Āe Botanicals was born from a commitment to creating sustainable, vegan skincare and a mission to share Aotearoa’s botanical treasures with the world. With a vision to create a range of multi-use products that nourish all skin types with minimal impact to te taiao, Grace Falwasser (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Porou, Waikato-Tainui) and her business partner, Suzanne Hall — an award-winning pioneer in skincare formulation — have crafted products that are luxurious, effective and kind to our whenua.

As a first-time business owner, Grace’s journey has been one of growth, discovery, and collaboration. A pivotal moment came when she teamed up with Suzanne Hall who brings nearly 40 years of experience and 28 global awards to the table. By blending Suzanne’s unparalleled expertise and Grace’s fresh perspective, together, they’ve created skincare that has resonated deeply with audiences in Aotearoa and beyond.

The overwhelmingly positive response to Āe Botanicals is a testament to the power of their vision and the universal appeal of natural, sustainable beauty.

Sustainability is at the heart of Āe Botanicals. Every aspect of the brand, from ingredient sourcing to packaging, is designed with care for the environment. By using refillable sugarcane-based plastics, recyclable materials, and natural ingredients, Āe Botanicals minimises its ecological footprint while honouring Aotearoa’s unique flora.

Kindness to the planet and its creatures guides every decision at Āe Botanicals. Certified cruelty-free and adhering to Eco-cert and Natural Ingredients standards, their products are free from animal testing and formulated with minimal, plant-based components. These natural preservatives and high-quality ingredients create skincare that is as gentle as it is effective.

The incorporation of native plants is integral in Āe Botanicals’ formulations. These powerful botanicals are carefully selected for their unique skincare benefits, ensuring that every product embodies the natural beauty and richness of Aotearoa. By sourcing ingredients locally, Āe Botanicals not only supports New Zealand’s biodiversity but also infuses each product with heritage and authenticity.

‍Looking Ahead: Collaborations and Global Aspirations

With exciting collaborations on the horizon, the brand is gearing up to expand its reach to Australia and Southeast Asia, sharing its unique approach to luxury skincare with a global audience.

‍Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Beauty Entrepreneurs

For those looking to make their mark in the beauty industry, Grace offers this advice:
“Stay true to your values and what makes your brand unique. Building something meaningful takes patience, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose. Don’t be afraid to ask for help — it’s all part of the journey.”

Āe Botanicals isn’t just a skincare brand — it’s a movement towards mindful beauty that honours people, the planet, and heritage. Combining te ao Māori values, Aotearoa’s native botanicals, and eco-friendly practices, Āe Botanicals sets a new standard for luxury skincare. Ready to indulge and experience the difference? Discover Āe Botanicals — where sustainability meets sophistication.

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