Latest news with #Niamh
Irish Post
17 hours ago
- Business
- Irish Post
How Ella and Jo became a global beauty brand
IN the crowded world of beauty and skincare, Ella & Jo stands out. Founded in 2017 by Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan, Ella & Jo has grown from a simple idea into a globally recognised Irish skincare brand. Before founding Ella & Jo, Niamh was a brand manager at Unilever and spent years travelling through the UK, Australia, and the U.S. before returning home to open her own skin clinic, Bella Beauty, which has been running for over 15 years. It was here, at the clinic, that Charlene and Niamh's paths first crossed. Charlene had forged her own path in the beauty world. 'I left college with an honours in marketing and then went on into digital marketing. I ended up setting up a really successful career in professional makeup artistry, and I worked on TV and media. My bridal makeup calendar was booked out two years in advance.' Their connection was instant. At the time, skincare wasn't the booming, consumer-friendly market it is today, and there were considerable gaps in the market. Those gaps would eventually inspire their first breakthrough product. Ella & Jo began with the Squeaky Clean Brush Cleanser. Niamh had seen firsthand in her clinic how dirty makeup brushes contributed to skin issues, while Charlene, a professional makeup artist, knew the importance of facial hygiene. 'From the very beginning up until now, everything at Ella & Jo is about consumer focus,' Charlene said. 'We never created products just for the product's sake.' For the first few years, the brand grew slowly and intentionally. 'At the time, Niamh and I had four children between the two of us. Everything was a slow drive,' Charlene said. 'But after participating in female entrepreneurship programmes, we recognised that there was something magic here.' The duo's participation in multiple programmes for entrepreneurs helped morph their small business into a multinational company. They poured their time, energy, and resources into Ella & Jo, and it paid off. 'Thankfully, we've seen incredible success to date. It's been an amazing journey.' The brand name itself is a nod to their roots: 'Ella' is inspired by Niamh's Bella Beauty clinic, and 'Jo' is a shortened version of Charlene's married surname. From the west of Ireland to the pages of Vogue (Photo by Ella and Jo) From the start, Ella & Jo has had a focus on storytelling and community. 'The community is at the heart of everything we do,' Charlene explained. 'No amount of advertising budget can ever buy that emotional connection that we've made.' That authentic relationship with their audience is also a key part of product development. 'We run surveys every 12 to 18 months with our current customer base. You would ask them, 'What would you like to see?'' Charlene said. That feedback loop has led to the creation of several standout products, including a night cream with a plant-based alternative to retinol and their innovative Invisible SPF Mist. 'We saw a gap in the market because women weren't topping up their SPF during the day because of their makeup. So we created something that solved that problem.' Ella & Jo is not only consumer-led but also deeply committed to sustainability. 'We've just been certified as a B Corp registered company,' Charlene revealed. 'There are only 66 companies in Ireland that have been B Corp approved, and that is a massive milestone.' From the beginning, the founders prioritised sustainable packaging—aluminium bottles, recyclable glass jars and minimal plastic use. They also manufacture exclusively in Ireland. From its roots in the west of Ireland, Ella & Jo has grown into a global brand, shipping to over 50 countries. 'Our online platform gave us insight into where the growth potential might be,' Charlene said. 'The UK was first in line; we saw a huge expat community there.' 'We signed on with Cat Deeley two years ago as our beauty ambassador. She had just moved from the States to the UK and adored the brand, and we worked with her to launch. That was hugely successful—our photo shoot with her was on the cover of Hello magazine.' Ella & Jo has also been featured in Vogue and has explored new markets in the U.S., Canada, and the Middle East. 'The growth is definitely there,' Charlene said. The founders are now turning their eyes toward spa recognition, developing products that bring luxury treatments into everyday routines. 'We developed products that were spa-like treatments at home. We're open to so many opportunities.' Charlene's advice for others looking to follow a similar path is clear: 'Surround yourself with people who have done it before and find the network. Find an entrepreneurship programme.' She also emphasised the importance of balance. 'Prioritise your well-being. Everybody's balance is going to look different.' 'I feel like Ella & Jo is so much more than just skincare,' Charlene said. 'We invest in storytelling. We invest in our community.' From a single brush cleanser to a globally recognised B Corp beauty brand, Ella & Jo proves that when passion meets purpose, great things can happen. See More: Beauty, Business, Charlene Flanagan, Ella And Jo, Niamh Ryan
