Home Tags Posts tagged with "BEAUTY"

BEAUTY

Black OwnedCommunity

Sparking Empowerment and Beauty: The Rise of Lisa Henry’s Smart Girl Brand

by Monet Anais
written by Monet Anais

Meet Lisa Henry, a formidable media and tech mogul who has carved a niche that resonates with women across America. In the essence of beauty that intertwines with the spirit of empowerment, her venture, Smart Girl Brand, is more than just a company; it’s a movement dedicated to celebrating the strength and resilience inherent in every woman. Recently, this burgeoning empire marked its presence at the Hydra Facial Glow event hosted by K. Stewart Beauty and Wellness—a day that epitomized the ethos of Smart Girl Brand.

The event was nothing short of spectacular. Amidst an atmosphere brimming with professionalism and warmth, attendees indulged in Botox treatments and savored delectable charcuterie boards. It wasn’t merely about skin pampering; it was a gathering that celebrated women from all walks of life—moms, daughters, best friends—all united for an unforgettable experience. This remarkable day served as a catalyst for Lisa Henry’s decision to expand Smart Girl Brand beyond its original borders to embrace both Maryland and California.

Keiarna Stewart, the visionary behind K. Stewart Beauty and Wellness, has crafted not just a business but a sanctuary where clients are cherished—a place where beauty transcends surface level to touch the soul. With her team of passionate professionals, and her own leadership within the industry, it’s no surprise that Keiarna Stewart will grace the cover of Smart Girl Brand magazine. In the midst of their launch, this is their first magazine due to release in the month of September. Keiarna was chosen becuase her journey is an inspiration to women everywhere seeking to navigate their paths with grace and determination.

The expansion of Smart Girl Brand represents an evolution in how we perceive empowerment and beauty. California and Maryland might be separated by thousands of miles, each with its distinct culture and charm, yet they share common ground in their communities’ strength and diversity. By establishing roots in both states, Smart Girl Brand pledges itself to be a source of inspiration for women coast to coast.

“Women from all walks of life—moms, daughters, best friends—gathered for an unforgettable day out,” reflects Lisa Henry on her experience at K. Stewart Beauty’s event—a sentiment that encapsulates what Smart Girl Brand aims to achieve nationwide.

Smart Girl Brand isn’t stopping there; plans are underway for further expansions across other states ensuring their message reaches every corner where there’s someone looking for motivation or someone ready to celebrate their individuality without reservations.

To stay updated on this exhilarating journey towards making beauty synonymous with empowerment across America’s vast landscapes follow Lisa Henry on Instagram @lisadhenry or visit Smart Girl Brand at smartgirlbrand.com/. Here lies not only products or services but stories waiting to inspire your own path towards self-realization and success.

Through strategic partnerships like those seen with K. Stewart Beauty & Wellness alongside diligent community engagement practices employed from coast-to-coast ––Smart Girl Brand is poised not only for commercial success but also embarks on creating meaningful societal impacts one state at a time.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Beauty

The Future of Black-Owned Beauty Brands

by Black Vine
written by Black Vine

The Importance of Supporting Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Supporting black-owned beauty brands is not just about diversity and inclusion, it is also about empowering communities and promoting economic growth. By choosing to purchase products from black-owned brands, you are supporting entrepreneurs who have overcome barriers and challenges to create their own businesses. This helps to create a more equitable beauty industry and provides opportunities for black entrepreneurs to thrive.

Here are a few reasons why supporting black-owned beauty brands is important:

  • Representation: Black-owned beauty brands often prioritize creating products that cater to the unique needs of black consumers. By supporting these brands, you are ensuring that your beauty routine is inclusive and representative of diverse beauty standards.
  • Community Impact: When you support black-owned beauty brands, you are directly contributing to the economic growth of black communities. This can help create jobs, provide resources, and empower individuals within these communities.
  • Breaking Barriers: Black-owned beauty brands have historically faced challenges in accessing funding, distribution channels, and marketing opportunities. By supporting these brands, you are helping to break down these barriers and create a more level playing field in the beauty industry.

