Girl Bosses - House Of Coco Magazine

Girl Bosses November 9, 2023

Girlbosses of Great Britain : The One That’s Proud to be British with Waring Brooke

Here at House of Coco we love to champion brands that are challenging the world of fast fashion and Waring Brooke is one of them. A proudly British brand, Waring Brooke was founded by Samantha Brooke. After years of styling commercial jobs with international designers, Samantha became disheartened with mass production and the increasing damaging impact on the environment.Growing up in a family involved with recyclable energy, she has always been very aware of waste and carbon footprint, so being able to join her love of fashion and ethics made total sense.

Samantha produces everything at her knitting studio in Nottingham in a responsible way, she washes and presses pieces by hand to bring out the natural softness in the wool.The mix of traditional and contemporary designs will still look great in 10 years and the playful patterns, sleek designs and earthy colours inspired by the outdoors reflect a spirit of adventure just like its creator.

Since launching the brand, she has revelled in success and carved her path in the world of knitting. Here, we chatted to Samantha to find out more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching Waring Brooke…
I started out my career in Italy working for Alberta Ferretti after she spotted me at graduate fashion week in London. I worked in Italy for a year, and returning to England, started work for Max Studio where I was surrounded by fast fashion and the waste it creates. This upset me by the destruction it was doing to the planet, and I thought to myself, we surely do not need ALL these clothes!? So I made a plan to develop a British made knitwear brand, inspired by the countryside and worn by the people in it. We bought a STOLL knitting machine which I learnt to programme. This opened up a whole new world of possibilities to me as a designer. Instead of spending money on stock that may not sell, I was able to make anything I wanted, and make it to order so there is zero waste. It also enabled me to create the personalised accessories which are totally unique.

You’re passionate about the move away from fast fashion, can you tell us more about how you will aid this?
I make quality pieces from biodegradable yarns, that the wearer will (hopefully) love and cherish for years to come. I keep the waste to an absolute minimum and reuse yarn wherever I possibly can. My personalised items are made to order, so there is no excess stock and yarn does not go to waste.

What is your mission with the brand?
I would love for Waring Brooke to be known as the innovative country knitwear brand that you come to for its quality products. To keep making products that people love and cherish for years and years to come.

How do you want people to feel when they wear your clothes?
I want people to feel like they are wearing a quality premium product that they love and love to wear.

Also, being a woman, I know that wearing something your proud of makes you feel confident and comfortable. I generally design for myself, when I design something that I feel confident and a million dollars in, I know others will too.

What are your plans for the brand in 2020?
I plan expand the range of women’s dresses and personalised accessories and grow an online presence.

Who’s your dream customer?
Kate Middleton

Outside of the brand, what do you do for fun?
SUP and Yoga, and sometimes combine the two ? . Also, when I can I love ride my friends horses.

Looking back, since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?
I’d be less stressed and look after myself more. Sometimes having a business, it comes first then you come second. It should ALWAYS be – take care of yourself then work.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?
I was talking about this with my boyfriend recently. It is ironic, I am a sun seeker, but Iceland is on my bucket list to see he northern lights. The pictures look amazing and almost unbelievable.

What does self care mean to you?
Taking time to do what you want. Even if its getting into the office and making myself a drink before I start my day. My needs and health come first before any work.

For any aspiring entrepreneurs wanting to launch in the fashion industry, what advice would you offer?
Do you research then plan, then watch it not to go to plan. Jokes aside, it’s an incredible journey and if you’re serious about it (because there will be times when you want to pack it in) just never give up.

Find out more about this brilliantly British brand…

www.waringbrooke.com

France November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Behind the Brush With Connie Harris Art

Louisiana-native Connie Harris began her extensive career in decorative arts more than 30 years ago after leaving her management position at a small medical practice. She initially focused on hand-painted tiles, and for years, she created handcrafted backsplashes and unique bathroom scapes all while raising three boys.

We spent some time with Connie to find out more about how her passion became her pay check and what the future has in store for her…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to the world of decorative painting…
I grew up like most little girls, dreaming of becoming an artist, a dancer, an actor or a singer. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would achieve the level of success that is my passion and make it in to a career. When I made the decision to leave full time employment as a Physician’s office manager to become a “painter”, most people (friends and family alike) thought I was a bit crazy. But I had determination and a head and heart full of confidence that I could succeed at anything I set my mind to.

I am the oldest girl of 8 children, I have one older brother. When I was 3 years old, I had 4 younger siblings, therefore, I learned from a very early age to be independent and self sufficient, but also caring and compassionate, in that I felt compelled to always help my mom with household chores and family care taking. I believe that helped me to become who I am, and able to take the leaps of faith I have along the way, pretty much fearlessly.

You raised three boys whilst launching your business, how did you manage this?
Jumping out of high school into a marriage and children made me realise that I had to fight for my dreams, the hard way. The few years of business management in college did help me to be a little more savvy in my painting business. And the financial needs of my family left no room for the typical “starving artist” scenario. I was determined from the beginning to be massively successful. I would dream it up, write it out, and set it in motion.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?
In the early 80’s, My interest in canvas painting and the (then) popularity of hand-painted tiles, led me to learn (self taught) the practices of china painting, which I developed into a world wide line of hand-painted tiles and vanity bowls. When that trend started to die, I quickly transferred my skills to walls and dove head first, into learning the techniques of skilled artisans in the Faux finish world. I became obsessed with creating gorgeous walls, ceilings, floors, cabinets, furniture, etc etc. Over time, I used all of my skills, and the vast product lines I had learned to utilise, to create canvases in multi media and epoxy poured resins. (You have to be a little bit adventurous to light up a gas torch to blow out a resin piece.) Unlike artwork of one dimensional “paint”, the layers of plasters, sandstone, holographic foils, gold and silver leaf, crushed glass, resin dipped flowers, ferns, etc, etc, etc, give my canvas art pieces incredible depth and organic interest. I find clients gazing at the pieces in wonder of the deep dimensions and magic of each one. It takes me awhile to release each piece for sale because of my attachment to every creation.

