International Women's Day

What do you hope women feel when they wear Hilary Joy jewellery?

When women of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures from around the world wear a piece of Hilary Joy Couture wearable art I want them to feel like it was meant to be made bespoke for only them. Since no two gemstones are exactly the same I believe what they receive is their own fingerprint. I want them to feel empowered, lit up and beautiful.

What’s next for Hilary Joy Couture? Are there any exciting new collections or inspirations you’re working on?

At present I am working on my brand new fidget collection, which is all about movement. If you are wearing one of my rings, earrings, necklaces or bracelets when you move the stones with you hand they relax you. Some of my necklaces have over 1,000 gemstones in them that are knitted together and have playful movement when caressed. I am expanding this very successful collection. I am also creating brand new three dimensional textures in my silver that are like no other! The gemstones in them are equally as beautiful and exotic.

Jewellery has long been a symbol of empowerment—how do you see your pieces inspiring confidence in the women who wear them?  

Hilary Joy  Couture jewellery when worn, no matter how large or small makes a huge statement.  It is not for the faint of heart.  With that being said my women wear them with extreme confidence and know that they can accomplish anything they set out to.   It is extremely important to feel empowered and beautiful from both inside and out.  That is why my collection is beloved worldwide.

If you could design a dream piece for any woman in history, who would it be and what would it look like?

If I could design a piece of jewellery for one woman in history it would be for Elizabeth Taylor.  My mother who knew her said she had the most incredible violet eyes.  I would create her the most magnificent tanzanite necklace fit for a queen that would light up her décolleté, which would then match perfectly with the colour and luminosity of her eyes.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about business or life, what would it be?

If I could give my younger self one piece of advice it would be to follow your dreams, stay laser focused and never take no for an answer.

What are your hopes for the next generation of female entrepreneurs?  

My hopes for the next generation of female entrepreneurs is be creative, humble and remain true to yourself.  Never divert your energy from what you originally intend to accomplish.

How do you see your brand empowering women, whether through your products or your business values?

At The Jojoba Company, we believe that true beauty comes from healthy, nourished skin—at any age and any stage of life. Our products are designed to work with the skin, not against it, empowering women to embrace their natural beauty with confidence. Beyond our formulations, we are committed to ethical and sustainable practices, ensuring that every ingredient is sourced responsibly. As a female founder, I also strive to create a business that uplifts women—whether through employment opportunities, leadership development, or inspiring others to follow their entrepreneurial dreams.

What advice would you give to other women who aspire to start their own business?

Trust your intuition and believe in your vision. When I started The Jojoba Company, natural skincare wasn’t as widely accepted as it is today, and educating people about the benefits of jojoba was a challenge. But persistence, passion, and a clear sense of purpose kept me going. Surround yourself with people who share your values, stay adaptable, and never compromise on your integrity. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but when you create something truly meaningful, the journey is always worth it..

What are the biggest myths about natural skincare that you wish people knew?  

One of the biggest myths is that natural skincare isn’t as effective as synthetic products. In reality, nature provides some of the most powerful and bio-compatible ingredients for skin health. Our Wadi-Wadi Jojoba, for example, is scientifically proven to deeply hydrate, repair, and protect the skin in a way that no synthetic ingredient can replicate. Another misconception is that natural skincare is only for certain skin types. The truth is, when formulated correctly, natural skincare can work in harmony with all skin types—even the most sensitive. You also don’t need harsh ingredients to see real results. Our Ultimate Serum, for instance, contains HumaColl21™, a revolutionary human-identical vegan collagen that has been clinically proven to outperform retinol—delivering all the firming and anti-aging benefits without irritation. Nature and science can work hand in hand to create highly effective, results-driven skincare.

What’s one skincare product you think everyone should have in their routine?

Without a doubt, pure jojoba! It’s the closest botanical match to the natural oils in our skin, meaning it absorbs effortlessly without clogging pores or causing irritation. It balances oil production, deeply hydrates, and enhances the effectiveness of any other skincare products you use. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, sensitivity, or breakouts, jojoba is the ultimate skin-saviour for all ages.

