Meet Sheelagh Arthurs, the creative entrepreneur making a positive impact on our community and environment. Her ShaMOUaee candles are made up of all natural oils and soy wax, with an Arabian flair.
Tell us about yourself.
Sheelagh Arthurs (SA): I’m Irish, left during “The Troubles” and have lived outside Ireland since. But it’s always my home. I came to Riyadh in 1981. I enjoy painting, pottery, yoga, reading, spending time with my grandchildren, and traveling with my husband.
Why/When did you start ShaMOUaee?
SA: I started the business in 2013 after organizing a Green Expo in Riyadh. While looking for environmentally friendly products, I noticed there was a lack of soy candles in Riyadh. I looked at this as an opportunity and a challenge and started to learn about natural oils and candle making. I took some classes in Europe and spent time learning about natural oils and fragrances, the effect they have on our bodies and minds.
What makes your products unique?
SA: Our products are handmade in Saudi Arabia. We base most of our fragrances on local and popular Saudi oils such as oud, musk, and amber. Our signature containers can be recycled, repurposed and reused.
What are the values of your company?
SA: We strive to use all natural oils; we do not use preservatives. Our core values include the 3Rs: recycle, repurpose and re-use, which can be seen in our packaging. We also believe in giving our customers the best value for their money by keeping our prices reasonable and using only top quality ingredients.
What was the most challenging part of starting your business?
SA: Without a doubt maintaining a steady supply of Eco Soy Wax. Recently the entire candle business took a big hit as the main supplier withdrew the best selling soy wax from the market. We are all working on the new replacement wax, also 100% natural soy. Getting our brand name out there and being recognized has also been a challenge.
Do you have advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
SA: As with life, there are always risks in business and no guarantees unless you get out there and take the risk you will never know just how successful you can be. If you don’t try you will never know what you are capable of.
What are your best selling products?
SA: The best sellers are Desert Blend and Oud fragrance candles, which many expatriates buy as a gift or souvenir for their loved ones back home. The other best seller is our indulgent and luxurious Massage Candles, a spa treatment for a fraction of the price you would pay in a salon. ShaMOUaee products are sold at Candles & Chalk Studio and the ShaMOUaee Facebook page and via Instagram, along with Desert Designs, Four Seasons, The Blossom Tree at Al Bustan, Luthan Hotel and in various coffee mornings and bazaars in Riyadh. In Jeddah, they’re available at ShaMOUaee. Jeddah. In Kuwait, at the Ornamentaliste, and in Dubai.
