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My Story
Known around the world for her eponymous brand of fragrances and now her brand-new venture Jo Loves (soon to debut in the US), Jo Malone tells the remarkable and inspiring story of her rise from humble beginnings to beloved business success.
Jo Malone began her international fragrance and scented candle business in 1983 from her kitchen, where she made bath oils as thank-you gifts for her facial clients. She opened her first store in London in 1994, and in 1999 she sold the Jo Malone London brand to Estee Lauder Companies. Recently, she launched a new brand, Jo Loves, igniting the excitement of fashion and beauty converts all over the world.
Raised in government-subsidized housing in Kent in the early 1960s, Jo Malone left school as a teenager to care for her mother after she had a stroke. Jo had not been successful in school because of her dyslexia, but she had the ability to see and feel everything in scent. Her at-home beauty business and hand-made products became popular, and word of her talent spread until an international brand was born. After the sale of her company and the birth of her son, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent treatment in New York. Thus began the second chapter of her life, and in this memoir, Jo tells her full amazing and inspiring personal story.
Jo Malone began her international fragrance and scented candle business in 1983 from her kitchen, where she made bath oils as thank-you gifts for her facial clients. She opened her first store in London in 1994, and in 1999 she sold the Jo Malone London brand to Estee Lauder Companies. Recently, she launched a new brand, Jo Loves, igniting the excitement of fashion and beauty converts all over the world.
Raised in government-subsidized housing in Kent in the early 1960s, Jo Malone left school as a teenager to care for her mother after she had a stroke. Jo had not been successful in school because of her dyslexia, but she had the ability to see and feel everything in scent. Her at-home beauty business and hand-made products became popular, and word of her talent spread until an international brand was born. After the sale of her company and the birth of her son, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent treatment in New York. Thus began the second chapter of her life, and in this memoir, Jo tells her full amazing and inspiring personal story.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published October 13, 2015
150 people are currently reading
1567 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
October 16, 2016
My Story by Jo Malone quite simply blew me away. This was one of those few books that you begin reading and find yourself eagerly tuning those pages to see what she reveals next but in the same breath you don’t want to finish.
I am not a fan of biographies but when I heard that Jo Malone was releasing her story my interest was piqued instantly and I knew I had to get a copy as I have always been in awe of this woman and I wanted to see her journey from where she come from to all she has achieved and experienced along the way to where she is now.
I was quite surprised when I began to read the book that Jo Malone had grown up in surrounding areas from me and she was such a down to earth and normal girl next door who suffered the typical struggles of so many families, I always remember my mum and dad commenting on the ice on the insides of the windows too!
Jo Malone doesn’t hold back she pours everything into this book sharing success stories as well as the hiccups and mistakes she made and learned from along her journey. Her passion and dedication is clear to see throughout the book and the support she received from her wonderful husband and friends does not go unnoticed too.
Before long you really feel as though you are just sitting down having a chat with Jo Malone herself as her voice sounds out from the pages. I found this such an inspiring read and I can’t help but admire this woman as she has got where she is today by starting at the bottom and with pure hard graft and determination she has made it to the top proving that if you really want something in life it is achievable and yes it isn’t easy by any means but it is possible.
I have recently given up my business and have been having doubts and it was great to hear that even the best in the business have times when they have wobbles, doubts and regrets but Jo Malone just dusts herself off and picks herself up and carries on.
I can’t finish this review without mentioning the Scent page at the front of the book which smells absolutely divine and every now and again whilst turning the pages I would catch another whiff! She has me sold, I will be picking up a bottle of Pomelo on my next trip up town.
This book will not disappoint it gives you a wonderful insight of a determined, lovable, passionate and inspirational woman on her journey through life that will keep you hooked the whole way through. I don’t usual keep books I have read as I have nowhere to store them but this one I cannot bare to part with and I know I will be turning back to read through these pages again.
I am not a fan of biographies but when I heard that Jo Malone was releasing her story my interest was piqued instantly and I knew I had to get a copy as I have always been in awe of this woman and I wanted to see her journey from where she come from to all she has achieved and experienced along the way to where she is now.
I was quite surprised when I began to read the book that Jo Malone had grown up in surrounding areas from me and she was such a down to earth and normal girl next door who suffered the typical struggles of so many families, I always remember my mum and dad commenting on the ice on the insides of the windows too!
Jo Malone doesn’t hold back she pours everything into this book sharing success stories as well as the hiccups and mistakes she made and learned from along her journey. Her passion and dedication is clear to see throughout the book and the support she received from her wonderful husband and friends does not go unnoticed too.
Before long you really feel as though you are just sitting down having a chat with Jo Malone herself as her voice sounds out from the pages. I found this such an inspiring read and I can’t help but admire this woman as she has got where she is today by starting at the bottom and with pure hard graft and determination she has made it to the top proving that if you really want something in life it is achievable and yes it isn’t easy by any means but it is possible.
I have recently given up my business and have been having doubts and it was great to hear that even the best in the business have times when they have wobbles, doubts and regrets but Jo Malone just dusts herself off and picks herself up and carries on.
I can’t finish this review without mentioning the Scent page at the front of the book which smells absolutely divine and every now and again whilst turning the pages I would catch another whiff! She has me sold, I will be picking up a bottle of Pomelo on my next trip up town.
