Lauren is a lover of simple timeless looks, gold accents, Henri Bendel Jewelry & Hand Bags, pencil skirts and bodycon dresses. She has no qualms with throwing down the big bucks for a nice face moisturizer, and never leaves the house without the essentials-- her tinted berry lip balm "A kiss of care & color" and Listerine strips.
Previously, Lauren was the Creative Director of a highly reviewed beauty brand which allowed her to grow and step outside her creative comfort zone. This led to some exciting new ventures, but even so she is excited to step in to a new chapter in her life.
Tell us about yourself:
Born and raised in Southern California... I come from a large and close family with Spanish/Mexican roots, full of entrepreneurs. My younger years were spent near Los Angeles, moved to Orange County for high school, Bay Area for College (communications). I am a city girl at heart... For now I split my time between LA/OC and am in the midst of venturing to the East Coast. There's just something about the career drive, style, and creativity that just inspires me on a whole other level!
I am a people connector - I love to connect friends and acquaintances that I know could help each other grow. I love to travel and try to explore every chance I get; Whether it's a weekend getaway to SF, a week in Chicago, or getting a stamp on my passport during a venture to Rome. Travel has recently become one of the top items on my to do list.
Each trip I'd take, I'd post images on my Instagram almost like a travel journal. So many people would tell me how much the loved seeing the pictures (they said it made them feel like they were on the trip with me) and it's one of the biggest reasons I decided to launch MissAuthentiCity.com.
Another top item on my to do list is service... I have learned more from serving others and giving back than any other life experience. Whether it be feeding the homeless of Los Angeles Skid Row, building small homes in Mexico, or just a local service day of helping other locals. I realize life wasn't intended for us to just work the time away at our desks, but instead to do something of meaning, purpose, and value that actually makes a difference is most fulfilling. I love all things creative... Acting, dancing, singing, modeling, photography (the list could go on and on;).
How did you get into the Fashion/Beauty Industry and what do you love about it?
The funny part is in High School I told my family I wanted to be a professional Makeup Artist. My mom laughed and told me I needed to go to a normal University instead. Fast forward ten years to my family launching a cosmetic brand (we chuckle at my moms comment now).
After college, I worked for a MedSpa and gained a lot of experience with the makeup lines we worked with at the time. From there I switched gears and ran an event planning business where my wedding & event blog really allowed my business to thrive. My sister worked in the makeup industry and I'd assist her from time to time.
Once she and my family launched their makeup line, I transitioned to working with them. Helping them grow their online presence and creative aspects. I worked a lot with beauty bloggers and celebrity makeup artists; learning tips, tricks, and trends. I will always be a part of the brand in spirit, but have shifted gears to focus on other creative opportunities. It's so wonderful that the knowledge I've learned from my past job titles somehow has become a stepping stone along the way and plays a role even in the future!
I love how beauty and style can really bring out inner confidence and help others stand a little taller. Makeup wise, I prefer a timeless sleek look with a subtle pop of color. Sometimes less is more on a day to day basis; makeup should compliment your natural beauty, not hide or distract from it. Don't be afraid to take some risks... Style wise I love solid pieces and a soft palette with bold accents you can change seasonally (black and white never go out of style... Pair it with one item that has a fun bold print to change it up every now and then)!
What is your advice for someone getting into the Fashion/ Beauty Industry?
Take a good look at yourself, who you are, how you define yourself, and stick to you... Be authentic and remember that "you are your brand".
Once you have the education and skills, network the heck out of every opportunity you get! I can't stress it enough these days: the power of being social. Tag yourself and any brands used in social images, brands will surprisingly take notice. The more you support a brand (and they're a fan of your work), the more the brand will support you as a brand!
#WOW || Words of Wisdom
"Luck is preparation meeting opportunity." -Oprah Winfrey
The biggest thing I've learned from past job experiences and life in general is to stay true to your core values. Treat others with kindness and grace even when it's hard to; people will remember how you made them feel. No matter how successful you may become, remember we all started at the bottom at some point (a genuine humble attitude goes a long way). People prefer to work with nice people). Don't be afraid to put yourself out there, even if you're just starting out ("Fake it till you make it")!
As women, we have been blessed with many traits and skills. One of them is the power of multitasking, planning, and attention to detail. With all of those qualities giving us a head start... It's all the more reason we as woman need to lift up, support, and encourage other woman!!
Connect with Lauren:
Instagram: @ItsLaurenShaw @MissAuthentiCity
Website: www.MissAuthentiCity.com
Email: Lauren.Shaw@mac.com