There isn’t much Terri Ayliffe can’t turn her hand to.
The talented Wombarra resident is probably best known locally as owner of Stanwell Park boutique Vertu, but she’s also a life coach, a writer, an artist and now, has created her own line of beauty products that pay homage to her connection with the Coal Coast.
A holiday to Japan sparked Terri’s interest in the use of charcoal as a beauty product, so she bravely set to work to create a brand of her own.
“I did some research and discovered the remarkable effects charcoal has on our skin,” says Terri, “and the tie-in with the Coal Coast was too big to ignore.
“I have a friend who makes beauty products so together we got to work to develop a range that is effective, affordable and natural.
“Selecting the right charcoal has been a significant step,” says Terri. “The active variety comes from the burning of bamboo and seashells, which we have been able to source from Japan, via a supplier in Sydney. It’s porous; so it really lifts the dirt form your face.
“We are also mindful of using only natural ingredients,” she says. “No microbeads! Just essential oils, coffee beans, coconut oil and the like. “
After months of product development, Terri says she began stocking Coal Coast Essentials in Vertu and the response was amazing. “People are crying out for simple, natural, effective beauty treatments,” she says. “Other businesses started demanding more of my Coal Coast Essentials, until I knew I had to choose between the beauty products and my shop. So I closed the doors and now focus entirely on my brand.”
Coal Coast Essentials is now available at selected stores right across coastal NSW and Terri is currently working on a charcoal-based toothpaste to add to her range.
Never still, building a beauty empire is not enough to keep Terri busy. She is also a passionate painter and spends at least two hours a day working n her art.
“I had a crazy and dysfunctional childhood,” she says, “so I’m a late bloomer. Six years ago, in my 40s, I picked up a pencil and started to draw, and I liked the headspace. It took me away from the world. I love it and I seek that space every single day.”
Coal Coast Essentials are available at retailers across the Northern Illawarra and Terri is planning an art exhibition at the Clifton School of Arts on July 7- 9 this year.