This book will not disappoint it gives you a wonderful insight of a determined, lovable, passionate and inspirational woman on her journey through life that will keep you hooked the whole way through. I don’t usual keep books I have read as I have nowhere to store them but this one I cannot bare to part with and I know I will be turning back to read through these pages again.
February 7, 2017
A beautifully balanced, humble account of how Jo Malone made it to where she is now and the incredible obstacles that both 'made her' and that she had to overcome in order to arrive at where she is today.
I absolutely loved this book, from its at time heartbreaking accounts of struggle in her childhood, whose response was always to take on more responsibility, to help at home whether it was making face creams in the kitchen to help her mother, tidying the house, selling paintings at the market with her Dad, to coping with an undiagnosed dyslexia and the uttered words of a teacher who predicted she would come to nothing.
When she begins to go it alone, but with the important and incredible support of her husband behind it, she begins to flourish and her creativity sings, reading her descriptions of being in the creative zone, of creating a scent, playing with the notes of fragrance my post it notes were flying. I had to refrain from dog-earring pages and scribbling in the margins as the book was lent to me, but having become interested and immersed in the aromas of essential oils 20 years ago and being someone who also creates aroma blends and loves nothing more than to experiment with create a blend, I could totally relate to the bliss Jo Malone feels when she's doing her thing in a creative sense.
Though she has her share of fears and trepidation at entering into the unknown, her life has been scattered with signs and synchronicities that propelled her forward, to meet those who would show her the way, encourage her to take the next step, work through the challenges, admit the mistakes, learn from them and move on if possible.
I absolutely loved this book, from its at time heartbreaking accounts of struggle in her childhood, whose response was always to take on more responsibility, to help at home whether it was making face creams in the kitchen to help her mother, tidying the house, selling paintings at the market with her Dad, to coping with an undiagnosed dyslexia and the uttered words of a teacher who predicted she would come to nothing.
When she begins to go it alone, but with the important and incredible support of her husband behind it, she begins to flourish and her creativity sings, reading her descriptions of being in the creative zone, of creating a scent, playing with the notes of fragrance my post it notes were flying. I had to refrain from dog-earring pages and scribbling in the margins as the book was lent to me, but having become interested and immersed in the aromas of essential oils 20 years ago and being someone who also creates aroma blends and loves nothing more than to experiment with create a blend, I could totally relate to the bliss Jo Malone feels when she's doing her thing in a creative sense.
Though she has her share of fears and trepidation at entering into the unknown, her life has been scattered with signs and synchronicities that propelled her forward, to meet those who would show her the way, encourage her to take the next step, work through the challenges, admit the mistakes, learn from them and move on if possible.
March 15, 2022
I want to make lotions and start a fragrance business and also I want to fly to london and go to jo’s store who’s with me
February 20, 2017
Jo Malone, the famous London Perfumer ticks all the boxes in her autobiography. A simple childhood with money struggles, hard work, opportunities, health struggles etc. I always like to hear about some one from humble beginnings becoming so successful, it gives all of us hope that we just need that one great idea and lots of hard work.
January 14, 2017
Excellent Excellent. this woman's story is high on progress and low on overcoming obstacles - she just keeps going over them , round em or doesn't seem to realise they are an obstacle.
A must read for everywoman
A must read for everywoman
January 1, 2022
** Books 84 - 2021 **
Buku ini untuk menyelesaikan Tsundoku Books Challenge 2021
4,2 dari 5 bintang!
Sejujurnya aku sebelumnya tidak mengenal siapa itu Jo Malone hingga akhirnya ketika mendengar bahwa beliau adalah seseorang yang terkenal akan merek parfumnya. Pada suatu ketika saat sedang berlancar di dunia maya saya menemukan video review parfumnya dan yang membuat saya salah fokus adalah ternyata beliau membuat buku biografi yang berhasil membuat saya penasaran untuk lekas membeli dan membacanya
Ternyata saya berhasil terpikat dengan kegigihan Jo Malone dalam mengarungi kehidupannya yang termasuk keras sejak kecil. Siapa sangka Jo Malone hidup dengan Ayah yang seorang seniman dan ibu yang berprofesi sebagai terapis kecantikan. Jo menghidap disleksia yang membuat dirinya untuk tidak memutuskan kehidupan bangku sekolah.
Tidak hanya sampai disitu kehidupan terjal yang ia lalui ketika ia sudah meraih semua tangga kesuksesan dia dihempaskan oleh kenyataan menderita Kanker Payudara. Saya jujur salut banget dengan kegigihannya, jiwa wirausahawan dan juga sifat pantang menyerah membuat kita terinspirasi untuk bisa menjadi seperti beliau
Thankyou Google Playstore!
Buku ini untuk menyelesaikan Tsundoku Books Challenge 2021
4,2 dari 5 bintang!
Sejujurnya aku sebelumnya tidak mengenal siapa itu Jo Malone hingga akhirnya ketika mendengar bahwa beliau adalah seseorang yang terkenal akan merek parfumnya. Pada suatu ketika saat sedang berlancar di dunia maya saya menemukan video review parfumnya dan yang membuat saya salah fokus adalah ternyata beliau membuat buku biografi yang berhasil membuat saya penasaran untuk lekas membeli dan membacanya
Ternyata saya berhasil terpikat dengan kegigihan Jo Malone dalam mengarungi kehidupannya yang termasuk keras sejak kecil. Siapa sangka Jo Malone hidup dengan Ayah yang seorang seniman dan ibu yang berprofesi sebagai terapis kecantikan. Jo menghidap disleksia yang membuat dirinya untuk tidak memutuskan kehidupan bangku sekolah.
