IN CONVERSATION WITH: Elissa Corrigan
First of all, can you share the inspiration behind starting Elle Sera and what motivated you to venture into the industry?
I started the brand Elle Sera because I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their hormonal health and overall well-being. It’s something I’d seen first-hand with female clients joining The Life Lab wellness retreat, which I founded in 2017.
Incredible women confessed to a whole range of issues that were destroying their lives and damaging their relationships. Many lacked confidence, purpose and vitality. Others felt they’d lost their youth and had become ‘invisible’. All knew they deserved better.
They were ready to make serious health and lifestyle changes, and they’d often ask me what would give them the edge to reclaim their hormones and feel a real difference in a sustainable way.
With this in mind, Elle Sera – French for ‘she will be’ – was born.
In a world of social media, there are so many differing opinions when it comes to health and supplements – it can be a minefield at any stage of life! What are the principles you live by and aim to teach within your community?
- Lift weights - it’s like putting money in your health bank every day.
- Be mindful of dosages when it comes to supplements. More ingredients usually mean it’s too low a dose and be wary of companies that use fillers and binders and aren’t upfront about it in their ingredients list.
- Steps are a seriously overlooked part of fitness - get 10,000 a day.
- Cereal is the enemy.
- Everyone feels better without gluten.
What’s the most important piece of advice you would give to women wanting to embark on a new wellness journey?
Track your food, count your steps and give up booze.
Menopause can be a really challenging time as every experience is different. How important is community?
Community is crucial for women going through menopause because it provides a supportive network of individuals who truly understand and empathise with the physical, emotional, and mental challenges that come with this significant life transition. Being part of a community like Elle Sera offers a sense of belonging, reduces feelings of isolation, and allows women to share experiences, gather insights, and receive encouragement from those who are on a similar journey. It provides a safe space for women to openly discuss their concerns, fears, and triumphs during this transformative phase of life.
Your Golden Pill is the UK’s number 1 HRT alternative – what’s your opinion on HRT?
My personal view is, it’s up to the individual. I’ve never tried it… will I when the time comes? Maybe.
On one hand, HRT can be great for many women experiencing severe menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. It can offer relief and improve their quality of life significantly. However, on the flip side, HRT comes with potential risks and side effects, including an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain types of cancer. So, it's crucial to weigh the benefits against the risks and make informed decisions that are best for your individual health needs.
It’s a choice. One that shouldn’t be pushed on you by celebrities, influencers and doctors.
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
Jackie Collins.
What’s the hardest challenge you’ve had to face?
Having a baby while being the founder of a bootstrapped business that’s trying to grow aggressively. Relentless, prolonged exhaustion.
Accomplishment you’re most proud of?
Having a baby while being the founder of a bootstrapped business that’s trying to grow aggressively.
Top beauty ‘must have’ in your makeup bag?
A pair of tweezers and concealer. The Studio10 Blush Glow-plexion has also been a firm favourite for three years now!
And finally, your favourite quote to live by?
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