I feel so incredibly lucky to do what I do , that I would not change a thing along the path. The difficulties were, and are, a part of the journey.

Tell us about your ideal client?
Every one of my clients is an ideal client. I strive to make them feel as if they are my “only” client. In my Faux Finish practice, I try very hard to not “Jump” around between jobs. When I start a project, no matter how big or small, I stay with it until it is complete. All of my clients become my friends/family. I have begun to do work for children and even grandchildren of clients.

You have had to adapt over the years as trends have changed, how do you keep on top of this?
In the Faux Finish world, trends are followed as with any part of the Interior Design world. It’s actually quite simple to change a certain textured wall finish to a current colour trend. The creators of FauxEffectsInternational, Modern Masters, Meoded International, etc, which produce many of the materials I use in my practice, keep their colours with current trends, enabling me to be prepared for those changes.

Your work has taken you all over the world. What destination is at the top of your bucket list?
Although I have worked all over the world, my favourite place to work is home town New Orleans, particularly the VieuxCarre, the French Quarter and surrounding Marigny and Faubourg: Fascinating and Magical all of the time. I will park blocks away from jobs sites so that I can walk the streets enjoying the sites, sounds, and smells of this incredible place.

I am fortunate that my business has expanded exponentially since conception, quite frankly with little to no advertisement.

How has your business expanded since you started out?
Simply providing an excellent product, with perfection at front and centre of the services I offer to my clients, with speed and attention to details, and concern for the clients property keeps me booked for months in advance.

What advice would you offer to anyone looking to launch a business in your field?
This is the best advise I could offer anyone getting into this field. Always respect the environment and the integrity of the space you work in.

What was life like growing up in Louisiana?
Louisiana is a magical place. Our culture is so diverse. The moss laden trees, plantation homes, rivers, bayous, and swamps are like fairy land. And offers so much inspiration for the creative mind. I am most fortunate to live in a plantation home, “Chatsworth”., (and welcome the spirits that share it with me.).

What does 2020 look like for you?
2020 will be a banner year for me with new endeavours and experiences. Along with continuing my journey in the field of Decorative Painting, the carriage house addition to my home serves as a classroom in which I will share my knowledge of FauxPainting to students from all over the country. This is a dying art, and I find it necessary to pass this on in my workshops. Also, because of recent success at entertaining small events, such as weddings, and corporate parties here at Chatsworth, I am working on opening a full service Wedding and Event venue. My beautiful landscape and massive oak trees provide quite an appropriate setting for such things.

For more of a snapshot in to the life of Connie, check out her website here.

France November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : From IT To Interiors with Esther Müller-Schmidt

Esther Müller-Schmidt is a woman on a mission. Following her pivot from IT to interiors, Esther has really honed in on her craft and made a name for herself in the industry. Whilst leaving a lucrative career in IT would be hard for anyone, Esther felt a real desire to follow her passion and has never looked back since.

Here, we chat to Esther about her plans for the brand, juggling life and career and what 2020 looks like for her…

Tell us about the journey that led you to launch your own brand?

Already as a young girl, I discovered my affinity towards textiles. At the age of 11, I was learning the basics on my mother’s sewing machine, and soon, I was creating my first interior and fashion items. With the years, I complimented my talent and sense of aesthetics with solid interior design training. Permanent presence at international design fairs and fashion shows keep inspiring my creativity. Apart from my evolution as an interior designer, I completed economic and language studies and worked for several years in the IT industry. Today, I solely focus on my passion for interiors.

You take inspiration from your African roots, can you tell us more about your heritage and life growing up?

Despite my completely German imprint and culture, I have always been interested in everything international and studiedEnglish, Spanish & French as foreign languages, as well as international business administration. After a career in the IT industry, my first daughter was born. But with my extraordinary interest in interiors and textiles, I went back to my passion, and as a result of that, somewhat accidentally, to conventional fashion wax printing materials. Very quickly, I decided to work with the Dutch textile company VLISCO. A textile giant for over 165 years, with an unbelievably large production volume for the most luxurious and high-quality wax print fabrics in the world! However, its primary market is West Africa, ours is Europe.

How did you pivot from working in IT to have your own interiors brand?

After having worked in the IT industry for big players such as IBM for more than 10 years, having previously worked for big companies such as L’Oréal, Renault, Mercedes and many more while studying business administration, having supported countless exciting VIP supports in my 4 years as an EXPO2000 ambassador, as well as major music bands such as the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and many more, it was my turn to start the family. At the age of 30, I had my first beautiful daughter, soon after, my second. After that, it became clear to me that I wanted to pursue my textile passion.

Describe your ideal client…

There are, of course, different ideal clients and business partners! On the one hand, the selective project customers who equip restaurants, hotels, or luxury holiday homes. In addition, there are enthusiastic end customers, who show an enormous enthusiasm for very specific designs. Then, there are our business partnerships with interior stylists & set stylists, who repeatedly place our FASHION PILLOWS in very creative photoshoots and productions. Europe’s largest interior fair “Maison & Objet Paris” is something very special for me personally, as I was already obsessed with the dream of doing something professional in Paris as a teenager. My stepfather had been often at the fair, and that’s why I also wanted exactly THAT! My dream has really come true! Our interior label was one of the most clicked online brands presented by the “Maison & Objet” Paris, whereby we were presented with the popular FASHION PILLOWS at a very large exhibition stand together with other interior labels, right at the main entrance area. What a dream, crazy!!

With three daughters and a husband, how do you create a work-life balance?

