Sheabutter Cottage

NEW PRODUCT AT SHEABUTTER COTTAGE

2012-01-17T21:31:00.002Z

NEW PRODUCT - PANTHENOL POWDER: http://akuawood.x-shops.com/product.php?productid=755&cat=1&page=2

We use this in a lot of our products including shampoos bars [rhassoul, etc.], sakari hair mask [http://akuawood.x-shops.com/product.php?productid=558&cat=0&page=1]

Akua Wood
ethical + fair trade business

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JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL

2011-12-22T10:36:00.001Z

We have been retailing and distributing the fabulous Tropic Isle Living range of Jamaican black castor oil in UK/Europe for 2 years and we are celebrating today with some price rollback.

We have also reintroduced FREE samples of this oil - great for the purse to slick back the hair, keep those eyebrows and lashes in check.

Get Tropical ..........

Akua

Sheabutter Cottage

SEASONS' GREETINGS

2011-12-21T01:29:00.000Z

NEW PRODUCTS AT CIOCCOLATINA

2011-12-04T18:55:00.001Z

I just love concocting products for both skin and hair and can now reveal 2 new products from the Cioccolatina range of natural toiletries:

* balance serum - a multi-purpose serum combining cucumber + ximenia oil for all types of skin

* sankofa oil - a soothing/stimulating oil with a herbal mix of amla + bhringraj

Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

SHEABUTTER COTTAGE @ AFRIDIZIAK

2011-11-28T18:48:00.001Z

We will be attending the AFRIDIZIAK event this Saturday as a vendor. Details can be found at http://www.afridiziak.com/xmas2011/index.html

Don't forget to print the coupon - we look forward to serving you.

Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

*UPDATED WITH SOME PHOTOS OF OUR SET-UP*

DISCOVERING THE SECRET OF SWAZILAND

2011-11-23T12:35:00.001Z

BFCM SAVINGS @ SHEABUTTER COTTAGE

2011-11-22T16:07:00.001Z

I have had my head literally buried in boxes since my return from the Kingdom of Swaziland.
Anyway, I know how we all want to save so why not take this opportunity. Some items listed have savings between 10% and 30%. Minimum quantities apply on some.

Happy shopping
Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

ALL PACKED

2011-11-07T13:57:00.000Z

I have the whipped shea, passport, reading glasses, cotton dresses and journal.

I also have few things for Vele and would like to thank all our Sheabutter Cottage customers who continue to support our helping hand programme - I will report back after visiting Vele + Swazi Secrets. ☺

I hope to update our facebook fanpage but this depends on time, etc.

Best wishes
Akua

SMILE

2011-10-29T23:59:00.001+01:00

I know I have been lazy keeping up with the blog posts whilst quite active on our Sheabutter Cottage facebook fanpage.
Things have got hectic at the "cottage" lately in between planning trips and ordering stock.

It is almost midnight and I am looking forward to enjoying the extra hour's sleep.

I just however wanted to leave you with this quote.

No smile is as beautiful as the one that struggles through the tears.

ALLAN WHO? ALLANBLACKIA - THE NEW KID IN TOWN

2011-10-19T17:38:00.000+01:00

Oh, allanblackia has a very gorgeous natural scent. A soft vanilla aroma with a melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Get to know more

SHEABUTTER COTTAGE AT NATURALLY FABULOUS

2011-10-04T19:42:00.002+01:00

We will be attending the Naturally Fabulous event this Saturday as a vendor. Details can be found at http://naturallyfab.eventbrite.com/

I hope you have already bought your ticket. Well, you can now print this coupon which is self explanatory:

Please note that we will not be showcasing all our products so you can order online for collection on Saturday - just let us know and we will refund your shipping charges.

Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

THANK YOU - YOUR ORDER MAKES A DIFFERENCE

2011-10-01T12:36:00.000+01:00

Good afternoon on this nice and sunny first day of a new month.
My cheeks feel warm to touch but not because of the warm weather but because of your support - thank you to everyone.
Yes, your order does make a difference and I can confirm that we have today paid health insurance for all 118 members of the 2 shea co-ops [Gubdanda + Gub-Kati-Gbai] in Ghana as well as Arahanatu Abukari (circled below) who is 7 years old and lives in Gumu.

(image taken at the Gubdanda inauguration in June 2010)

Arahanatu attends a school about 3 miles from home. Her mother Memunatu works at the shea co-op she will receive her share towards her education as follows:
₵20 per term
₵40 for books for the year
₵20 for school uniforms (including fabric + sewing)
₵5 health insurance
₵15 for 2 pairs of second-hand shoes

Thank you very much for supporting our helping hand programme which is stretched beyond Ghana.

Have a great month
Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

WHAT IS YELLOW SHEA?

2011-09-21T11:14:00.000+01:00

WARMING THE COCKLES OF THE HEART

2011-09-12T09:12:00.001+01:00

I am sure I am not alone in stating that my body can't get used to the cold damp British weather :(

Here is a recipe to boost the blood circulation, increase my vitamin C and hopefully kick sore throats and chilblains to the kerb. Blend all the ingredients together:
* 673g fresh pineapple (I chose the one from Ghana as this is not toooo sweet)
* 300g fresh orange juice
* 100g freshly blended ginger (adjust to suit)

The above recipe is quite thick and ginger is the first taste on the palate.

Enjoy

Akua Wood
http://www.sheabuttercottage.co.uk

via BlackBerry

THANK YOU

2011-09-10T13:54:00.001+01:00

On behalf of the entire Ekuase Bretou abusua of Asante Effiduase, Banko, Konongo-Odumase, Bompata, Abetifi, Yonso, Baworo, Attaasemanso, Akrofenso; the Royal Bretou houses of Mampong Botaase and Adanse Ahensan; the Oyoko Royal clan of Adwumakaase-Kese; the Royal Badoe family of Ekpu and Benyin, please accept my sincere gratitude for joining us last Saturday.

God Bless You
Akua

Akua Wood
http://www.sheabuttercottage.co.uk

via BlackBerry

SHEABUTTER COTTAGE : COMPETITION

2011-08-24T11:51:00.001+01:00

WATCH, LEARN & WIN

2011-08-11T14:01:00.003+01:00

Link to our facebook fanpage : http://www.facebook.com/sheabuttercottage

Good luck
Akua Wood

DISCOUNT COUPON FOR 13TH AUGUST

2011-08-08T21:10:00.004+01:00

Your discount coupon for Saturday UKMeetup [http://uknaturalhair.eventbrite.com] - just click and print BUT don't leave it behind!!!

See you there
Akua

JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL - JBCO

2011-08-07T19:41:00.002+01:00

For all you JBCO lovers, we are awaiting delivery of our consignment and can confirm that we will be stocking the 8oz size of the lavender bottle [we only have few bottles left of the 4oz].
We hope to receive the items next week.

I have been applying this on my hairline before bedtime for the past 2 days and boy oh boy, I sleep like a baby.
Until then, grab your bottle of Jamaican black castor oil
Akua

WHY SCRATCH WHEN YOU CAN SOOTHE?