Remember, every purchase you make has the power to make a difference. By supporting black-owned beauty brands, you are not only investing in high-quality products but also in the empowerment of black entrepreneurs and communities.

History of Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Black-owned beauty brands have a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. These brands were born out of a need for representation and inclusivity in the beauty industry. They have played a crucial role in challenging the mainstream beauty standards and creating products that cater to the unique needs of Black consumers.

One of the pioneers in the black-owned beauty industry is Madam C.J. Walker, who became the first self-made female millionaire in the United States. Her brand, which focused on hair care products for Black women, paved the way for many other black-owned beauty brands.

Today, black-owned beauty brands continue to thrive and innovate. They have become a symbol of empowerment and a platform for celebrating diversity. By supporting these brands, consumers not only get access to high-quality products but also contribute to the growth and success of Black entrepreneurs in the beauty industry.

Benefits of Using Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Using black-owned beauty brands has several benefits. First, by supporting these brands, you are contributing to the empowerment and economic growth of the black community. Second, black-owned beauty brands often prioritize the needs and concerns of people of color, creating products that are specifically formulated to address their unique skin and hair care needs. Third, these brands often use natural and organic ingredients, which can be beneficial for those who prefer clean and sustainable beauty products. Fourth, black-owned beauty brands are often at the forefront of innovation, introducing new and exciting products to the market. Fifth, by using black-owned beauty brands, you are promoting diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry. Lastly, these brands often have a strong commitment to social impact, supporting various charitable causes and initiatives.

In summary, using black-owned beauty brands not only allows you to discover high-quality products but also enables you to make a positive impact on the black community and the beauty industry as a whole.

Top Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Brand 1

Brand 1 is a leading black-owned beauty brand that offers a wide range of high-quality beauty products. Their products are known for their effectiveness and use of natural ingredients. They prioritize inclusivity and cater to a diverse range of skin tones and hair types. Brand 1 is committed to promoting self-love and empowerment through their products, and they actively support various social causes. With their innovative formulations and dedication to excellence, Brand 1 has become a favorite among beauty enthusiasts.

Brand 2

Brand 2 is a trailblazing black-owned beauty brand that has gained a loyal following for its innovative products and commitment to inclusivity. With a focus on natural ingredients and sustainable practices, Brand 2 offers a wide range of skincare and makeup options that cater to diverse skin tones and types. Their products are known for their high quality and effectiveness, delivering noticeable results. Here are a few reasons why Brand 2 stands out:

  • Bold and vibrant colors: Brand 2’s makeup collection features a stunning array of bold and vibrant colors that allow individuals to express their unique style and creativity.
  • Eco-friendly packaging: Brand 2 is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact by using eco-friendly packaging materials that are recyclable and sustainable.
  • Community engagement: Brand 2 actively engages with its community through social media campaigns, events, and collaborations, fostering a sense of inclusivity and empowerment.

In a world where representation matters, Brand 2 is leading the way in providing beauty products that celebrate and embrace diversity.

Brand 3

Brand 3 is a trailblazing black-owned beauty brand that has gained popularity for its innovative products and commitment to social impact. With a focus on inclusivity and diversity, Brand 3 offers a wide range of beauty products that cater to different skin tones and hair types. Their product line includes skincare, makeup, and haircare items that are formulated with natural and high-quality ingredients. Here are some key highlights of Brand 3:

  • Bold and vibrant colors: Brand 3’s makeup collection features bold and vibrant colors that allow individuals to express their unique style and creativity.
  • Nourishing haircare: The haircare products from Brand 3 are specially formulated to nourish and strengthen hair, promoting healthy and lustrous locks.
  • Sustainable packaging: Brand 3 is committed to sustainability and uses eco-friendly packaging materials to minimize its environmental impact.