With my three girls, they are now 12, nearly 10 and 2 years old, it’s a real rush hour. With my business experience, my natural talent for organisation, which basically stems from the desire for simplification, I even manage to find time for myself by strictly planning family, work, child and couple time. I then travel, or just meet friends, take time out at thehotel, etc. My husband has been so successful for 30 years with his hip-hop band “Die fantastischen Vier” that he, despitebeing a 5-time judge of “The Voice of Germany”, with several tours, TV engagements and advertising deals, still manages to pursue his passion of racing cars on the legendary Nordschleife at the Nürburgring, as well as private aviation. As you can see, our life is very turbulent, and this can only be managed with planning and steady nerves because our 3 girls always!! come first for us.

To date, what has been your biggest achievement?

Definitely the success at the Maison & Objet Paris! But also numerous appearances in interior magazines AND the great feeling of having sold out the first collection immediately after the presentation phase. Of course, we still have the patterns from the collection, which we lend exclusively for styling productions. These are very precious to us!

Working exclusively on your passion for interiors, what do you like to do to switch off from work?

I enjoy the smile of my children and holding their faces in my hands, spending time alone with my husband, eating cheese fondue every week and drinking exclusive wines, partyingwith friends. In that order..!

What does 2020 look like for you?

For me personally, it is always wonderful to have a new year! I love new things! Every beginning of the year is like a pardon. I feel like I can just rate everything once more and decide. I can also leave the old and anything heavy behind and try to remember all the gifts of life.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?

Oh, yes, of course! This is very easy! I say it with the words of my very loving grandma from northern Germany, “Estherchen, enjoy your life, enjoy it!” And that concerns above all, the little joys and moments! So, of course, enjoy everything even more, even in the job! Everything else often results from this!

For an inspiring interior designer, what advice would you offer?

For the private interior sector, I always recommend omitting as much as possible, to stay in a neutral colour world and then to style according to taste with usual accessories such as pillows, decorative objects, etc. The pillow can thus, for example, become very much a focal point. “FASHION PILLOWS – as a character of the room”!

To view the FASHION PILLOWS COLLECTION visit www.mueller-schmidt.com or follow on Instagram @muellerschmidtinteriortextiles

Girl Bosses November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Raising Consciousness with Little Cirkus

Little Cirkus offers designer children’s products and a unique range of skin and hair products that contain only vegan and organic ingredients. Everything is produced in Sweden and the company was founded by ultimate Bossbabe Anna Aro Ring who launched the company after she became a mother.

Devoted to a healthy lifestyle, it was no shock that Little Cirkus would be a brand all around toxin free skincare. Here, we chat to Anna to find out more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching Little Cirkus…
It all started with a dot on my son’s cheek. A dot that became a big wound which spread. Me and my husband visited different dermatologists in Stockholm, and got several different referrals and cream prescriptions. After seeing Sweden ́s foremost dermatologist and they neither could find out what it was, and how we could overcome it, it aroused curiosity out of frustration that nothing helped. Read through a lot and realized that I did not find the completely clean and non-toxic product that I was looking for, nor packaged in a nice bottle that is happy to stand in the bathroom, I realized I had found a hole in the market that needed to be filled.

It’s really worrying to think that before launching your brand, it was hard to find child friendly products with no toxins. How did you start researching how to launch them yourself?

Once I decided to develop a skin and hair care series, I started working with knowledgeable people, which has been the key to everything. Lorentz, our son, became guinea pig and after year of development we landed in the products that are now sold by Little Cirkus.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?

Both yes and no. I think it is impossible not to make small mistakes, from them I have learned a lot. I don´t think you can throw yourself into a new market and believe that you can do everything, you have to be humble.

But sure, some investment I might have been able to wait with, but on the other side, Little Cirkus haven’t been what it is today if I had not done the misses I made.

Your products are all vegan friendly, do you also follow a vegan diet?

I´m quite devoted to a healthy lifestyle, and after I started Little Cirkus I have become more conscious. Both in terms of food but also what we feed the skin with. I would say that today most people are quite well informed that there is a connection with what you eat and your wellbeing, but I think many forget that even what we put on the skin also feed our internal organs.

I have been a vegetarian for long periods of life and if there is a vegetarian option I prefer it, but I absolutely could not live a life without including a spaghetti with seafood and a bottle of wine, so I´m not a freak. I have a playful approach, not a dead serious one.

How do you plan on expanding the range in the future?

There are several products in the pipeline and we received several requests from our customers – Little Cirkus best products developer!

Very recently we released a bar soap which is our first product with scent. Another sought after products is sunlotion, the dream would be to develop a sun cream that was completely non-toxic!

With being a mother and an entrepreneur, how do you create a healthy work / life balance?

I don´t Being an entrepreneur is one of the things that I love the most, but you need to be on top all the time. So finding that balance is incredibly challenging. Working as an entrepreneur is a way of life, you are never 100% free, the job does not end – YOU are the business.

But then in it there are incredible opportunities, and that I love!

A rule has been to put away all the work from when we pick up our son from kindergarten until he falls asleep, then I can work late in the evening instead. It creates more quality time for the whole family! But good how difficult it is!

Before launching your business, what career did you have?

I have worked for several years in television and radio production, mainly as editor and project manager. Then I worked as editor-in-chief of a design magazine before I became a mother.

What does 2020 look like for you?

New products and new markets. It feels incredibly fun and exciting that we have gained such great interest outside Sweden´s borders! And of course continuing to do what we do best, make organic and vegan skincare for our babies.

What does self care mean to you?

To not be too hard on yourself and allow yourself to take a minute break here and there. You can ́t be perfect, and it’s so important to think to yourself with a clear mind, without being a mom or entrepreneur. Enjoy something you like, maybe a manicure or a bath. It ends up being better for everyone in the family when you are happy and balanced.

