MEET THE FIND: Sonia Deasy of Pestle & Mortar

• Tell us about your brand and how you came about?

S: Whilst working alongside my husband in his portrait photography business, I noticed how dry and dull a lot of the subjects’ skin looked close up. I was also travelling a lot at the time, and I was frustrated that there didn’t seem to be a simple and effective skincare range on the market. I had always harboured an interest in the natural skincare arena. Coming from 7 generations of Indian Herbalists, the obvious solution for me was to research and develop my own products. Hence Pestle & Mortar. The brand is committed to providing simple solutions for beautiful skin. Skincare shouldn’t be complicated and it should deliver results – that’s my mantra!

• What’s your biggest challenge as a brand?

S: Keeping up with my ideas! The skincare industry changes rapidly and getting a new product into production can take up to 18 months. As a brand, we need to be thinking two years in advance. That can be challenging, especially when the day-to-day is busy and constantly changing.

• Tell us your favourite quote, mantra or best piece of advice

• Tell us your proudest moment as a business

S: There have been many proud moments but one that stands out for me is appearing on QVC, America’s largest TV shopping channel. The acceptance process is gruelling, as is the training. We sold-out in under 7 minutes with Superstar, our retinoid night oil (which was new at the time). For an Irish skincare brand to sell-out during a first appearance is unprecedented.

• Who is your hero?

S: My hero is my Dad. He taught me that simple values bring huge pleasure – hard work, fresh food, fresh air and family.

• What is your THE FIND?

S: It’s got to be our Pure Hyaluronic Serum. This was my first product so it has a special place in my heart! Apart from that, it’s a multi-tasking hydrating serum that delivers instant skin-plumping effects. I never go anywhere without it!

• Where are you off to on holiday this year?

S: I went to Spain with my family.

• What are your three favourite shops?

S: THE FIND, Gallery9 in Naas, Co. Kildare and Liberty London

• What time does your day start & how do you start it?

S: It starts between 6.30am and 7am. I go downstairs and drink a pint of warm water with lemon juice and savour the silence for about 10 minutes before my (5) children start their day!

• What are your three things could you not live without?

S: Pure Hyaluronic Serum, Pestle & Mortar Double Cleanse system and a fresh Chanel black mascara.

• What's your biggest extravagance?

S: Good shoes. I travel a lot and great shoes are essential. They have to be comfortable, stylish and adaptable for day and night. At the moment, I’m living in a pair of Gucci sliders…

Now, let’s FIND Out About You

• Wellies or Flip-Flops
• Bubble Bath or Hot Shower
• Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter
• Cinema or Theatre
• Paperback or Kindle
• Yoga or Run
• Pressed Juice or Cocktail
• Serums or Oils