Tidak hanya sampai disitu kehidupan terjal yang ia lalui ketika ia sudah meraih semua tangga kesuksesan dia dihempaskan oleh kenyataan menderita Kanker Payudara. Saya jujur salut banget dengan kegigihannya, jiwa wirausahawan dan juga sifat pantang menyerah membuat kita terinspirasi untuk bisa menjadi seperti beliau
Thankyou Google Playstore!
January 29, 2018
Inspirational and heart warming!
March 19, 2022
Beautifully written, so inspiring and relevant to anyone who wants to become an entrepreneur, enter the beauty industry or even just learn about Jo's iron clad resilience against the trials and tribulations of life.
January 17, 2020
One of the most interesting autobiographies that I've read in a long time! Despite being a long time fan of the Jo Malone brand (I adore the Lime Basil & Mandarin fragrance), I didn't actually know anything about the woman herself and found myself completely engrossed in her story which came across as fresh, honest and quite raw in some places.
I was not expecting such a rollercoaster of emotions to come to the surface as she depicts her childhood, growing up in a freezing cold council house (the way that she described watching a piece of ice fall down inside the window of her bedroom and how she declared that she didn't want to wake up feeling cold ever again once she was an adult - I was in tears as I grew up in similar circumstances), and the difficult relationship that she had with her parents, especially her mother, all resonated with me.
Throughout the book, I admired Jo's unfaltering work ethic - from working around the clock to help support her parents and sister, to building her own brand after working with her mother, she never stopped dreaming big and always kept finding ways to move onwards and upwards.
Admittedly, she did have some incredible opportunities (it's not every day that your mother randomly ends up working for an eccentric Countess in central London who died and leaves her the business), but she also put in a hell of a lot of effort to make the most of those opportunities and without her creative insight and can-do attitude, it's unlikely that Jo Malone would have been as rapidly as successful as she was, even with the famous names on her client list.
I thoroughly enjoyed her journey of building the brand, selling it and then years later, building a new brand, and her experience of having breast cancer in between only seemed to help strengthen her resolve even more.
An admirable entrepreneur!
I was not expecting such a rollercoaster of emotions to come to the surface as she depicts her childhood, growing up in a freezing cold council house (the way that she described watching a piece of ice fall down inside the window of her bedroom and how she declared that she didn't want to wake up feeling cold ever again once she was an adult - I was in tears as I grew up in similar circumstances), and the difficult relationship that she had with her parents, especially her mother, all resonated with me.
Throughout the book, I admired Jo's unfaltering work ethic - from working around the clock to help support her parents and sister, to building her own brand after working with her mother, she never stopped dreaming big and always kept finding ways to move onwards and upwards.
Admittedly, she did have some incredible opportunities (it's not every day that your mother randomly ends up working for an eccentric Countess in central London who died and leaves her the business), but she also put in a hell of a lot of effort to make the most of those opportunities and without her creative insight and can-do attitude, it's unlikely that Jo Malone would have been as rapidly as successful as she was, even with the famous names on her client list.
I thoroughly enjoyed her journey of building the brand, selling it and then years later, building a new brand, and her experience of having breast cancer in between only seemed to help strengthen her resolve even more.
An admirable entrepreneur!
February 9, 2017
I love Jo Maline fragrance and all my family know how much I love it so thought this was the perfect gift for me and I ended up with three copies for Christmas!!!! I was hugely disappointed. I didn't believe the whole "rags to riches" story that is obviously being told to sell an exclusive brand...call me a cynic!!! The photos didn't match with the story either...one shows her supposedly in the Cheksea flat when she was starting out on her own, however behind her are the signature bottles of Jo Malone which according to the story weren't designed until she got her first shop.
Don't get me wrong, it was a pleasant read, but towards the end it was more of slog then a joy, and I was getting fed up with the description of every, single person mentioned in the book as a "good friend"!
I was a little disillusioned if I'm honest to the point where I have said to my other half not to buy me the fragrance any more!
Sorry if I seem harsh, it's just how I feel about the book and the brand.
Don't get me wrong, it was a pleasant read, but towards the end it was more of slog then a joy, and I was getting fed up with the description of every, single person mentioned in the book as a "good friend"!
I was a little disillusioned if I'm honest to the point where I have said to my other half not to buy me the fragrance any more!
Sorry if I seem harsh, it's just how I feel about the book and the brand.
September 28, 2017
I love jo Malone products so was excited to read her story. Was a bit disappointed as the book itself was very repetitive in my opinion and I had to struggle to finish it!!
Overall a story of perseverance and jo herself seems a very strong independent driven woman!! A excellent insight into the perfume industry and how life is hard for everyone no matter how successful or wealthy we are.
Overall a story of perseverance and jo herself seems a very strong independent driven woman!! A excellent insight into the perfume industry and how life is hard for everyone no matter how successful or wealthy we are.
December 15, 2016
Malone's early family life is quite unhappy. As soon as she was old enough, she was under pressure to take on more responsibility within the household and by looking after her sister as her parent's marriage crumbled and her mother's mental health deteriorated. From the outset, Malone approaches these challenging times with determination and focus, using the housework as a way of establishing order and control. There is nothing pitiable about her, nor is she seeking it.
