Any woman born before 1990 was introduced to Bobbi Brown by way of her iconic brown lipstick and liner combo. Thankfully, makeup trends have changed, largely in part to Bobbi, who is widely regarded as the foremost beauty industry expert.
Today you can walk into most department stores and spot her namesake brand immediately. Her authority is well-documented and deserved, as she spent the last two decades as a entrepreneur, creative director, author, and editor in the beauty and health space. From her early days as a freelance makeup artist, to her tenure as COO at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Bobbi has a keen eye for trends, quality formulas, and branding.
While Bobbi stepped down from her role at her eponymous makeup brand in 2016, which was acquired by Estee Lauder in 1995, she remains an active thought leader and boss in the industry. Last year alone she released her ninth book, aptly titled Beauty from the Inside Out, which also parallels her latest initiative, justBobbi.com. The modern lifestyle platform publishes editorial content that explores the intersection of wellness, beauty, and travel. Seriously, that’s just one of her latest ventures. The woman doesn’t stop! Below she shares a bit more about what she has in store and how she approaches the business of beauty.
You’re the founder of not only Bobbi Brown cosmetics but also Just BOBBI, Evolution_18 and The George Montclair boutique hotel. Do you see any common threads behind the missions all of your business ventures?
All of my businesses are lifestyle-inspired. I want people to live their best lives, and be inspired by where they are, what they eat, what they wear, etc. In everything I create, I try to provide people with things they can incorporate into their lives.
When you get a new idea, what’s the very first thing you do with it?
When i get a new idea, I either text someone on my team to put it on our agenda or activate it myself.
You mentioned you want The George Montclair to attract the creative spirits. What do you think creative entrepreneurs need in order to thrive?
I know creators need a great environment, good light and energy, and follow a healthy lifestyle so they are clear minded.
EVOLUTION_18 is more than a brand, it’s a lifestyle. How do you hope it inspires people to take more control over their health?
A healthy lifestyle isn’t just about healthy goods. It’s about balance and fun and experiencing life. EVOLUTION_18 offers lifestyle inspired products that taste good, give energy, a stop a sweet tooth after a cocktail.
What’s next for the Just Bobbi brand?
Stay tuned … we just launched our fifth product, De-Bloat, which is something I love having on hand in order to sometimes squeeze into my little black dress.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find a new road + switch gears to find success?
By nature, I am a very positive person. When things hit a bump, I usually take a moment to see what to do next. Sometimes you have to go backwards to go forwards. And for me, it gives me an opportunity to change gears.
“A healthy lifestyle isn’t just about healthy goods. It’s about balance and fun and experiencing life.”
What about your job makes you feel the most fulfilled?
I love collaborating with a team that pools their expertise to work project to project. I especially love working with younger people who add a different perspective to the process. And as a visual creator, I love creating content to tell a story.
Who are the first three people you think an entrepreneur should hire?
First, an administrator to help you get things done and fixed if needed. Second, a personal assistant who can multitask. Someone who can strategize and operationalize your ideas. Third, a creative team to implement your ideas.
Who inspired you the most in your life growing up?
Growing up, my family inspired me. My grandpa who came to America to find fame & fortune. My parents, who taught me hard work, life skills, and mostly to do what I love.
“I want people to live their best lives, and be inspired by where they are, what they eat, what they wear, etc. In everything I create, I try to provide people with things they can incorporate into their lives.”
Whose career is inspiring you today?
All entrepreneurs who concept, analyze, and visualize a white space idea. Richard Branson, Emily Weiss, Jeff Radue, Ty Haney, and more.
What are the common challenges you've seen among female business owners and entrepreneurs?
Many women face challenges of rise and lack of confidence. Combined with the challenges of motherhood and family is real.
What are you most excited for in 2019?
So much…check back in 2020 and see what’s next.
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