2011-08-06T18:29:00.005+01:00

There is a lot of confusion around about whether to oil the scalp or not. Well, I was brought up to oil my scalp since not all of us can produce enough oil to "feed the hair" and apart from alopecia from thyroid problems, I have never had any issues with oiling my scalp.
Our scalp butter is made with carefully selected natural ingredients including mafura butter which we source directly from Swaziland to soothe the scalp and help strengthen the hair shaft. The scalp butter is subtly scented with essential oils and now has a new packaging. Check it out - http://akuawood.x-shops.com/product.php?productid=503&cat=29&page=3
Akua

PROSTATE CANCER

2011-08-03T12:38:00.003+01:00

"Prostate cancer generally affects men over 50, and is rarely found in younger men. It is the commonest type of cancer in men. Some ethnic groups have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer than others. For example, black African and black Caribbean men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than white men. Asian men have a lower risk of developing it."

I have been researching into prostrate cancer for few months now and it is refreshing to know that some vegetables/fruits we eat can help in the fight against this dreadful cancer: Macmillan cancer support Pomegranates and Prostate Health: A Research Report I was reading yesterday's newspaper when I came across this

Eat tomatoes with broccoli to fight prostate cancer: Tomatoes and broccoli are both known to help fight cancer, but together their impact is even more powerful.

Apparently, the combination of these colourful vegetables are effective in reducing the growth of the tumour. Tomatoes contain lycopene which is more effective when heated Broccoli contains polyphenols. Make your dish even more colourful with the addition of yellow [sweet] bell pepper which is a good source of antioxidant.

Akua

SHEABUTTER COTTAGE ON YOU TUBE

2011-07-23T13:50:00.005+01:00

I love moringa tea and recently made a tea with horsetail & nettle. YouTube will not allow me to upload the video via our old channel so here is our new channel which you can subscribe to This is a snippet of our "1st" video

You can order your moringa leaf powder at Sheabutter Cottage

SMALL BUSINESS WINS 3 AWARDS IN BERLIN

2011-06-22T19:24:00.007+01:00

After dispatching all the orders last Friday, I ended up packing my suitcase around 11pm to board a 7am flight to Berlin to attend an award event. I must admit that I was tired but was really looking forward to the trip as I had never visited Germany.
It was straight into a workshop on my arrival to meet other members of the African Women in Europe [AWE]. The workshop was led by Kanini Mutooni who did a fantastic job. Still bleary-eyed, I decided to visit the Berlin wall - well, you can't visit Berlin without seeing this historic wall. I thought a 30 minute round trip would earn me a sleep before the main event in the evening. How wrong was I!!! I ended up getting lost on my way back to the hotel - yeah, clever me disembarked at the wrong stop and ended up walking in the rain for almost 45 minutes to the hotel. By that time, I just needed a stretcher and a hot bath and probably my bed.

The main event started well meeting some dignitaries; His Excellency the Ghana ambassador to Germany - Mr Paul King Aryene, South African Embassy Deputy Head of Mission - Mrs Cassandra Mokone, the commercial attaché of Kenya embassy - Mr Konje.
Moving onto the award ceremony, I could not believe it when I received not 1 but 3 awards.

It was such a pleasure and emotional receiving the 3 awards in Berlin on 18th June 2011 for:
* innovative person
* company of the year
* AWE 1st award

AWE stands for African Women in Europe and it is a platform for socialising with other motivational & inspirational women.
I am still trying to recover from the event. I love what I do and just get on with it through trial and error. As a small business, we always insist on quality. We never compromise and this has led us to pursue our other passion which is looking after those at the 1st step of the supply chain - THE FARMERS!
We are pursuing this path because I feel it the right way to "put a little back" into their hard-work even if it means a lot of sacrifice including lack of sleep - I will continue to push along this path.

One of the awards included a FREE flight ticket to anywhere in Africa

and while most thought she would fly to her native Ghana, she chose Swaziland to visit Swazi Secrets.
"We are delighted that she is taking the opportunity to come to Swaziland and visit Swazi Secrets," said John Pearce, the International Marketing Manager of Swazi Indigenous Products, the company responsible for manufacturing Swazi Secrets products using the marula fruit.
Wood has another link to Swaziland as she uses her profits from Swazi Secrets sales to sponsor a young boy from Mpaka, Vele Maziya, to attend St Joseph’s School.
Pearce said she was very much looking forward to the opportunity to visit him and check on his progress.
"Akua has been selling Swazi Secrets for four years now and has built up quite a link with Swaziland, both with us and with sponsoring Maziya’s education," he said.

I would like to take this opportunity in thanking all our supporters and dedicate the awards to you and the farmers/supply chain.
Much love
Akua

THE SCIENCE OF BLACK HAIR

2011-06-16T13:15:00.006+01:00

I always love Wednesday. Maybe it is because I was born on that day?!

Anyway, yesterday, I managed to finish work earlier at "the cottage" even rewarding myself with a very very rare "me time" at THE BITE in Emmer Green.

I arrived home to a box waiting for me. The box contained copies of the lovely book The Science of Black Hair well written by Audrey.

You can grab a paperback black & white copy for immediate dispatch.

Akua Wood
http://www.sheabuttercottage.co.uk

REWARDS AT SHEABUTTER COTTAGE

2011-06-15T16:24:00.003+01:00

We recently introduced 2 types of rewards at Sheabutter Cottage:
1: CUSTOMER REFERAL REWARDS:
Earn points when you refer-your-friends to shop with us

2: CUSTOMER REWARD POINTS:
Collect points every time you shop with us.
You can use the points to pay for your shopping.- simples! :)

A BIT OF BRAZIL

2011-06-06T10:58:00.004+01:00

Well, after a loooooong wait and the rather non-typical British grey weekend, it was the samba this morning when I finally took delivery of 4 packages from Brazil containing virgin/unrefined murumuru butter, cupuacu butter, tucuma butter and pracaxi oil.

And here is the golden girl - pracaxi oil - so soft and moisturising with lots of behenic acid to help "iron out the wrinkles".

You can purchase the Brazilian range as follows:

Tucuma butter
Cupuacu butter
Pracaxi oil
Murumuru butter

Akua

MY HENNA TREATMENT

2011-05-30T21:24:00.000+01:00

The mad kitchen chemist in me loves concocting so in a need of a henna treatment before my next braids, I decided to mix the following - please read through

* 279g asparagus juice (left over water after boiling asparagus) - for silica content to strengthen the hair

* 148g rosemary leave-in conditioner or thick yoghurt - for extra conditioning
* 121g water
* 86g henna - to strengthen the hair
* 56g garlic - for sulphur content to help stimulate hair growth
* 30g shea oil - for gloss
* 20g dried nettle leaf - for silica content to strengthen the hair
* Cling film (saran wrap)
* Shower cap
* 14 HOURS OF PATIENCE

I never use henna for its colouring effect but rather for its strengthening benefits.

To start this process, I added the nettle leaf to the asparagus juice + water and simmered (not boiled) for 20 minutes. I strained and left it to cool.
I blended the whole cloves of garlic with the shea oil, added the nettle/asparagus juice, blended together before straining into the henna.
I then added a jar of our rosemary leave-in conditioner which had to be used up and left the mix to sit for 12 hours as I was too tired to proceed with the treatment at this point.

I had just taken my braids out so it was ideal to wash it before the henna treatment. I used a small amount of our afro shampoo bar.
Ah - shrunken afro - can't get away from this due to the nature of my hair.
12 hours later, I just love the consistency, not dripping.

First layer of henna applied - just look at how my shrunken afro has bounced back to life.

Second layer of henna. I never thought I would be using this much henna but I managed to slap everything onto my head.

