In 2018 when Liza Michelle, a mother of three, took a trip to the supermarket with her young daughter in search of an appropriate women’s razor, she soon realised there was no such thing on the market.
As a passionate vegan and environmental advocate, the idea of purchasing a plastic, disposable razor for her young daughter just didn’t cut the mustard. The shaving creams on offer were not much better, filled with chemicals she struggled to pronounce and then there were the cosmetic bags, yet again, more synthetic fabrics.
After a discussion with her daughter about what she may want and need to commence her shaving experience, that would both benefit the environment and also be accessible for all women of any age – Tres Chic Shave Kit was born.
Meet Liza Michelle, mother of three and founder of Tres Chic Shave Kit – who will be joining us for the first time this Sunday 30 June at TVM Stones Corner.
When was it that you took the plunge and started your own business?
I did an online e-commerce course last October (2018) and it was Christmas last year, when I came up with my idea for the business.
I've been sourcing my fabric, designing and manufacturing my product since then.
What does your brand consist of?
My brand consists of, Eco-Audrey! She is our first Shave Kit.
It is a biodegradable, washable, cotton lined metal zipper vegan-friendly Kraft fabric cosmetic bag. It can be used as a shaving kit, makeup kit, clutch bag and pencil case. You name it!
A 3-blade Bamboo razor with a removal head for refills and vegan, homemade, coconut, Shea butter shave cream.
We use Hero Packaging (Australian owned) satchels for mailing, which are biodegradable.
Where is the label designed and made?
I make the shaving cream at home, using Australian natural products (Shea butter, coconut, oils, etc).
I buy my labels and jars in Australia, as I'm trying to use as many Australian businesses' as I can.
The biodegradable Kraft fabric comes from Germany and made in China along with the bamboo razors.
What inspires you?
Animal welfare and our environment. My heart breaks when I see what human beings are doing to such beautiful animals and our planet.
There are so many alternatives around, yet due to the cost of living, the big chain shops cut cost and make it so cheap that it's easy to buy any product these days, without really thinking about what it is that you're buying.
I do believe people want to make ethical choices yet it's not easy to find and they can be expensive.
What are your plans for the brand and where do you hope it takes you?
I hope that my brand resonates with women and that they will tell their friends all about it. I'm keeping costs as low as I can, as I would like my product to be in the home of as many women and young women, as possible.
I'd like to launch my product worldwide via my online store - shipping is so expensive, I hope I will be able to use a logistic company overseas to help with that major problem - I'm not there yet.
I'd like it to expand. I wish to work with some local Brisbane artists (I have someone in mind!) to create a new cosmetic kit every couple of months. I love the Kraft Fabric. It feels like leather but of course, it is not.
What were the biggest challenges when launching your brand?
Money is always the biggest challenge. I can build websites and do graphics, so that was the fun part. The hard part is brand awareness and driving traffic to my site so people are aware I exist and buy the product.
What is the best thing about having your own business?
The best thing is being able to be at home and available for my children. I do work hard and sometimes forget to stop and eat.
I also get to walk my poodle after school drop off and not needing to rush to get to work is a blessing. My stress level has been lowered.
Connect with Tres Chic Shave Kit:
At TVM this Sunday 30 June at TVM Stones Corner
Instagram: @treschicshavekit
Facebook: @treschicshavekit
www.treschicshavekit.com
