I began my retail career at Nordstrom in 1983 in cosmetics and worked my way up to Cosmetic Regional Merchandise Mgr by the time I left in 2008 to work at Ulta in Prestige as a DMM. My DMM role responsibilities included Prestige Skincare and Cosmetics. I was very involved in changing the entire assortment of Prestige Skincare between 2008 – 2010. Also changed 40% of the assortment in Prestige Cosmetics since 2008. My current responsibility is leading the category growth for Specialty Brands- Clinique, Lancome, and Benefit/Benefit Brow Bar services and any other brands we pursue at Ulta that would be a boutique environment.

1.How did you get into beauty?
I needed a part time job for the holidays during college and was hired to sell Estée Lauder holiday gift sets with the blockbuster at an outpost in Bullocks! I guess I did so well that they ended up hiring me permanently.

2.Why do you love indie beauty?
Indie brands offer the variety and assortment that fill a need for niche brands that are hard to find but create a fun shopping experience for our guests!

3. How can you help indie beauty brands?
I hope I can make them feel more confident in presenting to a retailer and be able to help them with any hurdles they might be experiencing.

4.If you could give indie beauty brands one piece of advice, what would it be?
Do your homework! Make sure you are very familiar with the retailer that you are presenting to.

5. What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten?
Love what you do, own what you do!

6. Favorite motto or inspirational quote.
Whatever you are, be a good one!

7.Must-read email, blog, publication?
I love Rue Now for inspiration, Byrdie, Violet Grey and Pintrest.

Janice shares the top things you need to know before approaching a retailer, read here.