The one thing her upbringing did reinforce was that "I don't want to live like this when I'm older. I won't. I can't." And that flicker of grit, resilience, hard work and focus is alight. Sadly she does say that she "learned to detach myself and place sad thoughts into mental boxes that I'd push away and refuse to open", but then this also taught her to "not look back and to keep moving forward" which again, reflects the incredible drive Malone has to follow her passion and what has ensured she's managed such a successful company.
Malone is tough on herself. She is meticulous in creating a product with integrity and settling for nothing less than outstanding. When she began to experiment with making fragrances she learnt three lessons:
"always find Tracey (her younger sister) something to do, never take your eyes off the ball, and be willing to toss it out and start again if it's not absolutely perfect."
However, she is not a cold person. The way she talks about her husband and son is extremely warm, moving and loving, showing them to be an integral part of who she is and intrinsic to her life. On many occasions she explains how she would be nothing without Gary's support and love. The strength of their relationship is impressive and I found it very poignant when Malone explained that Gary was the first person to offer her unconditional love, security and constancy.
What I also loved about this autobiography is that the writing is very honest, sometimes blunt, humorous, and exceptionally readable. You can't help but admire and respect this woman and despite her global recognition and wealth, the book is incredibly down to earth and chatty in its tone of voice. Except perhaps when she talks about fragrances and creating oils! Her absolute passion for scents and smells seems to be so intuitive, so overwhelming and such an obsession for her that the passages about this are lyrical and effusive.
"When I start to develop the idea for a fragrance, I am, in my mind, creating a unique character that breathes on its own, with a heartbeat, soul and personality: whispering to me its capabilities, strengths and weaknesses; hinting whether it will be dominant in a room or more reserved, and whether it will turn heads or slowly grow on people. But however it behaves socially, one thing is guaranteed: each one will make its charm and presence felt, stirring moods, memories, emotions.....and our senses."
"I'm like a conductor pulling in different instruments and musicians to create a symphony"
And perhaps the best thing about the book is that Malone includes the failures, the mistakes, the cringing, the moments of sheer panic - all with a light touch of humour and humility. This is particularly pertinent, seeing as she often uses music as a metaphor for her work, when she recounts the moment of the "Jo Malone version of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture" when the bottles lining a beautiful shelf display in the shop had been filled a little too full of oil!
Jo Malone has overcome many difficulties and challenges in her life, but never does she blame, rant or become negative about them. She has a real sense of perspective and appears very grounded. At school, she struggled and although later diagnosed with dyslexia, it was too late to help her with her education.
"There were no neuroscientists referring to the hidden potential of dyslexics, no Alan Sugars or Norman Fosters to trump the stigmas; no books like "The Dyslexic Advantage" to explain how individuals with dyslexia are't defective; they're simple different. None of that."
It was interesting hearing how she had learned to overcome this challenge in her working life and how she and her team sought ways of making spreadsheets, presentations and any documents she may be faced with, accessible for her. This really is a determined woman who seeks to positively solve problems rather than let them floor her. And all this pays off. As she quotes:
"Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life - Confucius"
And she is also a woman who embraces challenges. At various stages of her career she's been dealt a curve ball and had to rethink, re-plan, re-budget, restructure and even start again and every time, Malone starts right at the bottom. She doesn't behave as if she is entitled to anything. As she says when she decides to set up Jo Loves:
"How does anyone get started? Easy. You start by getting off your arse and making difficult calls."
"Skin doesn't recognise class and there's something about the intimate space between the 'face girl' and client that is a great leveller."
The Jo Malone brand is incredibly distinctive, as is her new brand Jo Loves. Malone clearly has a very clear approach to what her brands stand for and her she explains this:
"Simplicity sums up my approach. I believe that the hallmarks of quality and luxury are discernment, not fuss, not razzmatazz, not bells and whistles. Understated. Subtle. Like a scent that gradually makes itself known and quietly commands attention."
The hardest challenge that Malone faced was being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 37. Yes, this is a bleak time for her, yes she is desperately ill, yes she describes how difficult, upsetting and dreadful this time was for her but even throughout this devastating ordeal she remains pragmatic, focussed and resolute.
"To ask 'why me?' would be to wish that it was on someone else, and that didn't seem fair. Life doesn't always deal the good fortune cards."
"It's important to share my story......the more we shine light into the darkest, scariest of places, the more acceptable it seems and the less alone we have to be."
And I totally loved this sentence from the end of the section talking about her illness:
"Cancer doesn't define me. It only signifies eight months and three chapters in my life story."
Jo Malone is brave. She is inspiring. She is iconic. She is a fantastic role model. She is a successful business woman. She is an artist. She is a mother and a wife. She also seems like someone you could easily spend an afternoon chatting to over tea and cake- or maybe a glass of wine one evening! I highly recommend this autobiography. I think it's pretty clear how I felt about it and I think I'm probably in danger of being reprimanded by Simon & Schuster for over-quoting!
Oh but I just can't stop.....!! If any book will make you feel like you can conquer the world, this one will! If any person can make you feel like you should get out there and chase your dream, this one will!
"Find a ladder. Or find a way to climb over the wall. Or dig a tunnel. Just find a way."
For Malone it's not about money, status, recognition, fame. She is just chasing a dream to make fragrances, chasing a dream to make something she is proud of herself rather than waiting to be affirmed by someone else. Her use of the words "integrity", "creativity", being "true to yourself", "vocation", "resilience" and "passion" ultimately reflect the fundamental beliefs on which she has built her marriage, her family, her friendships and her business. Even if Jo Malone had not become one of the most recognised brands in the beauty industry - or even since it has -I think we would always find her somewhere, working out of whatever room she could find, doing facials and making people feel good about themselves.