In addition to their exceptional products, Brand 3 actively supports various social causes and initiatives. They collaborate with non-profit organizations to empower and uplift marginalized communities. Brand 3’s dedication to creating positive change sets them apart in the beauty industry.

Disclaimer: The information provided about Brand 3 is based on available sources and does not constitute endorsement or guarantee.

Innovations in Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Product Innovations

In the world of black-owned beauty brands, product innovations are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. These brands are not afraid to think outside the box and create unique and groundbreaking products that cater to the diverse needs of their customers. From innovative skincare formulations to revolutionary haircare solutions, black-owned beauty brands are at the forefront of industry trends.

One example of a product innovation is the development of multi-purpose beauty products. These versatile products serve multiple functions, saving time and money for consumers. For instance, a single product may act as a moisturizer, primer, and sunscreen all in one, providing convenience and efficiency.

Another area of product innovation is the use of natural and organic ingredients. Black-owned beauty brands are embracing the power of nature and incorporating botanical extracts, essential oils, and plant-based ingredients into their formulations. This not only promotes healthier and more sustainable beauty practices but also caters to the growing demand for clean and green beauty products.

In addition to these innovations, black-owned beauty brands are also focusing on inclusivity and diversity. They are expanding their shade ranges to cater to a wider range of skin tones and creating products that address the specific needs of underrepresented communities. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that everyone can find products that work for them and feel represented in the beauty industry.

With their dedication to innovation, black-owned beauty brands are revolutionizing the beauty industry and setting new standards for excellence and inclusivity.

Marketing Innovations

In the ever-evolving world of beauty brands, Black-owned companies are making their mark with innovative marketing strategies. These strategies not only promote their products but also highlight the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. Here are some marketing innovations that have been successful in the Black-owned beauty industry:

  1. Collaborations with influencers and celebrities: Black-owned beauty brands have been teaming up with influential figures to create buzz around their products. By partnering with popular influencers and celebrities, these brands are able to reach a wider audience and gain credibility.
  2. Social media campaigns: Black-owned beauty brands have been leveraging the power of social media to connect with their target audience. They create engaging content, share customer testimonials, and run contests and giveaways to increase brand awareness and foster a sense of community.
  3. Storytelling and representation: Black-owned beauty brands are using storytelling as a powerful marketing tool. They share the stories behind their brands, highlighting their journey, values, and commitment to inclusivity. By showcasing diverse models and celebrating different skin tones and hair textures, these brands are redefining beauty standards and empowering their customers.

These marketing innovations have not only helped Black-owned beauty brands gain visibility but also inspire and empower consumers to support these businesses.

Social Impact Innovations

Black-owned beauty brands are not only making waves in the beauty industry with their innovative products and marketing strategies, but they are also making a significant social impact. These brands are committed to creating positive change and empowering their communities. Here are some ways in which black-owned beauty brands are making a difference:

  • Supporting local communities: Many black-owned beauty brands prioritize sourcing their ingredients from local suppliers and supporting local businesses. This not only helps to stimulate the local economy but also creates job opportunities within the community.
  • Promoting inclusivity: Black-owned beauty brands are at the forefront of promoting inclusivity and diversity in the beauty industry. They offer a wide range of products that cater to different skin tones and hair types, ensuring that everyone feels represented and included.
  • Giving back: Social responsibility is a core value for many black-owned beauty brands. They actively give back to their communities through various initiatives, such as donating a portion of their profits to charitable organizations or supporting causes that are important to them.
  • Empowering women: Black-owned beauty brands often prioritize empowering women, both within their companies and in the wider community. They provide opportunities for women to thrive and succeed, whether it’s through employment, mentorship programs, or entrepreneurship support.
  • Creating awareness: Black-owned beauty brands are using their platforms to raise awareness about important social issues. They are not afraid to speak up and advocate for change, whether it’s through their marketing campaigns, social media presence, or collaborations with like-minded organizations.

In conclusion, black-owned beauty brands are not just about creating amazing products. They are also driving social change and making a positive impact on their communities. By supporting these brands, consumers can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable beauty industry.

