Beauty Connect Agenda 2025 | Kisaco Research

Beauty Connect Agenda 2025

Agenda Days: 
  • Get Ready with Us Pre-Day: Monday, 3 Nov, 2025
    Registration
    10:00am - 10:40am
    Workshop 1

    Raising 101: How, What & When to Raise

    You know money talks, but do you know what it’s saying about your brand?

    Learn key financial & growth indicators that signal it’s time to raise, strategies to identify & connect with the correct consumer investors, formulas for pitch crafting, and deal structuring tactics that align with your goals.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Ilya Seglin

    Managing Director, Investment Banking: Consumer, Retail & E-Commerce
    Cascadia Capital
    ... read more

    Ilya Seglin

    Managing Director, Investment Banking: Consumer, Retail & E-Commerce
    Cascadia Capital
    Time: 
    10:40am - 12:40pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Nourish & Flourish: Founders' Power Lunch
    12:40pm - 1:30pm
    Workshop 2

    The Regulatory Horizon: Spotting Opportunities for Competitive Gain

    Don’t just react – anticipate and capitalize. Gain strategic foresight into the shifting regulatory environment and learn how to proactively position your brand to leverage upcoming legislation, giving you a decisive competitive advantage.

    Time: 
    1:30pm - 3:00pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Afternoon Break
    3:00pm - 3:10pm
    Workshop 3

    Retail-Ready Growth: Expanding Product Lines for Margin & Market

    Strategically grow your product portfolio while protecting your profitability and brand integrity. Align with retailer expectations and market opportunities through private label strategies, accelerating growth and managing risk, for sustainable success.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Samantha Burd

    Owner
    Lady Burd Cosmetics

    Samantha is the 3rd generation owner of Lady Burd Cosmetics, a Long Island-based contract manufacturing company, specializing in private label and custom formulation for beauty brands. She’s passionate about product development, brand building, and helping beauty entrepreneurs bring their visions to life. Under her leadership, the company is scaling with a focus on innovation, customer experience, legacy, and family-driven values.

    ... read more

    Samantha Burd

    Owner
    Lady Burd Cosmetics

    Samantha is the 3rd generation owner of Lady Burd Cosmetics, a Long Island-based contract manufacturing company, specializing in private label and custom formulation for beauty brands. She’s passionate about product development, brand building, and helping beauty entrepreneurs bring their visions to life. Under her leadership, the company is scaling with a focus on innovation, customer experience, legacy, and family-driven values.

    Time: 
    3:10pm - 4:40pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Sip & Scale: Welcome Cocktail Party
    4:50pm
    Emerging Brand Spotlight Finalists Dinner (Invite Only)
    7:00pm
  • Day 1 - Welcome to Beauty 2030: Tuesday, 4 Nov, 2025
    Registration Opens
    8:00am
    Morning Sessions

    Opening Remarks

    Time: 
    8:50am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Beauty 2030

    The beauty industry moves fast. Since 2020, rapid shifts in consumer habits have redefined brand success. Join us for Beauty 2030, where we'll deliver a "brief history of the future", guiding you through the transformative changes of the past five years – new marketplaces, technologies, and consumer trends – to equip you with the knowledge you need to thrive in what's next.

    Time: 
    9:00am
    Session Type: 
    Keynote

    The Blueprint for Future-Ready Retail

    Prepare your brand for the future of beauty retail – from brick to click and beyond. Scale smarter by optimizing e-commerce, blending digital and physical touchpoints, and leveraging the power of experiential retail for a future-ready strategy that will amplify your growth. 

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Debbi Hartley-Triesch

    EVP, GMM, Beauty, Accessories & Home
    Nordstrom

    Debbi Hartley-Triesch assumed the role of executive vice president and general merchandise manager of the accessories and beauty divisions in August 2021. In 2022, she added the home division to her remit. She and her team are responsible for all buying operations for accessories, jewelry, watches, handbags, home and beauty – including fragrance, skin care, color and all Spa Nordstrom locations. Debbi supports the beauty division across both Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack.

    Debbi began her Nordstrom career as a beauty advisor over 30 years ago. Since then, she has held a number of leadership roles in the Beauty division including regional buyer and national beauty director where she created the Beauty Trend Show and was featured as a beauty expert on The Today Show and Entertainment Tonight as well as a variety of fashion publications such as W, Allure, In Style and Vogue. In 2009, Debbi became the vice president and divisional merchandise manager for makeup and skincare to help drive product strategies supporting the buying team and partnering with beauty brands. In 2018 Debbi was appointed to the role of senior vice president, regional manager for the Northwest where she supported 15 Nordstrom stores and 35 Nordstrom Rack stores, helped serve customers, developed teams and delivered on operational execution. 

     

    ... read more

    Debbi Hartley-Triesch

    EVP, GMM, Beauty, Accessories & Home
    Nordstrom

    Debbi Hartley-Triesch assumed the role of executive vice president and general merchandise manager of the accessories and beauty divisions in August 2021. In 2022, she added the home division to her remit. She and her team are responsible for all buying operations for accessories, jewelry, watches, handbags, home and beauty – including fragrance, skin care, color and all Spa Nordstrom locations. Debbi supports the beauty division across both Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack.

    Debbi began her Nordstrom career as a beauty advisor over 30 years ago. Since then, she has held a number of leadership roles in the Beauty division including regional buyer and national beauty director where she created the Beauty Trend Show and was featured as a beauty expert on The Today Show and Entertainment Tonight as well as a variety of fashion publications such as W, Allure, In Style and Vogue. In 2009, Debbi became the vice president and divisional merchandise manager for makeup and skincare to help drive product strategies supporting the buying team and partnering with beauty brands. In 2018 Debbi was appointed to the role of senior vice president, regional manager for the Northwest where she supported 15 Nordstrom stores and 35 Nordstrom Rack stores, helped serve customers, developed teams and delivered on operational execution. 

     

    Author:

    Marissa Galante Frank

    Fashion Director, Accessories and Beauty
    Bloomingdales

    Marissa Galante Frank is the Fashion Director for Accessories & Beauty at Bloomingdale's, overseeing handbags, shoes, fine jewelry, watches, fashion accessories and beauty.  In her role, Marissa drives the Bloomingdale’s vision for the trends shoppers can expect each season in-store and online. She collaborates across departments to develop exclusive merchandise for Bloomingdale’s private brands, and translate trends into a one-of-kind accessories and beauty assortment, spanning emerging and established brands.

    ... read more

    Marissa Galante Frank

    Fashion Director, Accessories and Beauty
    Bloomingdales

    Marissa Galante Frank is the Fashion Director for Accessories & Beauty at Bloomingdale's, overseeing handbags, shoes, fine jewelry, watches, fashion accessories and beauty.  In her role, Marissa drives the Bloomingdale’s vision for the trends shoppers can expect each season in-store and online. She collaborates across departments to develop exclusive merchandise for Bloomingdale’s private brands, and translate trends into a one-of-kind accessories and beauty assortment, spanning emerging and established brands.

    Author:

    Paula Floyd

    Founder & CEO
    Headkount Inc
    ... read more

    Paula Floyd

    Founder & CEO
    Headkount Inc
    Time: 
    9:20am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Secrets to Brand Resilience in the Supply Storm

    Rising shipping costs and unpredictable sourcing are squeezing e-commerce beauty margins. Learn the secrets to brand resilience by building a diverse online supply chain, optimizing your logistics, and leveraging data to mitigate risks and protect your profitability.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Nadine Tapia

    President
    Latinas in Beauty
    ... read more

    Nadine Tapia

    President
    Latinas in Beauty

    Author:

    Irene Scharmack

    CEO
    Quick Box Fulfilment
    ... read more

    Irene Scharmack

    CEO
    Quick Box Fulfilment

    Author:

    Aaron Hoag

    COO
    Goop

    Aaron Hoag is a globally minded operations and supply chain executive with a proven track record of achieving business growth through critical operational strategies. As COO at Goop since 2024, he brings extensive executive and direct operational management experience, balancing strategic planning with tactical execution.

    Aaron's expertise lies in solving complex problems and managing relationships across international, multicultural environments. Having lived overseas and traveled to over 25 countries, he is also multi-lingual in Cantonese, Mandarin, and some Thai. Prior to Goop, he held key roles at Kendo Brands, Hatch Beauty, and Perricone MD.

    ... read more

    Aaron Hoag

    COO
    Goop

    Aaron Hoag is a globally minded operations and supply chain executive with a proven track record of achieving business growth through critical operational strategies. As COO at Goop since 2024, he brings extensive executive and direct operational management experience, balancing strategic planning with tactical execution.

