To celebrate one of our favourite brands and the transition to a cooler season, we're revisiting our Founder's Feature with Vintner's Daughter founder April Gargiulo. We loved knowing all about how she makes big business decisions, ways she finds pleasure during the day and her opinion on the best and worst part about the beauty industry. Plus, we'll never get over how amazing her two products are. Ever.
Originally posted September 15, 2019
Aside from the launch of your latest product (Active Botanical Essence), tell us something you are really proud of?
I’m proud of the way we source and the way we formulate. There are a lot of ways to do things faster, cheaper and far less ethically. We regard our position within our customers’ lives with great respect and always work hard to do what is best for our skin, planet and community.
What's something that makes you unique?
I like to weave baskets. Its a form of meditation for me. I also love traditional craft, so everything from baskets to quilts is my jam.
You talk about creating your desert island, holy grail product (Active Botanical Serum). What else would come with you, not skin care related, if you were stranded on an island?
Other than safety essentials, a tent and food etc, I would want my family, books, paper and pencils and music.
As you know, life as an entrepreneur isn't always easy. What keeps you going/inspired during difficult times?
I reach out to other entrepreneurs for advice a lot, especially other mom entrepreneurs. Knowing that other people have gone through it and hearing how they thrived is always inspiring.
Do you make big business decisions with your head or your gut?
I try to be in a place where they both agree, but for sure if my gut is telling me no, them its a no. I have learned that lesson way too many times.
In your opinion, what's the best part of the beauty industry? Worst part?
The best part is the incredible community of women that it brings together. The worst part is the fear and insecurity that a lot of companies create to sell products. We must celebrate true beauty and that is on the inside.
What small things bring you great pleasure during your day.
Snuggling with my kids, my first cup of tea, seeing my husband, a sunny day, a moody day. There are so many things to be grateful for.
When are you most creative - morning or night?
Night.
As a winemaker, tell us what you love sipping on right now?
Always at this time of year Gargiulo Vineyards Rose and gin and tonic. :)
What's the best advice you've received that you'd like to pass along to the next generation of female entrepreneurs?
The now-famous quote, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” Focus on your company culture from day one and never stop.
Vintner's Daughter Active Treatment Essence
Active Treatment Essence is the ultimate, multi-corrective hydration step. This complex formula delivers optimal nutrition, micro-exfoliation, brightening, firming, and multi-level hydration to noticeably improve the overall appearance of skin. At the heart of Active Treatment Essence is Vintner’s Daughter’s signature Phyto Nutrient Infusion, made from 13 of the world’s most nutrient-rich botanicals, coupled with a unique fermentation component to amplify performance. Elevating the formula even further are advancements in natural science including vitamin C, micro and mini hyaluronic, probiotics, plant stem cells, marine microalgae, and micro-exfoliating acids and enzymes. Together, these elements deliver powerful hydration, optimal nutrition, and daily repair and protection for your skin.
Maximum Skin Care for Minimalists
Active Treatment Essence is the yin to the bestselling Active Botanical Serum’s yang. Together they deliver the ultimate in multi-correctional nutrition, deep hydration and nourishing moisture to create the most healthy and balanced foundation for radiant, youthful skin.
