What started as an opportunity to revive a dormant business quickly evolved into something deeply personal for Lisa MacKay. As a mother of five, including twins, and a grandmother of six, she knew firsthand the struggle of finding stylish, comfortable maternity wear and high-quality, all-natural body products. When the chance arose to take over Mama2Be, she saw not just a business, but a way to help other mothers feel confident and cared for. From there, Twin Scent was born – a brand dedicated to luxurious, natural self-care. Through passion, perseverance and purpose, Mama2Be and TwinScent are more than just a business for Lisa; they are a labour of love, resilience and a commitment to providing products that she wholeheartedly believes in. Here she talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the inspiration behind what she does, the challenges, both personally and professionally, that she has overcome, and her hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
Although I did not originally establish Mama2Be, I saw its potential and seized the opportunity to purchase it when the previous owner stepped away due to time constraints. From Mama2Be Limited emerged its ‘sister’ business, Twin Scent, which was developed to complement with its own offerings.
Several factors drove my decision to acquire Mama2Be and create Twin Scent. As a mother of five, including twins, I struggled to find flattering maternity wear and practical breastfeeding clothing. When my daughter became pregnant with her twins, she faced the same challenges – finding quality and affordability in one place was nearly impossible. I was looking for a business that would give me focus and purpose while benefiting others, and Mama2Be fit that vision perfectly.
With Twin Scent, my goal was to ensure all our products used 100% natural ingredients. I wanted to create products I would confidently use on myself, my children and my six grandchildren.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
When I purchased Mama2Be, it wasn’t actively trading. The previous owner had never had the time to grow it, so I essentially acquired the stock and brand name. I introduced pampering products – body butters/moisturisers – to Mama2Be, because what pregnant or breastfeeding mum doesn’t deserve a little self-care? I quickly realised the demand was strong, so I decided to separate the two brands: Mama2Be Maternity and Breastfeeding Clothing, and (Mama2Be Trading as) Twin Scent for delicious body butters, moisturisers, scented candles, balms and more.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
I think our biggest breakthrough came when we attended our first ever Christmas Market, where people were able to see, touch, smell and try our products in person. It was such a brilliant day all round. The response was incredible and people just loved what we had to offer.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
It’s a bit of a juggling act, and to be honest, without the support and assistance from my daughter, I probably couldn’t do it.
I have a full-time job, and my free time is spent creating the Twin Scent product lines, completing sales, updating the websites and attending the various markets around the country with our clothing and body products. It makes for a full and busy time, but the secret is to be doing things you enjoy doing, then it doesn’t feel like work at all. I’m passionate about my businesses, and that makes the busy schedule worthwhile.