    Aaron's expertise lies in solving complex problems and managing relationships across international, multicultural environments. Having lived overseas and traveled to over 25 countries, he is also multi-lingual in Cantonese, Mandarin, and some Thai. Prior to Goop, he held key roles at Kendo Brands, Hatch Beauty, and Perricone MD.

    Time: 
    9:50am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Morning Break & 1-2-1 Meetings
    10:20am
    Morning Sessions

    Creator Chemistry: Collaborations that Pop & Perform

    Level up your ROI with engaging, authentic, long-term creator partnerships. Uncover the framework for budget allocation, best practice, and measurable impact to leverage viral moments and amplify brand advocacy.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Julian Reis

    Founder & CEO
    SuperOrdinary
    ... read more

    Julian Reis

    Founder & CEO
    SuperOrdinary

    Author:

    Juliette Tang

    President
    ONE/SIZE Beauty

    Juliette Tang is the President of ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starrr, a brand dedicated to giving a voice to the unseen and unheard and the fastest-growing makeup brand at Sephora North America. Since joining in January 2023, she has focused on enhancing digital innovation, strengthening operations, and driving thoughtful growth.

    With a background in digital-first beauty, Juliette has spent her career helping brands scale, build strong eCommerce foundations, and connect with consumers in meaningful ways. Before ONE/SIZE, she was Vice President of Global eCommerce at Huda Beauty, leading international eCommerce for Huda Beauty and Kayali Fragrances. She has also held leadership roles at NYX Professional Makeup (L’Oréal) and Zevia, where she contributed to the brand’s digital expansion and IPO. Earlier in her career, she worked in social media strategy at Zoosk and started her journey in technology at Google.

    ... read more

    Juliette Tang

    President
    ONE/SIZE Beauty

    Juliette Tang is the President of ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starrr, a brand dedicated to giving a voice to the unseen and unheard and the fastest-growing makeup brand at Sephora North America. Since joining in January 2023, she has focused on enhancing digital innovation, strengthening operations, and driving thoughtful growth.

    With a background in digital-first beauty, Juliette has spent her career helping brands scale, build strong eCommerce foundations, and connect with consumers in meaningful ways. Before ONE/SIZE, she was Vice President of Global eCommerce at Huda Beauty, leading international eCommerce for Huda Beauty and Kayali Fragrances. She has also held leadership roles at NYX Professional Makeup (L’Oréal) and Zevia, where she contributed to the brand’s digital expansion and IPO. Earlier in her career, she worked in social media strategy at Zoosk and started her journey in technology at Google.

    Author:

    Patrick O'Keefe

    Chief Integrated Marketing Officer
    e.l.f beauty

    A true digital and experiential disrupter, Patrick has spent the past 15+ years in the beauty industry focused on bringing brands to life with an integrated approach through Digital, Paid Media, Data Driven Marketing, Social, Influencer and Retail Partnerships. He joined the e.l.f. Beauty team in September 2019, where he brought his deep expertise to create the Integrated Marketing Communication team. Patrick is tasked with driving seamless integration and bullet proof brand consistency across all paid media, social media, influencer marketing and public relations for all brands in the e.l.f. Beauty portfolio. He is an integral part of the go-to-market strategy and helps lead the marketing efforts to explore new frontiers. Prior to e.l.f., Patrick was the Vice President of Integrated Consumer Communications at L’Oréal working on the Matrix and Biolage brands and driving results in the haircare and color categories. He also previously worked at Shiseido and supported hairdressers, makeup artists, nail techs and estheticians with the largest association management firm in the United States building their experiential marketing programs. Before the beauty industry, he worked at Walt Disney World and served in the United States Air Force. 

    ... read more

    Patrick O'Keefe

    Chief Integrated Marketing Officer
    e.l.f beauty

    A true digital and experiential disrupter, Patrick has spent the past 15+ years in the beauty industry focused on bringing brands to life with an integrated approach through Digital, Paid Media, Data Driven Marketing, Social, Influencer and Retail Partnerships. He joined the e.l.f. Beauty team in September 2019, where he brought his deep expertise to create the Integrated Marketing Communication team. Patrick is tasked with driving seamless integration and bullet proof brand consistency across all paid media, social media, influencer marketing and public relations for all brands in the e.l.f. Beauty portfolio. He is an integral part of the go-to-market strategy and helps lead the marketing efforts to explore new frontiers. Prior to e.l.f., Patrick was the Vice President of Integrated Consumer Communications at L’Oréal working on the Matrix and Biolage brands and driving results in the haircare and color categories. He also previously worked at Shiseido and supported hairdressers, makeup artists, nail techs and estheticians with the largest association management firm in the United States building their experiential marketing programs. Before the beauty industry, he worked at Walt Disney World and served in the United States Air Force. 

    Time: 
    11:10am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Clicks to Conversions: Building a Thriving Community Online

    Unlock the secrets to eCommerce success! Discover how to attract customers, boost conversions, and build lasting brand loyalty.

    From AI-driven personalization to social commerce and omnichannel growth, discover the strategies top beauty brands use to scale and thrive online.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Michelle Miller

    CMO
    VEGAMOUR

    Michelle Miller is an award-winning CMO passionate about building culturally iconic brands, driving rapid growth, and fostering global communities. With deep expertise in digital, social, and the creator economy, she thrives at the intersection of beauty, innovation, and culture.

    Michelle has had the privilege of shaping transformative moments in beauty—Too Faced during its Estée Lauder acquisition, Kosas redefining clean beauty, and most recently, K18, where they pioneered biotech haircare. K18 became the #1 haircare brand on social media, earned 25 billion TikTok views and 50+ awards, and was acquired by Unilever Prestige.

    Now, as the CMO of Vegamour, Michelle is leading the charge to build the #1 plant-powered hair growth & longevity brand, redefining hair wellness with innovation, authenticity, and community at its core.

    ... read more

    Michelle Miller

    CMO
    VEGAMOUR

    Michelle Miller is an award-winning CMO passionate about building culturally iconic brands, driving rapid growth, and fostering global communities. With deep expertise in digital, social, and the creator economy, she thrives at the intersection of beauty, innovation, and culture.

    Michelle has had the privilege of shaping transformative moments in beauty—Too Faced during its Estée Lauder acquisition, Kosas redefining clean beauty, and most recently, K18, where they pioneered biotech haircare. K18 became the #1 haircare brand on social media, earned 25 billion TikTok views and 50+ awards, and was acquired by Unilever Prestige.

    Now, as the CMO of Vegamour, Michelle is leading the charge to build the #1 plant-powered hair growth & longevity brand, redefining hair wellness with innovation, authenticity, and community at its core.

    Author:

    Jeremy Lowenstein

    CMO
    Milani Cosmetics

    Jeremy Lowenstein, Chief Marketing Officer at Milani Cosmetics, is a seasoned consumer product marketing executive with proficiencies in brand building, digital and traditional communication strategy along with content development, upstream innovation, globalization, turnarounds, and integration. He is a trusted organizational leader with the ability to build and sustain high performing teams along with a strong global network of cross-functional partners to influence change and decision making with executive leadership teams. With a tenure spanning over two decades at companies such as Estee Lauder Inc., Coty Inc., Kopari Beauty, MeUndies and Milani Cosmetics - Jeremy Lowenstein has earned ever greater levels of responsibility—starting with his first role, in men's grooming and hair care at Aveda, followed by the fragrance division at Coty, up to his role at Sally Hansen, where he served as Vice President, Global Marketing and Product Development. Since then, he's held three Chief Marketing Officer roles at both founder-led and private equity owned brands including his current at LA-based Milani Cosmetics. Jeremy has extensive experience in brand marketing, innovation, optimization, globalization and brand turnaround and transformation.

    ... read more

    Jeremy Lowenstein

    CMO
    Milani Cosmetics

    Jeremy Lowenstein, Chief Marketing Officer at Milani Cosmetics, is a seasoned consumer product marketing executive with proficiencies in brand building, digital and traditional communication strategy along with content development, upstream innovation, globalization, turnarounds, and integration. He is a trusted organizational leader with the ability to build and sustain high performing teams along with a strong global network of cross-functional partners to influence change and decision making with executive leadership teams. With a tenure spanning over two decades at companies such as Estee Lauder Inc., Coty Inc., Kopari Beauty, MeUndies and Milani Cosmetics - Jeremy Lowenstein has earned ever greater levels of responsibility—starting with his first role, in men's grooming and hair care at Aveda, followed by the fragrance division at Coty, up to his role at Sally Hansen, where he served as Vice President, Global Marketing and Product Development. Since then, he's held three Chief Marketing Officer roles at both founder-led and private equity owned brands including his current at LA-based Milani Cosmetics. Jeremy has extensive experience in brand marketing, innovation, optimization, globalization and brand turnaround and transformation.