Follow Little Cirkus for more…

France November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : From a Hobby to a Household Name with Luly Gaudiano

Originally from Panama, Lourdes Gaudiano came to Switzerland in 2006. What began as a hobby – making soaps and selling them at local markets, Family and friends – soon turned into a business. However, after selling her products for several years, she realized that Luxury was not associated with sustainability, and as someone who is really conscious about the environment she realized that she could make a positive impact bringing these two worlds together. Lourdes is the passionate and savvy woman behind the natural skincare brand Luly Gaudiano.

Here at House of Coco we really champion brands that care about the environment and we are truly behind the mission that Luly Gaudiano is on. We spent some time with her to find out more…

Tell us about the story that lead you launching the brand…

When I came to live in Switzerland, I was expecting to learn the language get a job and have a normal life, but nothing prepared me for the long journey I was going to have.

I live in the German part of Switzerland that means that the official language is German but on daily basis they speak Swiss German a dialect. I visited many German classes and still I couldn’t communicate properly it is like learning Italian in Panama.After 300+ applications I could only have a part time job for 6 months.that was very hard because I had finished a Master degree in a top university in Madrid and if you don’t have experience and do not speak the language you have no chance.

One day I was totally depressed at home and my husband told me you need to find a hobby. and that’s how we went to a handcraft shop and bought a book on how to make cold process soaps.

I started making tons of soaps but didn’t know what to do with them so again my husband suggested me to sell them in the local markets and I visited my first market about 9 years ago when I was 4 months old pregnant.

I sold to my family and friends in Panama, I visited many markets, I did natural cosmetic courses in France where I met my mentor, the one who told I should make a business out of it, but the real turning point was when I was in a Christmas market selling at -11 °.I’m from Panama, over there is around 29° year round and only two seasons, wet and dry. I questioned my entire existence for the time it lasted. I refuse to suffer again like that so After thinking how to do it, I contacted my mentor and told her let do this.I was supposed to do only bar soaps but again my circumstances where not the best, with a kid and my family one continent awayI didn’t have the support to produce them myself and at the same time taking care of a kid, that’s how we came to the idea of working with a professional lab who could do them for me.

I was too small for the labs here in Switzerland, so it took me around 2 + years and a shot of luck to find one that was willing to take my project. They didn’t produce soaps but offer me the possibility to make a line with the 3 products so I tweak my first idea and made the line with the 3 products that I’m selling now.

How I came with the Idea of sustainable luxury?

I have to start that saying that women in Panama likes to take care of their look, we do spend a ridiculous amount of time in the beauty salon but that doesn’t mean that we are superficial. we are hard workers educated, great friends mothers and looking good on the outside doesn’t mean were are weak, it’s a part of our culture and we really enjoy it.

On the other sideas a kid I was always worry about the environment and used to ask to my parents donations for saving the rain forest as birthday presents, so when I came to Switzerland I was fascinated on how they took care of the environment and how advance they are in the natural cosmetic world. I immediately started to switch to more clean swiss brands, I enjoyed recycling but I realize the more I was into this world how apart it was from the luxury industry, and I thought about myself,I like nice stuff and to take care of myself but I still care about the worlds problems and making a brand that stands for sustainability and luxury could bring more people to the green side without being judgmental.I’m not about pointing who is doing it wrong but more about building a brand that people doesn’t feel to give up their lifestyle in order to be more conscious about the environment.You can be both pretty on the inside as well as the outside. You can be an Iron woman with hearts of gold

How do you want people to feel when thy use your skin care products?

I wan them to feel ethical, knowing that the products they use are made with fairly source ingredients, no animal testing, clean energy and ingredients, minimum and recyclable packaging that allows them to close the circle.

What sets you apart from other beauty brands?

The concept of bringing Luxury and Sustainability together. Environmental problems affect all of us, it doesn’t matter if we’re rich or poor and bringing awareness to this group is key to fight it.

In 2020, what are your plans for the brand?

The most important is to make the brand financially stable to bring my 4th product to the market, although it has been a very bumpy road, I did enjoy developing the products.That means promoting the brand, hopefully participate in another expo and of course find more outlets to sell the products.

One of the reasons beauty brands fail is because they fail on marketing side.How do you spread the word about what do you do?

Today is everything about promoting our brands in social media contacting retailers sending samples pushing mails, yes that’s part of it, but we are failing to simply start spreading the word around us with our family and friends, that strangers at the party may work in an important retailer or have some connections. I asked people if they’re not interested, they can be a great help just liking my post on Instagram. Avoiding being too pushy is key for me and this mix has helped me to get the right exposure to participate in a few articles in an online magazine for Indi brands, my products will be show case in 3 editions from Vogue UK, I got a contact for an interview in my country a shout out from a influencer with 100+k followers for free, an interview with house of coco and a decent amount of orders.

For any aspiring entrepreneurs, what advice would you offer?

First take care of your health, specially your mental health it’s a tough ride.

Don’t get to emotionally attach to your project, you will get too many no’s if you get offended every time someone reject your project you won’t go too far.

Don’t worry too much about what other people are doing don waste your time on social media feeling sorry on what you haven’t achieve, if is upsetting you unfollow.

Be inspired by others don’t copy, every journey is different focus your energy on solving your challenges you will get plenty of them.

Work smarter not harder, get an agenda, keep a to do list prepare yourself the night before, etc.Keep clean and organize your working area put a plant make it welcoming to be there.

Don’t forget you still a human being, be kind to yourself. Your family and friends will love you no matter what.

And the most important, learn how and when to listen to your brain, heart and gut they are your biggest allies.

Enjoy the ride.

What are you doing to make your brand sustainable?