And there is a lovely, genuine sense of humility about Jo Malone too. I want to finish by quoting her last sentence in her acknowledgements:
"Lastly I'd like to express my gratitude to every person across this world who, over the last thirty years, has bought a product I've created, be it a fragrance, a bath oil, candle or face cream - thank you for making a shopkeeper's dream come true."
This is a very easy read, engaging and totally fascinating read. It's like having Jo Malone in the room with you for a few hours, chatting away and provides a real insight into her personal and professional world. I will read it again. And, thanks to the scented page inside the front cover and the sensory overload about her creative process, my Christmas list will be mainly made up of products from her new company Jo Loves!
The one thing her upbringing did reinforce was that "I don't want to live like this when I'm older. I won't. I can't." And that flicker of grit, resilience, hard work and focus is alight. Sadly she does say that she "learned to detach myself and place sad thoughts into mental boxes that I'd push away and refuse to open", but then this also taught her to "not look back and to keep moving forward" which again, reflects the incredible drive Malone has to follow her passion and what has ensured she's managed such a successful company.
Malone is tough on herself. She is meticulous in creating a product with integrity and settling for nothing less than outstanding. When she began to experiment with making fragrances she learnt three lessons:
"always find Tracey (her younger sister) something to do, never take your eyes off the ball, and be willing to toss it out and start again if it's not absolutely perfect."
However, she is not a cold person. The way she talks about her husband and son is extremely warm, moving and loving, showing them to be an integral part of who she is and intrinsic to her life. On many occasions she explains how she would be nothing without Gary's support and love. The strength of their relationship is impressive and I found it very poignant when Malone explained that Gary was the first person to offer her unconditional love, security and constancy.
What I also loved about this autobiography is that the writing is very honest, sometimes blunt, humorous, and exceptionally readable. You can't help but admire and respect this woman and despite her global recognition and wealth, the book is incredibly down to earth and chatty in its tone of voice. Except perhaps when she talks about fragrances and creating oils! Her absolute passion for scents and smells seems to be so intuitive, so overwhelming and such an obsession for her that the passages about this are lyrical and effusive.
"When I start to develop the idea for a fragrance, I am, in my mind, creating a unique character that breathes on its own, with a heartbeat, soul and personality: whispering to me its capabilities, strengths and weaknesses; hinting whether it will be dominant in a room or more reserved, and whether it will turn heads or slowly grow on people. But however it behaves socially, one thing is guaranteed: each one will make its charm and presence felt, stirring moods, memories, emotions.....and our senses."
"I'm like a conductor pulling in different instruments and musicians to create a symphony"
And perhaps the best thing about the book is that Malone includes the failures, the mistakes, the cringing, the moments of sheer panic - all with a light touch of humour and humility. This is particularly pertinent, seeing as she often uses music as a metaphor for her work, when she recounts the moment of the "Jo Malone version of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture" when the bottles lining a beautiful shelf display in the shop had been filled a little too full of oil!
Jo Malone has overcome many difficulties and challenges in her life, but never does she blame, rant or become negative about them. She has a real sense of perspective and appears very grounded. At school, she struggled and although later diagnosed with dyslexia, it was too late to help her with her education.
"There were no neuroscientists referring to the hidden potential of dyslexics, no Alan Sugars or Norman Fosters to trump the stigmas; no books like "The Dyslexic Advantage" to explain how individuals with dyslexia are't defective; they're simple different. None of that."
It was interesting hearing how she had learned to overcome this challenge in her working life and how she and her team sought ways of making spreadsheets, presentations and any documents she may be faced with, accessible for her. This really is a determined woman who seeks to positively solve problems rather than let them floor her. And all this pays off. As she quotes:
"Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life - Confucius"
And she is also a woman who embraces challenges. At various stages of her career she's been dealt a curve ball and had to rethink, re-plan, re-budget, restructure and even start again and every time, Malone starts right at the bottom. She doesn't behave as if she is entitled to anything. As she says when she decides to set up Jo Loves:
"How does anyone get started? Easy. You start by getting off your arse and making difficult calls."
"Skin doesn't recognise class and there's something about the intimate space between the 'face girl' and client that is a great leveller."
The Jo Malone brand is incredibly distinctive, as is her new brand Jo Loves. Malone clearly has a very clear approach to what her brands stand for and her she explains this:
"Simplicity sums up my approach. I believe that the hallmarks of quality and luxury are discernment, not fuss, not razzmatazz, not bells and whistles. Understated. Subtle. Like a scent that gradually makes itself known and quietly commands attention."
The hardest challenge that Malone faced was being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 37. Yes, this is a bleak time for her, yes she is desperately ill, yes she describes how difficult, upsetting and dreadful this time was for her but even throughout this devastating ordeal she remains pragmatic, focussed and resolute.
"To ask 'why me?' would be to wish that it was on someone else, and that didn't seem fair. Life doesn't always deal the good fortune cards."
"It's important to share my story......the more we shine light into the darkest, scariest of places, the more acceptable it seems and the less alone we have to be."
And I totally loved this sentence from the end of the section talking about her illness:
"Cancer doesn't define me. It only signifies eight months and three chapters in my life story."