    Author:

    Sean Henry

    Co-founder and CEO
    Stord

    Sean is the co-founder and CEO of Stord. Having experienced the antiquated and disconnected systems of fulfillment and consumer experience first-hand, when both running e-commerce businesses and working at an automotive manufacturer in Germany, Sean founded Stord in 2015 with Jacob Boudreau. Stord levels the playing field for brands of all sizes empowering them with the commerce enablement tools needed to provide a world-class consumer experience at scale. Sean attended Georgia Tech prior to founding Stord, and has since been recognized as a Thiel Fellow, in the 2019 Forbes’ 30 under 30 list, and in 2021 by Forbes as the youngest CEO of a $1B+ company.

     

    ... read more

    Sean Henry

    Co-founder and CEO
    Stord

    Sean is the co-founder and CEO of Stord. Having experienced the antiquated and disconnected systems of fulfillment and consumer experience first-hand, when both running e-commerce businesses and working at an automotive manufacturer in Germany, Sean founded Stord in 2015 with Jacob Boudreau. Stord levels the playing field for brands of all sizes empowering them with the commerce enablement tools needed to provide a world-class consumer experience at scale. Sean attended Georgia Tech prior to founding Stord, and has since been recognized as a Thiel Fellow, in the 2019 Forbes’ 30 under 30 list, and in 2021 by Forbes as the youngest CEO of a $1B+ company.

     

    Author:

    Ashu Dubey

    Founder & CEO
    Alhena AI

    Ashu Dubey is the Founder & CEO of Alhena AI, a leader in AI-powered CX solutions for modern retail brands. With a background in both technology and growth strategy, he has been at the forefront of shaping how e-commerce businesses leverage AI to drive revenue, elevate customer satisfaction, and unlock operational efficiency.
    A top voice on the intersection of AI and customer experience, Ashu brings a pragmatic yet visionary lens to the fast-evolving CX automation landscape. Ashu is a vocal advocate of solutions that are not just intelligent, but also brand-aligned, measurable, and human-like.

    ... read more

    Ashu Dubey

    Founder & CEO
    Alhena AI

    Ashu Dubey is the Founder & CEO of Alhena AI, a leader in AI-powered CX solutions for modern retail brands. With a background in both technology and growth strategy, he has been at the forefront of shaping how e-commerce businesses leverage AI to drive revenue, elevate customer satisfaction, and unlock operational efficiency.
    A top voice on the intersection of AI and customer experience, Ashu brings a pragmatic yet visionary lens to the fast-evolving CX automation landscape. Ashu is a vocal advocate of solutions that are not just intelligent, but also brand-aligned, measurable, and human-like.

    Time: 
    11:40am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Neurobeauty: Turning Emotion-Responsive Skincare into Market Differentiation

    Leverage the science of the skin-brain connection and unlock formulas with topically applied, clinically tested, ingredients that influence emotional perception. Backed by emerging research and measurable testing methods, this innovation enables substantiated emotional claims - unlocking new potential in product positioning, consumer connection, and brand storytelling.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Noellie Astruc

    Key Account Manager
    Croda

    Noellie Astruc holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry from CPE Lyon and a Business Master’s from INSA Toulouse, both in France. She began her career at L’Oréal’s Advanced Research and Innovation department, where she developed natural technologies for hair strengthening.

    Guided by a strong passion for science, sustainability, and beauty innovation, Noellie has built a dynamic career in technical sales and business development. She started as a Technical Sales Engineer at Alban Muller, then went on to manage the full botanicals catalog as West Coast Business Development Manager at Croda. In her current role as Key Account Manager at Croda, she collaborates with leading global beauty brands and contract manufacturers to deliver innovative, high-performance, and sustainable ingredient solutions.

    Throughout her career, Noellie has actively shared her expertise by speaking at various industry events. She is particularly passionate about neurocosmetics and next-generation beauty technologies, championing advancements at the intersection of science and skincare.

    ... read more

    Noellie Astruc

    Key Account Manager
    Croda

    Noellie Astruc holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry from CPE Lyon and a Business Master’s from INSA Toulouse, both in France. She began her career at L’Oréal’s Advanced Research and Innovation department, where she developed natural technologies for hair strengthening.

    Guided by a strong passion for science, sustainability, and beauty innovation, Noellie has built a dynamic career in technical sales and business development. She started as a Technical Sales Engineer at Alban Muller, then went on to manage the full botanicals catalog as West Coast Business Development Manager at Croda. In her current role as Key Account Manager at Croda, she collaborates with leading global beauty brands and contract manufacturers to deliver innovative, high-performance, and sustainable ingredient solutions.

    Throughout her career, Noellie has actively shared her expertise by speaking at various industry events. She is particularly passionate about neurocosmetics and next-generation beauty technologies, championing advancements at the intersection of science and skincare.

    Time: 
    12:10pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Lunch
    12:30pm
    Lunch & Learn
    Afternoon Sessions

    Infused with Value: Formulating for Retail Success

    Ensure your beauty formulations are shelf-ready, going beyond efficacy to encompass crucial certifications and testing. Discover how to confidently position your products and craft compelling, marketable claims that augment your brand value with retailers and consumers alike.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Andrew Koenig

    Senior Technical Advisor, R&D & Regulatory
    Goodkind Co.
    ... read more

    Andrew Koenig

    Senior Technical Advisor, R&D & Regulatory
    Goodkind Co.

    Author:

    Romain Gaillard

    Founder & CEO
    The Detox Market

    Romain is the founder and CEO of The Detox Market. In 2010, he opened The Detox Market on Abbot Kinney in Venice, CA, as a collaborative, short-term pop-up shop aimed at providing education regarding the benefits of green beauty while also exposing consumers to hard-to-find eco-friendly brands. After the positive response and several more pop-ups, he opened the West Hollywood flagship in 2011. As one of the first purveyors of natural beauty products, Romain’s focus has always been discovering and incubating new brands and showcasing the brand founders’ stories, which reflect his own passion for offering non-toxic beauty choices. Now North America’s leader in green beauty, The Detox Market has since expanded to seven locations throughout Los Angeles, Toronto, and New York City, as well as several Beauty Corners in partnership with Café Gratitude, the plant-based restaurants in CA. The demand for the best in green beauty has also made the ecommerce shop www.thedetoxmarket.com a thriving platform, shipping worldwide.

    ... read more

    Romain Gaillard

    Founder & CEO
    The Detox Market

    Romain is the founder and CEO of The Detox Market. In 2010, he opened The Detox Market on Abbot Kinney in Venice, CA, as a collaborative, short-term pop-up shop aimed at providing education regarding the benefits of green beauty while also exposing consumers to hard-to-find eco-friendly brands. After the positive response and several more pop-ups, he opened the West Hollywood flagship in 2011. As one of the first purveyors of natural beauty products, Romain’s focus has always been discovering and incubating new brands and showcasing the brand founders’ stories, which reflect his own passion for offering non-toxic beauty choices. Now North America’s leader in green beauty, The Detox Market has since expanded to seven locations throughout Los Angeles, Toronto, and New York City, as well as several Beauty Corners in partnership with Café Gratitude, the plant-based restaurants in CA. The demand for the best in green beauty has also made the ecommerce shop www.thedetoxmarket.com a thriving platform, shipping worldwide.

    Time: 
    2:00pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Scaling with Soul: Balancing Innovation & Brand Identity

    Discover how coveted brands are expertly balancing continuous innovation with their core values and authentic identity. By embracing forward-thinking ideas, brands are securing their differentiation in this hyper-competitive market.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Aurelian Lis

    CEO
    Dermalogica

    Aurelian Lis is the global CEO of Dermalogica, a subsidiary of Unilever Prestige. For over 30 years, Dermalogica has been committed to elevating the skin care industry through providing world-class education to professional skin therapists and salon owners, as well as cutting-edge, professional-grade products that deliver results. Dermalogica is a standalone company headquartered in Los Angeles and is sold worldwide. Since 2016 the company has embarked on a digital transformation that has redefined the brand to new consumers seeking healthy skin. Dermalogica’s FaceMapping® technology is just one of the many examples.

