Hello my loves,

October… what a month!

I thought September was good, but this one has completely blown it out of the water. Before diving into this month’s roundup, I want to start with gratitude - for you. The energy and momentum building around the brand continues to blow me away every single day, so I had to begin with a personal thank you for all the love and support you continue to show.

October felt like a real turning point. It was busy (to say the least), but in the best way. There were new milestones, new faces joining the team, and the excitement of something really special coming together behind the scenes.

My monthly breakdown of overwhelm made a strong appearance this month (the not so glamorous side of founder life), but I’ve realised something. And bear with me, this might sound a little woo woo, but I genuinely think it’s my body’s way of releasing unwanted energy to prepare me for what’s next.

So now, I welcome it. Because the truth is, nothing could stop me from doing what I love. My passion for what we’re building is immense, even if the work, the long hours, and the blind faith feel heavy sometimes.

This was one of those months where I had to remind myself to slow down and celebrate what’s happening, even while in the thick of it, because what we’re building is bloody amazing.

October Highlights

10K on Instagram

We officially hit 10,000 followers! I know it’s just a number, but it means so much. Every message, tag and story share genuinely helps this brand grow and I couldn’t do it without you all.

Our Biggest Month Ever

October was our biggest month yet and the most orders we’ve ever had. I still remember handwriting thank you notes that went into every order when HOLY CACAO first launched, so seeing how far it’s come honestly blows me away. (PS: I wish I could still handwrite every card!)

A Month of Hustle

It’s been full steam ahead behind the scenes, working on something very exciting that’s coming soon (and no, I’m not saying what it is just yet!). It’s been intense and full-on, but I’ve never felt more inspired.

New Team Members

Two amazing people joined the team this month: my first full-time hire (a real pinch-me moment) and a wonderful new customer service lead.

I feel so grateful to have people who truly care about the brand and want to be part of the journey. It’s such a huge milestone, and I want to say a big thank you to both of them. Your support and energy mean so much.

Packaging Progress

We’ve been deep in the design phase for our new packaging, which I absolutely love. I work very closely with my designer (which I’m sure drives her mad at times), but the details matter so much to me. The look, feel and texture tell the story of who we are, and honestly, design might just be my favourite part of the entire process.

Health, Hormones & HOLY CACAO

This year has been such a journey with my health. After burning out earlier in the year, my hormones took a real hit, and it showed up as intense hormonal acne. A reminder of how connected everything in our body truly is.

I’ve worked really hard to slow down, support my gut, and bring my body back into balance. My acne has healed, but I’m left with some stubborn redness and inflammation that I’m determined to improve. It’s tough when you’re on camera often (and not a big makeup girl), but I’m focusing on nutrition and all things anti-inflammatory.

For now, that means no artificial sugar. It’s not something I usually cut out completely, but I’m really in a healing phase and want to go into the new year feeling as good as I can.

It’s made me fall even more in love with the brand. HOLY CACAO has been my daily ritual. Every day I make the most delicious cup with a spoonful of raw honey from my local farm shop. It’s the perfect immunity booster for this time of year and fills the gap when I’m craving something sweet.

I originally created HOLY CACAO for this exact reason, and my skin and body are already thanking me for it.

Things I’m Loving This Month

Running Again

I’ve got back into running, and I’m even going to bed excited to wake up and go for a run (who is she!?). For most of this year, I’ve been focused on healing my body and hormones, and while running isn’t for everyone, I’m really tuning into what my body wants. Right now, it’s this. Getting outside, breathing in fresh air, and taking time away from my laptop has been the best reset.

K18 Leave-In Conditioner + Silk Hair Bonnet

Sleeping in a silk bonnet might not be the chicest look, but the hair growth I’ve had recently is wild. My hair feels stronger, and it’s one of those small efforts that’s really paying off.

Heaven Mayhem Laptop Case

This one has been on my wish list forever. Definitely not a need, but it’s one of those small purchases that’s completely elevated my workspace energy, and I’m so glad I finally got it.

Elevated Loungewear

I spend most of my day behind a laptop, so comfort is everything. But I still want to feel nice, and lately, I’ve been living in the Soft Motion Straight Leg Trousers and matching top from Oner Active (AND as a 5”10 girl they do a tall length which is amazing!), paired with my ALO crewneck jumper (currently on sale for early Black Friday!).

Final Reflections

October reminded me that challenges will always come, but so will clarity, drive, and purpose when you’re doing something you truly love.

This month taught me a lot - that chipping away each day really does add up when you look back. That I need to get better at sticking to a schedule instead of constantly jumping from task to task. That hiring great people makes the biggest difference. And, most of all, that my drive, resilience and intuition are stronger than ever.

I’m ending the month feeling grateful, proud, and so excited for what’s next (which I may or may not be snacking on as we speak…)

With love,

Claudia x