How I Built This with Guy Raz Tarte Cosmetics: Maureen Kelly
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Jan 23, 2023 Maureen Kelly, the visionary Founder and CEO of Tarte Cosmetics, transitioned from a budding clinical psychologist to a beauty entrepreneur, fueled by passion and resilience. She shares her adventurous journey from maxing out credit cards to knocking on doors of retailers in New York City. With a pivotal moment at Bendel's and an Oprah endorsement, Maureen details the breakthrough moments that shaped her brand. She also reflects on navigating personal loss while scaling Tarte, emphasizing the blend of hard work, community support, and authenticity in her success.
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Early Passion for Makeup
- Maureen Kelly, despite studying psychology, always had a passion for makeup and creating homemade beauty products.
- Her husband, Mark, encouraged her to pursue this passion and start a cosmetics company.
Persistence Pays Off
- If you're starting a business and can't get calls back, be persistent.
- Maureen Kelly drove to suppliers' offices and waited to speak with them directly after being ignored.
A Little White Lie
- To finally get a meeting with a buyer, Maureen Kelly fabricated a story about signing with a competitor.
- This white lie secured her a crucial 15-minute meeting with Bendel's.