    ... read more

    Aurelian Lis

    CEO
    Dermalogica

    Aurelian Lis is the global CEO of Dermalogica, a subsidiary of Unilever Prestige. For over 30 years, Dermalogica has been committed to elevating the skin care industry through providing world-class education to professional skin therapists and salon owners, as well as cutting-edge, professional-grade products that deliver results. Dermalogica is a standalone company headquartered in Los Angeles and is sold worldwide. Since 2016 the company has embarked on a digital transformation that has redefined the brand to new consumers seeking healthy skin. Dermalogica’s FaceMapping® technology is just one of the many examples.

    Author:

    Danessa Myricks

    Founder & CEO
    Danessa Myricks

    As a makeup artist, photographer, and entrepreneur, Danessa Myricks is one of the most influential leaders in the beauty industry and is widely credited for leading groundbreaking product development for some of the most popular brands before launching her own brand, Danessa Myricks Beauty, in 2015. Referred to as the “Willy Wonka of Beauty”, Myricks takes a revolutionary approach to product development resulting in award-winning, innovative, multi-use products like the Blurring Balm Powder, Colorfix, and the viral Lightwork Freedom Palette System, earning over 80 accolades and recognition from Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies List, Allure Best of Beauty, and featured on TIME Magazine’s Closers List to name a few. As CEO, she continues to push boundaries, fostering a global community rooted in love, creativity, and inclusivity while connecting hearts and minds through beauty.

     

    ... read more

    Danessa Myricks

    Founder & CEO
    Danessa Myricks

    As a makeup artist, photographer, and entrepreneur, Danessa Myricks is one of the most influential leaders in the beauty industry and is widely credited for leading groundbreaking product development for some of the most popular brands before launching her own brand, Danessa Myricks Beauty, in 2015. Referred to as the “Willy Wonka of Beauty”, Myricks takes a revolutionary approach to product development resulting in award-winning, innovative, multi-use products like the Blurring Balm Powder, Colorfix, and the viral Lightwork Freedom Palette System, earning over 80 accolades and recognition from Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies List, Allure Best of Beauty, and featured on TIME Magazine’s Closers List to name a few. As CEO, she continues to push boundaries, fostering a global community rooted in love, creativity, and inclusivity while connecting hearts and minds through beauty.

     

    Time: 
    2:30pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Afternoon Break & 1-2-1 Meetings
    3:00pm
    4:00pm Roundtables

    Secret Weapon: Turning Social Listening into Strategy

    Use real-time consumer insights from social media to shape product development, marketing, and trend forecasting. Learn how brands use social listening to stay ahead and connect more deeply with their audience.

    Time: 
    4:00pm
    Agenda Track No.: 
    Track 3
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Preparing to Exit

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Ilya Seglin

    Managing Director, Investment Banking: Consumer, Retail & E-Commerce
    Cascadia Capital
    ... read more

    Ilya Seglin

    Managing Director, Investment Banking: Consumer, Retail & E-Commerce
    Cascadia Capital
    Time: 
    4:00pm
    Agenda Track No.: 
    Track 4
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    End of Day 1 Drinks
    4:40pm
    Beauty Connect Awards

    Illuminating the Industry's Brightest Stars

    Our awards elevate visionary brands, disruptors, and sustainability heroes, hosting a celebration that empowers the entire beauty community.

    Enter here.

    Nominate a brand here.

    Awards Committee:

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Akshay Talati

    Chief Innovation Officer
    Supergoop!
    ... read more

    Akshay Talati

    Chief Innovation Officer
    Supergoop!

    Author:

    Carla Ruiz

    Senior Vice President, Global M&A
    Shiseido Group

    Carla Ruiz, SVP of Global M&A at Shiseido, brilliantly merges financial expertise with her passion for beauty. With an MBA from Columbia and a background in investment banking and global business development at Johnson & Johnson, she brings deep industry insight.

    At Shiseido, Carla has spearheaded pivotal deals like the Drunk Elephant acquisition and the Tory Burch beauty license partnership. She leads her M&A team with a collaborative, founder-centric approach, seeing the industry's rapid change as an opportunity for respectful, accelerated growth. Beyond deals, Carla champions mentorship at Shiseido and supports first-generation college students through America Needs You.

    ... read more

    Carla Ruiz

    Senior Vice President, Global M&A
    Shiseido Group

    Carla Ruiz, SVP of Global M&A at Shiseido, brilliantly merges financial expertise with her passion for beauty. With an MBA from Columbia and a background in investment banking and global business development at Johnson & Johnson, she brings deep industry insight.

    At Shiseido, Carla has spearheaded pivotal deals like the Drunk Elephant acquisition and the Tory Burch beauty license partnership. She leads her M&A team with a collaborative, founder-centric approach, seeing the industry's rapid change as an opportunity for respectful, accelerated growth. Beyond deals, Carla champions mentorship at Shiseido and supports first-generation college students through America Needs You.

    Author:

    Malena Higuera

    CEO
    NOYZ

    Malena Higuera is a recognized leader in product innovation, culture and community-first marketing, and digitally-forward strategic vision, blending creative brand development, operational excellence with a passion for fostering diverse and inclusive cultures. With 25 years of experience on multiple brands at L’Oréal across all channels, key markets and categories, Higuera has built a reputation for fostering strong connections with consumers, retailers, and stakeholders, while always keeping a pulse on fast-paced business needs.

    ... read more

    Malena Higuera

    CEO
    NOYZ

    Malena Higuera is a recognized leader in product innovation, culture and community-first marketing, and digitally-forward strategic vision, blending creative brand development, operational excellence with a passion for fostering diverse and inclusive cultures. With 25 years of experience on multiple brands at L’Oréal across all channels, key markets and categories, Higuera has built a reputation for fostering strong connections with consumers, retailers, and stakeholders, while always keeping a pulse on fast-paced business needs.

    Time: 
    5:00pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    VIP Dinners (Invite Only)

    VIP Speakers Dinner

    A celebration of all Beauty Connect LA speakers – Recognizing your unique contribution to our legacy.

    Sponsor(s): 
    QuickBox
    Time: 
    7:00pm
    Agenda Track No.: 
    Track 5
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Leaders in Marketing Excellence

    A tribute to stand-out marketers – Spotlighting the trailblazers redefining how we connect with our communities.

     

    Time: 
    7:00pm
    Agenda Track No.: 
    Track 6
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Leaders in Operational Excellence

    Honoring leaders in operational excellence – Elevating your achievements and hard work.

    Time: 
    7:00pm
    Agenda Track No.: 
    Track 7
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
  • Day 2 - The Brands of Tomorrow: Wednesday, 5 Nov, 2025
    Morning Sessions

    Let’s Talk Funding: The Investor & Brand Breakfast

    Founders at all stages, this is your opportunity to engage directly with investors during a relaxed breakfast focused on funding. Come prepared with your questions and leave with actionable insights tailored to your brand's growth journey

    Investors attending:

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Tina Bou-Saba

    Co-Founder & Co-Managing Partner
    Verity Venture Partners

    Tina Henry Bou-Saba has actively invested in the consumer space since 2016 through CXT Investments, her personal investment vehicle. She enthusiastically champions purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are building the next generation of great consumer companies, including emerging brands and the technologies that enable them. An expert in beauty and wellness, Tina was an early investor in several of the most exciting brands in the category, including Dae, Kosas, Olive & June, and Saie. In 2021, she co-founded Verity Venture Partners, an early-stage consumer-focused investment firm. As a Managing Partner of VVP, Tina serves on the Board of Directors of Arrae, August, and Dae.

    Tina is a trusted partner to entrepreneurs and company leaders. Her creative, collaborative, and supportive approach – in combination with sharp instincts for commercial opportunities and genuine passion for consumer products and trends – has made her one of the most respected investors in emerging brands.

    ... read more

    Tina Bou-Saba

    Co-Founder & Co-Managing Partner
    Verity Venture Partners

    Tina Henry Bou-Saba has actively invested in the consumer space since 2016 through CXT Investments, her personal investment vehicle. She enthusiastically champions purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are building the next generation of great consumer companies, including emerging brands and the technologies that enable them. An expert in beauty and wellness, Tina was an early investor in several of the most exciting brands in the category, including Dae, Kosas, Olive & June, and Saie. In 2021, she co-founded Verity Venture Partners, an early-stage consumer-focused investment firm. As a Managing Partner of VVP, Tina serves on the Board of Directors of Arrae, August, and Dae.

    Tina is a trusted partner to entrepreneurs and company leaders. Her creative, collaborative, and supportive approach – in combination with sharp instincts for commercial opportunities and genuine passion for consumer products and trends – has made her one of the most respected investors in emerging brands.