Irish Independent
23-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
‘Huge relief' to Limerick parents as crèche gets €750k in funding for exciting expansion
The funding for Banogue Community Crèche has been allocated through the Building Blocks Capital Programme for Early Learning and Childcare, which is managed by the Department of Children to help provide thousands of additional affordable childcare places across the country. The staff are hoping for a new building which will allow the crèche to expand its services and relieve long-standing pressure on their growing waiting lists while also supporting working families across a wide area. Speaking about the impact of the funding with the Irish Independent, Assistant Manager Niamh Power said the development will benefit not only Banogue but also surrounding communities. 'We offer places to families not just from Banogue, but from Charleville, Kilmallock, Bruree, and even Bruff,' she said. 'A lot of parents drop their kids off here on their way to work. This funding will make a big difference, especially for those who've been on our waiting lists. It's a big help to everyone in the community,' she said. The crèche currently employs 25 staff, including early years educators, administrators, and kitchen staff. It offers care from infancy to school-age, including an after-school programme and full meal provision for every child. The centre has seen rising demand in recent years, a trend Niamh attributes partly to growth in the nearby national school. 'As the school across the road has grown, the demand for childcare has grown alongside it. We've really seen the need for expansion,' she added. The new funding will allow the crèche to expand capacity, improve facilities, and continue offering early education and care from 7:30am to 6pm daily. 'It's all very exciting,' said Niamh, who has worked at the crèche for the past three years. 'The children, staff, and families will all benefit. It's a huge relief to local parents who want reliable, nearby care without having to travel far.'
Irish Independent
21-05-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Tributes paid to Tour De Ballyfinnane stalwart volunteer
The tributes were paid earlier this month to Kevin by a friend and member of the organising committee for the Tour De Ballyfinnane event. 'Kevin's passing was far too soon and his loss is felt by all who knew him. He was a pure gentleman and he gave a huge amount of his time to local events, including involvement with the Tour de Ballyfinnane from day one to continuing his support of it on an annual basis, long after his daughters had left Ballyfinnane school,' they said. 'He was easy going, unassuming and always wore a smile. He didn't have a bad word to say about anyone and was always very jovial and quick-witted. No job was too big or too small, you just had to ask. Kevin was a man of many talents and he put these to good use helping others, the school and the hall In Ballyfinnane. When called upon, he was a steward, a painter, a gardener, an electrician, an alarm expert, a sweeper, a parking attendant, chair stacker but most of all he was a lovely man who brightened the lives of others who were fortunate to meet him,' the tributes continued. "He adored his daughters and I've no doubt his inimitable spirit will live on through Niamh, Caitlin and Megan. Only those whom the Gods love die young, this was certainly the case with Kevin, may your gentle soul rest in peace,' the tribute finished.
BBC News
16-05-2025
- Business
- BBC News
'Sounds professional and will grow on us all' - fans on stadium name
Everton have announced a naming rights deal for their new stadium, which will be called The Hill Dickinson what some fans think of the move:Phil: Love it, a proper company with a long term commitment. Everton moving up!Niamh: We don't like it and we prefer Bramley-Moore. The new stadium name highlights how society has become obsessed with economic opportunity where instead football should be a social and cultural celebration rather than a liquified Not a great name, but I think after all these years, it'll be continued to be called Bramley-Moore either Not sure about the new name. The deal might be worth big money but the name sets us up for endless mickey taking on the sponsors name. Surely it shouldn't be just about who stumps up the most cash? We have to live with this name until the deal runs out. Just ask Bolton Sounds just like a Football Manager regen name - but I quite like Not a great choice. What about the Dixie Dean Stadium or something better?Noel: I knew this new name would come as a shock to a lot of fans, however, it sounds professional and will grow on us all. Embrace the phoenix rising from the ashes. It's up to all of us fans to get on board, stick together and make this opportunity a big success Think it's a big let down from an iconic name off Goodison Park to Hill Dickinson. First big thing they had to get right and they messed it up. What a let down regardless of what money they paid for the privilege.
