Written by: Katie Scoville, Chella Beauty Intern
Rupi Kaur once said, “What’s the greatest lesson a woman should learn? That since day one, she’s already had everything she needs within herself. It’s the world that convinced her she did not.” To celebrate the month of March and the women that make this month incredible, I’ve rounded together 5 different founders and brands that I’ve used and loved. These are women that I admire not only for their work ethic but their ability to put together successful brands within the beauty and wellness space and show young women that there is a space for everyone in this industry, you just have to carve out your own niche.
Charlotte has always known that she was heading for a career in the makeup industry. Her creative ability is incredibly admirable. Before establishing her own brand, she got her foot in the door by working for other outstanding companies like MAC and Tom Ford involved in creative product development. She eventually worked her way up to owning her own business and doing looks for fashion shows as well as cover models for magazines such as Vogue and Cosmopolitan. Going from a young girl who had a dream at 13 to break into the makeup industry to being one of the most sought-after MUAs is truly inspiring. Charlotte Tilbury is a prime example that a dream can be achieved no matter how impossible it may seem, you just need to capitalize on every opportunity that comes your way, no matter how big or small.
Summer Fridays is a brand that is very close to my heart. Marianna Hewitt and Lauren Gores Ireland are two incredible founders that I really admire especially because of their career trajectories. Beginning in the broadcasting and journalism industries and then moving towards entrepreneurship is a career trajectory that I could see myself doing, and I’m sure many young women looking to break into the beauty industry would be inspired to do the same. Summer Fridays started out as a silly term for an extended weekend, but Marianne and Lauren had a vision. Their previous experiences in the journalism industries also helped them be fully equipped to manage a full-fledged brand. Although both Marianna and Lauren have had their respective journeys with their love for beauty, Lauren especially became conscious about beauty when she was expecting her first child and really thought about the products that she was using. Launching the famous ‘Jet Lag Mask’ in 2018, the brand has been taking off ever since.
Founder Jen Atkin wanted to create a brand that people could relate to. How many times have we seen the numerous shampoo and conditioner brands that have trended on social media and wondered what brands can we actually trust? Authenticity from founders is an extremely important aspect of running a brand. Society creates a lot of pressure, especially for women who are in successful positions. Just know that you don’t have to give into this pressure, and you can carve your own way and place no matter what other people tell you. OUAI wasn’t started until Jen was in her mid-thirties, so it’s never too late to do something you’ve always dreamed of. Balancing a successful business while still working professionally and being a new mother isn’t an easy task but this just goes to show that you really can have it all; it’s all about figuring out a balance in life.
K-beauty has been on the rise for a while, the creators at Glow Recipe – Christine Chang and Sarah Lee – are no exceptions. Glow Recipe, perhaps best known for their Watermelon Dew Drops, is now one of the leading skincare brands today. Christine and Sarah first met as employees at L’Oréal Korea and realized that they had a connection. They were both fascinated by Korean skincare and its innovations and realized that they both had visions of creating a brand that capitalizes on these types of innovations. They also wanted to bring more K-beauty practices to the U.S. and see it thrive. It’s also incredibly inspiring that they wanted to continue to recognize their heritage through their brand. As an Asian American woman myself, this especially hits home. The founders also wanted to make their products things that people would want to use so they could enjoy their skincare routines as they saw their mothers and grandmothers do. Christine and Sarah have truly built something incredible while maintaining their close friendship.
Pat McGrath, a renowned British makeup artist, is one of the most sought after makeup artists in the world. Her global brand produces high quality products with a full range of products from foundation to eyeshadow and everything in between. While running a business, she still creates looks for fashion shows in Milan, Paris, and New York (to name a few) with designers like Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton; all big names in the fashion industry. McGrath attributes much of her inspiration for her place in the industry to her mother who taught her to closely look at how clothing and makeup work together. In addition, Pat McGrath became the first makeup artist to receive a damehood. Her different approach to makeup is something that is incredibly inspiring and can apply to every industry; a new point of view could very well catapult you to success. Her dedication to prioritizing diversity through extensive shade ranges to fit all is just another reason she is so successful.
I wouldn’t be able to end this blog without giving special recognition to the beautiful and successful women who make Chella the brand that it is. The brand itself was inspired by a woman our CEO & Founder held to the highest regard, his mother. A strong and successful female entrepreneur who Chris always looked up to and admired.
“With my mother as my role model, I was left with a clear understanding of how the power of creativity, optimism, and, of course, having a dream can change your life. As I began back in 2002 to create and form Chella as an idea and brand, I discovered that all of these life lessons applied to beauty and self-esteem. I understood that I could help empower women through beauty. This has become the inspiration of Chella, the realization that beauty both internal and external can and will change your life.” Chris kolodziejski, CEO Founder of Chella
It's inspiring to hear about the dedicated and talented women who make up the Chella community. From product quality to marketing and sales, each member has a unique set of skills and expertise that contributes to the success of the brand. With a team made up of full-time employees and interns, Chella is fortunate to have such a diverse and capable group of women leading the way. Some of these women, like Lola Ferrer and Kayla Parks, have been with the company for over a decade each, showing a level of commitment and dedication that is not only admirable but also essential for building a successful brand.
It's also wonderful to see how passionate each team member is about the brand and the impact it has on others. Because each member of the Chella team truly believes in the brand's mission, sharing positive energy with professionals and connecting with customers are goals the team work diligently to achieve.
I’ve had the incredible privilege to work with these women and see how creative and innovative they are as well as the opportunity to form meaningful connections. Chella has given me opportunities that normal internships wouldn’t, and none of this would be possible without the women who work here. Cheers to International Women’s Day and the power we all hold.