    Author:

    Nick Giannuzzi

    Managing Partner & Co-Founder
    Humble Growth
    ... read more

    Nick Giannuzzi

    Managing Partner & Co-Founder
    Humble Growth

    Author:

    George Song

    Principal
    Strand Equity
    ... read more

    George Song

    Principal
    Strand Equity

    Author:

    Julianne Kur

    Principal
    Alliance Consumer Growth
    ... read more

    Julianne Kur

    Principal
    Alliance Consumer Growth
    Time: 
    8:00am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Opening Remarks

    Time: 
    8:50am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Scale & Sell: Your Blueprint for Growth, Traction & Acquisition

    Strategically scale your beauty brand and pave the way for acquisition. Exiting experts cover the common mistakes to avoid and the crucial steps to attract the right buyers: hitting EBITDA goals, smart financial planning, and leveraging key partnerships for a seamless and successful sale.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Michael Pihowich

    Partner
    Baker Tilly

    Michael advises private equity and corporate clients on buy- and sell-side transactions. His experience covers a broad range of industries with a current focus on manufacturing and distribution and consumer products (beauty, personal care, food and beverage, and apparel) sold through channels including e-commerce, multiunit retail, wholesale, and specialty. He also advises on transactions for restaurants, franchises, and hospitality.

    Prior to his work in TAS, for over 10 years, Michael held positions in business finance, global product management and corporate development at large multinational companies. He began his career at a Big Four firm in Toronto, Canada in the assurance and consulting practices.

     

    ... read more

    Michael Pihowich

    Partner
    Baker Tilly

    Michael advises private equity and corporate clients on buy- and sell-side transactions. His experience covers a broad range of industries with a current focus on manufacturing and distribution and consumer products (beauty, personal care, food and beverage, and apparel) sold through channels including e-commerce, multiunit retail, wholesale, and specialty. He also advises on transactions for restaurants, franchises, and hospitality.

    Prior to his work in TAS, for over 10 years, Michael held positions in business finance, global product management and corporate development at large multinational companies. He began his career at a Big Four firm in Toronto, Canada in the assurance and consulting practices.

     

    Author:

    Nicolas Geiger

    Group Business Development Executive Americas
    L’Occitane

    Nicolas GEIGER is CEO for L’Occitane au Bresil brand, Managing Director of the Brazilian Business Unit and Group Business Development Executive based in New York.

    Prior to that Nicolas was the President for L’OCCITANE GROUP in Japan for 5 years where he operated a turnaround plan for of the largest operation of the group. He first joined the company as a Marketing Director in Brasil, and was then 3 years later promoted General Manager of the subsidiary for 3 more years before leaving for Japan.


    Before joining the L’OCCITANE GROUP, Nicolas started his career in the Teach First program (a spin-off of the Teach for America program in the UK), teaching mathematics for two years in a challenging school in North East London.  After the program, he joined joined Angel des Montagnes, a small decoration company based in Geneva that he contributed to develop internationally before joining the INSEAD MBA program.In addition to his MBA from INSEAD and a certification in Business Sustainability Management from Cambridge  Institute for Sustainability Leadership, Nicolas also holds a degree in Engineering Economics and Management from Oxford University and a Qualified Teacher Status for mathematics in the UK.

     

    ... read more

    Nicolas Geiger

    Group Business Development Executive Americas
    L’Occitane

    Nicolas GEIGER is CEO for L’Occitane au Bresil brand, Managing Director of the Brazilian Business Unit and Group Business Development Executive based in New York.

    Prior to that Nicolas was the President for L’OCCITANE GROUP in Japan for 5 years where he operated a turnaround plan for of the largest operation of the group. He first joined the company as a Marketing Director in Brasil, and was then 3 years later promoted General Manager of the subsidiary for 3 more years before leaving for Japan.


    Before joining the L’OCCITANE GROUP, Nicolas started his career in the Teach First program (a spin-off of the Teach for America program in the UK), teaching mathematics for two years in a challenging school in North East London.  After the program, he joined joined Angel des Montagnes, a small decoration company based in Geneva that he contributed to develop internationally before joining the INSEAD MBA program.In addition to his MBA from INSEAD and a certification in Business Sustainability Management from Cambridge  Institute for Sustainability Leadership, Nicolas also holds a degree in Engineering Economics and Management from Oxford University and a Qualified Teacher Status for mathematics in the UK.

     

    Time: 
    9:00am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Unpacking Sustainability for Purpose-Driven Profit

    Seeking a financially sound path to sustainability that wins with today’s value-driven customers and retailers? Hear from the brands who’ve been there, as they discuss resourceful solutions in packaging, formulation, ingredients, and beyond, benefitting both the planet and their bottom line.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Priscilla Tsai

    CEO & Founder
    cocokind

    In 2015, Priscilla Tsai set out to create a brand that would transform the beauty industry by empowering and celebrating people for exactly who they are. After years of not seeing her real skin reflected in the beauty industry and overpaying for a lack of results, she decided to start cocokind - a community brand rooted in transparency and accessibility.

    With a commitment to high-quality formulas at transparent prices, cocokind develops every formula to deliver powerful results while being kind to sensitive skin. Their formulating philosophy is “a little bit often,” which means incorporating effective, clinical ingredients that can be used every day without compromising the skin barrier. Her products are accessible at every Target and Ulta in the country.

    Priscilla was born and raised in Michigan and is a proud Taiwanese-American.

    "I started cocokind to change the status quo of the beauty industry and break the cycle of “aspirational beauty. We are a company that doesn’t need to hide how we formulate, invests in highly effective but gentle formulas, and sets fair prices based on what’s inside the bottle. Most importantly, cocokind exists to ensure that all of us have a safe place in the beauty industry where we’re celebrated and accepted, exactly as we already are.” - Priscilla Tsai, cocokind Founder and CEO

    ... read more

    Priscilla Tsai

    CEO & Founder
    cocokind

    In 2015, Priscilla Tsai set out to create a brand that would transform the beauty industry by empowering and celebrating people for exactly who they are. After years of not seeing her real skin reflected in the beauty industry and overpaying for a lack of results, she decided to start cocokind - a community brand rooted in transparency and accessibility.

    With a commitment to high-quality formulas at transparent prices, cocokind develops every formula to deliver powerful results while being kind to sensitive skin. Their formulating philosophy is “a little bit often,” which means incorporating effective, clinical ingredients that can be used every day without compromising the skin barrier. Her products are accessible at every Target and Ulta in the country.

    Priscilla was born and raised in Michigan and is a proud Taiwanese-American.

    "I started cocokind to change the status quo of the beauty industry and break the cycle of “aspirational beauty. We are a company that doesn’t need to hide how we formulate, invests in highly effective but gentle formulas, and sets fair prices based on what’s inside the bottle. Most importantly, cocokind exists to ensure that all of us have a safe place in the beauty industry where we’re celebrated and accepted, exactly as we already are.” - Priscilla Tsai, cocokind Founder and CEO

    Author:

    Alicia Yoon

    Founder & CEO
    Peach & Lily

    Alicia Yoon is a world-renowned esthetician, Harvard Business School graduate, and the founder and CEO of Peach & Lily. She has studied skincare ingredients, formulas, and techniques in both Korea and the USA alongside trained chemists, researchers, and cell biologists for over 20 years. Having experienced severe eczema throughout her life, she struggled to find clinically effective skincare that wouldn’t irritate her extremely sensitive skin. In 2012, Alicia launched Peach & Lily with the now iconic Glass Skin Refining Serum, proving that you can deliver transformative results for even the most sensitive skin. Today, Peach & Lily offers groundbreaking formulas that integrate potent actives like retinoids and AHAs with soothing Korean botanicals. Alicia is credited with bringing the Glass Skin Movement to the USA and is sought after for her signature Glass Skin facials. She has been named one of WWD’s 25 Most Innovative Beauty Executives and sits on the Ulta Beauty Advisory Board for Conscious Beauty.

    ... read more

    Alicia Yoon

    Founder & CEO
    Peach & Lily

    Alicia Yoon is a world-renowned esthetician, Harvard Business School graduate, and the founder and CEO of Peach & Lily. She has studied skincare ingredients, formulas, and techniques in both Korea and the USA alongside trained chemists, researchers, and cell biologists for over 20 years. Having experienced severe eczema throughout her life, she struggled to find clinically effective skincare that wouldn’t irritate her extremely sensitive skin. In 2012, Alicia launched Peach & Lily with the now iconic Glass Skin Refining Serum, proving that you can deliver transformative results for even the most sensitive skin. Today, Peach & Lily offers groundbreaking formulas that integrate potent actives like retinoids and AHAs with soothing Korean botanicals. Alicia is credited with bringing the Glass Skin Movement to the USA and is sought after for her signature Glass Skin facials. She has been named one of WWD’s 25 Most Innovative Beauty Executives and sits on the Ulta Beauty Advisory Board for Conscious Beauty.