Metro
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
From Samsung to Scrub Daddy – here's our expert's 18 best buys for this weekend
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Not to be dramatic, but where has the week gone? It feels like only yesterday we delivered our last Trend Trove – still, it's been another hot week – and our shopping expert has been busy searching the high street for the hottest items you need to know about. From fashion, beauty, home, tech gadgets and latest launches, she's bringing you the good stuff. What do you need to know about this week? Well, just in time for the weekend, PizzaExpress is giving away free Dough Balls every time you dine, as part of its revamped loyalty scheme. New data shows Brits order a portion every 3 seconds, with the classic garlic butter version making up the majority. Just sign up to the PizzaExpress Club to start claiming. AURALEE and New Balance have teamed up once again to launch the AURALEE × New Balance 475, a sleek reimagining of the classic 1980s running silhouette. Debuted at Paris Men's Fashion Week, the collab drops globally today, May 15, featuring premium suede, mesh, and sun-faded tones in two vintage-inspired colourways. With refined detailing, co-branded extras, and a minimalist aesthetic, it's a stylish nod to retro runners with a modern twist. SHREDDY is turning up the heat with its brand-new fitness challenge, 3,2,1 Summer —a four-week countdown to feeling strong, confident, and summer-ready. Inspired by the viral '3,2,1' workout trend, the challenge kicks off Monday 19th May, and enrolment is officially open. Here's the breakdown: 3 strength sessions with powerhouse trainers Niamh and Bliss 2 fiery classes—expect sweat with Bianca and a barre burn with Alana 1 run or walk to move your body, your way More Trending And to sweeten the deal? SHREDDY is giving away a holiday every single week of the challenge. That's right—sweat now, sun later. Oh, and if that wasn't enough, Caffè Nero has just launched its first-ever Matcha range, and fans are already obsessed. Available in over 625 stores, the new Vanilla and Strawberry flavours are made with premium ceremonial-grade matcha from PerfectTed. Served hot or iced, they're smooth, energising, and here just in time for summer. With limited-edition drinks, returning favourites like the Tiramisu Iced Latte, and delivery via all major apps, your summer sip just got sorted. For the best bit? Here's loads of gorgeous things you can buy right now – yup, just a little click away and it's all yours. So, what are you waiting for? Nothing. Exactly. The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a compact flagship packed with premium features, including a vibrant 6.2-inch AMOLED display, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, and a versatile triple-lens camera system. It offers 12GB of RAM, up to 512GB of storage, and runs Android 15 with long-term update support. With a sleek, durable design, IP68 water resistance, and fast charging options, it's built for both performance and style – all in a pocket-friendly size. pre-order from £1,099 at samsung White Claw Green Apple is crisp, light, and made for sharing — just 95 kcals and 4.5% ABV per can. Whether you're at the pub or a festival, it's your go-to for cool, effortless refreshment. Born from the wave, loved across the UK. Buy Now for £25 (was £27.60) at amazon Stack it loud, stack it proud. The Bold Link Chain Bracelet in Gold is your go-to for instant wrist impact. Wear it solo for sleek shine or personalise it with Talisman Charms to tell your own story. Buy Now for £50 at astrid & miyu The Nespresso Travel Tumbler is a sleek, designer cup made for iced coffee lovers – stylish, spill-proof, and perfect for sipping on the go. Buy Now for £19 at nespresso Easy days and balmy nights call for comfort that doesn't compromise on style. Enter the Pointelle Baby T-Shirt – soft, breathable, and made for lounging. With its airy fabric, high neckline and short sleeves, it's the kind of nightwear you'll want to wear well past bedtime. Buy Now for £34 at adanola Pearls, but make them playful. This handmade necklace mixes baroque freshwater pearls with cheeky smiley faces and