Future of Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Emerging Trends

The black-owned beauty industry is constantly evolving and adapting to new trends. Here are some emerging trends to watch out for:

  1. Clean and sustainable beauty products: Consumers are becoming more conscious of the ingredients in their beauty products and are seeking out clean and sustainable options.
  2. Inclusive shade ranges: Black-owned beauty brands are leading the way in offering a wide range of shades to cater to diverse skin tones.
  3. Natural hair care: There is a growing demand for products specifically designed for natural hair, including shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.
  4. Social media influence: Black-owned beauty brands are leveraging social media platforms to connect with their audience and showcase their products.
  5. Collaboration and partnerships: Brands are collaborating with influencers, celebrities, and other brands to create unique and innovative products.
  6. Focus on wellness: Many black-owned beauty brands are incorporating wellness elements into their products, such as skincare with natural and organic ingredients.

Challenges and Opportunities

When it comes to black-owned beauty brands, there are both challenges and opportunities that they face in the industry. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Limited access to funding and resources
  • Lack of representation and visibility in mainstream beauty spaces
  • Overcoming stereotypes and biases
  • Building a loyal customer base

It is important to support and uplift black-owned beauty brands by actively seeking out their products, sharing their stories, and advocating for inclusivity in the beauty industry.

Remember, every purchase you make from a black-owned beauty brand contributes to the growth and success of these entrepreneurs.

Supporting the Growth of Black-Owned Beauty Brands

Supporting the growth of black-owned beauty brands is crucial for promoting diversity and inclusivity in the beauty industry. Here are some ways you can contribute:

  1. Purchase products from black-owned beauty brands to show your support.
  2. Share your positive experiences with these brands on social media to help spread the word.
  3. Educate yourself and others about the history and importance of black-owned beauty brands.
  4. Attend events and workshops organized by black-owned beauty brands to learn more about their products and initiatives.

Remember, every small action counts and can make a big difference in supporting the growth and success of black-owned beauty brands.

Tip: When purchasing beauty products, consider choosing black-owned brands to support diversity and empower black entrepreneurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are black-owned beauty brands only for people with dark skin tones?

No, black-owned beauty brands cater to a diverse range of skin tones and ethnicities. They offer products that are suitable for people with different skin tones and textures.

What are the benefits of using black-owned beauty brands?

Using black-owned beauty brands supports the economic empowerment of black entrepreneurs and promotes diversity in the beauty industry. These brands often prioritize the needs of underrepresented communities and offer innovative products tailored to their specific needs.

How can I find black-owned beauty brands?

You can find black-owned beauty brands by doing research online, checking out curated lists and directories, following social media accounts that promote black-owned businesses, or visiting specialized retailers that focus on carrying products from diverse brands.

Do black-owned beauty brands offer high-quality products?

Yes, black-owned beauty brands are known for their commitment to quality. Many of these brands prioritize using natural and ethically sourced ingredients, and they often undergo rigorous testing to ensure the effectiveness and safety of their products.

Are black-owned beauty brands more expensive than mainstream brands?

While prices can vary, black-owned beauty brands offer products at a range of price points. Some may be more affordable than mainstream brands, while others may be considered luxury. However, supporting these brands helps to create economic opportunities and promote inclusivity in the beauty industry.

How can I support the growth of black-owned beauty brands?

There are several ways to support the growth of black-owned beauty brands. You can purchase their products, share their brand and products on social media, recommend them to friends and family, and provide positive reviews and feedback. Additionally, supporting initiatives and organizations that promote diversity and inclusion in the beauty industry can also contribute to the growth of these brands.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Beauty

Snail Oil: The New Skincare Superstar

by Black Vine
written by Black Vine

In the realm of skincare, innovation and natural ingredients often go hand in hand. The latest buzz in the beauty industry revolves around a surprising source: snail oil. While the idea of snail secretions might not sound appealing at first, the benefits of this natural elixir are making it a sought-after ingredient in skincare products.

