Meet the maker: the Dorset aromatherapist behind all of Outbuildings' incredible toiletries

Olivia, from Oleo Bodycare, is an award-winning aromatherapist based in Bridport

When you run yourself a bath at Outbuildings in one of our luxury tubs or step into one of our steamy rainfall showers, the bath soak or shampoo you reach for are completely unique to us. For us, luxury is in the detail and our curated in-room Outbuildings' toiletries have all been bespokely designed not just to pamper, but to transform a simple routine into a memorable experience for you.

That's where Olivia from Bridport-based company Oleo Bodycare comes in. She's the award-winning aromatherapist behind our signature hand and body lotions, washes, scrubs, soaks, shampoos and conditioners. When we started Outbuildings, we commissioned Olivia to blend something unique for our rooms; we wanted something that would elevate stays from enjoyable to unforgettable - and she delivered!

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What inspired you to start Oleo?

Olivia: "My love of aromatherapy and holistic skincare. I truly believe that what is good for the skin and body should also be good for the mind and planet. Starting a business creating my own products based on this ethos seemed like a natural step from my original profession as a massage therapist."

Why is using the best natural ingredients so important to you?

Olivia: "A product is only as good as the ingredients that it contains.  Oleo’s range is gentle, but effective.  To achieve this there is no room for synthetic, harsh chemicals – only the finest natural ingredients will produce the best skincare. The fragrances that I create are derived purely from essential oils, which possess therapeutic properties to positively affect the skin, mind and planet."

How did the partnership with Outbuildings begin?

Olivia: "I was fortunate enough to be approached by Ed and Dom because they wanted someone local who produced quality, luxury toiletries - and I fitted the bill!  We share a similar ethos in our approach to creating a businesses: thoughtful design and attention to detail."

Can you tell us about the bespoke products you created for Outbuildings?

Olivia: "Ed and Dom knew the kinds of aromas and products that they wanted guests to enjoy. So we got together at my workshop to create something really special. We blended essential oils and did a lot of sniffing! I guided the process using my years of experience and found some magical combinations that were ideal and the Oleo range for Outbuildings was born."

You can buy Outbuildings' signature products, created by Oleo, from our on-site shop or online

What makes these products unique to Outbuildings?

Olivia: "You won't be able to find these products anywhere else in the UK. They are unique to Outbuildings because we created them together and handmade by me. A few drops more or less of the essential oils in our recipe would completely change the overall aroma. What's more, I personally safeguard the exact recipes for all the Outbuildings' toiletries so nobody else can achieve quite the same fragrance."

Are your products popular with guests?

Olivia: "After using my products during their stay, a large proportion of guests purchase products from the Outbuildings' shop so they can recreate that rustic luxury when they return home. That's proof of their popularity I'd say! On a side note, I feel incredibly privileged to be associated with Outbuildings and being a part of the guests’ experience."

Where do you source your ingredients, and what makes them special?

Olivia: "I have been using the same suppliers since Oleo was founded 18 years ago.  We have wonderful working relationships. They are dedicated to providing the highest quality products and exceptional service. This is supported by the strictest quality and regulatory procedures, underpinned by a deep commitment to sustainability and ethical practices."

How do you ensure your products are as sustainable as possible?

Olivia: "All of the packaging I use is eco-friendly (recyclable, reusable or biodegradable).  I stringently source my natural ingredients from responsibly sourced suppliers.  I have a minimalist approach to waste reduction.  I use suppliers that are transparent about their goods and who have ethical practices like being cruelty-free, and focus on reducing their carbon footprint."

All of Olivia's products (including the Outbuildings' range) are cruelty-free

If you're interested in visiting Olivia's workshop whilst you're staying with us in Bridport, you can. Visits are by appointment only, so please contact Olivia to schedule a suitable time.

Happy Shopping!

The Outbuilding's Team