We are made with green energy, our ingredients are non-toxic, we use minimum packaging and recyclable , we don’t use samples sachets, talking with a producer hetold us that they are not recyclable and they put the recycling symbol because the clients ask for it and as it’s not regulated they do it.Every company that I work is in line with my belief, so they have sustainable practices in their own offices and of course I try to make sustainable decisions on everything I do on daily basis.

Why is this something that interest you?

Because I have seen how indifference have destroy fantastic places in my country.We have the most beautiful nature but we don’t take care of it, and that’s is recurrent in too many places, I see here in Switzerland that is possible develop into a first world country and taking care of your natural resources.

What does self-care mean to me?

For me self-care is so important, I need time to slow down disconnect from the daily stress and worry, when I take care of myself, I become a happier person a better mom.

Our readers love to travel, what is at the top of your bucket list?

Petra in Jordan!

Outside of work, what do you do to switch off?

I love to take a quick shower before going to bed and that’s how actually I came with the 3 products (I exfoliate twice a week) use the Luxury cream that leaves my skin super! Silky I wear a nice pyjama and perfume, burn essential oil, organize the house, my next day agenda and write on my diary listening to relaxing music.

I recently discover that baking help me to switch off, a good chat with a friend, and of course fool around with my kids if you understand your kids they can be a pretty cool gang to hang out specially if you play music.

Tell us your favourite quote to read when you lack creativity?

There must be a way!

The best place to find motivation is inside yourself.

Luly is a true inspiration, follow her for more updates www.lulygaudiano.com

Brazil November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Letting Fear be the Fuel with Nathalia Grisard

Nathalia Grisard is the brainchild behind GNGR Bees and someone who is not only well traveled but well suited to the role of entrepreneur. She started in the fashion industry at the mere age of 16, back in her hometown of Brazil and from here she went on a mission to conquer the world, not letting fear hold her back. Having worked with a number of fashion houses, she decided that the time had come to launch her own brand and express her passions through nature, empowerment and health. That is when GNGR bees was born.

Here, she tells us more about why her clothes make you feel empowered, her plans for the future and more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching GNGR Bees…

I didn’t start out wanting to create my own business but as a consumer looking for brands that were consistent with my own values and beliefs. For me, that meant finding a brand that wasn’t driven by mindless consumerism and had a greater sense of responsibility and identity. GNGR as a brand started as I struggled to find that. Today, having embodied those values into a business, I’m very proud to have created fashion with purpose for a much better world.

The brand is all about reclaiming, recycling and up cycling. Can you tell us more about this?

Giving new life to materials that would otherwise be disposed in our environment is at the heart of what we do. We partner up with social enterprises and companies that have the same values as us and believe business should be done differently. Together, we create every element of GNGR Bee’s supply chain, such as our up cycled packaging that can be used in many different ways once they get to our clients homes and of course our clothing, which is currently made by recycling plastic bottles.

What is your mission with the brand?

My mission put simply, is empowerment. We want to empower people to consciously make better decisions when they purchase new products. Everything we buy tells a story, and it’s up to you to choose which one you want to tell.

How do you want people to feel when they wear your clothes?

I want them to feel like they are wearing more than just clothing. They are wearing fashion that is empowering, cleaning and saving the planet. They are wearing their values and standing up for everything they believe in. Our garments are more than clothing, they are a story – from the plastic bottles that are rescued, to the special needs adults that hand paint the clothing sacks and the community in Rwanda that create our packaging. I want them to feel proud of telling this story and realising that when they join the GNGR family they are writing the next chapter.

What are your plans for the brand in 2020?

There is a lot happening in 2020. Since launching last September, I came to understand even more so what I wanted GNGR Bees to be. Our mission and our values are strong and drive everything we do. 2020 will bring collections that will go beyond reclaiming materials, a special wellness retreat and we will be embracing more community partners and also funding our own projects!

Who’s your dream customer?

Every woman is my dream customer! A free spirit, she loves moving her body and doing whatever gives her joy. She is taking on the world whilst still caring about how her actions impact the ones around her and our planet!

Outside of the brand, what do you do for fun?

I am a true life adventurer – I absolutely love everything that has movement involved. I have a lot of energy so I am always trying new active things and I try finding life balance with yoga and cuddles with my golden retriever, Sammy.

Looking back, since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?

No. I wouldn’t. My brand took me on a journey where I learned a lot and I think every mistake I made was essential to its development. Before I even launched there was a lot people with different opinions over what and how I should do it. Was nice to hear different feedback however I quickly learned to trust my gut, and since then, it has become my best business partner.

What does self care mean to you?

To me, it means respecting my needs and wants and prioritising them over my crazy routine. Usually my body asks for activity and nature, and doing that feels wonderful. On rare days, all it wants to do is to eat vegan junk food and watch Netflix, also fine! The body asks what it needs and it’s important to listen!

You have learned a lot on your journey since launching the brand, what has been the biggest lesson?

A product without a purpose and brand is just a product.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Peru!!!! I have always loved travelling to culturally rich places and immersing myself in the middle of it all. Nothing beats knowing a place like the locals do and I have been curious about the forests of Peru and Machu Picchu for an eternity!

Tell us your favourite quote to read when you are lacking inspiration…

“A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle”. When we support each other and expect nothing back, the room becomes a lot brighter and it’s important to trust the ones around you. My family, husband and friends are always encouraging me to go a step further and I never need to look far for inspiration and love.

Where can people find out more…

At our website at gngrbees.com or on our Instagram @gngrbees.

Girl Bosses November 9, 2023

Girlbosses of Great Britain : The Sweet Smell of Success With Maya Njie

Born in Västerås Sweden, Maya Njie (pronounced ‘Maia En-jai’) moved to London in her late teens. Her background lies in surface design and photography, which she studied at the University of the Arts London. To further communicate her work, she began experimenting with the sense of smell as an added medium. Inspired by an old family photo album from the decades before her birth, Maya set out to capture, by way of scent, these moments in time, these tropes of familial life, set within their frames.