What are some of the most surprising benefits of jojoba that people might not know?

Jojoba isn’t just a moisturiser—it’s a skin transformer! Unlike traditional oils, jojoba is actually a liquid wax ester, which means it mimics the skin’s natural sebum, helping to restore balance and protect the skin barrier. It can hold moisture for up to eight hours, naturally contains vitamins A, D, and E, and even has antibacterial properties, making it ideal for acne-prone skin. Many people also don’t realize that jojoba helps other skincare ingredients penetrate deeper, making your entire routine more effective.

If you could give one piece of skincare advice to women of all ages, what would it be? 

Listen to your skin—it’s smarter than you think. Many skincare routines are designed to control or manipulate the skin, but true skin health comes from supporting its natural functions. Instead of relying on harsh chemicals or overly complicated routines, focus on ingredients that nourish, repair, and protect. Jojoba is the perfect example of a natural ingredient that works with the skin, helping it thrive at any age. Skincare should be simple, effective, and empowering—just like the women who use it!

International Women’s Day is all about celebrating women’s achievements—what does this day mean to you personally and as a female founder?

International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8th, holds significant meaning as it is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women across various fields, highlighting their achievements, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. As a female founder of Silk Oil of Morocco, this day serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by women in entrepreneurship and the importance of empowering one another.

Personally, it is an opportunity to reflect on the journey of building a business, the hurdles overcome, and the support received from other women. It also emphasizes the necessity for creating platforms that uplift women's voices and ensure their participation in leadership roles. Celebrating this day can inspire future generations of women to pursue their ambitions fearlessly, fostering a community of empowerment, collaboration, and shared success.

How do you see your brand empowering women, whether through your products or your business values?

Silk Oil of Morocco empowers women through various initiatives tied to both the products and the core values of the brand. Here are some key ways:
1. Quality Products: Our products, made from natural ingredients, are designed to enhance the beauty and well-being of women. By promoting self-care and confidence, we encourage women to embrace their uniqueness.
2. Ethical Sourcing: We prioritize ethical sourcing of ingredients, particularly from communities where women's roles in agriculture and production are supported. This not only provides fair economic opportunities but also respects traditional practices.
3. Supporting Female Entrepreneurs: We work to create partnerships with women-led businesses and cooperatives, helping to uplift and empower female entrepreneurs in the beauty and wellness sectors.
4. Education and Workshops: We host workshops and provide resources aimed at educating women about beauty, wellness, and entrepreneurship, equipping them with skills and knowledge to succeed.
5. Community Engagement: Our brand actively engages in community programs that support women's rights, education, and health, reinforcing our commitment to making a positive social impact.
Through these efforts, Silk Oil of Morocco aims not only to celebrate women's beauty but also to foster a culture of empowerment, equality, and support for women in all aspects of life.

Your journey with Silk Oil of Morocco started from a personal struggle—can you share more about that experience and how it inspired your brand?  

My journey with Silk Oil of Morocco began as a deeply personal struggle with psoriasis and dry skin. Experiencing persistent discomfort and the social stigma associated with skin conditions led me on a quest to find effective and natural solutions. Frustrated with the limited options available in the market and their often harsh ingredients, I sought out alternatives that were gentle, nourishing, and derived from nature.
Exploring the benefits of argan oil, known for its moisturizing properties and rich vitamin content, I was inspired by its traditional use in Moroccan culture. This journey led me to the realization that many women face similar struggles with their skin and hair, and there was a need for products that not only delivered results but also celebrated the beauty of diverse skin types.
Launching Silk Oil of Morocco allowed me to channel my personal experience into a brand focused on holistic beauty. By creating a line of products that utilize the nourishing properties of argan oil and other natural ingredients, I aimed to offer effective solutions for those dealing with skin and hair issues. It became essential for me to provide a range that empowers individuals to feel confident in their own skin.

