Clean Beauty- NIU BODY
I never thought twice about the ingredients in my beauty products. It wasn't until my friend Liz started the discussion about clean beauty. To be completely honest, I had never given it too much thought and now clean beauty is everywhere! Your skin is the most important thing so why not care about what is being absorbed. This where NIU BODY comes in. I was so excited to be sent an amazing selection of all natural and clean skincare products to try. NIU BODY's products are 100% vegan, all natural and cruelty-free. This amazing brand is made in Toronto, Canada and I couldn't be more excited to feature this brand on my blog and it's creators, boss babes, and best friends in real life, Connie Lo and Laura Burget.
How did you girls meet?
Connie: We actually met around a year and a half ago through a mutual friend. He went to middle school with me and was in Laura’s graduation class at university. Thinking that we would get along well, he introduced us!
Where and when did you both come up with the idea to start NIU BODY?
Laura: It was an idea that I had been thinking about for around a year. I “pitched” the idea for a natural coconut oil-based makeup remover to Connie (knowing that she is also a huge advocate for natural skincare). She loved the idea – we originally planned for a quick 30 min meetup over sushi; it became a 3-hour meeting of the minds. We realized we had to take the plunge together and decided to start NIU BODY!
What makes NIU BODY products special?
Laura: Our approach is very different than most of the brands you’ll find on the market. We don’t believe in over-complicating our formulas or branding, preferring to let the natural ingredients in our products speak for themselves instead. We aim to be approachable (both in design and pricing) so that everyone can experience natural beauty.
What has been the best reward for working together?
Connie: I absolutely love working with Laura because we have the exact same vision of where we want NIU BODY to grow, while we have the complete opposite personality types. It’s so rewarding working towards a common goal with someone who just gets you but can also fill in the gaps.
What are 3 words you would use to describe each other?
Laura: I would say organized, high-energy and kind for Connie. She’s the one between the two of us that has an eye for the details and will truly do anything for the people that she cares about. I really admire this!
Connie: It’s so difficult to describe Laura in just 3 words! Can I say, “best business partner/BFF?” Haha in all seriousness, Laura is tenacious, highly analytical, and the most loyal friend. She is a true go-getter, always pushing herself and inspiring those around her.
Congrats on your 1 year anniversary of NIU BODY! That is so exciting. Is there some advice you wish you would have known when you first started?
Laura: Relationships are everything, put time and attention into growing out your network and learning everything that you can about the industry that you are in.
Connie: Being productive, not busy. This is something I definitely had to learn the hard way. In the beginning, we would spend so much time on the most trivial tasks. For example, we once took a full 3-hour meeting just to design our business cards (something that now could probably take us 30 minutes).
What advice would you give to our girls out there who want to become the next boss babe?
Connie: Set big goals and vocalize them. When we first started NIU BODY, my goal was just to sell one product to someone who wasn’t my friend! I soon realized that I had to visualize a BHAG (big hairy audacious goal) if I wanted NIU BODY to truly grow into a successful business. I started telling family, friends, and even strangers about NIU BODY – this solidified the idea and also made me more confident.
Laura: Just go for it! There’s never going to be a perfect time and you will never be able to learn everything beforehand. The best teacher is truly getting your hands dirty – also, make sure that you surround yourself with people who inspire and motivate you.
Who would be your dream client? (Celebrity or anyone)
Connie: Landing a spot in Sephora’s natural skincare section would be a dream come true!
What is next for NIU BODY?
Laura: We are gearing up for some exciting product launches this summer (including a long-awaited gel/foaming cleanser!)
Connie: We are also going to be emphasizing more on our passion for female empowerment. More to come! ;)
What are some of your favorite places that are insta worthy or must see in Toronto?
Connie: Oh my gosh, there are too many to count! Some of my favourite insta-worthy spots are Portland Variety, Café Cancan, Bar Reyna, Bar Raval (hmm I seem to be sensing a brunch-theme here haha!), and the Distillery District. Some of my must-see neighbourhoods in Toronto include Ossington, Trinity Bellwoods Park, Queen/King Street West, Yorkville, Kensington Market, China Town, and the Scarborough Bluffs. Some activities to check out include Friday Night Live at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), the Rec Room (a barcade downtown), and Summer/Winterlicious!
PRODUCT REVIEW
First I tried the normal skin wipes that feel like a luxurious facial. It smells so good and truly does remove all your makeup. Made with geranium and lavender oils, it leaves your face feeling silky smooth and is non-drying. You can rinse it off or leave it on for a feeling of intense hydration. The coconut lip polish is so good, I literally want to eat it! It's the best lip exfoliator I have come across.
Last but definitely not least, the GLOW FACIAL SERUM IS AMAZING! This serum is such a great way to start the day. It smells like Spring in a bottle. This is such a great serum for any type of skin. If you don't believe me then you need to try for yourself!