It was these stories that lead her to launch her own company, which initially started out as a company. A creative at heart, Maya has been on the journey of entrepreneurship and has been learning on the job. She now gets to enjoy the sweet smell of success and here, she chats to us more about her brand, plans for the future and more…

Maya, tell us about the journey that lead you to where you are today.

I moved to London from Sweden in the late nineties and spent a fair few years working in retail management. After having my daughter and as a mature student, I decided to study Surface Design at University of the Arts to change my career and it unexpectedly led me down the path of perfumery.

You have a Swedish and West African mix, what was life like growing up for you?

Sweden is where I grew up and spent my childhood so its where I consider home to be. Being of mixed heritage in a fairly small Swedish town during that time did make me stand out somewhat. Sweden is a multi cultural place in some aspects but it wasn’t until I moved to London that I felt like I was blending in more. Here I really got the feel for what other cultures had to offer, I still do and I love that.

Did you always know you would be entrepreneurial?

No, not really. I always knew I was creative rather than academic but I didn’t know to pursue it as a career until my late twenties. I have always felt that London has ample opportunity in that way, there is more scope to test out different paths and ‘find your calling’ if you like. Perfumery very much started as a hobby and I feel like I was pushed into it business wise. Friends (and strangers alike) would not take no for an answer when I didn’t want to share my blends – and here we are!

Where do you hope to be in 5 years time?

I think it’s fair to say that I am wearing too many hats at the moment, as many entrepreneurs do. When I look ahead I hope to have a strong team of people pushing the business forwards, this will allow me to reach further afield and expand my range. I have also recently teamed up with brands such as Charles Heidsieck and Carhartt WIP for multi sensory experiences and will continue to work collaboratively within the realms of scent. Even thou perfume slots into the world of beauty in terms of industries, it’s important for me to work artistically and cross into other territories too.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently

It would be to not compare myself to the big brands out there on the market and to believe more in my own creative path. I have always told personal stories through my scents but sharing their actual visual starting points in forms of my family photographs took a while. We are all familiar with the classic perfume campaigns and not having access to that made me insecure at first I think. But once I started to visually align my heritage to the perfumes, it felt more natural to me, and to others too.

What has been your career highlight to date?

Since starting my business I have had my heart set on being stocked in Liberty. I have been visiting their perfume hall for the past 15 years at least. To have been asked to come on board as a ‘Liberty Exclusive’ is huge for me and a definitive highlight so far.

Tell us about a recent BossBabe moment

Recently my 11 year old daughter told me how proud she is of my business and at the same time gave me ‘props’ for being a good mother . Out of all the challenges I have come across with my business, that work / life balance is probably the hardest thing to get right. Letting other women know that they are doing a great job and giving them a push in the right direction can help more than you think – always support that.

What does 2020 look like for you

I currently do everything from designing to production and so will be scaling up my team going forward. I’ll be hosting more Bespoke Perfume Workshops and I will continue to explore other products to add to the range when the time is right. Further expansion onto the international market is in motion too.

Where can people find out more

Find out more via:

www.mayanjie.com

instagram @maya.njie.perfumes twitter @MayaNjiePerfume

France November 9, 2023

Coral Chung’s Incredible Journey from Business to Shaking up the Fashion Industry

Senreve was created to cater to the professional woman by prioritizing their needs. This company aims to create a balance between versatility and design, fantasy, and functionality—and innovation and tradition. Senreve’s handbags simplify the daily lives of women, empowering them to lead higher-quality lives. The company’s inspiration originated from French terms that translate to “sense” and “dream.” These handbags can carry your laptop, phone, lipstick, wipes, and wallet, among other things, giving you the space to take everything you need with you in one place.
About the CEO, Coral Chen
The Wharton School and University of Pennsylvania graduate has always had a passion for consumer brands and luxury retail industries. This passion led her to the global COO and holding the position of CEO in America for Prada, working on projects related to commercialization, marketing, and distribution. Her career started in Hong Kong at Bain & Company before moving to Silicon Valley. She currently works as the CEO of Senreve, a company she cofounded in 2016 with Wendy Wen to cater to the needs and wants of working women. Through her leadership, the company has grown tremendously; the cofounders found an investor in Sonya Brown, and it recently closed a series A investment deal worth $16.75 million.
The Company’s Customer-Oriented Policy
As Coral Chung and Wendy Wen were preparing to launch their company, they received plenty of advice from industry veterans. They were originally going to partner with Barneys New York, but they chose to instead take a direct-to-customer route. Three years later and traditional brick-and-mortar establishments are in decline. This change has made many experts see that the future of the industry lies in the adoption of digital, direct-to-consumer strategies. The model is designed to offer transparency, affordability, and accessibility.
Today, the relationship between customers and luxury brands has evolved. As more companies transition to e-commerce, customers are no longer shopping in a physical retail shop.
Since customers are drawn to brands they share values with, Senreve aims to maintain close relationships with its customers by responding to them promptly. The company takes time to gain insights from customers and use the feedback to make changes and improvements.
Breaking the Stereotypes about Women
Using their experience in consulting, finance, tech, and retail—and trusting on their instincts—Chung and Wen are building a successful company. They are on their way to transforming the otherwise traditional industry of women’s handbags. The idea to start Senreve came from necessity; Coral could not find a handbag that fit her lifestyle. She discovered that the available luxury handbags would often collapse, and most of them did not accommodate all the needs of a professional woman.
When she had the idea to start the brand, she had to make a choice: stay at her current company or trust her instincts and begin her entrepreneurial journey. She chose to pursue a company that would dispel the notion that women must confirm into just one role—their careers or personal lives. Women multifaceted, and they can have it all, a belief Chung helps to realize with Senreve. Today’s woman wears several hats, and her handbag must also meet all her needs. Besides being practical, she also wants to be elegant and stylish. Senreve bags are beautiful, sleek, and made in Italy by expert artisans using high-quality products.
Through its social media presence and how the brand is presented, Senreve also aims at highlighting the issues that working women face. Breaking structural problems is also essential. Often, women are criticized for doing one thing or the other, something that men do not usually face.
Filling a Gap in the Industry
Before launching Senreve, Chung sought advice from the people in her life as well as her mentors. Most of them believed that the market was too saturated, and the idea was too risky and impossible to achieve. Coral Chung had, however, seen a gap in the market and was determined to fill it. She took a risk by creating a brand that is modern, intentional, innovative, and customer-oriented. Although smaller than its competitors, Senreve stands out as the best CES Software allowing Chung to create the ideal solution based on customer feedback with unmatched precision and efficiency.
Coral Chung demonstrates that women can be both vulnerable and fearless. Despite the risks involved, she chose to do things her way, and it paid off.
Learn more about Coral Chung – https://www.senreve.com/pages/coralchung