3 layers of saran wrap + shower cap + 2 hours later: Time to wash out the treatment. Make sure you rinse it out with lukewarm water before washing with shampoo. What I did to finish off this treatment was to add a dollop of leave-in conditioner to a small amount of argan liquid shampoo and rinse out the treatment. This treatment was much easier to rinse out that my first attempt at henna some months ago.

Towel-dried the hair and braided it.

I am very happy with this treatment although the garlic scent was quite strong, I could feel it working on the scalp together with the rosemary.

More pictures from the process can be found on our facebook fanpage

SHEA - MY BEAUTY AID

2011-05-25T20:28:00.002+01:00

I am not getting any younger am I? Well, I guess I am the only one who can answer that!!! Yes I know.

I sometimes get asked about my beauty secret?!?!? Well, I use pure unrefined grade A shea butter from Ghana to keep my skin supple. I always keep a pot in my bag to moisturise my hands (soaps in washrooms dry my hands out) and to moisturise my lips.
I wanted to "shoot a video" today to answer few questions on unrefined shea but after a 48-hour diet of soup and fruits, I was not yet ready. Not been feeling too well lately and yes, I have also been massaging my chest with some shea.

Get a pot of pure unrefined shea and feel the difference

Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

AFRICAN BLACK SOAP

2011-05-19T19:18:00.001+01:00

As a soapmaker, I love the magic that happens when I stir a pot of oils with water and sodium/potassium hydroxide. However, I have more fun when I am making soap in a group.

African black soap is not an easy soap to make. It involves smoke, smoke and more smoke and has to be cooked outside in the open space. I had so much fun making a batch back in Ghana in April 2011. Unlike most bars of African black soap on the market, this is unique as it contains unrefined cocoa butter, neem + moringa and it is supplied in pack sizes of 50 for your own packaging/labeling/branding.

I hope you will have fun designing your own label. You can order your pack of soap here

FEELING CHARITABLE?

2011-05-14T10:51:00.002+01:00

As I sit back and reflect on the journey I have taken as a baby in Kumasi, through the boarding school of Achimota, learning the meaning of ILS and PAPI on a construction project in Accra and being a near middle-aged woman in Berkshire [UK], I smile through all the memories I have.
I have been lucky to always have easy access to toilet facilities from the bog standard to the unimaginable. However, every time I sit down to reflect on my visits to Gumu - Ghana, frustration sets in. Why? Well, because this village still lacks the use of a public place of convenience.
I visited the community in April 2011 and this is the progress so far The money raised has been used towards the purchase/moulding of blocks for construction. We are still a long way in completing this project and I can not wait to see this community benefit from the use of the KVIP.

So, if you are feeling charitable today then please feel free to donate via this page - GUMU APPEAL Thank you for your kindness
Akua Wood
Sheabutter Cottage

ABOUT TIME - DO YOU AGREE WITH ME?!?!?

2011-05-09T13:05:00.003+01:00

It is a new day and the beginning of a new week and I am rather chuffed to see this headline "Florida teenagers told to 'pull up their pants' by new law " via The Telegraph. Read the article here

SHEA LAUNDRY SOAP???

2011-04-25T17:29:00.004+01:00

Yes, don't shriek :)

There is something unforgiving when you are a soapmaker + a confessed kitchen chemist even without the degrees and certificates to prove it.
You might know by now that I am a big fan of pure unrefined grade A shea butter <<<-this is my beauty secret.
Anyway, I have always been on a shea mission to prove that this is a wonderful ingredient that you need in your life :). With the weather being so lovely in Britain (temperatures around 27°C) at this time of the year, I thought why not try my hands at shea laundry soap with just simple ingredients at home and last Saturday was the perfect day to put my kitchen chemist hat on.
The bars are curing at the moment but I could not resist today, trying to wash one dirty piece of item from my trip. I think the photos speak for themselves.

Akua Wood
Sheabutter Cottage

COCOA BUTTER SOAP

2011-04-24T10:59:00.005+01:00

Returned from a very interesting and rewarding although expensive trip to Ghana few days ago. If you have been following my posts with blurred photos on our facebook fan page, you would know learn a lot from this trip.
Anyway, today is Easter Sunday and in my attempt in avoiding stuffing myself with bars of chocolate, I decided to indulge in wrapping bars of our Afra cocoa butter soap.
This luxurious soap is made with a high amount of premium unrefined Ghanaian cocoa butter - indulge ♥

Happy Easter
Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

I AM IN AWE

2011-03-19T23:15:00.004Z

I like planning ahead but unfortunately, most of my suppliers seem to have a different agenda. It has been quite stressful lately trying to "crack the whip" so imagine my surprise when I returned home from the "cottage" last Wednesday to an e-mail that I had been nominated for the AWE Awards. My reaction was "Say WHAT? Me - 2 nominations!! WOW. Event in Germany?!?!"
I am truly honoured and would like to thank all those who have cast their votes. You may cast yours here

Thank you
Akua Wood
Sheabutter Cottage

JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL

2011-03-15T22:08:00.005Z

I always seem to get excited at the sight of brown boxes but cringe when i have to lift them up. Although it was quite back breaking for me today, I managed to unpack all these 8 HEAVY boxes of Jamaican black castor oil goodies from Tropic Isle Living.
Sorry about the blurred image - I was very excited as the stress levels were easing off

There is only one way to find out what got delivered including 2 new products - check out the Jamaican black castor oil range at Sheabutter Cottage
Off to burn the midnight oil.

Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

SANKOFA FACE CREAM

2011-03-11T12:35:00.005Z

You know what it is like when you have good intentions to handmake things. Well, sometimes your plans get delayed due to lack of ingredients and trying to find the right time to slot everything in.

After months of selling out of our lovely sankofa face cream, I can now happily say that we now have a new batch in stock including a limited supply of 100g jars. We still handmake our creams which can sometimes take 4 - 6 hours from preparation to decanting into the jars. Have a great weekend
Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

GHANA @ 54

2011-02-26T17:35:00.006Z

I am always like a kid on coca-cola when I go shopping and find many products from Ghana. I am very proud of my heritage and still have my Ghanaian passport. That pride stops me from swapping :)

Join us starting from 6pm today in wishing Ghana AYEKOO as the country celebrates its 54 year of independence. Over the next 10 days, we are offering gift vouchers worth ₵5.40cedis [£2.50GBP : $3.60USD : €2.70EUR] against your next purchase. Just add any product from our Made In Ghana range to your order and we will pop the gift voucher into your box - SIMPLE :)

Ghana AYEKOO
Ghana OSEYEE

Akua Wood
Proud to be a Ghanaian
Sheabutter Cottage

AYEKOO TO GHANAIAN COCOA FARMERS

2011-02-20T20:30:00.006Z

There are times at the "cottage" where lagging 25kg boxes around can be tedious but not when I have to carry a box of premium unrefined Ghanaian cocoa butter. The lovely rich aroma just melts all the aches and pains away - at least in my mind! Yes, I know, I have been called Rambo recently but the only knife I hold is normally to decant this decadent butter full of rich flavour. .

Join us this week in saying ayekoo to these hard working farmers who harvest this wonderful product dodging snakes as without them, we can't feed our chocolate craving nor pop our curls, nor "fade" our stretch marks nor bubble up with authentic African black soap.
Akuafo - ayekoo

Akua Wood
Sheabutter Cottage

THE 7-YEAR ITCH????

