Today we’d like to introduce you to Zhanel Bray.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In the midst of the challenges that unfolded during the 2020 pandemic, my mom, Bota, and I, Zhanel, found inspiration in our shared love for art. Zhanelica Beauty emerged as a heartfelt response to those uncertain times, turning adversity into an opportunity for growth and creativity.
Before diving into beauty, I found joy on Instagram by painting famous artworks on my face. This unexpected fun turned into the idea for our business.
With a foundation laid, we envisioned leveraging this momentum to establish a cosmetic brand that not only stood out visually but also embodied values we held dear. I, as the creative force behind our illustrations, began hand-drawing designs for our packaging, ensuring that each product told a story beyond its cosmetic function. My mom facilitated the creative process by curating color schemes for all of our products.
What sets Zhanelica apart is the genuine care embedded in every aspect. With Mom’s project management expertise and my background in chemistry, we created a brand that echoes sincerity – gluten-free, vegan, certified cruelty-free, sustainable, and eco-friendly. It’s not just about makeup for us; it’s about creating a beauty experience that aligns with our principles and resonates with our customers.
We’re proud to be AAPI and 100% women-owned and operated, based in Burbank. While our journey began online, with our website and platforms like Instagram, Faire, and TikTok Shop, our sincere hope is that Zhanelica becomes a source of inspiration for those seeking not just beauty products but a genuine connection with a brand that cares.
Looking ahead to 2024, we have big plans. As we recently organized events like ArtVember Soirée to support both visual and performing arts in our community.
Now, we are curating a way to give back to underrepresented artists with our upcoming Artsymeda Award Show scheduled to take place in the summer of 2024. We’ll be giving awards to artists nationwide, along with a prize dollar amount. It’s our way of making a positive impact and supporting the artistic spirit that inspires everything we do.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting Zhanelica Beauty was no easy feat. Being first-time business owners, the challenges were daunting, to say the least. Navigating the unfamiliar waters of entrepreneurship brought a steep learning curve, and the added complications of the lockdown during our launch created additional hurdles in kickstarting and promoting our brand.
These struggles, though tough, have been integral to shaping both ourselves and Zhanelica Beauty. In the sincerity of our journey, we acknowledge the bumps and embrace them as necessary steps in the authentic growth of our brand.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Founded in 2020 by my mom, Bota, and me, Zhanel, we blend vibrant illustrations with thoughtful color curation. Proudly AAPI and 100% women-owned, our gluten-free, vegan, and eco-friendly products stand out.
What sets us apart? Our commitment to the community. We host events like ArtVember Soirée and are gearing up for the Artsymeda Award Show, supporting underrepresented artists nationwide.
Explore our world at www.zhanelica.com, on Instagram (@zhanelica), TikTok shop (@zhanelica and @zhanelicashop), and Faire. Stay tuned for exciting news—we’re expanding into more in-store locations in 2024.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
We’re enthusiastic about collaboration! Feel free to connect with us for any collaborative opportunities. Drop us a message at [email protected] or use the contact form on our website. We look forward to exploring exciting partnerships!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.zhanelica.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zhanelica?igsh=NGVhN2U2NjQ0Yg==
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/zhanelica
- Other: https://www.zhanelica.com/pages/event