What is Snail Oil?

Snail oil, also known as snail mucin or snail slime, is a natural substance produced by snails. It’s a complex mixture of proteins, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and antioxidants that snails secrete to protect their skin from damage and environmental stressors.

Benefits of Snail Oil for Skin

Snail oil has gained popularity due to its impressive array of benefits for the skin. Here are some of the key benefits that have propelled snail oil into the spotlight:

  • Hydration and Moisture: Snail oil is a rich source of hyaluronic acid, a natural humectant that attracts and retains moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and plump.
  • Anti-aging Properties: Snail oil contains peptides and antioxidants that help combat signs of aging, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
  • Skin Repair and Regeneration: Snail oil promotes skin cell regeneration and wound healing, making it beneficial for treating acne scars, blemishes, and sun damage.
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Snail oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and calm skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.

How to Use Snail Oil

Snail oil is available in various forms, including serums, creams, and lotions. It can be incorporated into your skincare routine as follows:

  • Cleanse your face: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities.
  • Apply toner: Use a toner to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the next step.
  • Apply snail oil: Gently massage a few drops of snail oil onto your face and neck, allowing it to absorb fully.
  • Moisturize: Follow up with a moisturizer to seal in hydration.

Snail Oil: A Natural Skincare Solution

Snail oil is quickly gaining recognition as a natural and effective skincare solution, offering a wealth of benefits for various skin concerns. With its hydrating, anti-aging, and reparative properties, snail oil is poised to become a staple in skincare regimens worldwide. As research continues to uncover the full potential of this unique ingredient, we can expect to see snail oil play an even more prominent role in the future of skincare.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Beauty

Willow Smith Opens Up About Doing Her Own Hair At A ‘High Fashion Photo Shoot’ Because The Stylist Couldn’t

by Black Vine
written by Black Vine

Willow Smith is opening up about her personal hair journey on her talk show series, Red Table Talk. In a new episode of the Facebook Watch series—which is hosted by Willow Smith, her That anxiety, looking at them in the mirror, not knowing what to do with my head, made me feel like, I’m going to take the reins on this mother Jada Pinkett-Smith, and grandmother Adrienne Banfield Norris—airing today at 12 PM EST, the three women are joined by Tiffany Haddish and Yvonne Orji, both of whom discuss their own experiences navigating childhood and adulthood in the entertainment industry as black women surrounded by white-focused beauty standards.

For Willow, “a very high fashion photo shoot” showed how hard it was to deal with this problem. The hairstylist working on set was unaware of how to groom black hair and couldn’t execute a look for Willow. In the clip below, the “Transparent Soul” singer describes being forced to create her own hairstyle and the discomfort and disappointment that came along with it.

However, for Smith, this wasn’t the first time she encountered an inexperienced hairstylist regarding Black hair tresses, nor is it the first for Black models. For years, there has been an ongoing conversation about the Black beauty experience backstage, or lack thereof. From hair styling to makeup, Black women are likely to get the short end of the stick compared to their white counterparts. This ultimately calls for more Black stylists and makeup artists to be hired to work with models who look like them.

“All of the white models were getting their hair done; they all had somebody,” she recalls. “The person that was supposed to come to do my hair looked at it and tried to do something to it, tried to touch it.” They were just like, “I don’t know what I’m doing.”’. So I basically did my own hair for that really high fashion shoot. That should never be happening.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Beauty

‘Success isn’t owned, it’s rented. And rent is due every day’: 39-year-old millionaire on the best advice she received

by Black Vine
written by Black Vine

Monique Rodriquez holds many titles: mother, wife, friend, sister, and self-made millionaire. The 39-year-old founded Mielle Organics, a natural hair care brand, in 2014 after a devastating loss reshaped life as she knew it.

“It took something pretty traumatic to happen for me to realize what my true purpose and ultimate calling were,” Rodriquez tells CNBC Make It. “And that was in 2013, I suffered the loss of my son. I was eight months pregnant. It was a high-risk pregnancy and unfortunately, my son passed away as a result.”

