I think I'm a true Brit at heart and adore all the seasons the UK offers, from the most fantastic autumn colours that Rosie and I have been enjoying whilst out on our runs this month to wrapping up in a warming soft jumper whilst it's snowing outside.

Now, I know we're not ready for the snow just yet, but Christmas isn't too far away. You've probably seen us talking about our Christmas gifting range, and we're so excited for you guys to get your hands on it! You'll be able to browse and shop the collection soon...

After we created the gifting range, the festive fun didn't stop there! Far from it. Such a beautiful collection deserves beautiful photography, so Darcy, Margot and I recently had a fab day filming for the Christmas collection. It was great fun - and I feel so lucky to spend time with my girls during the working day. 

And while we’re on the subject of all things festive... just a little thing, but we're bursting at the seams with excitement as you will all be getting snowflakes on your AC sachets over Christmas! Keep an eye out for the new festive design popping through your letterbox... And subscribers, we have something extra special for you: an exclusive AC Christmas decoration! Please do send us your photos of yours when you hang them on your Christmas tree!

Our exclusive Absoluters Facebook group is such a lovely place to be - it's like a big hug. If you're not a member already please head over to the group here, request to become a member and our very own social butterfly Katy will give you access - after she's checked you are an Absoluter, of course!

In the Absoluters group, I have noticed many people posting selfies along with their age. As a 54 year old, I find this so liberating and I’m so proud that our Absoluters are 'owning the age they’re in'. You've heard me say before I have no desire to be or look 21, I just want to be the best version of me, and it seems many of us are on the same page.

I spent some time with a friend this week, who is experiencing menopause symptoms, alongside not really feeling she knows herself anymore, from her moods being so changeable to not knowing what she can wear. I recall all these feelings and more myself. I can honestly say my menopause was a fundamental stage for me, and it changed me and my life forever. It wasn't without its complication mentally; I found myself in a very dark place, which I now know can be a menopause symptom.

For me, the menopause opened up my thinking and was the start of learning to own who I am and love the skin I'm in. My menopause was a time to dig deep and nourish myself physically, emotionally and spiritually. I can honestly say the day I found the courage to wear my skin, the world opened truly up for me, and weirdly enough I thank my menopause for this. Before this, I seemed to wear the skin others needed, wanted, or demanded me to: mother, sister, daughter, friend, etc. But now, it was my time - time for Maxine. 

You may be getting a wee bit bored of repetitive news, and for this, I apologise in advance. But I find myself among the LDC’s Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders 2020! It’s a huge honour to be on this list, which celebrates medium-sized businesses across the UK - you can read more about this here. Plus, I’ve also made the finals of the Natwest Everywomen awards, which recognise inspirational women running businesses. Everything I do, I do for the amazing women and Absoluters in the world, so it feels fantastic, and particularly poignant, to be a finalist in the Everywomen awards.

Exciting times at AC HQ, as we are expanding internationally! And as part of this expansion, we’re so pleased to welcome Antonia to our team. Antonia is responsible for looking after all things German, ensuring our German Absoluters receive the same TLC that you guys do, making sure they too are treated with the power of SIR. You’ve probably heard me talk about this before: it means making customers feel Safe, Important, and Respected, and it drives everything I do and all decisions I make. Did you know we have an Absolute Collagen German Instagram page, too? Click here to have a look and give us a follow!