Costa Rica November 9, 2023

Success Worldwide : Luxury with Lebon

LEBON is a luxury oral care brand founded in 2015 by Stephanie, Art Historian and professional Photographer and Richard, Cosmetic Certified Dermatologist, both lovers of the sea and nature.

Whereas brushing your teeth is the first and last thing we do every day, Richard and Stephanie wanted to make a dent in the industry for an ethical and nature inspired toothpaste created specifically for those who value health and wellbeing. Their story is so inspiring so we spent some time with them to find out more…

Tell us about the journey that lead to the launch of LEBON…

My Husband and I were in holiday in a small village on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. It was a rainy morning, all intense smells where floating in the air. We were at a point of our life where we wanted to create something together (apart from our two amazing children of course).

Richard’s background is cosmetic formulations, mine is art history and photography. Little by little, we found out that there was a huge lack in the oral care, where you could find either toothpastes with impeccable ingredients but not pleasant to use, or mass market toothpastes with formulas full of nasty ingredients. Brushing teeth is the first and last thing you do each day, it should even be 3 times per day after each meal, and despite that, it was lived as an obligation (tell the children to go brushing their teeth, we all know their reaction). With the inspiration of that beautiful, wild and intense nature surrounding us, it quickly became obvious that creating a toothpaste collection with natural flavours and clean formulation that will turn that daily routine into a real pleasure moment was the thing to do.

Looking back since your launch in 2015, is there anything that you would do differently?

That is a question we ask ourselves regularly…

Neither of us come from business or marketing background. We created LEBON with our own criteria, choosing only the very best for all our ingredients and suppliers, with an ethical approach. So, it may not be the best profitability strategy and we learned the hard way that creating a brand and making it viable without business-marketing skills and not overriding its principles and values was difficult. But we question ourselves and listen to our consumers which is, we believe, a very important point and we do not hesitate to evolve when it is necessary. Today LEBON wouldn’t be LEBON without this path covered during these 5 years.

Founded by a husband and wife duo, how do you separate home and work life?

So far, we don’t… This is definitely something we are working on. Our children are not that small (17 and 14) and even them, feel concerned with LEBON. Charline the oldest, is now sometimes coming on trade fairs, she loves it and is the perfect image of “Future is green”. However, we try to not talk about LEBON once we leave the office, but we are not very good at it.

You’re an ethical brand, why is this important to you?.

For us the question would rather be, how couldn’t it be? As I mentioned, we are always evolving and questioning ourselves, because we are totally aware that the way of consuming has to change. World is changing and our planet needs each one to make the difference, small actions made by everyone can make the whole difference. It is everyone’s ethical and ecological conscience that will move the world in the right direction, without waiting for governments or large multinationals reactions.

Talk us through the 9 different flavours of LEBON…

We are very proud to collaborate with one of the most established aroma & perfume suppliers from Grasse, a village in the south of France classified world heritage of UNESCO for its know-how in the production of perfumes. They loved the idea of LEBON toothpaste collection, “whose flavours fits your mood” and we are working with them since the very beginning, creating natural, exclusive and delicate flavours.

Cap Ferrat Moodis the first, the classic one. It awakens your senses and makes you feel strong, fresh and energized with its powerful mix of Mints inspired by the peninsula of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat in the French Riviera. That place used to be a dry roc before being planted and covered with a multitude of trees with fresh and powerful essences such as eucalyptus and pines. People love to go there to find some freshness during the summer heats.

Villa Noacarlina: Our second creation. Brings moment of calm with the fresh fusion of Mint rounded with a subtle hint of Cinnamon. With the well-known stress reducing benefits of Cinnamon and the inspiration of the wild beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Villa Noacarlina is a great flavor to add to your routine to help you feel grounded and calm. Also known to curb hunger craving, this Cinnamon infused toothpaste is a great post-lunch solution to stop snacking throughout the afternoon.

Une Piscine à Antibes: Much like the feeling of diving into a refreshing swimming pool on a hot summer’s day, Une Piscine à Antibes provides that instant cooling and relaxing feeling. Packed full of minty fresh flavors and a splash of Liquorice, this blend is great on the days you want a refreshing and intense moment.

Tropical Crush: This is one I also name “sun in a tube” for rainy days”. Bursting with juicy Pineapple and Rooibos, it will make you start any day in a positive mindset. It transports yourself somewhere tropical and makes you feel uplifted with the vibrantly sunny natural flavours.

Sweet Extravagance: Certainly, the one of the most sophisticated flavour. It is a real moment of self-kindness. Deliciously sweet and creamy, Sweet Extravagance perfectly blends Mint, Orange Blossom (known for its calming and balancing properties) with a hint of Rose (renowned for being uplifting and comforting) making it the ultimate gift of self-love.

