Saying I’m an indie beauty product groupie is an understatement. What’s better than a day devoted to up-and-coming beauty products and discovering them BEFORE they become “cult classics”? Nothing. Although it’s really challenging to keep up with all the new brands I keep reading about, so when I heard about the Indie Beauty Expo, I was giddy with anticipation. Aimed at introducing, showcasing and celebrating independent brands, the exhibit connected industry experts and sellers with press, bloggers, and buyers. iBE was inspired by industry veteran Jillian Wright of Clinical Skin Spa in Manhattan. She wanted to raise awareness for beauty entrepreneurs and offer them the opportunity to grow their businesses. Co-founder Nade Naeymi-Rad, CEO of Vesture, saw a void in the market for healthy, clean, and natural products and partnered to create the first expo which happened last week in NYC.
With nearly 100 exhibitors, it was exceptional showing. I only wish I’d blocked out more time to mix, mingle, and test product. (And… worn more comfortable shoes). Juara was in attendance and has been a brand I’ve become obsessed with over the past year. Lift Lab has been on my radar to try (my friends at Caravan Stylist Studio swear by them). Otherwise Innersense, Isa’s Restorative, Bottega Organica, Perfect Formulas, Zyderma, Arya Essentials, Malaya, Cecilia Wong Skincare, Slip, Privai, Farmaesthetics and Folium are all on my radar to learn more about.
If only I had more skin, I want to try everything!