Back in 2014, BEAUTYDIRECTORY reported on how a revolutionary new app called Glamazon was taking the Australian beauty industry by storm. Three and a half years later, it appears the business has gone from strength to strength, with investment secured, a buzzy office space in Bondi and an appearance on the infamous TV show Shark Tank that the Sydney Morning Herald declared its “watershed moment”.
Intrigued about how co-founders Lauren Silvers and Lisa Maree, were tracking, BD caught up with the former to find out more about how they’ve evolved their start-up and what she thinks is the key to their success.
Can you tell us a little bit about how Glamazon got started?
Glamazon was conceived out of my own frustrations in booking salon appointments back in 2013. I was a busy publicist with a fast-paced lifestyle and wanted a booking solution to enable me to book beauty appointments instantly and on-the-go.
What were some of the challenges you faced early on and how did you overcome them?
When I first started Glamazon, my main challenge was being a non-technical founder trying to build a technical product. I really had to surround myself with mentors and advisors who could point me in the right direction. I learnt early on to outsource my weaknesses and focus on my strengths. I hired a development agency and I focused on bringing on supply and demand to the business as well as PR.
Can you offer any tips to budding entrepreneurs about bringing on investors?
Investment should be explored as a means to accelerate growth. My advice would be to build an MVP via a method of bootstrapping and manual work, to acquire customers and build sales as a means to validate the business model. Once there is traction then seek out investment to accelerate. Make sure the investors you bring on share your vision for the future and don't want to control you. Early stage investors should be investing in the founder and their ability to execute and deliver a successful business model.
Your team has grown a lot over the years, what do you look for when recruiting staff?
We look at the skills of the current team to find what we are lacking, which forms the basis of the next hire. When recruiting we always look for passionate people that love startup culture, are motivated by making an impact from disrupting an industry, and can align their vision with ours.
What do you love most about working in…
Digital? The constant change! Tech is moving so fast, but I love being agile and adapting to changes quickly. It keeps life challenging and interesting.
Beauty? Beauty services are a very personal and subjective experience, and I love connecting with like-minded customers who are open, vulnerable and willing to share. It gives me a sense of connection with women all over Australia and binds us together through our shared experiences.
Bondi? The energy, the people, the proximity to the beach and nature. Living and working in the same suburb allows me to achieve a work/life balance.
What's been the best part of the journey so far?
Merging with my co-founder Lisa was an amazing part of my journey. Lisa and I were competitors so it really solidified the opportunities that come from women supporting women. The next best experience was definitely appearing on Shark Tank!