What is one product in the Silk Oil of Morocco range that you believe every woman should try?

Every woman and man! Should definitely try the Silk Oil of Morocco Argan Hair & Skin Treatment Serum which has one many awards! In fact, it has taken out the “Best Hair Care product” in the TVSN Beauty Product of the Year for the past 10 years!
Silk Oil of Morocco’s Argan Hair & Skin Treatment delivers instant shine, gloss and moisture creating a luxurious soft, smooth silky finish. Formulated with a high concentration of Cold Pressed Certified Organic Argan Oil which is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids.
This precious non-greasy and ultra light serum infused with a divine passionfruit fragrance is easily absorbed, leaving your hair and skin looking smooth, healthy and nurtured. This versatile product helps protect hair against damage caused by heating and styling tools and reduces blow-drying time significantly when applied to towel dried hair

What does clean beauty mean to you?

Clean beauty, to Silk Oil of Morocco, embodies the commitment to using safe, non-toxic ingredients that are effective and sustainably sourced. Here’s what clean beauty means for our brand:
1. Natural Ingredients: We prioritize natural and organic ingredients that nourish the skin and hair without harmful additives. This approach helps to minimize the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
2. Transparency: We believe in being transparent about our ingredient sourcing and formulation processes. Customers should always know what is in the products they are using and where those ingredients come from.
3. Ethical Sourcing: Our commitment to clean beauty extends to responsibly sourcing ingredients, particularly from female-led cooperatives and sustainable farms in Morocco. This not only benefits the environment but also supports local communities.
4. Cruelty-Free: We ensure that none of our products are tested on animals. Our dedication to cruelty-free practices reflects our respect for all living beings.
5. Sustainability: Clean beauty also includes a focus on environmentally friendly packaging and practices. We aim to minimize our ecological footprint and promote sustainability in every aspect of our business.
6. Holistic Wellness: We recognize that beauty is not just skin deep. Clean beauty encompasses holistic wellness, encouraging a lifestyle that prioritizes health and well-being alongside beauty.
In essence, clean beauty to Silk Oil of Morocco represents a harmonious blend of efficacy, safety, ethical responsibility, and environmental consciousness, all while empowering individuals to embrace their natural beauty confidently.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone struggling with hair or skin concerns, what would it be?

If you're struggling with hair or skin concerns, my one piece of advice would be to prioritize self-compassion and patience. It’s important to remember that everyone’s skin and hair is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
1. Know Your Skin Type: Understand your skin type (oily, dry, sensitive, or combination) and choose products specifically formulated for it. This tailored approach can significantly improve your condition.
2. Embrace Natural Ingredients: Look for products with natural, nourishing ingredients, like those found in Silk Oil of Morocco’s offerings. They can be gentler and more effective for addressing specific concerns.
3. Patch Test New Products: Before fully incorporating a new product into your routine, conduct a patch test to ensure it doesn’t irritate your skin.
4. Stay Consistent: Give your chosen routine time to work. Skincare and haircare improvements can take weeks or even months to become visible.
5. Consult Professionals: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from dermatologists or skincare experts, especially if you’re experiencing persistent issues. They can provide personalized recommendations and treatments.
6. Practice Self-Care: Remember to engage in self-care routines that promote overall well-being—stress can negatively impact your skin and hair health.
Above all, be patient with yourself and your body. Progress may take time, but with the right approach, you can discover solutions that enhance your confidence and promote healthier hair and skin.

Bella Bodies is all about making women feel confident and comfortable—how does this mission influence your designs and decision-making?

Absolutely everything we design is based on woman looking great and feeling confident and comfortable. The garment must also be as flattering to the body as we can make it from the fabric/yarn we use as well.

2. Your brand is loved across generations—why do you think your designs resonate with women of all ages?

The garments and intimates we make are made with real women’s bodies in mind not an aspiration body type. Also seen as great value for the quality and longevity of the garments

What was the biggest challenge in disrupting the intimate’s industry, and how did you overcome it?  