2011-02-01T09:19:00.004Z

It depends on where you scratch!!! 7 years ago today, I decided to set up another spoke on the Sheabutter Cottage umbrella. I was not in a creative mind at the time and decided to call it AkuaWood without being vain. What a journey from that very first day - very long, windy, dusty, bumpy, pot-holed with a mirage at times. However, with nerves of steel and eyes dipped in determination, I have picked up few passengers who have helped me to steer the wheel. I am still on the road topping up with my self-funded fuel.

To celebrate the journey so far, I will be posting 7 questions for 7 products to be won from our range over the next 7 days via our Sheabutter Cottage facebook fanpage . Come and join in the fun before the traffic lights change colour :)

Thank you to all those who are still on this journey with us.

Akua Wood
Sheabutter Cottage

SUPERFOOD SUNDAY

2011-01-30T19:32:00.006Z

Sunday is normally a day when I try to relax and prepare my mind and body for the working week ahead.
As I was in-charge of the kitchen today :), I decided to choose the following ingredients :
* adzuki beans : well, I noticed my first strand of grey hair the other day. I am wearing it with much pride and apart from stress being a factor, I also realise that it is a sign that my melanin levels are dropping which means I need to increase my folic acid content. Adzuki beans is a natural source for folic acid - folic acid helps maintain the natural colouring agent [melanin].

* virgin organic coconut oil : I love cooking with this oil because it helps to enhance the flavour of what I cook. I also love it because after undergoing a total thyroidectomy, this is the supplement I will rather ingest than the pills I was prescribed.

* kalonji seeds : these black tiny seeds are also known as black cumin which produces the black seed oil. It is used in naan bread. As an asthmatic, I read that it could help with this respiratory problem as well as alopecia which was caused by my thyroid problem :(

*mustard seeds/onions/garlic: to help give me that warm feel as it has been very cold lately. All three are rich in selenium which when taken internally, helps to prevent blood clots. Selenium is also useful in the fight against dandruff.

* cardamom : to heat up my body not forgetting my feet which take a lot of battering during the week.

GETTING THINGS OFF MY CHEST WITH KAYOBICLOTHING

2011-01-14T20:13:00.004Z

I am a woman of few words - I can honestly say that without pinching my nose.
I however sometimes like to get things off my chest and what a better way to do that than via the medium of a simple comfortable t-shirt.

Earlier this week, I answered a phone-call from a gentleman asking about our moringa leaf powder. As time went by, we started talking about African politics. This is one area which unfortunately has a very sore place in my heart. I have witnessed most African leaders in denial amongst others.
Anyway, I recently met Kwabena of KayobiClothing. One of Kwabena's t-shirt states "make fufu not war". Fufu is a starchy food in Ghana - best eaten with a lovely bowl of peppery soup. Imagine if most of these African leaders could wear one of these t-shirts sat around a bowl of fufu with soup rather than fighting each other!!!! I can only dream but until that dream becomes reality, why not enjoy the softness of Kwabena's comfortable t-shirts?

SPECIAL OFFER : SHEABUTTER

2011-01-11T19:20:00.005Z

I am a bit late in updating the blog with our current special offer - sorry :(
How much do you love shea? Enough to spread all over the body and hair and even share with the family? Well, we have a lot of tubs to go round with our special offer of 350g - high in vitamin e for your skin, low in £ for your pocket. Get your tub of pure unrefined shea butter

Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

AFRIHYIA PA

2011-01-07T16:36:00.004Z

Afrihyia Pa is our traditional way of saying Happy New Year in the Akan language [Ghana]. Thank you so much for all the support during 2010 - we feel humbled that you chose us to supply you with our range of products.
We look forward to supplying you again in 2011 [thank you so much for a very busy great start to the new year].

If you ever want to read some snippets from me when I am not processing orders nor chasing my rascals, then head over to our facebook fanpage where I have just posted something on Kwahu nsusua/Abetifi mogyaduro.
Have a great weekend
Akua
SheabutterCottage

FEED ME SOME CHOCOLATE

2010-12-11T10:51:00.005Z

I guess it is a bit early to eat some chocolate BUT what if you have waited for what seemed eternity?!?!? After a long wait in between nagging phone calls, text messages and even threats to purchase other chocolates, I finally received a package this morning with some bars freshly made as recent as 1st December 2010.
Ooohhh, the rich scent of Ghanaian chocolates just erased all that "anger".

I am drooling and really trying to resist a crunch - I wonder if you can resist though - visit Sheabutter Cottage for your Golden Tree chocolate

THE MILK FLOAT IS HERE

2010-10-21T20:10:00.004+01:00

It has been quite busy in-between organising soap production in Ghana, trips to the post office where I now have a "VIP" pass and restocking some of our products. Here is the new addition to the Cioccolatina range of handmade natural toiletries - a vegan friendly bamboo hair milk/spray.

Make sure you enter our competition before the 1st of November as we celebrate Cioccolatina @ 8

Take care
Akua Wood
Sheabutter Cottage

CIOCCOLATINA AT 8

2010-10-19T08:37:00.007+01:00

How time has flown by. Yes, Cioccolatina is celebrating it's 8th year of providing you a fine range of handmade natural toiletries.

Watch the video clip

and send your answers to eight@cioccolatina.co.uk by the closing date of 1st November 2010. A better video clip can be viewed on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42mz90PMJaM

Good luck.

MY CHEEKS ARE BLUSHING

2010-10-12T18:30:00.009+01:00

I bet you never thought I would say that!!! Well, they really are blushing with pride.
You know the saying "you wait for ages and 3 turn up". In my case, 2 turned up today. After a rather sleepless night, it was with such joy when I woke up to this picture:

This is in response to our initiative when I visited the Gumu village in June as part of our helping hand programme. I noticed that the community did not have any public place of convenience. Through your purchases and kind donations, we have so far raised £759.72 [£325.00 made up of individual donations] of our £4,675.00 target. Yes, a long way to go but this figure would enable us start construction.

I then received another picture just as the colour of my cheeks was returning to its normal hue.

In order to keep the co-ops working as shea nuts are not available all year round, we also commissioned them to make some shea butter soaps for us. Our supply of organic argan oil from Morocco was already in Ghana but production was delayed due to the supply of moringa oil from Uganda. However, the bubble machine was soon in action and here is the picture:

As always, the tools have been manufactured in Ghana:

Thank you all for your support. I can't wait to see these African beauties.
I am so full of pride as a soapmaker, a Ghanaian mumpreneur/socialpreneur and as a shea butter lover ♥

Akua Wood
SheabutterCottage.co.uk

PRESSED LOCALLY

2010-10-09T12:57:00.007+01:00

It is funny how as a young girl growing up in Ghana, I used to hate having my pictures taken. It was the time when you only had the black and white option with the negative strip - no colour. I was really scared. How times have changed!!! I still get shy in front of the camera but hey, I don't mind showing my "pearlies" and cheekbones in the name of PR ;)

Here is another picture when Peter got snappy The full article can be read here -.

JAPANESE CAMELLIA KISSI SEED OIL

2010-09-25T13:36:00.006+01:00

I was not worried to see the delivery man this morning even though I was still in my pjays. Why? Well, he had a heavy box of a long-awaited lovely oil.
I think the mischievous squirrels must have run away in horror as I yelled at the top of my voice. The excitment was a bit too much to handle.

