Sarah Jane Stamp, the incredible business woman behind Olive Tree Wellbeing gave us a special insight into her Brackley based acupuncture and holistic therapies business.
Tell us a little about yourself and how Olive Tree Wellbeing originated?
I started out as a Beauty Therapist way back in 1996 and continued to expand my training and knowledge in holistic therapies such as reflexology, Aromatherapy and a variety of different massages.
Before starting my family, I went back to college to train as a lecturer in my field and trained many therapists over several years. In 2009, I decided it was time to start my own business around my family, and after converting my garage into a clinic space Olive Tree was born.
After a few years, I felt it was time to broaden my horizons by delving deeper into healthcare and how to help people naturally. I was always fascinated by Chinese Medicine, particularly Acupuncture, but it was an extensive training programme and massive commitment. But in 2013, I took the plunge and went back into further education. The first year was Biomedicine and then came Naturopathy and Acupuncture. It was four very long, very hard years but in 2017 I graduated as an Acupuncturist and went to do a postgraduate course in China for 3 weeks – a mind-blowing and life changing experience!
Where is your local business based?
I am based in Brackley, Northamptonshire, a beautiful countryside community. My clinic is situated in my converted garage, next to my house with private off street parking.
What inspired you to start your business?
I was passionate about helping people feel relaxed and healthy, but due to having a family and husband that works a variety of shifts, finding a position that fitted my schedule was impossible. Therefore I decided to work for myself, when I wanted and from home. I could still do the school run and work too, it wasn’t easy but it suited me.
What is in store for the future?
Due to lockdown, I couldn’t do any training outside of my clinic so opted for online training sessions instead. I’ve signed up and am currently studying Chinese Herbal Medicine as it fits in and advances all of my previous training. It’s a full on course, with many hours spent on zoom lectures and writing essays, but I have been totally blown away with how amazing it is. I hope to be able to offer these services to my patients from Autumn 2021!
How has the Brackley community received your products?
Brackley and the amazing community have always been incredibly supportive to my business and without them I would not be able to continue. I am always proud to call Brackley my home because the people are so kind and generous. I have never had to advertise anywhere except through Facebook and Instagram posts as the majority of my work comes from recommendations.
What makes you different from the competition?
I’m not sure how I differ from the competition, or if I actually have any competition. I believe we all work together and as the saying goes “our vibe attracts our tribe”.