Carrie Gross, President and CEO of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare, began her career in the fashion world as a merchandising director overseeing both domestic and international women’s fashion markets, tracking trends and analyzing consumer behaviors.

After 12 years in the fashion industry, Carrie was inspired by the birth of the famed Alpha Beta Peel to change career paths. She left her position to co-found a cosmeceutical skincare line with her husband, Dr. Dennis Gross, that developed innovative products featuring clinical ingredients and offering in-office results. She continues to draw inspiration from her global travels and meeting people who are seeking answers to aging, confidence to show off their skin and craving a regime designed for both preventative and corrective concerns.

Carrie is an active member of the ISPA Associate and Cosmetic Executive Women, and has spoken at national Sephora events and Women’s Wear Daily forums across the country.

She currently resides in New York City with her husband and four children.

1. How did you get into beauty?

I cannot think of a time when I wasn’t in beauty! I started in fashion but soon decided skin was more important than skirt lengths and silhouettes. Something told me, on my first date with Dennis, that we would create something meaningful together.

2. Why do you love indie beauty?

Indie brands are authentic and have a story to tell.

3. How can you help indie beauty brands?
I have years of experience at this point. I’ve taken risks and made my share of mistakes—all good as long as you learn from them and grow!

4. If you could give indie beauty brands one piece of advice, what would it be?
Seek advice and create meaningful relationships within the industry. It is OK to be vulnerable. We all support each other. We live in the fast lane!

5. What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten?

Know what you know, and know what you don’t know!

6. Favorite motto or inspirational quote.

There are so many to choose from! “Don’t wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles, and less than perfect conditions. So what? Get started now. With each step you take, you will grow stronger, more and more skilled, more and more self-confident, and more and more successful.” – Mark Victor Hansen

7. Must-read email, blog, publication?

I make time to read and reflect every day. I read beauty and trade pub’s like WWD as well as fashion and beauty magazines, obviously. I read world news to stay current on economic trends and politics. I read Harvard Business, Forbes, Inc and Fast Company. I follow all their blogs and others such as Huffington Post, Glossy, Smart Briefs on various topics such as leadership, innovation, social strategy. I also follow health and wellness blogs, to not only keep up on new trends, but ways to incorporate mindful and healthy practices into my daily life.

Carrie shares her top tips for indie brands, read here.