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I discovered Gallinée when I was doing a research for the post about probiotic skincare and immediately were hooked about the science behind the products and the fact that the brand, launched about 2 months ago, was funded by a Kickstarter campaign. That’s an entrepreneurial story worth sharing! So, this week I met the lovely Marie Drago, the brain behind it, had a great talk about beauty and entrepreneurship, and asked her to answer some quick questions about the journey so far. Here it is!
By the way, I’ve been using Hydrating Face Cream for a few days and loving the results. It’s a powerful moisturizing yet with a light feeling, great to relieve redness and brighter the skin. Check the whole range at www.gallinee.co.uk
Project M: What motivated you to launch your own brand?
Marie: It is always something I wanted to do since I can remember. As a kid, I wanted to be a witch to create potions. I was really disappointed when I was told it was not a job anymore!
I love the idea of bringing something new and innovative out. So after having researched the science for my products, talked a lot about it with my friends and family and written a business plan, I decided to take the leap and quit my job. It’s just been one year and (I) haven’t looked back since.
Project M: What are the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
Marie: I love how every morning I have 10 new challenges waiting for me. As an entrepreneur, you have some many new jobs to learn on the spot: Accountant, Marketer, Recruiter.
The biggest challenge so far has been saying everywhere that bacteria were mostly good in an industry where it is seen as really bad. But I have to say I keep being so happy about consumer and press responses to our concept.
Project M: What advice would you share with those thinking about creating a brand?
Marie: Never be afraid to talk about your concept or idea. The chance of anyone stealing your idea is very low, because the hard thing is not having the idea, it’s doing the hard work to make it happen. And people will mostly try to help you, you never know what connections they can have!
I love all the workshops, Meetups and pitching events in London. I learned a lot in Google campus, and I recommend doing as many pitches as you can. It is a really good way to learn how to present your idea and yourself.