At the time, Rodriquez had an almost decade-long career in nursing, a field her family reassured her was “recession-proof.” But she wasn’t passionate about it — and returning to that environment while dealing with postpartum depression seemed impossible.

This led her to concoct hair products in her kitchen. Not only was it the “creative outlet” that would help her “get through the pain of losing a son,” but it was the start of what is now a multimillion-dollar brand sold in over 100,000 stores across the U.S.

Here’s how Rodriquez navigated funding as a Black woman and the best career advice she’s ever received.

The challenges of scaling
Last year, Black women led the pack when it came to entrepreneurship: 17% of were in the process of launching or running a business, compared to 15% of white men and 10% of white women, Harvard Business Review reports.

Yet, only 3% of Black women were operating mature businesses, indicating systemic discrimination in VC and funding — something that Rodriquez knows all too well. “Being a Black woman starting a company, the banks don’t believe in you. You haven’t proved yourself so investors don’t really believe in you [either]. You already have two strikes against you: You’re Black, and you’re a woman. That’s just the reality, especially when I started [my business] eight years ago.” Rodriquez says in order to fund her business in its early stages, she was forced to “bootstrap” and “deplete her savings.”

“Every time I got paid, my nursing paychecks, my husband’s bank account, and his paychecks, everything would go to the business,” she says. “So we had to sacrifice our living situation and couldn’t do things that our friends were doing. [We were even] taking our 401k and depleting all of that to invest into the business.”

Through hard work and networking, Rodriquez and her husband received a loan, which ultimately helped them obtain their first retail partner, Sally Beauty. In 2020, she obtained her first round of seed funding from the New Voices Foundation, an organization for women of color entrepreneurs. And just last year, Mielle Organics received a “historic” $100 million in funding from Berkshire Partners, a private equity firm.

Rodriquez says she’s made progress since launching, with things like pitch competitions, grants, and fundraising events being more commonplace these days. But she believes there’s still “a long way to go” before the playing field is leveled.

The highs and lows of entrepreneurship
Mielle Organics is one of the fastest-growing Black-owned beauty brands in the country, a feat that came with many ebbs and flows.

Rodriquez says that community impact has been one of the most rewarding parts of her career. “It’s about igniting that flame in that little girl that’s sitting at home watching on social media [and seeing] Monique Rodriguez doing something historical, who’s breaking the glass ceiling, so she can come behind me and shatter the next glass ceiling,” she explains.

“It’s my little girls that are at home watching their mom do historical things and making them believe that they can accomplish anything that they set their mind to.”

In contrast, Rodriquez says the lowest point in her journey was remaining persistent in the beginning, even when the company “wasn’t profitable.” But it ultimately helped her “appreciate being profitable and learn the importance of managing finances.”

‘Success is not owned, it’s rented’
Despite having several mentors, coaches, and peers, Rodriquez says the best career advice she’s ever received actually comes from her husband.

“He gives me amazing advice all the time, [the best being]: Success is not owned, it’s rented — and rent is due every day. Don’t get complacent, don’t get comfortable, and never feel like you ‘made it.’ Because when you get to that place, there’s always someone trying to take your spot. You have to continue working and striving as if you know [your spot] is not guaranteed.”

Rodriquez also advises other Black women entrepreneurs to “own who you are.” “A lot of Black women struggle with this imposter syndrome — not feeling that you belong at the table or like you deserve to be where you are in life. But God has placed you in a room that you probably didn’t even think that you will be placed in because of his favor and anointing,” she says.

“So walk in that favor, walk in that light, and know that you deserve to be there like anybody else.”

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Beauty

Black-owned beauty brands and founders breaking billion-dollar barriers

by Black Vine
written by Black Vine

We may or may not be a little bit obsessed with Lizzo and every single beauty moment she posts on’ gram and TikTok. Somehow, in the midst of performing around the world, the pop and people of color still experience today.”

