Today we’d like to introduce you to Tianna Hope.
Hi Tianna, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I knew I wanted to attend FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) in high school, it was the only college I was interested in because I knew I had an eye for fashion and beauty. The dream was always to open a business of my own one day so I majored in Merchandise Marketing to give myself well-rounded knowledge to be able to jump into the fashion industry whether it be in buying, retail management, marketing, styling or other venues. I knew I needed the corporate experience to be able to run my own business one day. I ended up starting my career in styling and then quickly moved into mid-luxury retail and falling in love with it. I spent the next 10 years in retail management, working my way up the ladder for companies like Juicy Couture, Ted Baker and Blue Nile Diamonds. I am very thankful for my career and what I learned at these incredible companies and the amazing mentors I had throughout the years. The effect that the pandemic had on corporate retail was the final push I needed to tell myself I was ready for a big change.
I started to brainstorm with my husband and there was a big opportunity right in front of our eyes that we didn’t even think about. My mother-in-law, Theresa Grutzeck, had opened her business The Rouge Cosmetics 32 years ago in Danville, CA. A gorgeous lifestyle beauty boutique with everything from cosmetics, skincare, gifting and clothing. She had built an incredibly loyal clientele and curated an amazing shop that clients couldn’t get enough of. She was ready to retire soon during the time we were thinking about our next move. We called her one day and asked, “What do you think about moving The Rouge Cosmetics to Los Angeles?” She was ecstatic to hear our interest and immediately said yes. After finding the perfect space in Toluca Lake, CA, renovating and then opening our doors in 2022, we have never been happier. This was my dream come true, the skills I had cultivated over my years of experience in retail, my passion for all things cosmetics, skincare, fashion and design. It all felt written in the stars for me and I continue to be grateful every day.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was an incredibly difficult decision to leave a steady job, paycheck and great benefits. I have always played the safe and consistent route. To make this move took a lot of encouragement from my supportive husband, Theresa and my family. I know now that it was worth the risk.
We’ve been impressed with The Rouge Cosmetics, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Rouge Cosmetics is a curated lifestyle boutique of cosmetics, skincare, gifting and clothing.
We specialize in our Vegan Cosmetic Line (Fleur Visage)
– We offer custom foundations and a full range of cosmetics. Our Fleur Visage Vegan Cosmetic Collection is a full line of trendy and innovative vegan cosmetics with natural and healthy ingredients including, Vitamin-E based lipsticks and peptide lip gloss to enhance your beauty.
We also specialize in our Medclinical Skincare (Ongrien)
– Ongrien Technologies is a vitamin clinical nutrient-based line that is healthy for the body with valuable vitamins that ensure safety to the skin while designed to prevent future damage to the skin. Qualified and proven as one of the most superior anti-aging products on the market, while backed with scientific facts on repairing skin from the inside out, they help reduce fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother complexion and healthier skin for the future.
We offer gift wrapping and custom gift baskets
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
People might be surprised that they might spot The Rouge’s mascot hanging out in the store. His name is Teddie or also known as Toluca Teddie, soon to be the neighborhood best friend. He is a Micro Golden Doodle and loves to say hi to everyone.
Contact Info:
- Website: therougecosmetics.com
- Instagram: @therougecosmetics
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-rouge-cosmetics-toluca-lake?osq=the+rouge+cosmetics