protective evil eye beads – a joyful twist on tradition. Whether it's for you or your favourite person, good vibes come guaranteed. Buy Now for £15 at peachy & wild from not on the high street Cleaning just got a remix. Method's new Deep House Clean multi-surface spray is here to turn your chores into a dancefloor moment. Infused with a limited-edition oud, saffron, and plum fragrance, it's inspired by the deep house beats we all secretly clean to. Bonus: scan the pack to unlock curated playlists by DJ Sarah Story. It's grime-fighting, mood-lifting, and totally cruelty-free. Spray, wipe, groove – repeat. Buy Now for £4 at amazon Skincare meets sun care in this weightless tinted SPF 30. With 12 adaptable shades, it blends like a dream while giving your skin that natural, lit-from-within glow. Protection never looked so good. Buy Now for £15.30 (was £17) at boots Orebella Salted Muse Eau de Parfum is a fresh, genderless fragrance from Bella Hadid's debut line. It blends sea salt, pink pepper, olive, lavender, and amber for a breezy, Mediterranean-inspired scent. Alcohol-free and oil-based, it's designed to be gentle on skin, long-lasting, and vegan-friendly – perfect for those who want a clean, skin-loving perfume with a unique, subtle twist. Buy Now for £67 at selfridges Featuring a halter neck and ribbon tie, we think the Poppy Delevingne Navy Tie Neck Alexa Bodysuit Top would look fantastic worn with white palazzo jeans or a navy midi skirt for an easy, comfortable but stylish outfit that's perfect for summer. Buy Now for £59 at nobody's child Cold brew, but make it caramel. Slow-steeped for hours, ready in seconds—this espresso-strength concentrate blends 100% Arabica beans with rich caramel notes for a smooth, barista-level base. Just add milk, shake up an espresso martini, or pour it over ice. No fuss, no fluff – just eight café-worthy coffees in one tiny carton. Buy soon for £6 at grind This ultra-nourishing body butter is formulated with a blend of safflower seed oil, coconut oil and shea butter for deep hydration and a natural, healthy sheen. It melts into skin, leaving a smooth, luminous finish that lasts and it has the most delicious, subtle vanilla and coconut scent. Buy Now for £22 at space nk These relaxed barrel-leg jeans feature seams at the knee for added curve, are made from heavier weight denim than the mid-blue Markus jeans to hold their shape, and have a mid-rise with button and zip fastening, along with side and back patch pockets. Buy Now for £99 at aligne The Disney Stitch Scrub Daddy is a limited-edition cleaning sponge shaped like Stitch from Lilo & Stitch. It features Scrub Daddy's signature FlexTexture® material that changes firmness with water temperature, is scratch-free, odour-resistant, and safe for all surfaces. It's both a fun collectible and a practical cleaning tool – perfect for Disney fans. Buy Now for £3.49 at scrub daddy After the sun-soaked success of With Love From Positano, Jo returns with a new scent story: With Love From Como. Inspired by dreamy days at Villa D'Este on Lake Como, this fragrance captures the essence of Italian summer – zesty citrus, aromatic basil, and that unmistakable lakeside breeze. Buy Now for £135 at jo loves Formulated with vitamin C, as well as fruit AHAs and salicylic acid, which combine to exfoliate the skin, moisturise, tone the pores and brighten the skin. The pads are infused with the potent blend of skin-loving ingredients, which you sweep on cleansed skin morning and night. Suitable for all skin types. BUY NOW FOR £49 at rodial Boost your hair and confidence with Body Building, the volumising routine crafted by Trichologists and adored by users. These lightweight formulas provide natural, touchable volume, root lift, and a healthy shine, taking your hair to new heights. Buy Now for £26 (was £44) – save 41% at philip kingsley So many gorgeous goodies, right! Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: From job interviews to first dates – why Aligne has you covered and fashion expert-selected wardrobe essentials MORE: Boots launches Premium Hair Edit Beauty Box – and it'll save you over £150 MORE: This top-rated concealer with SPF is the only summer staple we plan to wear this season