Although Japanese camellia kissi oil. is new to our range of oils, it is not a new product to us. We used it back in 2007 in our men's shaving oil.
For a limited time only, we are offering a FREE bamboo face cloth with the purchase of 100ml of our Japanese camellia kissi oil.

HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE

2010-09-19T11:26:00.003+01:00

Imagine having an idea brought on by your talent but not being able to share with others due to lack of funds! It is not a pretty situation to be in.
We believe in empowering men & women
We believe in helping to make poverty history
If you have the same beliefs, then come and join us at our Sheabutter Cottage Kiva Community where $25 : £16 [at current exchange rate] can help make a difference.

IN LOVING MEMORY

2010-09-11T09:39:00.000+01:00

Remembering all those who lost their lives 9 years ago today.

COMPETITION - FOR THE LOVE OF COCOA

2010-09-07T13:12:00.002+01:00

NEW PRODUCT: ROSEWATER FROM MOROCCO

2010-09-03T21:10:00.004+01:00

Delicate, silky, fragrant and alcohol-free for your hair & skin available from our online shop

3-DIMENSIONAL VIRGIN ORGANIC COCONUT OIL

2010-09-02T09:26:00.004+01:00

This is a repost from our facebook fanpage [18.05.10]

Made from good quality fresh coconut at low temperatures.

This is not hydrogenated so it is soft to touch.

Pure and natural without any fillers (no bleaching agents, no foaming agents)

SKINCARE

* Used in most tanning lotions, it can also be used as an after-sun care to enhance the skin tone.

* Excellent as a skin moisturiser.

* Great as make-up remover

* Natural source of caprylic acid & lauric acid to help with skin problems as eczema and psoriasis

HAIRCARE

* Seals in hair moisture.

* Great for intensive deep conditioning hair treatment - warm the oil and massage into dry hair.

* Apply a small amount [1tsp] to coat the hair prior to swimming.

* Natural source of myristic acid to sooth the scalp

* Natural source of lauric acid to help suppress hair loss

COOKING

* Enhances the flavour

* Helps boost the immune system

* Unlike coconut milk, it does not contain sodium caseinate so it is ideal for vegans.

Get your supply at Sheabutter Cottage

MUMPRENEUR AWARDS - FINALIST

2010-08-20T10:20:00.002+01:00

I made it to the finals - woo hoo. Big thanks to all those who nominated me for Best Green Business Award which will be given to the finalist who has the most eco-friendly business or the business with the most unique way of keeping it green.

UCUUBA HAIR POMADE

2010-08-14T11:10:00.006+01:00

I love ucuuba butter. It is a tough butter to work with but the natural scent is so pleasing on the nostrils.
I made a fresh batch of our lovely ucuuba hair pomade yesterday evening. You might notice a change with the packaging but the ingredients to help promote shine and healthy hair have not changed.
Great for twisting the hair without any tacky feeling and it is vegan friendly too. Get your easy to fit palm-size container here

COUPON - CHIC AFRIQ

2010-08-13T21:12:00.003+01:00

The last time I attended a fair was more than 3 years ago. However, I could not resist this event to be held in London on 22nd August 2010. I know I have more than a week to finalise everything but I am panicking.
Anyway, please print out this image [double click for full image] to enjoy your discount at the show - it would be lovely to see you.

ADZUKI

2010-08-10T22:10:00.002+01:00

I am planning on treating myself to another facial this weekend - this time with our ground adzuki bean. It will be loosely based on the chickpea facial but without the salt.
Hopefully, this will sort my face out before attending the Chic Afriq summer sale in London.
You can also try mixing your own mask by getting a pouch of the medium fine ground adzuki bean

CHICKPEA ANYONE?

2010-08-05T19:53:00.004+01:00

I have always been a fan of ingredients in our kitchen cupboards which can easily be used on the skin. I was recently chatting to a friend when we just happened to talk about facials and she mentioned the use of chickpea flour.

Chickpeas are grown in the Mediterranean, western Asia, the Indian subcontinent and Australia. Domestically they can be sprouted within a few days all year round with a sprouter on a windowsill.
Mature chickpeas can be cooked and eaten cold in salads, cooked in stews, ground into a flour called gram flour (also known as besan and used primarily in Indian cuisine), ground and shaped in balls and fried as falafel, fermented to make an alcoholic drink similar to sake, stirred into a batter and baked to make farinata, cooked and ground into a paste called hummus or roasted, spiced and eaten as a snack (such as leblebi). Chick peas and bengal grams are used to make curries and are one of the most popular vegetarian foods in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the UK.

Although I did not get the exact measurements, I was given the ingredients as follows: * chickpea flour
* sugar
* salt
* vegetable oil
* fresh lemon juice
* turmeric

You basically add the oil, flour & lemon juice before adding the sugar & salt.
As I always mention, prime your face before treating yourself to a facial mask.
Apply the mixture, leave it on for ~ 30mins for it to dry. Gently massage your face before rinsing off.

Salt is a bit harsh on the face but this I believe will dissolve hence the addition of the sugar.

This is what I ended up using over the weekend:
*~ 2 tbs chickpea flour
* 1/2 lemon juice
* 1 tsp table salt
* 1/2 tsp turmeric
* 3/4 tbs shea oil
<- I know these were not weighed as I was camping at the time and did not have access to weighing scales :)
I know I looked like a warrior but the treatment was very effective and worth it.

MORINGA HAIR POMADE

2010-07-23T21:05:00.005+01:00

I seem to be working quite late these days ♥ I made a big batch of moringa pomade and posted the link on our Facebook fanpage around midnight on Thursday so it was really nice to receive this message this afternoon

Did i tell you how much i love the moringa pomade? I love love love it! I have to say I hate picking a favorite between the three hair butters/pomades but the moringa...wow!! I am not sure which ingredient is responsible for defining the hair so much .. and the scent of palm[kernel] oil...yummy!! just had to tell you that!!!

I hope I have made enough to get your hair all nice and soft with a little shine :) Read more about this handmade natural moringa pomade via our site

TUCUMA HAIR BUTTER

2010-07-20T10:22:00.007+01:00

When I introduced this hair butter in June 2009, I never knew it would affect my sleep ;)
I love my job but then I also love my sleep. I am writing this feeling like a zombie as I stayed up all night to make this fresh batch of tucuma hair butter. At least I know it would be worth the lack of my beauty sleep as some thirsty hair strands are waiting to be moisturised.

Grab your jar and get your hair pampered

PASUCA & MUNGALA

2010-07-15T17:09:00.006+01:00

It has been a very long day but then staring at these cuties make me very proud. Say hello to Pasuca & Mungala - just be nice to them as they have traveled a very long distance to get here. This is the fruit of our labour in Ghana where I worked with a great community spirit to get these made. It was fun stirring the big cauldron especially when some of the oils had been sent over from Uganda & Swaziland. Find out more of these soaps via our site

ROSEMARY IS BACK WITH A NEW DRESS

2010-07-10T10:51:00.006+01:00

Ok, I am referring to our gorgeous rosemary leave-in conditioner. Fresh batch now available in new packaging. We have now decided to opt for a jar rather than the lotion pump to make it easier in moisturising those curls and helping with a little gloss on your crowning glory.

Ah, but do not wait too long as there is a special 10% discount valid till midnight of 12th July 2010.