Black entrepreneurs start with, on average, $35,000 in capital compared to $107,000 for their white counterparts, according to a recent McKinsey report. Lack of access to capital also hurts black entrepreneurs in the long run. The State of Black Entrepreneurship in America report from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in 2019 found that black entrepreneurs are almost three times more likely to have their profits negatively impacted due to a lack of access to capital.

But Dellinger succeeded in spite of the challenges. The Curls brand can now be found on store shelves across the country, including Walmart, Target, CVS, and Kroger, as well as on Amazon, and although Dellinger wouldn’t disclose sales figures, she said Curls has seen growth every year.

“I found myself desperate to take back control,” says Dellinger. “Becoming an entrepreneur and owning my destiny was my opportunity to change that narrative.”

Self-funding success
Her success is matched by a growing peer network of black entrepreneurs in the beauty sector who are overcoming the financing challenges to reach a multi-billion-dollar black consumer market that historically has been underserved by retailers. African-Americans possess $1.2 trillion in spending power, according to Nielsen, and the black hair care industry alone generates billions in annual sales, according to Essence.

Personal funding is also how Melissa Butler, founder, and CEO of The Lip Bar, got her start in 2012. Like Dellinger, she started the cosmetics brand with around $30,000 of her personal savings, spurred by frustration with a beauty industry that centered on a singular archetype. For the first three years, Butler made every single product sold by hand.

“Every penny that we made, we reinvested into the business,” said Butler (Dellinger did the same). “For the first several years, I didn’t pay myself, my creative director, or my business partner,” Butler added.

A key moment for both beauty entrepreneurs was the deal with Target. Curls were able to expand to a wider customer base after signing a buyer with Target called Dellinger in 2009. The buyer was looking to revamp the store’s offerings after noticing chemical relaxers were no longer flying off the shelves as more women embraced the natural hair movement.

Curls, along with three other brands, was given a test in 105 Target stores to see how they would perform.

“That one shot actually gave us the chance to go to the other retailers,” Dellinger said. “That changed the entire path of the business.”

Butler said her confidence in seeking capital didn’t come until The Lip Bar expanded into Target in 2018. The brand started on Target.com before doing a 44-store test and then expanding into hundreds of stores. But despite being sold at one of the nation’s largest retailers and knowing her company was ready for growth capital, The Lip Bar still faced difficulty securing financing.

“Part of that is because the people that are writing those checks, especially at that time, were, again, white men at the helm who again weren’t the end users of the product,” Butler said. “They believed that the beauty industry was primarily owned by heritage brands such as L’Oréal and Maybelline.”

She was eventually able to raise money through the New Voices Fund, which was set up by Richelieu Dennis, the founder of Shea Moisture, to invest in women of color. In 2018, the fund gave her $2 million.

Even though former First Lady Michelle Obama made a lipstick with the company to encourage people to register to vote and current First Lady Dr. Jill Biden went to the company’s flagship store in Detroit last fall, Butler says a memory from Target is still the most important part of her path to success. “My niece at the time was in 5th grade, and she went into a Target store and she saw my face on our Target display,” Butler recalled. “So, she’s taking pictures with it, and for career day, they were all to dress up as someone, and she dressed up as me.”

Kim and Tim Lewis started CurlMix in 2015 as a DIY subscription box company that let people make their own hair products. At first, they used their own money to fund the business. However, they ended up pivoting to become a hair care line in 2018. That same year, they were able to get $25,000 in financing from Backstage Capital, a venture capital fund founded by Arlan Hamilton and focused on investing in women, people of color, and LGBT founders.

“For most people who are getting venture funding, $25,000 doesn’t feel like a lot to them,” said Kim Lewis. “But because I and Tim had made so many mistakes, we knew exactly how to spend it.” “That $25,000 was probably more like a $100,000 for us back then.”

After the funding, the company reached $1 million in revenue in 2018.

