As Harriet’s of Hove’s upcoming birthday bash and “Meet the Makers” market approaches, we’re excited to spotlight some of the wonderful local businesses who will be joining us! Today, we’re thrilled to introduce Cate and Lily Grundy, the mother-daughter duo behind 4 Thieves, who have been crafting natural, therapeutic skincare products that embody the spirit of self-care and environmental consciousness.
From Dream to Reality: The Beginnings of 4 Thieves
4 Thieves began as a lockdown project, a shared endeavour between Cate and Lily to create something positive. Driven by a lifelong passion for natural, synthetic-free skincare, Cate had always dreamed of building a business dedicated to wellness. As they started making products, the goal was to create items that supported immunity and self-care—a much-needed combination in a time of uncertainty.
“Our products started life as a lockdown project with my daughter as a way to do something positive together. We wanted to create gifts that supported immunity while also promoting self-care,” Cate shared. This intention blossomed into the 4 Thieves range, featuring blends known for their immunity-boosting and therapeutic qualities. The brand also began supporting Gambian Projects Overseas, a charity close to their hearts, with a portion of profits, underscoring their dedication to social good.
What Makes 4 Thieves Unique
The 4 Thieves line goes beyond simple skincare; it’s about creating mindful rituals with therapeutic benefits. Each product is crafted around two powerful blends: 4 Thieves and Heartsease.
4 Thieves – A powerful blend of lemon, rosemary, eucalyptus, clove, and cinnamon. Originally derived during the great plague, this blend is supported by modern science for its antiviral and antibacterial properties. It’s designed to offer protection and mental stimulation.
Heartsease – A newer blend formulated for healing, it incorporates violet leaf, orris, lavender, geranium, clary sage, and rose. This soothing mix aims to relieve anxiety and foster calm, making it ideal for stress relief and emotional recovery.
“We aim to create bath-time rituals and products that support specific needs, like immunity or healing,” says Cate. These blends are combined with skin-nourishing ingredients like rosehip and sweet almond oils, both organic and sustainably sourced, ensuring that each product is as gentle on the planet as it is on the skin.
Handmade with Love: The Crafting Process
All 4 Thieves products are handmade with care. Cate, who has completed certification in natural product creation, meticulously formulates each item in their home kitchen. One of the most enjoyable parts of the process for her is making balms, which involves melting candelilla wax, blending in oils, and carefully adding aromatherapy ingredients and vitamin E. Each step feels like “making a magic potion”—an experience Cate describes as both relaxing and fulfilling.
Meeting Harriet and Finding a Shared Vision
The partnership between 4 Thieves and Harriet’s of Hove began at the Clevegreen Festival, an event founded by Jo Child to bring together eco-conscious businesses. Cate was running a children’s toy swap and play area, where she met Harriet, who was speaking about her shop. Their shared values around sustainability, reducing plastic waste, and supporting natural ingredients formed an instant connection.
“My interest in natural products started from a love for the planet and a concern about synthetic agents and plastic pollution,” Cate explains. Harriet’s approach to eco-friendly retail was an ideal fit for 4 Thieves’ mission, solidifying a partnership rooted in mutual respect for the environment and a passion for mindful living.
A Unique Skincare Experience
Cate hopes that when customers use 4 Thieves products, they feel a sense of calm, healing, and mindfulness. The blends are crafted not just to pamper but to provide specific benefits, whether through an immunity-boosting balm or a calming bath salt.
“I hope people feel they’re taking time for themselves and experiencing a moment of healing,” Cate says. The products are equally thoughtful gifts, conveying care and well-being to loved ones.
Commitment to Sustainability
The commitment to sustainability is woven into every part of the 4 Thieves business. Avoiding synthetic pollutants, reducing plastic use, and creating products that align with the needs of the planet are fundamental to the brand. Their charity involvement extends this ethos, supporting both environmental and social causes.
What’s Next for 4 Thieves?
Cate and Lily are excited to expand their Heartsease line, bringing more products to market that focus on relaxation and stress relief. They’re also considering single oil products, providing customers with a wider choice of familiar scents. “The current blends are luxurious, but we’d love to offer simpler options too,” Cate says.
Advice for Budding Eco-Entrepreneurs
For those interested in starting a sustainable business, Cate’s advice is clear: “Follow your passion and stay true to your values. Make sure you have a network and are part of a caring community.” Being part of initiatives like Co-Women, Cate adds, has been invaluable for support and guidance, particularly during challenging times.
Meet Cate and Lily at Harriet’s Birthday Bash!
Cate and Lily will be joining us for Harriet’s of Hove’s sixth anniversary celebration, bringing along their 4 Thieves range to the “Meet the Makers” market. Join us on November 21st, from 6:30 to 9:00 pm, to explore these unique, sustainable products and learn more about the heart behind the brand.
Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful gift, seeking to reduce your environmental footprint, or simply want to enjoy self-care with a purpose, 4 Thieves offers something truly special. Don’t miss the chance to meet Cate and Lily, hear their story, and experience their beautiful range for yourself.