Feed your hair this way >>>

SNIFF SNIFF

2010-07-07T12:32:00.005+01:00

The birds are tweeting, the air is calm and I can just about see the clouds through the oak trees. There is a mix of sweet, floral & herbaceous scent lingering as I type. Why? Well, I am excited to introduce 4 new essential oils into our range.

* Madagascar vanilla in coconut
* Egyptian geranium
* Caribbean bay
* Guatemalan lemongrass
Pop by our online store and start blending a spoonful of that with a drop of this.

GROUND SHEA KERNEL

2010-07-05T11:34:00.005+01:00

We are nuts about sheabutter here at Sheabutter Cottage. We like to break boundaries with this wonderful natural ingredient in its pure form and can now offer you the ground shea kernel for gentle exfoliation.

Available in 50g pouches in slightly coarse or fine texture, you can grab one or two for your soaps or face masks via our online store

SPEECHES AND DANCING TO THE SOCIAL TUNE BEYOND FAIR TRADE

2010-07-01T21:46:00.004+01:00

I have spent the last few days trying to edit video clips of my trip to Ghana. Some people thought I was going on a holiday to a very warm country close to my heart. Well, the latter was true but it was all hard work with no lazying around. At least, I got the chance to meet some amazing people and survived working alongside another workaholic. Hope you enjoy these two videos.

WORKING TRIP TO GHANA - JUNE 2010

2010-06-28T19:33:00.001+01:00

Open publication - Free publishing

IS IT WRONG TO BE SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE?

2010-06-25T08:25:00.007+01:00

As a Ghanaian - born & educated in Ghana, I have experienced poverty. I even remember the "not so fashionable Rawlings' chain". However, nothing prepared me for what I recently witnessed whilst working in Gumu in Northern Ghana. I have set up a page to appeal for donations on behalf of this warm loving community and hope that you can help.

YELLOW SHEA & KOMBO BUTTER

2010-06-24T16:37:00.004+01:00

BUY YOUR KOMBO BUTTER HERE

NO REST FOR THE WICKED

2010-06-18T00:28:00.018+01:00

It has been hard work trying to get things done under the intense Ghanaian sun. I was hoping to be reporting from the pool side sipping a chilled glass of Amarula but alas, it is almost midnight in Accra, I am wearing socks as the 'quitoes make fun of my sunripe ankles and I have a cold cup of strong tea to keep be hydrated.
My stay in Ghana is almost over and it has been work, work and keep working. I now need a holiday!!!
Anyway, the purpose of this trip has been 90% fulfilled - who knows, I might return in time to work on the remaining 10% before the 7 year old road works in Accra are completed!!!

The work schedule started with the inauguration of OhanaPassion.org a day after my arrival. I know I look terrified in the photo - I was tired and the microphone was also playing up.

Soon after the inauguration, I traveled North where I was based for 5 working days working at Gumu.

I had to inspect a soap mould soon after my arrival. At least I know it is from recycled metal - what a bonus.

I worked with the lovely ladies and men including Madam Samata Iddi who was sooooo funny and very very hardworking. Even though there was the language barrier {I don't speak Dagbani and most of the women do not speak English nor my local dialect, Twi}, we had 1 thing in common which was to educate ourselves through empowerment.

They were pleased to learn that I had managed to pay their annual Health Insurance fees.

I saw myself clad in this beautiful blue stripped fabric with gold thread after the inauguration of the co-op on Friday 11th June 2010. This was a lovely unexpected gift from the co-op.

I was invited to another village after the inauguration to visit another co-op. We hope to also adopt this co-op which is currently made up of 66 women.

I had planned on visiting cocoa farmers but I soon realised that I was few weeks late as they had harvested the crops. I managed to sneak onto a farm though on Wednesday on my return from Kumasi - my birthplace. Sorry for the blurred image, the battery was nearing death and we were also scarred of snakes that lurk beneath the cocoa trees.

Today was full of meetings so I decided to start the day harvesting some moringa seeds

ROCK YOUR 'FRO

2010-06-01T09:11:00.005+01:00

YAY - it is competition time.

See details on our Facebook fan page

KEEP COOL WITH A T

2010-05-24T16:10:00.003+01:00

Working at the "cottage" means no more high heels nor skirt suits. I am always dressed down like a female Ranulph Fiennes as the "cottage" can get pretty cooooold. It is however nice and cool during the warm weather and I prefer to work in a t-shirt.

If you like to keep cool with an organic t-shirt, then pop over to our facebook fan page where you can win one in our Spread Hope prize giveaway. Winner(s) will be selected on Thursday 27th May 2010 so arm yourself with some knowledge about Sheabutter Cottage :)

OLIVE SQUALANE

2010-05-21T10:24:00.005+01:00

We have been using this lovely light oil for years in our range of products

and can now offer it to you to bring the mixtress out of you. Visit our store for your bottle.

SALAMATU IS GOING

2010-05-15T16:23:00.005+01:00

Named after the secretary of the shea co-op in Gumu, we created this soap with 100% from sale being donated to the lovely ladies in Ghana - ie. all £2.90 of it.
We have now reduced it to clear [£2.03] to make room for an exciting project we are working on.
Grab a bar before it disappears from our site.

IT SHOULD NOT BE A CHORE

2010-05-13T19:51:00.006+01:00

to comb your hair!

Whichever hair style you wear, this cute comb will help to detangle the knots. Just don't leave the house without it - compact enough for your pocket.

DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS!

2010-05-12T09:14:00.008+01:00

Here is a special offer on our pure unrefined creamy fair trade raw shea butter - we DO NOT compromise on quality.
Sometimes you need to use up containers taking up space hence this special offer.
Great size and value for family use too.
Grab a 425g tub of pure unrefined fair trade shea butter @ £9.75. At such a good price if I may say so, it will be a shame to miss out. Great for top2toe use:
* great as a hair conditioner
* great as a face mask
* great for all family members
* great for skin elasticity
* great for ......... the list goes on

HAPY FRIDAY - DOING THE SHEA DANCE

2010-05-07T23:23:00.007+01:00

It has been an interesting week with the Bank holiday + elections and could not wait for today to do my happy shea dance.
If you follow me on twitter, you might have "heard me" moan for the past 10 days about our shea consignment from Ghana which was stuck at Felixstowe. Well my patience for waiting was rewarded today as I took delivery of our consignment of pure unrefined fair trade shea butter from Gumu. This is for bulk purchases of 25kgs+
I fully appreciated the advantage of having a unit on a working farm as I had to request a forklift within few minutes to off-load the consignment. I never thought I would get excited over a wooden pallet.
To end on a happy day, I had also received a notification via e-mail with the heading "Congratulations Akuawood." I was really curious to see what this was all about and here is the reason why.
I am so chuffed to bits to see our karite soap in EasyLiving

WHAT DO YOU BID?

2010-05-01T23:00:00.007+01:00

After months and months of never ending planning, O'hana Passion is finally born. Inauguration is scheduled for 5th June 2010 and we have decided to allow you to bid on this lovely handmade natural shea gift via eBay with every penny donated to O'hana Passion.

O'hana Passion [http://www.ohanapassion.org] is a registered local humanitarian organisation in Ghana that seeks the welfare and holistic development of disadvantaged and vulnerable children.
* VISION: Reaching out to disadvantaged and vulnerable children with love
* MISSION: Ensuring the psychosocial well being of the disadvantaged and vulnerable child
* OBJECTIVES: To show love, guidance and attention. Mobilise resources to improve care and support

Place your bids now and let us help put a smile on a child's face.

