Schoolfriends Amy Lisney-Smith and Natalie Herd have a shared passion for wellbeing, and have put that to use in creating their own health "haven" in St Albans.

The duo have owned and run I'm Fine Wellbeing - on Hatfield Road, Fleetville - since May last year, and have developed strong bonds with the local community.

Along with selling locally-sourced goods, all focussed on health and wellbeing, Amy and Natalie run community groups from a wellbeing space at the rear of their store.

Herts Advertiser: A number of community groups are run from the store's wellbeing space.A number of community groups are run from the store's wellbeing space. (Image: Pearce Bates)

Mental health-focussed talking groups on a range of topics are organised, and the space is rented out to a range of external providers who share the duo's passion.

Speaking of becoming business partners with a long-time friend, Amy began: "It's being going very well.

"I certainly wouldn't do this with anyone else, it's absolutely bonkers!

Herts Advertiser: I'm Fine Wellbeing's wellbeing space, at the rear of the store.I'm Fine Wellbeing's wellbeing space, at the rear of the store. (Image: Pearce Bates)

"We balance each other out well."

"We generally can say what we think to each other", Natalie added.

"It's just bl**dy great!"

Herts Advertiser: Clothes, candles, CBD products and gifts are all sold at the store.Clothes, candles, CBD products and gifts are all sold at the store. (Image: Pearce Bates)

The store's focus on mental health has led to "a lot of tears from the customers" as they enter a space focussed on allowing individuals to speak about their concerns with like-minded people.

Natalie continued: "For some people it's definitely been a growing process.

"You've got so many women around here that were at a point where they needed this shop.

"They needed that safe space where there is fun and creativity."

Herts Advertiser: Children's products and toys are also available at the store.Children's products and toys are also available at the store. (Image: Pearce Bates)

Speaking of her memories of the store's first nine months in Fleetville, Amy stated: "I think, for me, the most poignant bit has been starting the talking groups.

"That is what we said we always wanted to do, and we've achieved that.

"Setting up the community support groups, I think, is one of my proudest things."

Taking over a store that was once a charity shop has taken time and dedicated from Amy and Natalie.

However, moments of inspiration shine through, with lights and other features re-used in new and interesting ways.

Natalie said: "The shop was did not look like this when we got the key!

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"We've been on our hands and knees, scrubbing. There's videos of me dancing and painting."

Amy concluded: "It's been a labour of love, this place!"

Information about I'm Fine's community groups can be found at: www.imfinewellbeing.com