Jo Malone is brave. She is inspiring. She is iconic. She is a fantastic role model. She is a successful business woman. She is an artist. She is a mother and a wife. She also seems like someone you could easily spend an afternoon chatting to over tea and cake- or maybe a glass of wine one evening! I highly recommend this autobiography. I think it's pretty clear how I felt about it and I think I'm probably in danger of being reprimanded by Simon & Schuster for over-quoting!
Oh but I just can't stop.....!! If any book will make you feel like you can conquer the world, this one will! If any person can make you feel like you should get out there and chase your dream, this one will!
"Find a ladder. Or find a way to climb over the wall. Or dig a tunnel. Just find a way."
For Malone it's not about money, status, recognition, fame. She is just chasing a dream to make fragrances, chasing a dream to make something she is proud of herself rather than waiting to be affirmed by someone else. Her use of the words "integrity", "creativity", being "true to yourself", "vocation", "resilience" and "passion" ultimately reflect the fundamental beliefs on which she has built her marriage, her family, her friendships and her business. Even if Jo Malone had not become one of the most recognised brands in the beauty industry - or even since it has -I think we would always find her somewhere, working out of whatever room she could find, doing facials and making people feel good about themselves.
And there is a lovely, genuine sense of humility about Jo Malone too. I want to finish by quoting her last sentence in her acknowledgements:
"Lastly I'd like to express my gratitude to every person across this world who, over the last thirty years, has bought a product I've created, be it a fragrance, a bath oil, candle or face cream - thank you for making a shopkeeper's dream come true."
This is a very easy read, engaging and totally fascinating read. It's like having Jo Malone in the room with you for a few hours, chatting away and provides a real insight into her personal and professional world. I will read it again. And, thanks to the scented page inside the front cover and the sensory overload about her creative process, my Christmas list will be mainly made up of products from her new company Jo Loves!
May 16, 2022
I don't recall the connection that led to me looking out this book, written about and in the name of someone I didnt know; had no connection to nor any experience of their product. So at the beginning I was entirely neutral. As the book progressed I enjoyed the early life stories - they were interesting and explained what shaped Jo Malone. Not an easy childhood but nor one deprived of love and experiences. I started to warm to the subject.
The story of her early days in business and life as a younger adult were interesting too and one wanted her to do well.
But by the time we got to the breast cancer story, I was already starting to cringe at the name dropping. Then the entitlement. Then the wholesale lack of acknowledgement of her privilege that nearly every human who has ever suffered a life threatening or far worse, chronic and incurable illness can never access through no fault of their own, was nauseating.
By three quarters of the way through the book I couldn't wait for it to be over but stuck with it in the hope of there being some redemptive feature. But no. It was more name dropping, self aggrandisement and skimming over anything that would have been remotely human or interesting. Doing financially well is one thing but having lost sight of the human qualities that made her endearing in the early part of her life was a failure for this reader.
But reading the acknowledgements started to make some kind of sense - perhaps. Obviously a ghost written book, it was as though one warm-hearted ghost writer or interviewer started the first half, and then someone else with a background in PR or corporate comms mire interested in a puff piece finished off the remainder, and in a hurry.
Overall a disappointing read which left me feeling Jo Malone wouldn't be an inclusion on my fantasy dinner party guest list. Disillusioned.
The story of her early days in business and life as a younger adult were interesting too and one wanted her to do well.
But by the time we got to the breast cancer story, I was already starting to cringe at the name dropping. Then the entitlement. Then the wholesale lack of acknowledgement of her privilege that nearly every human who has ever suffered a life threatening or far worse, chronic and incurable illness can never access through no fault of their own, was nauseating.
By three quarters of the way through the book I couldn't wait for it to be over but stuck with it in the hope of there being some redemptive feature. But no. It was more name dropping, self aggrandisement and skimming over anything that would have been remotely human or interesting. Doing financially well is one thing but having lost sight of the human qualities that made her endearing in the early part of her life was a failure for this reader.
But reading the acknowledgements started to make some kind of sense - perhaps. Obviously a ghost written book, it was as though one warm-hearted ghost writer or interviewer started the first half, and then someone else with a background in PR or corporate comms mire interested in a puff piece finished off the remainder, and in a hurry.
Overall a disappointing read which left me feeling Jo Malone wouldn't be an inclusion on my fantasy dinner party guest list. Disillusioned.
February 8, 2024
Jo Malone's Lime Basil and Mandarin is my favourite perfume, so I felt compelled to read My Story. It is a lengthy read, but well worth the effort. I found some of the early chapters less interesting, but they shine a light on Jo's reasons for her drive and determination to succeed. The gift she has for blending essential oils into exquisite perfumes is rare.
She shares how this gift was honed from her early work as a beauty therapist under the watchful eye of her mother who had a string of celebrity clients. However, Jo found a number of other inspirational teachers on her path as her skills became more sought after.
After marrying her soulmate Gary their joint vision and determination helped the Jo Malone brand cross the Atlantic into high end stores. I particularly enjoyed reading of their highs and lows on their path to global success.
Jo's battle with breast cancer is equally inspiring, as is her road to recovery and the new adventures that she embraced on her journey.
An excellent read.
She shares how this gift was honed from her early work as a beauty therapist under the watchful eye of her mother who had a string of celebrity clients. However, Jo found a number of other inspirational teachers on her path as her skills became more sought after.
After marrying her soulmate Gary their joint vision and determination helped the Jo Malone brand cross the Atlantic into high end stores. I particularly enjoyed reading of their highs and lows on their path to global success.
