After graduation from university, Heather Reier’s interest in fashion and beauty led her to a job working for one of Canada’s leading clothing companies, Roots Canada. From there, she honed her skills and knowledge of the fashion and retail industry. Her constant interest in beauty products and her entrepreneurial ambitions and desires led her to the inception of Cake Beauty in 2003…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
Cake Beauty is a bath and body line that blends the concept of natural, nourishing and wholesome with girly, sassy and fun.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
I am a beauty junkie and I was looking for products that had natural butters and oils with beautiful textures. The only products that had this gorgeous natural appeal seemed to be beige and boring. So, I hit the kitchen and started making natural products paired with a sassy brand.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis?
The best part is the creative process and developing ideas and concepts both on the aesthetic and formula side. My Cake girls make the days all that much better. I have a very talented, bright and dedicated team.
The most challenging part?
Many days there are not enough hours in the day!
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
Cake entering new categories and new markets. It is an exciting time!
What does success look like to you?
Success for me is pushing the business forward and recognizing when to evolve. Success is looking forward to coming to work each day.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
In 2009 we partnered with Mattel to create Barbie by Cake exclusively sold at Sephora Canada. The Sephora windows were decked out with the collection and there was a huge line of people waiting to get into the store on launch day to buy the products. The energy was incredible! Now, in 2013, we are on our third co-branded program: Sweethearts Candies & Cake. Each time we do one of these limited edition collections, the response is off the charts!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Be focused and work hard. Never act entitled. Be thirsty for knowledge and try to learn all aspects of the business/industry you are working in.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
My father passed away from kidney cancer a year and a half ago. Although he lost his battle, my family and myself are indebted to the research and work that Kidney Cancer Care at St Joseph Healthcare in Hamilton provided. My husband and I support this organization each year.
What is Notable to you?
Don’t sweat the small stuff.
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
BlackBerry. I grew up in Kitchener. I am loyal to RIM’s Waterloo roots!