The growing success led to the CurlMix founders making it onto “Shark Tank” and ultimately declining a $400,000 offer from Robert Herjavec for 20% of the company, which turned out to be a wise decision.

“After we went on “Shark Tank,” I got a call from the CEO of LinkedIn and his partner, and they were like, “Can we invest a million dollars?” Lewis recalled the conversation with former LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner.

CurlMix ended up raising $1.2 million in a seed round—the start-up is currently valued at $12 million —and hihitting5.5 million in revenue in 2019, and $6 million in 2020. The founders said the pandemic caused them to pull back on advertising spend last year, but overall the business remained stable.

 

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Celebrity

‘Girls Trip 2’ Reuniting Full Cast For Adventure In Ghana

by Black Vine
written by Black Vine

Pack your zip lines and grapefruits! The “Girls Trip” sequel is taking us to West Africa. Tracy Oliver, who co-wrote the original 2017 comedy with Regina Hall, Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Tiffany Haddish, stopped by the Variety Studio presented by Audible at Sundance to talk about the upcoming reunion of those four actresses.

Oliver, who was at the festival to promote the second season of her Amazon Prime Video series “Harlem,” said she had a “definitive ‘Girls Trip 2’ update. That it’s officially happening. I can say that.” She also provided a plot update, and while the film’s producer, Will Packer, “might kill me, we’re looking to set it in Ghana.”

One of Oliver’s “Harlem” stars, actor Shoniqua Shandai, screamed “Afrochella!” after Oliver dropped the news. She refers to the annual Afrochella festival, Ghana’s premiere cultural and music event, whose name borrows from the American flower crown convention Coachella. Oliver said that the girls from “Girls Trip” will try to go to the festival, which has attracted well-known musicians from the area, like Shatte Wale, who has worked with Beyoncé. A production timeline is unknown as Oliver still needs to submit her script.

The first “Girls Trip” movie did very well at the box office, making $140 million worldwide on a small budget of $16 million. Malcolm D. Lee directed the project, which was produced by Packer and co-written by Oliver and Kenya Barris from a story they conceived with Erica Rivinoja. It also launched the recently embattled Haddish into superstardom.

Oliver has been to a lot of film festivals in the past year. Her acclaimed horror comedy “The Blackening” made its world premiere at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival. The film, directed by Tim Story, was acquired by Lionsgate shortly after TIFF and will be released in June.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Beauty

Lizzo’s Braided Tendrils Were Somehow the Cutest Part of Her Sesame Street Cameo

by Black Vine
written by Black Vine

We may or may not be a little bit obsessed with Lizzo and every single beauty moment she posts on the ’gram and TikTok. Somehow, in the midst of performing around the world, the pop star had time to visit Sesame Street and play the flute for two children’s TV icons, Elmo and Cookie Monster, with the bounciest high ponytail and the cutest braided tendrils.

On February 22, Lizzo shared a short clip of her playing “Sesame Street’s famous cookie flute,” according to Elmo, for the two puppets. The clip ends unsurprisingly with Cookie Monster showing how he plays the cookie flute—by devouring it (don’t worry; he still manages to play it while it’s in his stomach). Aside from admiring Lizzo’s impressive flute-playing skills, our eyes kept darting to her curly ponytail and bright pink eye makeup.

Updos with face-framing tendrils are not new to Lizzo, but we love the unexpected braids in this style. Those tiny braids start as cornrows right at the crown of her head and transition at the temples into big curls that match the rest of her hair. Her baby hairs were finessed into a few swoops around her hairline.

Her sparkly, pretty-in-pink eye makeup made the look even more incredible. As she’s playing the flute, you get a full look at the hot pink eye shadow in her creases and the light pink shimmer on her lids. She also paired it with a subtle but sharp cat eye and glossy nude lips.
This Sesame Street and Lizzo linkup may be the best collaboration the singer has released thus far. Thank you, Lizzo, for healing our inner child and giving our beauty-loving hearts something to cherish.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Load More Posts

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.