Inverness woman adapts her business to match her lifestyle — focusing on wellness and health
When Stephanie Foran (38) set out to become a beauty therapist after leaving school, she knew one thing in her gut: one day she would have her own salon.
Since then, she’s gone on to work in various establishments around Scotland, and for the last 10 years, she has been the owner of The Dolls House in Inverness.
However, what she didn’t expect was for her vision to change and for her to step away from the ‘beauty’ world and into the world of wellness.
Having committed to being plant-based eight years ago, she’s since gone on to transform her life.
Now, she’s changed her business plan, with The Dolls House now becoming Willow & Blue—a sanctuary on Longman Drive catering to every element of holistic healing and health.
She now has over 14 people working within her premises, offering treatments such as an infrared sauna, hypnotherapy, yoga classes, mindfulness, and massage.
Speaking about the transformation while at the recently refurbished premises, the mum of two, said: “It was just like I changed. I had adopted all these new practices, and I no longer had the passion to do what I was doing.
“I loved everyone I worked with and all the clients, but I had changed. I no longer wanted to do what I was.
“I knew I wanted to offer something different to people, which focused on their overall wellbeing.
“That’s how Willow & Blue came about.”
Stephanie—alongside her business partner and long-time friend Kate Baxter—is now hoping to see Willow & Blue become the ‘new night out’ in Inverness.
“We want to provide an offering where people can come for birthdays, hen parties, corporate events, and much more.
“People can book in to do a sound bath, have facials, and enjoy our smoothie bar all at once. The options are unlimited, and we are so excited to invite people in, whatever the occasion is.”
Those wishing to visit Willow & Blue can also book in to enjoy a drink at The Detox Lounge, which offers a range of nutritional beverages and will soon see food added to the menu too.
An element Stephanie is very excited about is the retail unit, which includes a range of products such as skincare, candles, and crystals — all made in the local area.
She said: “Whether you need to get a gift for someone or just want to treat yourself to something, you are welcome to come along.”
Although Willow & Blue is an exciting adventure for Stephanie and is something she knows in her heart and soul she needs to do, it hasn’t always been plain sailing.
“It’s been hard, and it’s been a risk doing this,” she said.
“But I just knew this was something I needed to do.
“People say ‘oh, she’s a good businesswoman’, but really I just follow my gut.
“At the moment, I’m just taking it one week at a time and following that passion, as I know this is what I’m meant to be doing.”
