When in doubt, opt for a strong lip and dramatic lash ― that’s Alicia Grande’s attitude. As founder and CEO of Grande Cosmetics, the beauty pro began her range in pursuit of longer lashes, and the company only grew from there. We spoke to Grande to find out about her makeup bag staples, her favorite innovations so far, and what’s next for the brand.
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Tell us about how Grande Cosmetics started. What inspired you to launch this brand?
My mother has always worked as a brand ambassador for cosmetics brands, so I have been fascinated by beauty products from a very young age. It wasn’t until I was given the opportunity to host a radio show focused on wellness and beauty that I got my first start in the industry.
There, I spent my time interviewing top doctors and research analysts in the field. I was introduced to a lash-enhancing formula that was said to give me lush, long-looking lashes. At the time, my lashes were looking less than perfect after going through hormonal changes during pregnancy. I decided to give the formula a try and the results were incomparable to any mascara or false lash I’ve tried!
I couldn’t believe how confident having my own beautiful, thick-looking natural lashes made me. I thought to myself, “…with the last name Grande, I need to make this product my own and give every woman the ability to have the lashes of their dreams”!
That is how Grande Cosmetics and its hero product, GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum, were born.
What are some of your favorite products you’ve created so far and why?
Right now, I am loving our entire lash enhancing collection! What’s better than achieving the perfect lash extension look without needing to visit a salon?
I’ll give you a little tip: the trick to perfecting your mascara application is to apply GrandePRIMER Pre-Mascara Lengthener and Thickener to your lashes right before your mascara. The white, fiber-infused formula not only works to build and thicken each individual lash but creates a base to make your mascara incredibly longwearing.
Immediately following your GrandePRIMER application & before it dries, coat your lashes with GrandeMASCARA Conditioning Peptide Mascara to darken and lengthen your lashes even more. You’re going to be blown away with the results!
What are a few products you think no makeup bag should be without?
I couldn’t live without our GrandeLIPS Plumping Liquid Lipstick. The creamy formula is infused with Volulip and Hyaluronic Acid to provide an extra dose of moisture and plumping power, so your lips will never look dry or creased like some liquid lipsticks can do. The precision tip applicator also makes it incredibly easy to apply; just trace the shape of your natural lip contour – no lip liner needed. Now that we’re heading into the fall season, the shade Vintage Rose is my go-to.
What is the most impactful or empowering thing you’ve learned about beauty?
Beauty products have an amazing quality of inspiring confidence in people in all walks and seasons of life. Whether it’s the busy, stay-at-home mom who needs an extra pick-me-up or the college-aged woman who’s looking for cruelty-free products to add to her routine, it is so rewarding to hear stories about how my products have truly changed the lives of others…They’re powered by potent skincare ingredients that work to enhance your own natural beauty, not cover it, so you can feel like your true, best self when you wear them – even our mascaras and lipstick!
I am also incredibly honored to have the ability to support initiatives such as T.E.A.L. Louisa M. McGregor Ovarian Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen, and Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation. Not only do they contribute to groundbreaking work, but the people work behind the scenes at these foundations truly care about making a lasting impact to improve other people’s lives and raise awareness.
What can we look forward to seeing from the company in the future?
I love that I can help women tap into their inner confidence! It’s what I love most about my company and what Grande Cosmetics stands for. Stay tuned for even more beauty solutions that work from the neck up!
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