"I love Manchester" - Cosmetic Consult founder Ashley Stobart talks about Manchester, skincare and her podcast

When did Cosmetic Consult start and what gave you the idea to begin?

“I started formulating the brand around five years ago – it was four years in the making before finally launching in October 2024. This Saturday marks our first birthday, and I honestly couldn’t be prouder. It’s been a year of huge growth, hard work, blood, sweat and tears – but every single minute has been worth it.”

What has the feedback been like so far about the brand?

“The feedback has honestly been the best part of the journey. I get flooded daily with messages from customers saying how the product has not only changed their skin but also their confidence. We’ve built an incredible bank of testimonials and before-and-after photos that speak for themselves. The industry response has been amazing too – we’ve become a staple in the kits of some of the world’s most respected makeup artists, skin experts, and content creators. Our debut product, Miracle Skin Transformation, has had multiple viral moments and several sell-outs already.”

Can you tell me about the importance of starting the brand in Manchester and also doing the activation here?

“I’m a Cheshire girl through and through. It’s where I live, where my friends are, and where my whole network is. I love Manchester – it’s full of creativity, opportunity, and energy and its where I went to uni. I’m so proud that Cosmetic Consult is part of this incredible movement of globally recognised brands emerging from the city. While I love London and have lots of friends there, Manchester feels like a mini capital – and there’s nowhere else I’d rather have started the brand.”

How are you feeling about Cosmetic Consult’s activation in Manchester on Saturday?

“I’m so, so excited! My team and I have been working tirelessly to make sure it’s truly unforgettable. I can’t wait to meet our amazing customers and community in person – they’ve always been at the heart of everything we do as a brand.”

When did your podcast start and what was the main reason? Did you expect it to take off like it has?

“The podcast started around four years ago with my co-host, Lauren Adamson. It actually began during lockdown – I became obsessed with podcasts at the time, and honestly, they got me through it. Lauren and I used to work together and always had great chemistry and banter. Even though we’re quite different, we share a lot of the same values. It was actually my husband, Ed, who said, ‘You two should start your own podcast.’ So we did! We found a producer, recorded a few episodes, and when it launched, it shot straight to the top of the charts. We were honestly blown away by the response, and it’s just gone from strength to strength ever since.”

Where do you hope to take Cosmetic Consult as a brand? Have you got any more exciting activations or events planned?

“My goal is for Cosmetic Consult to become a household name. We’ve got so many exciting new product launches lined up for 2026, plus some really big retail conversations happening behind the scenes. The growth we’ve achieved already has been phenomenal, and I can’t wait to see where we’ll be this time next year.”

Cosmetic Consult will be in Spinningfields tomorrow from 10am so make sure to head down and grab some goodies!