In the dynamic world of beauty, one name stands out as a true game-changer: Christina Flach. This remarkable beauty expert is not only revolutionizing the industry but also empowering individuals to unlock their true potential and embrace their unique beauty. Christina is a celebrity makeup artist, CEO of Pretty Girl Makeup and coming soon in 2023 is her brand, I’m Too Busy Skincare & Makeup.
With an unwavering commitment to excellence and an infectious passion for innovation, Christina has established herself as an influential industry leader, determined to make a lasting impact and pave the way for a better tomorrow.
Below are highlights of the interview conducted between World’s Leaders and Christina Flach:
Describe who you are as a person, inside and outside of the workplace.
If I had to describe myself in three words, they would be positive, resilient, and kind. I try to maintain these qualities in every aspect of my life, both inside and outside of the workplace. I strive to be gracious to everyone I meet, and I always aim to make my clients feel like the best versions of themselves through kindness and positivity. I also consider myself to be an incredibly resilient and strong person who never gives up. Each challenge I have faced has taught me to appreciate the little things in life and take every opportunity that comes my way.
Describe your background, and what did you do before you started/joined the company?
After quitting my day job, I started my career as a celebrity makeup artist in 1995 with the goal of being able to make money doing what I love. However, as any person building a career knows, it is very difficult to break into an industry. Since I had no connections or clients, I would visit local hair salons and offer my services for free until I built a solid clientele. To date, I have worked with many major brands, department stores, television networks, and celebrities that I never would have dreamed of at the beginning of my journey.
Tell us about the inception of the company. How did it all start?
As a celebrity makeup artist and devoted mother, I was constantly on the go. Between shuffling kids to school and meeting with clients, I found that there was never enough time during the day to touch up my makeup. Each lip gloss I owned wore off within a few short hours of application or a simple sip of water. For months, I tested dozens of lip products, looking for a gloss that could withstand even my busiest days. When my search came up empty, I decided to take matters into my own hands, and thus, Pretty Girl Makeup was born. My mission was to develop a formula that was not only long lasting, but also anti-aging, moisturizing, and hydrating. I launched my line with colors that looked good on many skin tones so that every girl could be a pretty girl.
What has made you successful? What do you value?
I think that my success has stemmed from my resilience. I am an extremely motivated individual who learns and grows from her mistakes instead of letting them define or stunt her. I value honesty, hard work, loyalty, and a sense of humor. I hold myself to these qualities, and I think they have helped me achieve the level of success that I have. I don’t take no’s, as that’s it. When I get told no, I think you’re the wrong person, On to the one that says yes!
Which are the major services of the company, and how do the companies get ahead in the competition? What value-added services does the company provide?
Pretty Girl Makeup’s products are made with clean, cruelty-free, and vegan ingredients. In the makeup industry, there are many brands that contaminate their products with harmful ingredients to make them last longer or appear more effective. While developing PGM, I used my expertise as a makeup artist to formulate a product that not only worked, but was also beneficial for your skin. I chose ingredients that customers could trust, which set me apart from the competition.
What are the most important aspects of a company’s culture? What principles do you believe in and how do you build this culture?
I will only hire people I trust and believe in. I never micromanage or question people’s abilities because I think people deserve the space to flourish and succeed without having someone step on their toes. I also think it’s important to surround yourself with people who will tell you the truth. I want my employees to give me their honest opinions and thoughts and not say yes just because they think that’s what I want to hear. A company does best when there is open communication and everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas.
What is the significance of innovative ideas in the company?
Pretty Girl Makeup was a clean beauty brand long before it was popular. Since 1999, we have created high quality products that work without any added chemicals or preservatives.
Give us your opinion on; do organizations rely heavily on individual heroics or team processes?
I believe that every person should put in 110%, but I think an organization relies the most on team processes. Working with a team allows you to think of new ideas, split up difficult tasks, and share in your successes or learn from your failures. It is very difficult to build a company all on your own so having a team that you can rely on is invaluable.
What are your responsibilities as the President /CEO of the company? What is the happiest part of your daily routine?
As the President and CEO of PGM, I am responsible for overseeing product development, manufacturing, marketing, and accounting. On any given day I may be meeting with investors, approving campaigns, or formulating new products. No two work days are ever the same, and I love that. There isn’t one part of my daily routine that makes me the happiest either, it could be anything from working out, reading my book, seeing my children, or having my morning tea. I try my best to keep a good work/life balance by prioritizing my health and wellness every single day.
What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time?
I would tell someone who was taking on a leadership role for the first time that they should not be afraid to take risks, because the only real failure is if you do not try. I would encourage them to challenge themselves and learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy the journey, it’s going to be harder than you ever could have imagined, but it will be worth every step. Lastly, I would tell them to prioritize their happiness, because it’s easier being focused on your company when your personal life is solid.