial struggles, and moments of real doubt.

But turning pain into purpose has been part of the journey. I’ve faced personal and professional setbacks, but EssencesByNadya was born from a place of healing — and helping others heal through nature and self-love became my fuel.

What do you think made you stand out as a winner in the awards? Tell us about the specific project or facet of your business you believe earned you this award win.

I think what made EssencesByNadya stand out is the authenticity behind the brand. This isn’t a big team with a glossy budget — it’s a real woman pouring her soul into something meaningful.

The award-winning Luxury Facial Oil is a great example. It’s handmade in small batches with carefully chosen ingredients that are suitable even for sensitive skin. Every bottle is like a little love letter — and I think people can feel that.

I’ve also worked hard to create an emotional connection with our community, through storytelling, transparency, and presence. I don’t just sell skincare — I sell a lifestyle, a sense of belonging, and a reminder that you are worthy of care.

What is the next big step for you?

The next big step is scaling the business to reach more people across the UK and eventually expand into international markets. I’m focused on strengthening our online presence, launching with more retailers, introducing new product lines, and continuing to build a community-led brand rooted in purpose and self-care.

Would you recommend Business Awards UK to other businesses? If so, why?

Absolutely! Being recognised by Business Awards UK has been a beautiful validation of all the love and effort poured into EssencesByNadya. The process was supportive, professional, and gave my brand a real boost in visibility and credibility.

I’d encourage any small business owner or independent founder to go for it. You don’t need a massive team or a perfect story — just a heartfelt mission, dedication, and the courage to be seen.

Looking Ahead

Nadya’s journey with EssencesByNadya reminds us that impact is not reserved for large teams or major budgets. Her latest recognition as Lone Wolf Maker of the Year is a testament to what’s possible when dedication, independence and vision come together. Nadya remains committed to building a brand rooted in authenticity, care, and connection. Her story is one that we hope many aspiring makers will be inspired to follow.