Le White: The first of the natural whitening series. It is a tea inspired. A delicate balance of Green Tea and delicious Sweet Mint from Morocco, it is the perfect remedy to enjoying your cup of tea.

Back to Pampelonne: Mango and Mint mix which brings sunshine and joy to any day with the sweet exotic flavors and instantly transport yourself walking along Mediterranean sandy beaches. The explosive exotic Mango is blended with refreshing Mint to create the ultimate uplifting energy kick needed to start the day. An essential part during seasonal changes for anyone looking for a sunny moment.

Rhythm is Love: The uplifting powers of Ylang Ylang and the touch of Yuzu mix idea came after a trip in Asia. Known for its sensual and euphoric properties, the creamy Ylang Ylang helps to boost your spirits whilst the lightly acidulous touch of Yuzu makes it a well-balanced flavour and the perfect choice before bed to help you let go of your day.

Fearless freedom: We also call it the “Monday morning toothpaste”. A bold blend of juicy Black Currant and Fresh Mint that gives you an instant boost of strength and courage and helps you feel like anything is possible.

Are there any plans to extend your product range, if so, what will you add?

2020 is an important year in LEBON development. We still work on the evolution of the brand and we are very excited and proud of what will be launched in a few months. Be patient …

What quote do you like to read when you are lacking motivation?

“I had to make you uncomfortable, otherwise you never would have moved”. – Universe

For anyone wanting to start their own business, what advice would you offer?

Trust your instincts and never stop to move forward. Never considerate things for granted and be ready to evolve while always maintaining the integrity of your initial idea or product.

What are your plans for the business in 2020?

New products and a new commercial distribution strategy. By going more direct in our distribution, we are now able to decrease the public price of the whole collection without touching the quality of our products. We recognised that our price-point excluded some customers from repeat purchasing our product and this is something that we needed to overcome to benefit all our partners markets and consumers.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Back to the roots… definitely Costa Rica.

Since we launched LEBON, we hadn’t time to go back there, where everything started, and it really misses us. Maybe soon …

Find out more and follow their journey…

www.lebonandlebon.com

Girl Bosses November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Getting Shade from Brillies with Kaila Uli

Kaila Uli is the founder of Brillies, a brand that offers the best in vintage and retro sunglasses and is sure to make you stand out from the crowd. Started because of Kailas love for antiques, you can guarantee that these sunglasses won’t be easy to find. A true fashionista, we spent some time with her to find out more about her plans for the future, life in L.A and more… Tell us about the journey that lead you to where you are today…
There are two things I’ve loved since childhood, business and antiques. My mom has an ambitious spirit that I was lucky enough to inherit. Selling vintage items gave me an opportunity to combine the two things I love. Brillies wasn’t my first attempt at business, I’d tried and failed a few times with everything from jewelry to craft packaging. Brillies is a combination of those successes and failures. I was able to scrape together enough knowledge from my previous failures to avoid certain pitfalls and fine-tune my marketing skills.

What made you launch your brand, Brillies?
It was a happy accident. I was living above a vintage store at the time and the owner was generous enough to let me post some online and try to sell them for a 50/50 split. I had my first sale within a few hours. From there, the business took off on its own and blossomed into what it is today.

What was life like growing up in LA?
I grew up in Pomona, a little suburb on the outskirts of L.A. Growing up was rough, I had 6 siblings and there was never enough of anything. My mom did her best to stretch every penny, but it was a difficult time. We moved around a lot in my teens. We went from the desert to the valley, to the mountains. It gave me the chance to meet a lot of folks and develop a very diverse skill set. I’d worked as a travel agent, a snowboard instructor, a salesperson, and a model, in addition to training as an EMT and CPR instructor – all before the age of 23. I’m able to use a lot of these skills to this day.

How do you source such unique sunglasses?
It’s a secret! Most of the folks who supply my shop operate entirely offline. You can only find them through word-of-mouth referrals. It took me several years to find my sources.

Are there plans to extend the range and launch other accessories?
We’re currently developing sunglasses chains and other lifestyle accessories for Spring 2020.

Talk us through an average day in your life…
No two days are the same. Some days are spent sourcing products which means flying around the country, filtering through thousands of old sunglasses and choosing the best ones. Some days are spent entirely on the phone. Some days we do photoshoots, those are the most fun because the team gets to show off their creativity and we spend the day outdoors.

Do you follow a morning routine, if so, what is it?
Not really, I’m more of a nighttime routine person. My mornings consist of grabbing a breakfast bar, a coffee, and dashing to the office.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?
I would find a mentor and get more business advice early on. I’ve made many costly mistakes that could have been avoided with better counsel.

What book would you recommend that any aspiring entrepreneur should read?
“You are a Badass” and anything else in the “Badass” series.

What are the pros and cons of being a female entrepreneur?
Cons: I am almost always the only female in the room, which means I’m very often not taken seriously. In 3 years that I’ve been doing this, I’ve only met one other woman in my industry. Pros: There are tons of female-specific resources and I have a great support network in L.A., female entrepreneurs are few in numbers, so we tend to stick close together and become friends quickly. I’ve had to develop very tough skin, but it’s also given me an opportunity to create an all-female team.

What does self-care mean to you?
Proper sleep, proper food, and a proper circle of people. I’m very affected by who I surround myself with, so I need to be with folks who motivate each other. It also means setting boundaries and not giving too much attention to the negative influences in life.

What mantra do you live by?
“Never trade authenticity for approval”, a quote I took from @themantraco – it’s my background on my phone. I look at it every day.

What does 2020 look like for you?
Joining forces with other female-run brands, developing a strong team and putting a strong emphasis on sustainability.Follow Kaila for more… On our website: www.Brillies.co or on our Instagram @Brillies.co