SWEET AND JAZZY

2010-04-30T16:12:00.004+01:00

Once upon a time, I used to be able to thumb the floor with my dancing shoes and swing those hips.

Music for me is the universal language - I know football fans would disagree - but what the hey!!! I love music and this morning with the sun shining and the "world on my shoulders", I was sent a link by one of my friends Yasmeen. I have met Yasmeen but never heard her singing voice until now. Her voice is sweet on the ears. Have a listen and enjoy. The song seems to have a calming effect on me.

BANK HOLIDAY PROMO

2010-04-30T07:37:00.002+01:00

WHY BLACK WHEN IT IS BROWN IN COLOUR?

2010-04-22T23:24:00.001+01:00

WHICH PALM? ADWENGO IS GOOD FOR THE HAIR.

2010-04-18T11:50:00.005+01:00

Grab a bottle

BACK IN FULL SWING

2010-04-15T10:23:00.011+01:00

Actually, I never went away. I took time off work although ironically, I was working behind the scenes. So much has been happening at Sheabutter Cottage and I would like to take this opportunity in thanking you for your support.

GUMU - GHANA: I am pleased to say that we have managed to raise 281.7% of our target [as of 11.Apr]. We hope that we can hit a 300% target before I visit the lovely ladies in June.
Our latest donation to Gumu was a much needed one to provide a roof before the raining season. I was glad to receive a phonecall yesterday to confirm this had been carried out. Some of the money also went towards providing a pipeline. Learn a bit more of this co-op.

NGO/CHARITY: Back in December 2009, I mentioned "I finally signed documents for the formation of our Ghanaian based company [NGO/Charity]. This will be to help meet the psychosocial needs of disadvantaged and vulnerable children". We are now planning on the inauguration in June.

KOMBO BUTTER: I sometimes receive requests for items that we do not necessarily stock due to our sourcing policy. I was excited though to be challenged with this butter. I actually did not have to look far as I managed to track this butter down whilst chatting to one of the ladies at Gumu. The butter was delivered yesterday - freshly pressed and is now available : on our site

NEW PRODUCTS @ CIOCCOLATINA: We have been known for our range of fair trade exotic supplies. However, we still make our range of natural toiletries under the Cioccolatina brand. Yes, all the products are handmade by yours truly and here is the latest offering:
Scalp butter
Frankincense & Lavender gift pack
Frankincense & Lavender shea soap
Frankincense & Lavender whipped shea

Until next time, keep pampering your skin.
Akua
Sheabutter Cottage

HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOUR HAIR IS LACKING PROTEIN

2010-03-29T15:05:00.005+01:00

Black hair is prone to breakage. Some amount of hair loss is natural, but most hair loss in black women stems from mistreatment or a disproportionate amount of moisture or protein. Many stylists who focus on healthy black hair will tell you that your hair demands a balance of moisture and protein. Nothing else that you do to obtain a head of healthy black hair will matter if you that balance is thrown off. Follow these steps to test your hair.

Instructions
1. WET YOUR HAIR
It is best to do this test after you have shampooed your hair. While it is still wet you will need to grip about an inch of your hair between your fingers.

2. STRETCH THE WET STRANDS OF HAIR
Take the inch of wet hair and run a comb through it. Make sure that it is not tangled when you do this - you don't want to harm your hair. And remember, it is always best to use a wide-tooth comb in black hair

3. OBSERVE
Pay close attention to the way that the hair strands react after they have been combed. Healthy black hair strands will stretch, but they will not break unless they are under an extreme amount of stress. Again, what you are looking for in this step is to see how your hair reacts to the wet stretch.

4. DIAGNOSE
If your hair stretches just a little, then returns to its normal length without breakage, your hair is balanced. Good job, you're done!
If your hair exhibits any of the following tendencies, you need to focus on moisturizing:
* Does not stretch at all, then breaks
* Is extremely rough and brittle

If your hair exhibits any of the following tendencies, you need to focus on protein:
* Is limp and gummy feeling/looking
* Stretches a long way then proceeds to break off

5. TREAT
After you have found out which problem is affecting your hair, you will need to address it. Any stylist will tell you that lack of moisture is usually the problem for black hair. But, there are times when lack of protein is the issue. In either case, here is how you can solve each problem:

Lack of MOISTURE:
This one is simple. Black hair needs a great deal of moisture because it is very porous. Look for moisturizing conditioners or moisturizing creams, then make sure to seal in the moisture with a light oil sheen
Lack of PROTEIN: There are many protein treatments for black hair. You can also get protein based leave in conditioners as well.

6. RETURN TO YOUR NORMAL HAIR CARE REGIMEN
Once your hair is balanced you can return to your normal hair care regime. If you have completed the comb/stretch test, but you are still not sure whether your hair lacks protein or moisture, it is best to shoot for the moisture issue first in black hair.
Thanks to Zainab for allowing us to share this article © AU NATURALE BLOG

2 NEW PRODUCTS AT CIOCCOLATINA

2010-03-27T13:34:00.006Z

Cioccolatina is our brand of handmade natural toiletries at Sheabutter Cottage. All the products are made by yours truly and I absolutely love mixing simple ingredients for effective use on skin and hair. These are the 2 latest offerings:

AFRO SHAMPOO BAR

ARGAN SOAP

Visit our online shop for more >>www.sheabuttercottage.co.uk

COCOA - THE BITTER TRUTH?

2010-03-25T09:27:00.006Z

It was interesting watching the Panorama programme on BBC last night about the cocoa industry. As much as I love cocoa, this is one industry which has so many different pieces of jigsaws which do not fit to form the right picture.
Being a native of the second largest cocoa producer in the world [Ghana] as well as being a descendant of a cocoa farmer and a daughter of a teacher, I just sat in silence watching this programme.
I like transparency and believe that the #1 bitter truth about tackling child labour in the cocoa industry is to EDUCATE the farmers.
The #2 bitter truth is to make schools/education freely available for children from such poor farming communities. It should be the norm that the cocoa industry trades fairly from farm to end use. The cocoa industry is a very wealthy one but .................

PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTE FOR AMINA

2010-03-16T18:45:00.003Z

In a world of virtual friends, it can be sometimes difficult to feel the warmth. I have however met one such warm person by name Amina and would appreciate if you can vote for her because she is pretty powerful.
http://www.brickfish.com/GoToPage.aspx?qsi=39295719

Pretty Powerful Sponsored by Bobbi Brown

CAN'T CONTAIN THE EXCITEMENT

2010-03-05T12:03:00.011Z

I don't even know where to start? There is always an air of excitement when my alarm aka the rascals wake me up on a Friday morning.
Yes, it signifies the weekend is just a few hours away.
However, I am sooooooo excited today because I have just taken delivery of one of our first 2 orders of pure creamy gorgeous unrefined fair trade shea butter from the lovely hardworking ladies at Gumu - Ghana.

The excitement does not just end there though - tomorrow is the 53rd independence anniversary of my beloved country Ghana. Come and join me in tapping those feet, shaking the waist and swinging those hips.

