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19 December 2024

Shetland’s inspiration remains heaven scent

Each month, WeeBox founder, Amy, writes a monthly column for the Best of Scotland magazine in The Herald newspaper. This month, Amy told the story of how the magic of Shetland inspired the January Shetland Viking WeeBox.

As the New Year dawns and we step into 2025, my thoughts turn to Shetland – a place that feels like stepping into another world. From its cliffs and endless horizons to its rich Viking heritage, Shetland has a way of captivating your heart, even from afar.

For this month’s WeeBox, I wanted to bring that feeling of Shetland home to our global WeeBox Clan across the world, starting the year with a sense of adventure and discovery.

January is a special time in Shetland. It’s the month of Up Helly Aa, the incredible fire festival where the islands come alive with flames, history and community spirit.

I remember learning about this fiery spectacle for the first time – the sight of the torchlit procession, the Viking costumes and the burning galley seemed otherworldly, and yet it is such a true reflection of Shetland’s bold and proud character.

It’s this spirit that inspired me to create a WeeBox celebrating Shetland to kick off the year.

Shetland captivated Susan Cohen, founder of The Wee Book Company, who I am so thrilled to be collaborating with.

Susan has a knack for bringing Scotland’s stories to life, and Up Helly Aa is one she’s particularly passionate about. “In Shetland, the Viking spirit thrives,” she shared. ‘Up Helly Aa is celebrated every January, marking the end of Yule.

One of its many highlights is a torchlit procession led by the Jarl Squad – dressed to the nines as their Viking forefathers – and the ceremonial burning of a longship.

It’s such a privilege to give an insight into how it all began and what it represents. And let’s face it – it’s also a great excuse for a party!

Shetland’s makers have a way of weaving the islands’ history and wild beauty into everything they make.

One of the makers who has stuck with me the most is The Shetland Soap Company, whose story and products are as special as the islands themselves.

I first introduced their products in WeeBox with the Lodberrie soap, and it was an instant hit with our subscribers.

The scent, inspired by the infamous Lodberries – historic waterfront buildings in Lerwick – seemed to bottle up the magic of the islands.

So, when the chance came to include them again, this time with their Norseman hair and body wash, I knew it was the perfect way to start 2025.

The Shetland Soap Company’s ethos of purpose and care is apparent in all that they do. Their workshop, just a stone’s throw from the sea, is where every bar of soap, bottle of lotion, and jar of cream is lovingly handmade.

They are proudly a social enterprise with a belief that everyone, regardless of disability, should have the opportunity to work.

They help people reach their potential by providing opportunities to learn in a supportive work environment free from stigma and discrimination.

Together, they create the loveliest handmade soap and skincare of the highest quality. Their motto “Great Products, Great People,” couldn’t be more true. Shetland makers like The Shetland Soap Company have found unique ways of capturing the essence of their surroundings.

I love how they’ve shared Shetland’s story far beyond the islands, whether through their sustainable, beautifully crafted products or the inspiration they draw from the past.

From the bold fragrances of their soaps to their environmentally conscious packaging, everything they do reflects a love for their home and a commitment to protecting it.

One of the things I love most about including them, is that it offers a little taste of Shetland, even for those who may not be able to visit just yet. While they don’t ship abroad, I hope our subscribers see this as a chance to discover their beautiful products – and maybe even plan a visit to their Lerwick store one day.

Seeing the connection between WeeBox subscribers and these stories fills me with joy. Paula from California said: “So excited for this box!” while Janet in the USA shared: “Wow!! I’m very excited for this one! I love my WeeBox so much!”

It’s moments like these that remind me how deeply connected our Clan feels to Scotland, no matter how far away they are.

For our WeeBox Clan, 2025 is going to be a year of discovery. From Shetland to the Highlands and beyond, I can’t wait to share the stories, traditions, and treasures of Scotland. January’s WeeBox is just the beginning – a little spark of Shetland’s fire to carry us into the months ahead.

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