We recently connected with Cassandra McClure and have shared our conversation below.

Cassandra, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.

As a strategic advisor and founder of the Clean Beauty Founder Collective, the journey from the inception of the idea to establishing the practice was both exhilarating and challenging. It all began with a realization: there was a significant gap in the market for female founders in the clean beauty industry to connect, grow, and access vital resources collectively.

The main steps involved in establishing the Collective included extensive market research to understand the needs of female founders, defining the mission and values of the organization, and reaching out to potential members and partners who shared our vision for empowering women in the industry. Building a strong network and community was essential, so we focused on creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and mutual support.

One of the key challenges we faced was securing funding and resources to kickstart the Collective. We had to be creative in leveraging our networks and forming strategic partnerships to access the necessary support. Additionally, navigating the complexities of starting a new venture, from legal considerations to branding and marketing, required careful planning and perseverance.

Looking back, I would emphasize the importance of seeking mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in the field. Having a strong support system can make all the difference in overcoming obstacles and staying focused on your goals. Additionally, I would advise staying adaptable and open to feedback, as the landscape of the industry is constantly evolving.

For young professionals considering starting their own practice, my advice would be to believe in yourself and your vision, but also to be prepared for the challenges that come with entrepreneurship. Surround yourself with a supportive network, stay resilient in the face of setbacks, and never stop learning and growing. With passion, perseverance, and a clear sense of purpose, anything is possible.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Absolutely! I’m a brand strategist and the founder of the Clean Beauty Founder Collective, a community-driven initiative aimed at empowering female founders in the clean beauty industry. My journey into this space began with a passion for both entrepreneurship and sustainability.

After working in the beauty industry for several years, I noticed a glaring gap in support and resources for female founders, particularly in the clean beauty sector. This realization fueled my desire to create a platform where like-minded entrepreneurs could connect, learn, and thrive together.

At the Clean Beauty Founder Collective, we provide a range of services and resources tailored to the needs of our members. This includes networking events, educational workshops, access to PR and media opportunities, and collaborative retreats. Our goal is to not only support individual founders but also foster a sense of community and collaboration within the clean beauty industry.

What sets us apart is our focus on community building and empowerment. We believe in the power of collective action and collaboration to drive positive change in the industry. By bringing together female founders from diverse backgrounds and experiences, we’re able to create a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for everyone involved.

I’m most proud of the impact we’ve been able to make in the lives of our members. Seeing entrepreneurs come together, support each other, and achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to the power of community and the importance of creating spaces where women can thrive.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that we’re more than just a networking group – we’re a movement. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, there’s a place for you in our community. Together, we’re building a brighter, more sustainable future for the clean beauty industry, one connection at a time.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

In addition to training and knowledge, building strong partnerships and relationships within the industry is incredibly helpful for succeeding in the field of clean beauty. Collaborating with industry icons and leaders, such as Innersense Organic Beauty and Juice Beauty, not only lends credibility to your brand but also opens doors to valuable resources, insights, and opportunities.

These partnerships can provide access to distribution channels, marketing platforms, and expertise that may otherwise be difficult to attain independently. Moreover, aligning with respected brands in the industry can help to establish your own brand as a trusted authority and leader in the space.

Furthermore, cultivating relationships with industry leaders allows for ongoing learning and growth. By staying connected with pioneers and innovators in clean beauty, you can stay informed about emerging trends, best practices, and market dynamics, which is crucial for staying competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.

Ultimately, success in the field of clean beauty requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and strategic partnerships. By fostering collaborative relationships with industry icons and leaders, you can enhance your brand’s visibility, credibility, and impact within the clean beauty community.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Developing and Launching my first consumer product: Lash Binder was an exhilarating journey filled with hope and excitement. I poured my heart and soul into creating a product I believed in, but soon realized the harsh realities of entrepreneurship without the necessary resources, community support, and industry knowledge.

Despite my best efforts, the uphill battle became overwhelming. It was a constant struggle to afford vending at events, let alone cover the costs of marketing, advertising, and distribution. Although I was contacted by Shark Tank, was featured in Beauty Independent and other media outlets and showcased a booth at a well known music festival, The lack of ongoing press coverage and difficulty in navigating influencer partnerships only added to the challenge.

After much soul-searching, I made the tough decision to pivot in my business and career path. Retiring Lash Binder was a bittersweet moment, but ultimately necessary for my well-being and future success.

Reflecting on this experience, I’ve gained invaluable insights and learned important lessons. Despite the setbacks, I’m more determined than ever to pursue my passion in the clean beauty space and make a lasting impact to help other founders succeed and thrive in the industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: Cassandramcclure.com
• Instagram: Www.Instagram.com/cassandramcclure
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassandra-mcclure