Jo's battle with breast cancer is equally inspiring, as is her road to recovery and the new adventures that she embraced on her journey.
An excellent read.
January 1, 2017
Simply put, this is one of the few autobiographies I have ever read that is a page - turner. Jo's story is not what you expect. I read this knowing very little about her background and was completely inspired by the challenges she has faced and her journey from such ordinary beginnings. She is a true self made woman who has created a totally unique brand based on passion and an extraordinary sense of smell. Her journey through dyslexia and breast cancer are told with no sense of self pity; she tells her story and shares the conversations she has in her own head in a refreshingly open narrative.
You don't have to be a Jo Malone fan to read this; it is an accessible tale of an entrepreneur from humble beginnings that will appeal to readers interested in success as well as to those who are fans of the Malone brand.
The fragrances page is a nice touch and a great marketing technique from a clever lady!
You don't have to be a Jo Malone fan to read this; it is an accessible tale of an entrepreneur from humble beginnings that will appeal to readers interested in success as well as to those who are fans of the Malone brand.
The fragrances page is a nice touch and a great marketing technique from a clever lady!
March 14, 2018
I would totally recommend it to anyone who is passionate about autobiographies and “behind-the-scenes” views of succesful businesses. I’m not sure how much of the real story is embellished in any way, but one thing is certain: Jo Malone is a force to be reckoned with. The only minus point of the book is that it’s overly long: I think a quicker pace would have benefitted both the readers and the story itself. As much as I enjoyed the book, in some chapters I had the impression that I was reliving in slow-pace entire years of Jo’s day-to-day life, with excessive (and often unnecessary) detail and an abundance of “friend” characters that only appear once or twice and that get tangled in your mind. But overall it’s a worthwhile and inspiring read!
January 4, 2025
Well, I now want to head to London to go to a Jo Malone spa.
4 1/2 stars: This is one of the better autobiographies I've read. At times it was a bit repetitive but her life is so interesting that it held my attention. It was fascinating to read about how she started her business in the back room of an apartment and it ended up where it is today: owned by Estee Lauder and sold all over the world. The fact that she grew up extremely poor and did it by herself through persistent, hard work make you root for her while you're reading.....even though you know she becomes "JO MALONE."
I don't know when I'll get to London, but I will be buying a Jo Malone body creme at Nordstroms this week.
4 1/2 stars: This is one of the better autobiographies I've read. At times it was a bit repetitive but her life is so interesting that it held my attention. It was fascinating to read about how she started her business in the back room of an apartment and it ended up where it is today: owned by Estee Lauder and sold all over the world. The fact that she grew up extremely poor and did it by herself through persistent, hard work make you root for her while you're reading.....even though you know she becomes "JO MALONE."
I don't know when I'll get to London, but I will be buying a Jo Malone body creme at Nordstroms this week.
August 20, 2018
I laughed, I cried, I learnt and I am inspired. Recommend to everyone.
I started this book as a woman in business thinking it would be a motivational read. It turned out to be so much more, suffice to say one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read. There were times I cried at the courage Jo found and the kindness she received in her times of need. Then there were pages I could swipe fast enough drawn into the amazing journey this book takes you. It is a read for everyone of any age and from any vocational background.
I started this book as a woman in business thinking it would be a motivational read. It turned out to be so much more, suffice to say one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read. There were times I cried at the courage Jo found and the kindness she received in her times of need. Then there were pages I could swipe fast enough drawn into the amazing journey this book takes you. It is a read for everyone of any age and from any vocational background.
November 12, 2020
I’m a big fan of Jo Malone and biographies, so when I saw this book in the book store I bought it immediately!
I found so many things in common and deeply related to Jo when I was reading her story!
It gave me a lot of inspiration and keep me thinking that what I need to do for myself in the future!!
Highly recommended this book for Jo Malone’s fans !! It’s always nice to know about the story behind brand you love and know about the founder, it will enhances your feeling towards the product!!
After finishing this book , one thing for sure is that, I will continue to support her new brand !!
I found so many things in common and deeply related to Jo when I was reading her story!
It gave me a lot of inspiration and keep me thinking that what I need to do for myself in the future!!
Highly recommended this book for Jo Malone’s fans !! It’s always nice to know about the story behind brand you love and know about the founder, it will enhances your feeling towards the product!!
After finishing this book , one thing for sure is that, I will continue to support her new brand !!
July 30, 2024
‘𝕀𝕗 𝕀 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕝𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕥𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝕞𝕖 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕕𝕠 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖.”
“𝔹𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖. 𝔻𝕠 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕠 𝕚𝕟 ‘𝕀𝕗 𝕀 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕝𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕥𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝕞𝕖 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕕𝕠 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖.”
𝕠𝕣𝕕𝕖𝕣 𝕥𝕠 𝕘𝕖𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙”…..𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥’𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕡𝕙𝕚𝕝𝕠𝕤𝕠𝕡𝕙𝕪!
𝙄𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧, “𝙈𝙮 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮” 𝙗𝙮 𝙅𝙤 𝙈𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙢𝙪𝙨𝙩-𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙡𝙤𝙗𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨..
#jomalone #mystory #jomalonemystory
“𝔹𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖. 𝔻𝕠 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕠 𝕚𝕟 ‘𝕀𝕗 𝕀 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕝𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕥𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝕞𝕖 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕕𝕠 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖.”
