From catering kitchens to creating self-heating eye masks, the journey of Spacemasks’ founder Harriet is anything but ordinary. Driven by a desire to provide a simple, soothing pause in our busy lives, she’s turned everyday moments into opportunities for rest, relief, and self-care. Harriet shares the story behind Spacemasks, her most memorable customer feedback, and the rituals that make her own day-to-day life feel a little more peaceful.
You went from catering to creating self-heating eye masks what was the ‘spark’ (or cosmic nudge) that made you switch industries?
Having suffered with anxiety, I wanted to create something convenient and inexpensive that we could all use to stop; to pause our busy lives.
If you could go back to Day One of Spacemasks, what would you whisper to yourself from the future?
Always listen to your gut.
Jasmine is now a Spacemask signature - but if you had to launch a wild, limited-edition scent tomorrow, what would it be and why?
Probably mint to clear the sinuses.
For the migraine and sleep warriors out there: what’s the most surprising feedback you’ve ever received about how Spacemasks helped them?
I receive endless messages to say that Spacemasks stopped a migraine in its tracks. As soon as you feel one coming on, put on a Spacemask and feel your whole head relax and the headache melt away.
For anyone new to Spacemasks, how exactly does the science work to help with sleep, migraines, and anxiety relief?”
I think it’s a very simple case of a soothing pillow for your eyes. We all have eye strain and dry eyes these days. We are all on screens all day long so the warmth relaxes you whilst at the same time stopping you from using screens. Win win.
If someone has just 20 minutes before the school run, flight, or bedtime, how can a Spacemask transform that sliver of time?
They ensure the ultimate power nap. Time out with a Spacemask will leave you feeling refreshed and rested.
What’s your personal go-to Spacemask ritual: lights off, music on, cup of tea, total silence… or something else?
Bubble bath, bed, audible set for 20 mins and a Spacemask
Travellers love them on planes - but where’s the most unusual place you’ve heard of someone using a Spacemask?
Atm there’s a family sailing with their 2 toddlers across 2 oceans, 14,000 miles, 25 countries. I think they win!
Your Spacecards are famous for that scratchy-pen handwriting. Do you think a handwritten note is the ultimate self-care gesture?
Absolutely! I fear sending handwritten cards will die out so I’m desperately trying to keep this wonderful gesture alive. Who doesn’t love to receive a card in the post? Especially if it contains a Spacemask.
Many founders chase investors. You grew Spacemasks organically. Was that freedom a blessing, a challenge- or a bit of both?
Absolutely the best decision for me.
From Liberty to Sephora, what was your ultimate ‘pinch me’ stockist moment - and did you secretly celebrate with champagne or tea?
It was not secret at all! It was when I was in the Liberty Advent Calendar.
You donate from every sale of your rose and chamomile masks - what does ‘self-care with purpose’ mean to you personally?
I love my charitable Spacemasks. Cancer affects every single person in one way or another so sending a box supporting either of these fabulous charities is better still and gives them special meaning.
Do you ever read through the flood of DMs and customer messages at night - and how does that community energy keep you going?
I love it. Occasionally it gets too much but my customers are all so wonderful and I honestly consider many of them dear friends. If I don’t keep on top of them, I can start to feel a little rattled as I like to reply to each one. Sometimes it’s just not possible and although I worry, I don’t think they’d really mind. Because of my incessant storying, they know if I’m extra busy or away.
If Spacemasks could teleport us anywhere in the galaxy for 20 minutes of calm, where would you send us?
Back to bed!
Finally… if Spacemasks had an official soundtrack, what three songs would be on it?
Prince – Sometimes it Snows in April
Tina Turner – Better be good to me
Michael Jackson – Wanna be Startin’ something
No link to Spacemasks whatsoever but I’m a creature of habit.
Spacemasks isn’t just about relaxation, it’s about carving out space for yourself, even in the busiest of days. From power naps to airplane escapes, handwritten notes to charitable acts, the brand proves that self-care can be both simple and meaningful. Whether you’re a migraine warrior, a travel lover, or someone who simply wants a few moments of calm, Spacemasks offers a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and reset.
