Brittny Skylar Robins is the founder and CEO of Flawless by Friday, a Canadian skincare company whose revolutionary line of products combines Asian-inspired gel technology with natural ingredients. Brittny is the definition of a true entrepreneur and #GirlBoss (who counts none other than Bonnie Brooks as her mentor), and her products can be found across North America in major department stores. We were lucky enough to sit down with Brittny for an exclusive interview, so read on!
What inspired you to launch Flawless by Friday?
I grew up as one of 5 sisters and have always noticed that when I felt put together I became more confident in everything I did. I became the in-house hair and makeup consultant for all my sisters from a young age.
I think beauty stems from confidence, and I loved seeing my sisters feeling their best when they looked their best. In a house full of girls I saw the insecurities and struggles with confidence that we all experience. I wanted to help solve those problems.
I wanted to share that feeling with all women. Women have inspired me all my life, starting at home with my sisters and my mom. For me, Flawless was (and still is) a platform that I could use to share that feeling with everyone.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed between the beauty market in Canada versus international markets?
Our main markets are in Canada and the US, and we are still very much getting to know our customers in both markets. We are learning about what it takes to go international and to understand that purchasing patterns and tastes can vary based on geography.
One thing that has stood out for us is how Canadians love supporting Canadian brands! We love that support!
What role does social media play when it comes to marketing your brand?
Social media plays a huge role at Flawless. Marketing is constantly changing, and we know people are learning about and interacting with brands in different ways.
We also see it as a great way to get closer to our Flawless family! We have such a great community supporting us and social media allows us to be a part of their daily lives. It is so rewarding when we get messages about our products and how people feel when they use them. It also gives us a platform to find out what makes other people feel flawless.
Who have been some of the greatest mentors you’ve had in helping you achieve career success?
Bonnie Brooks, a badass businesswoman that I am lucky to call my mentor. She is very passionate about helping young business people create newness and pursue their passion. She is incredibly selfless.
My family and my sisters – for inspiring me to start my career in the beauty industry and supporting me along the way. My parents are still very actively involved in advising me on a day-to-day basis and giving me their honest opinion.
What do you look for in people that you hire?
Drive. I look for driven, passionate people with self-starter attitudes. And people who are different than me! I’ve realized it is easy to gravitate towards people who are similar to you, but it is so useful having people around you who can give a different perspective. They also have to bleed the brand. I know they could probably make more money somewhere else, so they need to believe deeply in the future of Flawless!
What does a typical workday look like for you?
There is so much happening in the Flawless office all the time! I don’t remember when two days ever looked the same, but to me, that is the exciting part of owning your own business.
One day I could be packing products to send to our amazing customers and the next day I’m putting out fires, whether it be in shipping and logistics to finance. Some days are more stressful than others, but overall running Flawless doesn’t feel like a job to me.
What has been the biggest “pinch-me” moment of your career so far?
Meeting Leonard Lauder (Estée Lauder’s son) was definitely a “pinch-me” moment for me! It was not only a career highlight but a life highlight as well!
We talked about his career, my career, the company – he was one of the kindest, sharpest people I have ever met.
This was the moment where I felt the risks I had taken – quitting my job, setting myself up for judgement and failure – were behind me. For me, it justified what had happened in my entrepreneurial journey so far – the ups and the downs.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Never be afraid to ask. Ask specific questions from people you respect – put yourself in a position you think is impossible, and don’t ever back down from an opportunity when it’s given to you.
How do you see your brand evolving, and what are some exciting things we can look forward to from Flawless by Friday in 2018?
I have so many plans for Flawless! I think the possibilities are endless. But this summer I am excited to announce that we are launching 32 new products to help people everywhere find their Flawless.
So stay tuned! And as always, stay flawless!
You can shop the brand at FlawlessByFriday.com and follow them on social media @FlawlessByFriday
Featured Image: FlawlessByFriday.com
Posts you might be interested in:
Consonant Skincare Plans To Open New Flagship On Queen West
Natural Edible Skincare Products You Will Find In Your Kitchen
This Award-winning Natural Skincare Line for Men Just Launched in Canada
5 Affordable Skincare Products That Actually Work
5 Blackhead Products That Actually Work For Every Budget