Success Story
MIA’S CORNER
Starting a business while raising a family can feel like an impossible dream. But for one remarkable mum from Oxfordshire, it became her reality- and her triumph.
In 2023, while on maternity leave with her fifth child ‘Mia’, Charly Wheeler faced a challenge many parents know too well: cradle cap. Frustrated with the lack of effective shop-bought solutions, she did what mums do best- she got resourceful. Charly created her own natural baby balm, applying it daily until her newborn’s skin began to heal. Yet that small act of love sparked something much bigger.
From her kitchen came Mia’s Corner, now an award-winning skincare brand rooted in care, quality, and resilience. Officially launched in early 2024, the business steadily gained momentum, and in the last six months, it has truly blossomed.
Of course, the road hasn’t been easy…“There have been days where I've been up to my eyeballs in orders,” Charly shares. “I’ve had to cut back time with the children, which led to a lot of mum guilt. Packaging has been a struggle, and trying to keep everyone happy has definitely been a challenge.”
Yet Charly pressed on- often working late into the night, sometimes until 4 or 5 a.m, purely driven by her belief in her products and herself.
That dedication has paid off in spades. Mia’s Corner now boasts an impressive list of accolades, including:
6 products recognised by the Vegan Beauty Awards
4 honoured by the Vegan Choice Awards
Winner of GHP’s Best Organic Skincare Company
Currently shortlisted for Business of the Year and Product of the Year (Skincare & Beauty Awards)
Behind every product is a story, and behind every order, a family that’s grown stronger together. Charly’s children, ranging from toddlers to teens, have all played their part. Whether decorating delivery parcels for loyal customers or helping mix ingredients, they’ve watched their mum turn an idea into something extraordinary.
“Knowing I can support my family with something I created is the best feeling in the world,” she says. “It really goes to show that if you believe in yourself, others will too.”
Her message to other parents wondering if they can “do it” is simple: “Do it. You’ll have doubts. You’ll have long days. But it’s all worth it.”
Charly mixing skincare ingredients with two of her children
Mia’s Corner Skincare
TAKE A PEEK
From soothing baby balms to nourishing body butters, every product is crafted with care to keep your family’s skin healthy and happy
Crafted with nature’s goodness including soothing plant extracts. Each product is tested with care to ensure purity and safety for delicate skin.
Award-winning handmade products
Mia’s Corner is the go-to choice for families who value purity and quality, offering an extenive range of skincare and beauty must-haves! You’ll be sure to find something for the whole family.
Infused with nourishing oils like jojoba, coconut, and vitamin E- every drop is packed with moisture which your skin will thank you for!
Until next time,
Success Story, Just Starting Out’s Small Business News Scoop