Before starting her own cosmetic line in 2015, Jillian Dempsey worked at Shu Uemura, became a celebrity makeup artist in Hollywood and opened Delux, a beauty parlor, with her sister. Eventually, Delux morphed into a makeup brand, and caught the attention of Avon. Soon, Avon came calling, and Jillian become the brand’s Global Creative Color Director, where the partnership lasted six years. Then it was onto the next. “I’m an entrepreneur and always knew that I wanted to create something of my own,” said the 52-year-old Texas native. “I only create products that I would personally use.” Her organic, naturally-derived, ingredient-driven products include eyelid and cheek tints, and kohl eyeliners, which are sold at Violet Grey, Bluemercury and Revolve. Last year, Jillian ventured into the facial device category with The Gold Sculpting Bar. “I’m a huge fan of all things Japanese. I’m inspired by their innovative work in the beauty space and by their passion,” she said. The Gold Bar’s difference is in its 24K gold plating and the vibrations it produces. It’s the only 24K Gold Bar available in the U.S. Currently, her line offers 18 skus, with additional items being released later this year. Somehow, Jillian – who also creates impressive jewelry and pottery – found time to talk with CEW Beauty News for our 5 Minutes with… feature.

 

BN: What’s your business approach to growing a successful company?

JD: Work and partner with people whom I trust and understand my vision and passions.

 

BN: What market shifts have you seen over the past year?

JD: Brands are getting better at focusing on eco/sustainable products – I love to see this and hope this continues to increase.

 

BN: What are some specific strategies you’re using to reach consumers?

JD: We’re currently engaged in traditional retail and ecommerce. I try to keep my social feeds inspiring, educational and collaborative. I feel that this is a long-term strategy for continued success.

 

BN: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned over the years?

JD: Stay in your lane.

 

BN: What’s your greatest accomplishment thus far? 

JD: I love to know I’ve helped in making someone’s beauty routine feel fresh and easy. Our cream tints are being very well received; they actually make a difference since they are so easy to use.

 

BN: What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made?

JD: When I first launched the shade Smoke, it was the darkest and most editorial-looking eye shadow shade in the Lid Tint category. I am super picky about hues and it was too blue-black and once it wore down on the eyes, it pulled out unwanted tones on pale to medium-dark skin.  I went to the lab to review and revise the shade to warm it up and make it so that it didn’t have the undertone I felt was not flattering. It came out beautiful as a result. I would rather the consumer have a better experience and if I am aware of something that is problematic, I fix it.

 

BN: What beauty product (not your own) are your favorite?

JD: I love Japanese brands like Addiction, Three and MMO.

 

BN: Best advice for newbies entering the business today?

JD: Don’t give up – stay true to your passions and creative ideas.

 

BN: What’s something no one tells you when starting a business?

JD: It’s an ongoing roller coaster of success and failures. You just have to learn from it and show up every day ready for the next ride and always be prepared to wear 100 hats.

 

BN: What’s a mantra you live by?

JD: Go with your gut and delete the word ‘no’ from your vocabulary.

 

BN: If you were to write the note found in a fortune cookie, what would it say?

JD: Don’t forget about the animals.