I’m Helen, co-founder and manager of Pick n Melt — and Eastleigh has always felt like home.

I grew up in Hedge End, went to Wildern School, and then on to Barton Peveril College — which now sits just around the corner from our shop. Every morning, when I see the college girls walking past, it reminds me of myself all those years ago — full of energy, laughter, and plans for the future.

After college, I trained at Laine Theatre Arts under the legendary Betty Laine. Those years were intense, inspiring, and unforgettable. They led me to a professional career in the West End, where I performed in shows I had once only dreamed of seeing. The stage taught me discipline, creativity, and the magic of connecting with people — lessons I carry with me every day at Pick n Melt.

During my career I only ever ventured out on a single tour and that was starring alongside Rik Mayall in The New Statesman. That is where I met Dave — He was Rik Mayall’s sound man. How could I not run away with him? We’ve been partners in life and work ever since. After years of performing, I became a mum and after a gruelling time filming the 2nd series of Missing with the wonderful Pauline Quirk (and Roy Hudd was our Dad! ha!) whilst still with the wound of a caesarean and a 3 week old baby wanting fed every hour, we decided to move away from London and grow our family by the sea side. Soon enough we started Pick n Melt — blending our love of creativity, scent, and design into something uniquely ours.

Now, instead of theatre lights, I’m surrounded by shelves of colourful wax melts, candles, and shower steamers. Our shop hums with life — customers chatting, laughter in the air, and the scent of freshly poured melts drifting through the doorway.

I love being part of Eastleigh’s community — supporting local makers, contributing to events, and sharing what we create with the people around us. Seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones every day is what keeps the job joyful.

From Hedge End to the West End to Eastleigh, it’s been quite a journey — and every step has led me right where I’m meant to be.