Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriela Hernandez.
Hi Gabriela, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Launched in September 2004, Bésame Cosmetics is a culmination of Gabriela’s passion for design and desire to bring a classic sensibility into a product of her own. Gabriela’s vision of Bésame is tied to solid principles that act as a strong role model for young women and is meant to inspire discovery. As a Make-up Historian, Gabriela realized that some of the most effective formulations and designs were lost in time. Through the course of her research on the history of the beauty industry, she discovered that the post World War II era was a period of great renaissance and novelty for the cosmetics business in America. Products reflected a renewed interest in fashion and beauty; they combined functionality with a feminine sense of glamour and romance. Captivated by the products of this era, Gabriela immersed herself in intensive analysis and study. She identified key characteristics – ingredients, colors, formulations and scents – that represented the strengths of the past and which have withstood the test of time. The Bésame Cosmetics Collection incorporates the power of these classic elements into an outstanding group of products designed to provide the woman of today with a dose of the elegance of years gone by.
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?
There were many hurdles, including capital needs, lack of mentors or advisors, and changes in the market. Adjusting to changes is the only way we have been able to keep going for all these years.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
When I would sit as a young child and watch my grandmother apply lipstick, I saw more than just a beauty routine. I saw the true meaning of beauty and timeless elegance. This notion inspired my own journey within the fascinating world of cosmetics, history, art, design, and how cosmetics have played an essential role in shaping our narratives.
Having immigrated from Buenos Aires at a young age, my passion for vintage beauty has led me to photography, art direction, and published author, penning the iconic book “Classic Beauty: The History of Makeup”. This has inspired a revolution in the beauty world, where looking to our past can guide us and inspire our futures.
When I started Bésame, I wanted to show the world the rich and colorful history that was found in the world of cosmetics. I have seen how makeup can be transformative. I’ve also seen how it changes the way in which you see the world and how it sees you.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was always interested in art and design. I painted and made sculptures from a very young age. The color red was always my favorite, so much so that I would not like any object that did not include that shade. I grew up in Buenos Aires and came to the US as a teen.
Pricing:
- Lipsticks $29
- Cake Mascara $28
Contact Info:
- Website: www.besamecosmetics.com
- Instagram: @besamecosmetics
- Facebook: @besamecosmetics
- Twitter: @besamecosmetics
- Youtube: @besamecosmetics
