Meet Julia Dunin – Photographer and Founder of Duine: A Wellness Box Inspired by Ireland

Hey, I'm Julia, the founder of Duine and a photographer specializing in capturing authentic portraits and people’s personalities in commercial and editorial work. My journey to creating Duine might seem unexpected, but if you know me, you know it all makes sense in a way. Photography gave me a deep appreciation for the beauty in everyday details, and it also taught me about slowing down, finding balance, and celebrating the strength and resilience of women. I’ve always felt passionate about empowering people - helping them feel seen and celebrated- and now that’s woven right into the heart of Duine.

The idea for Duine hit me after Christmas in 2022. I was surrounded by all these gifts, packaging, and piles of stuff, and I thought, “Does anyone actually want or need all this?” So many of the presents around me felt rushed, with so much waste and very little thought. And then there were the gifts that truly stood out—the simple things that made us feel cozy and cared for, like a beautiful candle or a soft blanket, things that instantly made us feel a bit lighter. That’s when it clicked: What if I could create a gift that brought people that same sense of warmth and well-being, but without the environmental impact? Something thoughtful and luxurious, yet simple.

Duine was born out of that spark. I wanted to create a wellness box that would feel like a mini escape—a little ritual to calm the mind, reconnect, and take a deep breath. It’s inspired by Ireland’s natural beauty and made with sustainability at the forefront. Everything from the packaging to the products inside is carefully chosen to be as eco-friendly as possible. No single-use plastic, no unnecessary waste—just thoughtful items made to last and bring a little joy.

I try to source everything locally, from the materials to the handmade products that go into each box, and each piece is crafted with the same intention: to create something beautiful that doesn’t harm the planet. For me, sustainability is a must, not an afterthought. I want Duine to be about more than just self-care; I want it to be a way to reconnect with nature and appreciate what we have around us.

At its core, Duine is about community. I love the idea of people gifting these boxes to themselves or others as a reminder to slow down, unwind, and be a bit kinder to ourselves. The support I’ve received so far from everyone has been amazing, and it’s inspiring to see that Duine is resonating with people who want more than just another product—they want a meaningful experience.

Thanks for being here and for supporting Duine. I’m excited to keep building this little corner of calm and connection with all of you. Here’s to more moments of intention, and to embracing a wellness routine that’s gentle on us—and the planet.

Julia x

Photography by Nathalie Marquez Courtney , Max Malloy, Julia Dunin