How I Built This with Guy Raz

Bluemercury: Marla and Barry Beck

15 snips
Oct 24, 2022
Marla Beck, co-founder of Bluemercury, with her background in private equity, and her husband Barry Beck, bring a dynamic presence to the conversation. They share their journey from a struggling online cosmetics venture to opening nearly 200 successful stores, highlighting the critical pivot that saved their business. The couple emphasizes the importance of personalized customer service and strategic store locations. They also discuss the challenges of securing funding and the lessons learned through their unique entrepreneurial partnership, blending business with family life.
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ANECDOTE

Unconscious Bias

  • Barry Beck initially mistook Marla Beck for an assistant in their first meeting.
  • He later realized she was the decision-maker, highlighting unconscious bias.
ANECDOTE

From Business to Romance

  • Barry Beck pursued Marla Beck after their initial meeting, despite a lawyer's skepticism.
  • Their professional meetings gradually evolved into a relationship.
INSIGHT

Personal Interest to Business Idea

  • Marla Beck's familiarity with beauty products stemmed from a personal interest, not professional experience.
  • Difficulty finding specific brands fueled the idea for Bluemercury.
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