What started nine years ago at a local market stall has grown into something that none of us could have expected.
When 60 minutes and Channel 9 News featured Elaine our founder on a recent episode, it felt like the right moment to recap where we've been and where we're going.
It's not the whole story, but it's an honest part of it.
You have supported us from the beginning, and it only feels right that you see not just the products on your shelf (which we know you love!) but the people behind them (the smiles and the struggles), and what we are working towards.
We hope it gives you a sense of who we are, and how much your support means to us.
Watch a snippet of the feature below.
how it all began
Nine years ago, Elaine started selling skincare products at a local market. She used her professional knowledge as a Pharmacist to formulate every product with expertise and care.
There was no team, no strategy, and no over-arching roadmap at the time. Just the belief that her product (created out of desperation for a natural, effective and steroid-free cream which would provide long-lasting relief for her children's eczema) was needed, and that others would find it helpful. They did, and many times over.
The product range expanded. The business doubled year on year in those early days. Quietly and steadily, one customer at a time.
built for people and families
Melvory was never built around trends.
It was built around a genuine need for gentle, natural and effective skincare for Australian families. We select ingredients based on efficacy and scientific research. We opt for natural ingredients where it makes sense. And our product development is always centred on the skincare concerns of our community.
Our customers are real people with real skin concerns. They want gentle and effective skincare that they can afford. Many of them have been with us since the early market days.
That trust is something we hold carefully.
what's next for Melvory
We believe there is so much more ahead.
As discussed in the feature, we had been preparing to take Melvory to international markets. The groundwork is laid, the team is ready, and the product speaks for itself.
But like any stage of growth, it comes with uncertainty (and the recent Government changes announced have certainly given us pause). We are taking our time, making considered decisions, and moving forward in a way that reflects our value, just as we always have.
Thank you for being here. For every purchase, every message, every share.
It has mattered more than you know. We are so grateful to be building this with you.
A Little Note about being on TV
Image Caption: Elaine getting ready to be interviewed by Tara Brown from 60 minutes.
From Elaine: It's certain been a first for me being on TV! I was nervous about what they were going to ask me, and how this may be portrayed.
But as always, your comments of support has been overwhelming.
I feel incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to speak up for small businesses in Australia (from my perspective). Thank you for your messages of support. I read every one of them, and they keep my family and I going as we lead this business every day.
about the author
Elaine Yong
This article is written by Elaine Yong the founder and CEO of Melvory. She is a Pharmacist, who lives with her husband and 3 young children in Adelaide. All of Melvory's products are handmade with love in South Australia and are formulated with the highest quality ingredients. Seeing Melvory's products help families achieve better skin health fills Elaine's heart with so much joy, and that's why she does what she does!