𝕠𝕣𝕕𝕖𝕣 𝕥𝕠 𝕘𝕖𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙”…..𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥’𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕡𝕙𝕚𝕝𝕠𝕤𝕠𝕡𝕙𝕪!
𝙄𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧, “𝙈𝙮 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮” 𝙗𝙮 𝙅𝙤 𝙈𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙢𝙪𝙨𝙩-𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙡𝙤𝙗𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨..
#jomalone #mystory #jomalonemystory
September 7, 2020
I first heard Jo speak on a podcast about her entrepreneurial journey and loved diving in deeper while reading this book. Jo is the essence of perseverance and hard work to develop two brands despite many obstacles. I loved reading about her processes and ability to combine sensory experiences into fragrance. I loved how she combined wisdom from mentors and work experience in order to make a marketable product.
December 31, 2020
An entrepreneur who smells so good.
Frankly, you can’t miss Jo Malone, unless you’ve never been to the airport duty free area or you’ve never used or being gifted a bottle of perfume in your entire life.
I would call it the scents of the divine. Just think of Eden and all the flowers, herbs and nature come wafting into your senses. And these are the way how she opened herself to be read, in the most natural way.
Without pretentious, she tells about her upbringing, her fight with cancer and her triumph. She shares with readers her intuition with scents. Strange enough, she feels scents, not through her nose, but through her emotions. No wonder every Jo Malone’s fan keeps his/her personal favorite to oneself.
There are so many chapters that moved me to tears. Her tenacity, creativity and sensitivity to scents gave her the edge over many startups. At least, she has the special gift, although being dyslexic, to move her towards creating with her predominantly astute right brain.
And of course, we can’t forget her husband, Gary, who is the person, who considerably, the left brain of the business. A successful combination.
A very candid account of her success story. I wish that every entrepreneur’s book can be as confident, truthful and open as hers.
Frankly, you can’t miss Jo Malone, unless you’ve never been to the airport duty free area or you’ve never used or being gifted a bottle of perfume in your entire life.
I would call it the scents of the divine. Just think of Eden and all the flowers, herbs and nature come wafting into your senses. And these are the way how she opened herself to be read, in the most natural way.
Without pretentious, she tells about her upbringing, her fight with cancer and her triumph. She shares with readers her intuition with scents. Strange enough, she feels scents, not through her nose, but through her emotions. No wonder every Jo Malone’s fan keeps his/her personal favorite to oneself.
There are so many chapters that moved me to tears. Her tenacity, creativity and sensitivity to scents gave her the edge over many startups. At least, she has the special gift, although being dyslexic, to move her towards creating with her predominantly astute right brain.
And of course, we can’t forget her husband, Gary, who is the person, who considerably, the left brain of the business. A successful combination.
A very candid account of her success story. I wish that every entrepreneur’s book can be as confident, truthful and open as hers.
December 5, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this story about Jo Malone and her inspiring journey to create her fragrance brands. I am an enthusiastic Jo Malone London devotee and will be seeking out new favorites soon from the Jo Loves brand after discovering more about how they were created. I thought the book was an insightful look at Jo Malone‘s journey and I came away thinking that she is the kind of person who seems humble and approachable. Great story and I loved the Pomolo scent card!
March 10, 2022
They say life is stranger than as fiction
This is a true rags to riches story. The way Jo’s life comes full circle is like something you’d read in a novel.
A truly inspirational and innovative British icon and export, a great role model, especially for young girls and women.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jo’s journey, and I dare say it might be one of the few books I might find myself reading again.
This is a true rags to riches story. The way Jo’s life comes full circle is like something you’d read in a novel.
A truly inspirational and innovative British icon and export, a great role model, especially for young girls and women.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jo’s journey, and I dare say it might be one of the few books I might find myself reading again.
November 11, 2017
After visiting the Jo Loves shop in Belgravia last week it made me pull this book from my huge reading pile! After a fabulous informative time in the shop I wanted to know more about Jo's latest products & how Jo Loves came about after Jo Malone London was sold to Estée Lauder- a brilliant autobiography about Jo's interesting & heartbreaking life.
December 14, 2020
This is an interesting run through the life of Jo Malone, from her childhood to present day.
It takes us through the challenges of her difficult childhood, her marriage to Gary, the issues which made her relinquish control of her first company and the drive and determination that saw her launch another.
It takes us through the challenges of her difficult childhood, her marriage to Gary, the issues which made her relinquish control of her first company and the drive and determination that saw her launch another.
February 27, 2024
I never reach for non fiction but had been recommended this and it was a joy! I couldn't put it down, Jo's story is inspiring and told with wit and one truly believes in the honesty and integrity of the recollections. Loved it and want to immediately run out and sniff the glorious sounding concoctions!
October 4, 2017
An excellent lesson in entrepreneurship with an overwhelmingly emotional personal story of perseverance, courage, friendship. Overcoming cancer is an illustration of the strength of the human spirit that has guided Jo through her business development and mishaps.
October 13, 2017
Having seen Jo in Dubai, my granddaughter bought me the book and got it signed, I can say that it is one of the best books I have read, a book you want to go on and on, it f
reads as if Jo is talking to you, will now pass on to my daughter and I know she will love it just as much I did
reads as if Jo is talking to you, will now pass on to my daughter and I know she will love it just as much I did
January 23, 2018
I thought Jo's story was very interesting. It's a happy story with some sadness in between. Jo is proof that even with meager beginnings if you but your mind to something and work your butt off you can really achieve your dreams. Great read!
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