Raw Halo’s founding principles were for our chocolate to not just be tasty, but better for our health and the environment. Which is why our chocolate bars are certified organic by the Soil Association, and certified by the Vegan Society too.
So it made complete sense for our first ‘Meet the Founder’ article to talk to someone who’s brand we have loved, and admired, since it was established in 2014.
We knew we wanted to talk to the gorgeous Viola, founder of Lani, the vegan skin and hair care product range. So many of her personal values, and Lani’s founding principles, align with Raw Halo’s, so it was the obvious choice to start here.
We believe what goes onto your body should be just as important to your health as what goes into your body. What better way to look after your skin and your hair, than with beauty products that have been carefully handcrafted, with compassion for our planet, and the creatures that inhabit it.
Veganism extends far beyond what food choices you make, for many it is a lifestyle choice, not just a dietary one. It has its roots firmly grounded in the ethics of care and compassion, kindness and emotion, not just for animals and the environment but for all humankind too.
And Lani has gained a cult-like status among the vegan community, thanks to its dedication to campaigning against animal cruelty and promoting cruelty-free living by making natural and healthy life choices.
Go shop their beautiful range at lovelani.com
Brand Name
Lani
Describe your brand in one paragraph.
In essence Lani stands for affordable, natural, vegan, cruelty-free skin and hair care made with delicious tropical ingredients.
What was the inspiration behind your brand?
When I became vegan four years ago I realised I wanted to align my values with my everyday life so I decided to take the products I had been making for my skin and hair and turn them into an affordable skin and hair care range.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I start my day by having my favourite smoothie in bed whilst catching up on all things Lani. I’ve been making the same smoothie for years now and I look forward to it every single morning. It’s a simple blend of bananas, berries, oats, kale, spinach, hemp seeds and chia seeds. The rest of the day is either spent in front of my laptop or I’m busy making products and packing orders. All the products are hand-made in Nottingham and are made fresh every few weeks. In the evenings, I love getting creative in the kitchen and trying out new recipes. I got really into cooking over the last few years and love stumbling across easy, nutritious recipes.
What achievement have you celebrated the most since starting your business?
Being able to launch my own brand is something I wouldn’t have imagined was possible four years ago. It has enabled me to show that beauty products can be affordable, natural, cruelty-free and vegan and be incredibly effective at the same time. My biggest achievements by far are when I get feedback about how the brand has inspired people to transition to cruelty-free products and hearing people say what amazing results they’ve had from using the products.
What are the most important lessons you’ve learned since starting your business?
Planning and organisation are essential. It’s so important to have a structure to your day and set yourself goals and targets to ensure you’re always progressing.
Who inspires you and why?
I find inspiration in people like James Aspey and Earthling Ed who have an amazing ability to change the lives of others by showing them a different perspective in a positive and accessible way. There’s a host of amazing YouTubers also that put a lot of effort into their channel and show amazing vegan meal ideas, fitness tips and the likes.
What is your top tip for other entrepreneurs starting a business?
Stay true to yourself and your values. Lani was founded on my own ethical values and that gives me a platform that every part of the business is based on.
Which start up brands do you love and why?
I went to a vegan trade show a few years back and was really inspired by all the new brands that had stalls. There are so many amazing food start-ups cropping up that focus on making naughty food healthier, which I love.
Do you have a favourite quote?
How much space have I got? I am obsessed with quotes and I have many that I love. Some of my faves are by Jack Kerouac, John Muir and Oksana Rus just to name a few.
How do you balance work and home life?
Home and work life almost merge into one for me since running Lani is a full-time job. I love running my business but when times do get stressful I make sure to take time out. Cooking new recipes, reading books, going for meals and pamper sessions always help me relax.
What do you do to stay fit?
Currently I work out about three times a week and do a mix of hiit and strength training. I got into fitness about 3 years ago and would miss it if I stopped. It just feels so good to move, even if it’s only a 10-minute walk.
Describe your perfect meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner – and location…)
I couldn’t name a perfect meal since I like so many things. Of course, it would need to be packed with veggies and I love sweet treats like brownies. My boyfriend and I love being in nature and take a picnic along when the weather is nice.
Where is your favourite place in the world and why?
My hometown Nürnberg in Germany will always have a special place in my heart. I moved to the UK when I was 21 but try to go back a few times a year. I also really loved Hawaii. It’s such an incredible place and I’d love to go back one day.
If you had power to change one thing in this world, what would it be and why?
The oppression and use of animals for food, entertainment, clothing and cosmetics, and the end of violence between all humans.
And most importantly, what’s your favourite Raw Halo chocolate bar?
The Mylk + Goji Berry and Vanilla Bar is my fave! It’s sooo good!