    Author:

    Randi Christiansen

    Co-Founder
    Nécessaire

    During Randi’s 15-year career at Estee Lauder Companies, she was instrumental in building and scaling brands across the portfolio (La Mer, Estee Lauder, ELC Ventures.) A native of Denmark, Randi holds a MSc in Economics and Business Administration from Copenhagen Business School. In 2023, she was recognized by Goldman Sachs as one of the most exceptional entrepreneurs of the year. She lives with her husband and three daughters in Rolling Hills, CA.
     
    At Necessaire, we design the personal care we need - The Necessary™ -  that supports our health and wellness.  We use our business to make a positive environmental impact everywhere we can.

    Nécessaire is recognized as a steward of responsible luxury with the planet as key stakeholder. Nécessaire is a Certified B Corp, 1% For The Planet Member, Climate Neutral Certified, Plastic Neutral Certified, FSC Certified and partners with How2Recycle to deliver verified recycling claims in the US/CAN.  By the end of this year Nécessaire will have planted 300,000 Trees+ and will have supported several non profits fighting to defend our air, land, water and wild-life world-wide. #careforyourbody #careforyourplanet #necesaire

     

    ... read more

    Randi Christiansen

    Co-Founder
    Nécessaire

    During Randi’s 15-year career at Estee Lauder Companies, she was instrumental in building and scaling brands across the portfolio (La Mer, Estee Lauder, ELC Ventures.) A native of Denmark, Randi holds a MSc in Economics and Business Administration from Copenhagen Business School. In 2023, she was recognized by Goldman Sachs as one of the most exceptional entrepreneurs of the year. She lives with her husband and three daughters in Rolling Hills, CA.
     
    At Necessaire, we design the personal care we need - The Necessary™ -  that supports our health and wellness.  We use our business to make a positive environmental impact everywhere we can.

    Nécessaire is recognized as a steward of responsible luxury with the planet as key stakeholder. Nécessaire is a Certified B Corp, 1% For The Planet Member, Climate Neutral Certified, Plastic Neutral Certified, FSC Certified and partners with How2Recycle to deliver verified recycling claims in the US/CAN.  By the end of this year Nécessaire will have planted 300,000 Trees+ and will have supported several non profits fighting to defend our air, land, water and wild-life world-wide. #careforyourbody #careforyourplanet #necesaire

     

    Time: 
    9:30am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Longevity & Beauty: The Personalization Equation for 2030

    Uncover the disruptive trends redefining the future of beauty and wellness, where personalization, accessibility, innovation and education take center stage. Explore emerging beauty verticals and new technologies, formats and in-store experiences driving tailored recommendations.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Anna Keller

    Principal Analyst, BPC
    Mintel

    Anna Keller is an analyst on Mintel’s US Beauty and Personal Care team, and she joined Mintel with a strong background in the skincare industry translating trends and technologies into new products. Prior to her time with Mintel, Anna gained extensive experience at a contract manufacturer working across departments to drive product development. While Anna has focused on the beauty and personal care space in her professional career, sustainability, eco-minded innovation, and environmental policy have long been passions of hers. She graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a unique degree in Ethics, History, and Public Policy with a concentration in Technology and Policy.

    ... read more

    Anna Keller

    Principal Analyst, BPC
    Mintel

    Anna Keller is an analyst on Mintel’s US Beauty and Personal Care team, and she joined Mintel with a strong background in the skincare industry translating trends and technologies into new products. Prior to her time with Mintel, Anna gained extensive experience at a contract manufacturer working across departments to drive product development. While Anna has focused on the beauty and personal care space in her professional career, sustainability, eco-minded innovation, and environmental policy have long been passions of hers. She graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a unique degree in Ethics, History, and Public Policy with a concentration in Technology and Policy.

    Author:

    Siffat Haider

    Co-Founder & CEO
    Arrae

    Founder, Podcaster, Creator 

    Siff was working in the beauty space as a blogger + podcaster and found herself struggling with her own health issues. She ultimately turned to natural remedies as a last resort and began troubleshooting with her own combination of herbs & vitamins and found herself feeling better than ever. She quickly realized that holistic remedies had the power to address women’s toughest day-to-day health issues and began building Arrae, with her husband, Nish, to share these solutions with others.

    ... read more

    Siffat Haider

    Co-Founder & CEO
    Arrae

    Founder, Podcaster, Creator 

    Siff was working in the beauty space as a blogger + podcaster and found herself struggling with her own health issues. She ultimately turned to natural remedies as a last resort and began troubleshooting with her own combination of herbs & vitamins and found herself feeling better than ever. She quickly realized that holistic remedies had the power to address women’s toughest day-to-day health issues and began building Arrae, with her husband, Nish, to share these solutions with others.

    Author:

    Michelle LeBlanc

    VP of Beauty, Personal Care and Hispanic Center of Excellence
    CVS Health

    Michelle L. LeBlanc is the Vice President of Merchandising for Beauty & Personal Care at CVS Health where she is responsible for the Cosmetics, Skin Care, Fragrance, Hair Care and Personal Care businesses, as well as Beauty Experience and Services.

    She is a purpose-led leader who is confident, creative, and dynamic with a proven record for delivering results (while having fun along the way). Michelle is naturally curious with a hunger for insights, bias for action, and relentless desire to have meaningful impact on the people and the business.

    Michelle has been with CVS Health for nearly 20 years and has held various leadership roles within the company. Most recently, Michelle led the Front Store Strategy & Transformation for CVS Health. As an instrumental member of the Front Store leadership team, Michelle was responsible for driving key initiatives and Front Store growth through deep understanding of performance drivers. Michelle’s greatest passion throughout her career has been serving as a leader of leaders – building and motivating highly engaged and high performing teams.

    Michelle has a BS in Marketing from George Mason University and an MBA from Providence College. 

    Outside of work, Michelle is busy raising three boys with her wife Jennifer. Her goal is that they lead with kindness and do their best everyday– words she lives by.

    ... read more

    Michelle LeBlanc

    VP of Beauty, Personal Care and Hispanic Center of Excellence
    CVS Health

    Michelle L. LeBlanc is the Vice President of Merchandising for Beauty & Personal Care at CVS Health where she is responsible for the Cosmetics, Skin Care, Fragrance, Hair Care and Personal Care businesses, as well as Beauty Experience and Services.

    She is a purpose-led leader who is confident, creative, and dynamic with a proven record for delivering results (while having fun along the way). Michelle is naturally curious with a hunger for insights, bias for action, and relentless desire to have meaningful impact on the people and the business.

    Michelle has been with CVS Health for nearly 20 years and has held various leadership roles within the company. Most recently, Michelle led the Front Store Strategy & Transformation for CVS Health. As an instrumental member of the Front Store leadership team, Michelle was responsible for driving key initiatives and Front Store growth through deep understanding of performance drivers. Michelle’s greatest passion throughout her career has been serving as a leader of leaders – building and motivating highly engaged and high performing teams.

    Michelle has a BS in Marketing from George Mason University and an MBA from Providence College. 

    Outside of work, Michelle is busy raising three boys with her wife Jennifer. Her goal is that they lead with kindness and do their best everyday– words she lives by.

    Author:

    Brent Ridge, M.D

    Co-Founder
    Beekman 1802

    Dr. Ridge began his career as a physician at Mt. Sinai in New York City and later launched the Health and Wellness division of Martha Stewart Omnimedia.

    In 2008, he co-founded Beekman 1802 with his husband, Josh Kilmer-Purcell and is an ambassador to the Global Wellness Institute. Today, the company is recognized as one of the most successful lifestyle brands in America. Their beauty, home, and gourmet products are sold through premium retail partners worldwide, including Williams Sonoma, Bloomingdale’s, and Anthropologie, and in 2019, they set the record for the largest beauty brand launch in the combined 37-year history of both HSN and QVC. 

    ... read more

    Brent Ridge, M.D

    Co-Founder
    Beekman 1802

    Dr. Ridge began his career as a physician at Mt. Sinai in New York City and later launched the Health and Wellness division of Martha Stewart Omnimedia.

