Today we’d like to introduce you to Simona Milan.
Simona, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
In high school, I gravitated to vocational studies including cosmetology. Upon graduating, I began working as a data entry clerk for a hospital system but knew that I had to open my own business in order to earn the personal satisfaction I required. At heart, I am a serial entrepreneur.
Initially, I owned a business that provided stylized wigs for women. My business focused on women with alopecia and those that were experiencing hair loss from cancer treatments. Those experiences led me to launch Milan Rowe Cosmetics in September 2012. However, after opening for only five months, I was in a debilitating accident that caused me to close the business and focus on my physical rehabilitation.
While conducting my rehab, I made plans to reopen the business bigger and better than ever. After years of planning, the company was officially re-launched in January 2019. The company is an online business at this time and features a collection of cruelty free and vegan liquid lipsticks known as the Cashmere Liquid Lipstick Collection and an eyeshadow palette known as the Eyeconic Couture. Over time, additional products will be added to the product line.
The impetus for starting the company is to recognize that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. There is no one definition of beauty. Aside from selling cosmetics, Milan Rowe wants to create a community among its women and men customers that support and empower one another via the sharing of personal stories of challenge and failure that lead to success and triumph on our blog. As a result of sharing information, the company hopes to encourage and empower others to live out and accomplish their dreams despite obstacles or unfavorable circumstances.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The opening of Milan Rowe Cosmetics has been a challenge.
Upon first opening the company in 2012, I was required to discontinue the business. During my time rehabbing, I worked on a more robust business plan including the development of a customer-centric website, implementation of a comprehensive marketing and public relations plan, the hiring of chemists to develop proprietary formulas for my cosmetic products, partnering with U.S.-based manufacturers to manufacture my product line, and securing the necessary financing to re-launch the business without taking on debt.
I am so much more prepared to launch and operate a successful cosmetic company as compared to the initial launch in 2012. I used my downtime wisely by making the necessary preparations.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Milan Rowe Cosmetic Company – what should we know?
As the founder, owner, and president of Milan Rowe Cosmetics, I am responsible for every aspect of the business including strategic planning, marketing, sales, operations, and financing. The cosmetic product line consists of liquid lipsticks and an eye shadow palette and we will expand into more product lines.
The brand prides itself on being inclusive of women and men of all races, ethnicities, skin complexions, shapes, and sizes. This is demonstrated in the models that we use for our beauty campaigns. As an organization, Milan Rowe wants to be a successful cosmetic company but, as importantly, we want to encourage others to fight through adversity and follow their dreams. The company will be empowering others through a series of online blogs, in-person seminars and panel discussions, and online webinars.
What sets Milan Rowe apart from the competition is that the products utilize vegan ingredients, subscribe to cruelty-free practices, are manufactured in the U.S., and designs products that are suitable for all skin colors and complexions.
What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned over the course of your career?
I have learned that sometimes things may not work out the way that you plan but you have to be flexible enough to use obstacles to your advantage.
Pricing:
- Cashmere Collection of Liquid Lipsticks (12 shades) priced at $18 per lipstick
- Eyeconic Couture Eye Shadow Palette (12 colors) priced at $40 per palette
Contact Info:
- Website: www.milanrowe.com
- Email: info@milanrowe.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/milanrowemakeup/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Milanrowecosmetics/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/milanrowemakeup
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/milanrowe/
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