CLEANSING OIL

2010-02-17T13:40:00.007Z

The act of cleansing your face is a simple task but soooo worth it if you use gentle natural oils.
My son said this fresh batch smells of tropical fruits - well, it is unscented but has melon and papaya :)

BULKING UP

2010-02-15T20:22:00.012Z

It has been a constant rhythm of packing, labeling and dashing to the post office thanks to all you lovely customers. At least, it keeps my weight down when you are on a chocolate diet.
I must admit that I feel as if I have gained some muscles as I recently moved 25 boxes of freight from Ghana. My chest was really hurting - yes, this is not a job for a woman of my age but someone has to do it and these are the culprits!!!

VIRGIN ORGANIC COCONUT OIL:
Soak your hair, your skin or even your bowl of rice.
You can now purchase in quantities up to 2kgs.

AUTHENTIC AFRICAN BLACK SOAP:
Crumbs that you can purchase in quantities up to 50kgs.

AUTHENTIC LIQUID AFRICAN BLACK SOAP:
You can personalise your own bottle in quantities up to 5litres

JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL:
On another note, we finally received our Jamaican black castor oil consignment last month. You can grab yourself either 1 bottle or packs of 5 or 10 of both 4oz and 8oz.

THANK YOU ....

2010-02-02T15:46:00.001Z

A HELPING HAND IS WORTH ........

2010-01-31T23:10:00.005Z

..... a long term effect on creating jobs.

HOW DO YOU RELEASE STRESS?

2010-01-27T18:29:00.005Z

With a bar of chocolate?
As a Ghanaian, being laid back is part of my "makeup". I am however huffing and puffing a lot this week. Stress is not good for me. I don't know if working in a very cold place is affecting this or the fact that most of my supplies have not been delivered.
Thankfully, I have been chomping on some Ghanaian chocolates - boosts my spirit because of the pure cocoa butter content. Well, that is my guilty pleasure :) You can share my guilty pleasure with a 55% off a bite of the BEST chocolate IMHO.

I would love to know how you handle stress - do drop me a line.

THOU SHALL SAVE

2010-01-22T01:10:00.003Z

We have kick started our 6th birthday "celebrations" with this offer. Come and grab your goodie bag.

PURE UNREFINED SHEABUTTER

2010-01-15T00:46:00.009Z

Don't get fed-up hearing me praise the moisturising effect of pure unrefined sheabutter. I spoke to an 83yr old male customer of mine on Wednesday who swears by our unrefined sheabutter.

Here is a repost from our facebook fan-page [09.Jan.10] on how to use this lovely natural ingredient:
Most of us are feeling the chill this winter due to unprecedented weather conditions. Use pure unrefined sheabutter to moisturise your skin/hair against the cold weather.

* Use as a lip balm - just apply as often as needed. This creates a barrier against the wind/cold. You can still use it to help soothe cracked lips.

* Facial moisturiser Use all day. With the radiators on at full blast, you can massage a little bit of pure unrefined sheabutter even at night just before you sleep. Just make sure your face is fully cleansed.

* Heels Don't neglect the heels. Keep them soft as you wear socks and boots to keep you warm.

* Hands Apply some pure unrefined sheabutter on your hands before wearing those thermal gloves. Some gloves can dry your hands in this weather.

* Hair Apply to the hair before wearing the hat. Don't forget around your ears as well. Even if you are bald, it is good to massage some shea onto that patch.

* Body aches With all the snow shovel, it is great to get yourself a massage with pure unrefined sheabutter - it helps to loosen those body aches.

* Nose Yes, there seems to be a lot of sniffles. Massage a bit of shea butter around your nose as it tends to dry out.

* Chest You can massage onto your chest as it also acts as a decongestant - even better if you have some eucalyptus essential oil to add.

MUMPRENEUR NOMINATION

2010-01-03T20:47:00.005Z

Happy New Year. Please help me kick start this new year/decade with a mumpreneur nomination - there are 6 categories.

I have been nominated for The Mumpreneur Awards 2010. I am in with a chance of being short-listed for one of the 8 awards. Awards close for nominations on August 2nd 2010. Thanks for your support

HELPING HAND

2009-12-30T13:38:00.006Z

This year has flown by and as we close the last chapters of 2009, I just wanted to thank you for all your support and bring you up to date with our helping hand programme.

2009 saw us adopting a shea co-op in Gumu - Northern Ghana. We set a target to raise enough funds for this co-op on 8th October and managed to hit the target (100.2%) by 8th December. Thanks to your support and a very kind donation, the total amount raised so far is 120.7% of our target.

These are some photos showing progress:

We hope to purchase their first shea production early next year.

Vele is a young disabled boy from Swaziland who we support through education and recently received these photos including his school report. We are very proud of him.

After waiting for what seemed eternal, I finally signed documents for the formation of our Ghanaian based company [NGO/Charity]. This will be to help meet the psychosocial needs of disadvantaged and vulnerable children.

As we say in Ghana, mi daasi paa. Thank you very very much.

ON THE R A D I O!!!

2009-12-07T10:04:00.005Z

WOW, I am so grateful for answering a phone call last week even though it was "outside" my working hours. I had a lady on the phone inviting me to be her first guest.

You are cordially invited to a radio interview on 8th December 2009 at blogtalkradio.com/africanwomenineurope
Tune in at:
20:30 Western Europe GMT +0:00 (UK, Ireland, Portugal)
21:30 Central Europe GMT +1:00; Malta, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, The Netherlands
23:30 Eastern Europe GMT +2:00; Latvia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Lithuania, Moldova, Romania, Turkey, Ukraine.

EMPOWERMENT

2009-11-11T10:47:00.006Z

2 days ago, I received some pictures and just wanted to share the story behind these with you.
As some of you may recall, my rather hectic trip to Ghana in October 2008 included a soapmaking class for members of the shea co-op that I am very proud to support for the last 6 years and will continue to do so. Well, after so many phone calls with ideas being shared, I finally got a glimpse of the fruits of our labour. I am so proud to be a Ghanaian and even proud to learn that everything [mould, stamp, etc] used in the production is made in Ghana. I also received a picture of a recently erected shed. This was from the donation we made in addition to the money being raised through our shea butter fundraising campaign:
So don't think I am being cheeky next time you see me grinning like a Cheshire cat - I am so proud of these women and of course the men who help to make the tools.
We believe in empowerment
We believe in quality
We believe in ethical trading
We believe in communities.

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER

2009-11-06T09:50:00.011Z

November is a great month. Not only is Cioccolatina 7 years old this month, it also good to see a little bit of sun shining through the silver clouds with russet leaves falling down. Well, we are on the lookout for Cioccolatina's biggest fan :) Let your voice be heard and you could win yourself a £10 gift certificate.

Don't be harsh on your skin this winter! What will be in your survival kit? Well, 2 products jump out to the rescue:

1. Karité soap : packed with more than 70% of pure unrefined non-deodorised fair trade shea butter.

2. Whipped shea : just pure 100% unrefined non-deodorised fair trade shea butter.

As an independent ethical business and direct importer, we are very proud to support a lovely co-op in Ghana who have continued to supply is for the last 6 years with quality unrefined sheabutter: * with less than 1% moisture content
* with characteristic natural scent
* with excellent low free fatty acid
* with no presence of lead nor mercury
* with a very good peroxide level
* with a very high amount of vitamin A
* with a high amount of nonsaponifiable fraction compared to refined shea
We believe in empowerment, we believe in quality, we believe in ethical trading, we believe in communities.

If you fancy sending these lovely products as a gift, then have a look at what we can offer.