    In 2008, he co-founded Beekman 1802 with his husband, Josh Kilmer-Purcell and is an ambassador to the Global Wellness Institute. Today, the company is recognized as one of the most successful lifestyle brands in America. Their beauty, home, and gourmet products are sold through premium retail partners worldwide, including Williams Sonoma, Bloomingdale’s, and Anthropologie, and in 2019, they set the record for the largest beauty brand launch in the combined 37-year history of both HSN and QVC. 

    Time: 
    10:00am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Morning Break & 1-2-1 Meetings
    10:30am
    Emerging Brand Spotlight

    Spotlight Presentations

    Show off your latest innovation at our Emerging Brand Spotlight and get noticed by top investors, retailers, and M&A execs. We’ll pick 6 finalists to take to the stage and present a 5 minute pitch to our full audience!

    Apply here.

    Selection Committee:

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Sean Frazier

    Managing Partner
    1731 Management
    ... read more

    Sean Frazier

    Managing Partner
    1731 Management

    Author:

    Deborah Benton

    Founder & Managing Partner
    Willow Growth Partners
    ... read more

    Deborah Benton

    Founder & Managing Partner
    Willow Growth Partners

    Author:

    Aarti Kapoor

    Partner
    VMG Partners

    Aarti Kapoor is a Partner at VMG Partners, a growth equity investment firm focused on partnering with high-growth consumer and retail companies, and brings 18 years of experience in high-growth consumer and retail across principal investing and M&A / capital markets advisory. Kapoor was formerly CEO of VMG-affiliated special purpose acquisition company, VMG Consumer Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ:VMGA), from June 2021 to May 2023. Prior to joining VMG Partners, Kapoor was an investment banker at Goldman Sachs where she was integral to the disruptive growth effort within consumer and retail investment banking, growing the firm’s coverage of leisure, lifestyle, and wellness brands. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, she was an investment banker at Moelis & Company where she built one of Wall Street’s first coverage platforms focused on the health and wellness industry. Aarti has been recognized for her work in consumer and retail dealmaking by various publications, listed to "Forbes 30 Under 30" in Finance and Business Insider's "Rising Stars" of Wall Street, and featured in Bloomberg, CNBC, Yahoo! Finance and more. Aarti is based in New York, NY.

    ... read more

    Aarti Kapoor

    Partner
    VMG Partners

    Aarti Kapoor is a Partner at VMG Partners, a growth equity investment firm focused on partnering with high-growth consumer and retail companies, and brings 18 years of experience in high-growth consumer and retail across principal investing and M&A / capital markets advisory. Kapoor was formerly CEO of VMG-affiliated special purpose acquisition company, VMG Consumer Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ:VMGA), from June 2021 to May 2023. Prior to joining VMG Partners, Kapoor was an investment banker at Goldman Sachs where she was integral to the disruptive growth effort within consumer and retail investment banking, growing the firm’s coverage of leisure, lifestyle, and wellness brands. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, she was an investment banker at Moelis & Company where she built one of Wall Street’s first coverage platforms focused on the health and wellness industry. Aarti has been recognized for her work in consumer and retail dealmaking by various publications, listed to "Forbes 30 Under 30" in Finance and Business Insider's "Rising Stars" of Wall Street, and featured in Bloomberg, CNBC, Yahoo! Finance and more. Aarti is based in New York, NY.

    Author:

    Jenna Jackson

    Partner
    CAVU Consumer Partners

    Jenna Jackson is a Principal at CAVU Consumer Partners focusing on growth in the beauty and wellness categories. She sits on the boards of OSEA and Necessaire. Prior to joining CAVU, Jenna was Managing Director of Branded Consumer at Imperial Capital where she focused on beauty and other growth initiatives for the firm. Earlier in her career, Jenna worked in merchandising for Gap Inc and wantful.com and founded her own luxury handbag brand, august. She also leads a series of events called #mindthefundinggap, a place for underserved female founders and funders to connect in order to transform the consumer landscape. Jenna earned a B.A. in English from The University of California, Berkeley where she was a 4-year letter winner on the Women's Volleyball team.

    ... read more

    Jenna Jackson

    Partner
    CAVU Consumer Partners

    Jenna Jackson is a Principal at CAVU Consumer Partners focusing on growth in the beauty and wellness categories. She sits on the boards of OSEA and Necessaire. Prior to joining CAVU, Jenna was Managing Director of Branded Consumer at Imperial Capital where she focused on beauty and other growth initiatives for the firm. Earlier in her career, Jenna worked in merchandising for Gap Inc and wantful.com and founded her own luxury handbag brand, august. She also leads a series of events called #mindthefundinggap, a place for underserved female founders and funders to connect in order to transform the consumer landscape. Jenna earned a B.A. in English from The University of California, Berkeley where she was a 4-year letter winner on the Women's Volleyball team.

    Time: 
    11:30am
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Lunch
    12:30pm
    Lunch Networking

    Meet the Buyers: The Retail & Brand Lunch

    Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage with influential individuals from major retail outlets over lunch. Learn what retailers are looking for and how to best position your brand for success on their shelves.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Marissa Galante Frank

    Fashion Director, Accessories and Beauty
    Bloomingdales

    Marissa Galante Frank is the Fashion Director for Accessories & Beauty at Bloomingdale's, overseeing handbags, shoes, fine jewelry, watches, fashion accessories and beauty.  In her role, Marissa drives the Bloomingdale’s vision for the trends shoppers can expect each season in-store and online. She collaborates across departments to develop exclusive merchandise for Bloomingdale’s private brands, and translate trends into a one-of-kind accessories and beauty assortment, spanning emerging and established brands.

    ... read more

    Marissa Galante Frank

    Fashion Director, Accessories and Beauty
    Bloomingdales

    Marissa Galante Frank is the Fashion Director for Accessories & Beauty at Bloomingdale's, overseeing handbags, shoes, fine jewelry, watches, fashion accessories and beauty.  In her role, Marissa drives the Bloomingdale’s vision for the trends shoppers can expect each season in-store and online. She collaborates across departments to develop exclusive merchandise for Bloomingdale’s private brands, and translate trends into a one-of-kind accessories and beauty assortment, spanning emerging and established brands.

    Author:

    Noah Rosenblatt

    President North America
    BEAUTYSPACE

    Noah Rosenblatt is President of The PCA Companies' newest acquisition, BEAUTYSPACE (formerly SpaceNK Wholesale). Noah joined BEAUTYSPACE in 2015, after prior roles at LVMH and 20 years of retail industry experience. During his tenure, he has led the company through two significant business shifts, resulting in an operations that now include more than 700 branded BEAUTYSPACE points of distribution for nearly 100 brands within the wholesale portfolio.

    Under Noah’s leadership, he has been instrumental in developing strategies to increase brand awareness, drive expansion, deepen customer relationships, and evolve the brands’ in-store and digital presence. This forward-thinking, award-winning retail experience connects retailers and brands to consumers—wherever and however they choose to shop—across both the luxury and prestige markets.

    ... read more

    Noah Rosenblatt

    President North America
    BEAUTYSPACE

    Noah Rosenblatt is President of The PCA Companies' newest acquisition, BEAUTYSPACE (formerly SpaceNK Wholesale). Noah joined BEAUTYSPACE in 2015, after prior roles at LVMH and 20 years of retail industry experience. During his tenure, he has led the company through two significant business shifts, resulting in an operations that now include more than 700 branded BEAUTYSPACE points of distribution for nearly 100 brands within the wholesale portfolio.

    Under Noah’s leadership, he has been instrumental in developing strategies to increase brand awareness, drive expansion, deepen customer relationships, and evolve the brands’ in-store and digital presence. This forward-thinking, award-winning retail experience connects retailers and brands to consumers—wherever and however they choose to shop—across both the luxury and prestige markets.

    Author:

    Romain Gaillard

    Founder & CEO
    The Detox Market

    Romain is the founder and CEO of The Detox Market. In 2010, he opened The Detox Market on Abbot Kinney in Venice, CA, as a collaborative, short-term pop-up shop aimed at providing education regarding the benefits of green beauty while also exposing consumers to hard-to-find eco-friendly brands. After the positive response and several more pop-ups, he opened the West Hollywood flagship in 2011. As one of the first purveyors of natural beauty products, Romain’s focus has always been discovering and incubating new brands and showcasing the brand founders’ stories, which reflect his own passion for offering non-toxic beauty choices. Now North America’s leader in green beauty, The Detox Market has since expanded to seven locations throughout Los Angeles, Toronto, and New York City, as well as several Beauty Corners in partnership with Café Gratitude, the plant-based restaurants in CA. The demand for the best in green beauty has also made the ecommerce shop www.thedetoxmarket.com a thriving platform, shipping worldwide.

