Founder Feature: Veena Krishnan and Whitney McElwain of Daybird
Aug 10, 2024
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Veena Krishnan and Whitney McElwain, co-founders of Daybird, share their journey of creating an innovative 'anti-beauty' brand focused on simplicity and personal choice. They discuss their flagship 4-in-1 serum skin tint, emphasizing ingredient transparency and inclusivity. The duo reveals their unique marketing strategies and the importance of authentic influencer partnerships. They also tackle the challenges of retail presence and preparations for trade shows, illustrating the importance of community in their entrepreneurial journey.
Daybird, co-founded by Veena and Whitney, promotes an anti-beauty ethos that simplifies beauty routines through its innovative 4-in-1 serum skin tint, aligning with modern consumer needs for convenience.
The founders emphasize the importance of authentic relationships with micro-influencers and responsive customer feedback to effectively engage their community and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
Deep dives
Discounted Shipping Rates and Benefits
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The Concept of Anti-Beauty
Daybird, co-founded by Veena and Whitney, positions itself as an anti-beauty brand, encouraging customers to define their own relationship with beauty products rather than conforming to societal standards. The founders recognize the overwhelming pressure many consumers feel to use multiple products to achieve a certain aesthetic and sought to simplify that process. Their approach promotes the idea that confidence should not stem from the numerous cosmetics one applies but rather from the authenticity of the products they choose. As such, Daybird offers a line of clean, functional makeup that aims to align with the needs of modern consumers seeking convenience and quality.
Innovative Product Design and Formulation
Daybird's first product, the 4-in Serum Skin Tint, is a multifunctional hybrid that combines skincare and makeup benefits into a single formula. This product includes two skincare serums, a moisturizer, mineral SPF 50, and a sheer tint, all designed to create an efficient one-step beauty routine. The formulation aims to provide clinical efficacy with dermatologist-approved ingredients while being sensitive skin-friendly. This innovation addresses common frustrations among consumers about excessive beauty routines and the confusing array of products on the market.
Building a Community and Brand Awareness
Effective community engagement and feedback play a crucial role in Daybird's growth strategy, facilitating authentic connections with potential customers and influencers. By actively collaborating with partners and utilizing organic marketing channels, the brand seeks to establish its presence beyond traditional beauty spaces. Daybird prioritizes influencer relationships, focusing on micro-influencers whose audiences align with their values and aesthetics. This grassroots approach, coupled with a commitment to transparency and celebrating milestones, helps Daybird resonantly convey its brand message while adapting to consumer insights.
In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy and Patricia Menegoto are joined by Veena Krishnan and Whitney McElwain, co-founders of Daybird, an innovative "anti-beauty" brand. Daybird's flagship product is a 4-in-1 serum skin tint that blends skincare and makeup into one streamlined solution.
They delve into Daybird's unique approach, which rejects traditional beauty standards in favor of simplicity, efficacy, and personal choice. Veena and Whitney share insights on their marketing strategies, the challenge of standing out in a crowded market, and the importance of authentic partnerships with influencers and responsive customer feedback.
They highlight the difficulties of engaging with creators and retailers. They also discuss their retail strategy, including how they approach stores like Urban Outfitters and prepare for trade shows like Utopia Now.
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