    ... read more

    Romain Gaillard

    Founder & CEO
    The Detox Market

    Romain is the founder and CEO of The Detox Market. In 2010, he opened The Detox Market on Abbot Kinney in Venice, CA, as a collaborative, short-term pop-up shop aimed at providing education regarding the benefits of green beauty while also exposing consumers to hard-to-find eco-friendly brands. After the positive response and several more pop-ups, he opened the West Hollywood flagship in 2011. As one of the first purveyors of natural beauty products, Romain’s focus has always been discovering and incubating new brands and showcasing the brand founders’ stories, which reflect his own passion for offering non-toxic beauty choices. Now North America’s leader in green beauty, The Detox Market has since expanded to seven locations throughout Los Angeles, Toronto, and New York City, as well as several Beauty Corners in partnership with Café Gratitude, the plant-based restaurants in CA. The demand for the best in green beauty has also made the ecommerce shop www.thedetoxmarket.com a thriving platform, shipping worldwide.

    Time: 
    12:50pm - 1:30pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Afternoon Sessions

    AI & ROI: Upgrading Supply Chains with Data-Driven Beauty Tech

    Cut through the hype and gain practical applications and strategies to supercharge your tracking, forecasting, and operations. We’ll unveil the latest tech for greater efficiency, smarter decision making, and tangible ROI.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Chris Lucas

    Head of Business Development
    Rabot
    ... read more

    Chris Lucas

    Head of Business Development
    Rabot
    Time: 
    2:00pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Gen Alpha & The 50+ Woman: The Age of Digital Growth

    Seize the untapped potential of multi-generational marketing with targeted strategies to drive engagement, foster loyalty, and boost revenue.

    Explore how tailored engagement, loyalty-building tactics, and personalized experiences can drive lasting brand impact and fuel revenue growth across every age group.

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Carina Chaz

    Founder & CEO
    DedCool

    DedCool was founded with generations of beauty expertise behind it. Fragrance was Carina Chaz’s passion from the very beginning. Growing up alongside her mother as a beauty formulator, with a lab as her playground, it was natural for Carina to create DedCool. Her love of scent and a general rejection of the way the Fragrance industry operates, lit a fire under Carina to create a modern 21st Century definition of what Fragrance means. It started humbly on Instagram, and then grew to knocking on the doors of local retail shops with the hope of being carried on consignment. This resulted in relationships with department stores, and boutiques to then cultivating dedcool.com.

    ... read more

    Carina Chaz

    Founder & CEO
    DedCool

    DedCool was founded with generations of beauty expertise behind it. Fragrance was Carina Chaz’s passion from the very beginning. Growing up alongside her mother as a beauty formulator, with a lab as her playground, it was natural for Carina to create DedCool. Her love of scent and a general rejection of the way the Fragrance industry operates, lit a fire under Carina to create a modern 21st Century definition of what Fragrance means. It started humbly on Instagram, and then grew to knocking on the doors of local retail shops with the hope of being carried on consignment. This resulted in relationships with department stores, and boutiques to then cultivating dedcool.com.

    Author:

    Dawn Hilarczyk

    COO
    Borghese

    Dawn Hilarczyk is a dynamic and innovative C-suite leader renowned for propelling consumer-driven organizations to new heights. With over 25 years of experience in sales, strategic development, and digital transformation, Dawn has played a pivotal role in reshaping companies ranging from large corporations to emerging start-ups. Her deep industry relationships and exceptional leadership have fostered trust across a broad spectrum of stakeholders. Dawn’s impressive career includes pivotal roles in some of the most prestigious names in retail and beauty. Brought to Borghese to lead the company’s Renaissance and restore it to its former status as a top luxury brand. Her strategic vision and leadership are central to revitalizing Borghese’s heritage and driving its future success.

    ... read more

    Dawn Hilarczyk

    COO
    Borghese

    Dawn Hilarczyk is a dynamic and innovative C-suite leader renowned for propelling consumer-driven organizations to new heights. With over 25 years of experience in sales, strategic development, and digital transformation, Dawn has played a pivotal role in reshaping companies ranging from large corporations to emerging start-ups. Her deep industry relationships and exceptional leadership have fostered trust across a broad spectrum of stakeholders. Dawn’s impressive career includes pivotal roles in some of the most prestigious names in retail and beauty. Brought to Borghese to lead the company’s Renaissance and restore it to its former status as a top luxury brand. Her strategic vision and leadership are central to revitalizing Borghese’s heritage and driving its future success.

    Time: 
    2:30pm
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)

    Founder & CEO Trilogy: The Multi-Million Dollar Truth

    Beauty’s most talked-about founders spill the secrets on their success and what comes next in back-to-back fireside chats.

    Discover their playbooks for sustainable growth, gaining traction, timing the deal, and what they now prioritize in industry partnerships.

    3:00 – 3:20 with Olive & June

    3:20 – 3:40 with Patrick Ta

    3:40 – 4:00

    Speaker(s): 

    Author:

    Sarah Gibson Tuttle

    CEO & Founder
    Olive & June

    Sarah Gibson Tuttle is the Founder / CEO of Olive & June, the first-ever consumer-focused nail brand with first-of-their-kind products that deliver salon-quality results at-home. Since launching in 2013, Olive & June has revolutionized the nail category and successfully democratized the nail salon experience to bring beautiful nails to everyone. In 2021, Sarah was named to Inc.’s Female Founders 100 list recognizing her as a trailblazing role model in entrepreneurship and a major disruptor in the beauty industry. Sarah also currently advises and invests in high-growth CPG startups.

    ... read more

    Sarah Gibson Tuttle

    CEO & Founder
    Olive & June

    Sarah Gibson Tuttle is the Founder / CEO of Olive & June, the first-ever consumer-focused nail brand with first-of-their-kind products that deliver salon-quality results at-home. Since launching in 2013, Olive & June has revolutionized the nail category and successfully democratized the nail salon experience to bring beautiful nails to everyone. In 2021, Sarah was named to Inc.’s Female Founders 100 list recognizing her as a trailblazing role model in entrepreneurship and a major disruptor in the beauty industry. Sarah also currently advises and invests in high-growth CPG startups.

    Author:

    Kimberly Villatoro

    CEO
    Patrick Ta

    With a background in beauty, consumer products, and fashion, Kimberly Villatoro has led and marketed some of the most recognized brands in the world, including the billion-dollar brand Barbie. Most recently, she served as Vice President and General Manager of Smashbox and Glamglow in North America, where she led the brand's strategy and operations. She is a proven leader, bringing purpose, strategy, and scale to the businesses she has led across her two decade long professional career. With a track record of community-first brand building, today Ms. Villatoro brings her vocal advocacy and passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion to the team at Patrick Ta Beauty.

    ... read more

    Kimberly Villatoro

    CEO
    Patrick Ta

    With a background in beauty, consumer products, and fashion, Kimberly Villatoro has led and marketed some of the most recognized brands in the world, including the billion-dollar brand Barbie. Most recently, she served as Vice President and General Manager of Smashbox and Glamglow in North America, where she led the brand's strategy and operations. She is a proven leader, bringing purpose, strategy, and scale to the businesses she has led across her two decade long professional career. With a track record of community-first brand building, today Ms. Villatoro brings her vocal advocacy and passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion to the team at Patrick Ta Beauty.

    Time: 
    3:00pm Interview Series
    Session Type: 
    General Session (Presentation)
    Emerging Brand Spotlight - Winner Announcement
    4:00pm
    Chairperson’s Closing Address
    4:05pm
    End of Event
    4:15pm

Jump to: Monday, 3 Nov | Tuesday, 4 Nov | Wednesday, 5 Nov

Agenda Tracks: 
Track Title: 
Breakout 1
Track Color: 
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Track Title: 
Breakout 2
Track Color: 
#fe2bc6
Track Title: 
Breakout 3
Track Color: 
#35cef0
Track Title: 
Breakout 4
Track Color: 
#ffa8e8
Track Title: 
Dinner 1
Track Sponsor: 
QuickBox
Track Color: 
#a08ada
Track Title: 
Dinner 2
Track Color: 
#fe2bc6
Track Title: 
Dinner 3
Track Color: 
#35cef0
Track Color: 
#fe2bc6
Track Title: 
Let’s Talk Funding: The Investor & Brand Breakfast
Track Color: 
#ffa8e8