I did not realise I was ‘disrupting the industry’ at the time as that kind of word wasn’t really used back in 2006. The real challenge now is to ensure that we stay ahead of what is offered and work out how Bella bodies can do it better!

How has your approach to design evolved since you started in the early 2000s?

Since I started Bella Bodies, I have a lot more knowledge and understanding regarding the industry now, so I can apply that information to all the items we create.

International Women’s Day is all about celebrating women’s achievements—what does this day mean to you personally and as a female founder?

All woman needs to be respected as we all have our challenges and achievements. It is important to me that everyone be recognised and given the freedom to make their own choices and be treated well in all aspects of our lives.

What inspired you to start your brand, and what challenges did you face as a woman in business?

there we two main reasons. 1)I needed to create a small income as I had very small children to add what my husband was earning. 2) I was unhappy with the shapewear I bought in the store back in 2005 so I went on a mission to see if I could do anything about that….

The challenges really were to work within the hours I had as I was the main carer for the children. I was up early in the morning and working later at night to get Bella Bodies up and running…..Once Bella Bodies was on its way I found that a lot of the people I was dealing with were woman like the TVSN buyers and shop managers and they were wonderful to deal with .

What does International Women’s Day mean to you as a female entrepreneur?

As a woman in business, especially one that started as young as I have, being a woman was a huge focal point in my career. It was always perceived as a weakness, always a struggle to be heard in a room. “Don’t be too emotional, don’t show them how you feel, don’t let them see you sweat, don’t look too much like a woman it’ll distract them, don’t talk over the top of the others… this isn’t your world”. Words spoken to me on a near daily basis.
Add to that the fact that I started as young as I did, I had to fight for my place… Every single day. It wasn’t until I reached my thirties that I realized… they were wrong. Being a woman is my strength, it’s my power. It’s what makes me who I am. It’s the women who had given me the love, strength and support to keep going. Who paved my way, who showed me exactly what it means to love and nurture myself. This day is so important to me, to all women to honour exactly what we stand for, what we represent. I am so lucky and thankful to be a woman and to be surrounded by so many incredible souls.

What’s next for Mary Grace—any exciting launches or expansions on the horizon?

I had one of my most successful launches to date, just at the end of last year. Alongside the highly requested 100ml Eau De Parfum (which was a huge hit, thank you, my beautiful family!!) I launched the new Nano Aroma Diffuser, a first in Australia and new innovation in the world of fragrance. It was incredible. Selling out in less than 6 minutes, twice on TVSN and 5 sell outs outside of that, I’m focusing on expanding that offering.
Working on more fragrance oils for the Nano Diffuser, and for any of your existing diffusers. Our fragrances are what really help to set Mary Grace apart, they’re something I’m incredibly proud of and being able to offer them in their purest form was so exciting, the response we’ve gotten has made me so emotional, I couldn’t wait to launch all new scents just in time for International Women’s Day!

What was the first product you ever created, and how has your range evolved since then?

During the GFC, we had over 17 suppliers close down. As a shop that focused on Australian Made products in a time where there weren’t many at all, to lose that many in one go was a huge blow so we decided to start making our own. The first product we ever launched was wax melts. They were poured in the kitchen, using mum’s old pots and pans (much to her dismay!). You had the choice of two scents, Chocolate or Rose.
We displayed them on two of mum’s dinner plates in the shop, they sold out in a couple of hours. Since then, the brand has gone through so many changes, and what started from humble beginnings is now a vast range of home fragrance, personal fragrance, bath & body and sensitive skincare. It’s an absolute dream come true to be able to offer a range of products catered to everyone, especially those most sensitive, just like me.

What do you hope women feel when they use Mary Grace products?

I hope you feel incredible. In every sense of the word, in any way you can imply it. Growing up with so many sensitivities, I dreamed of creating a range that people like me could use, without the clinical packaging, without feeling like something was wrong with me just because I’m sensitive. I hope that by using the Mary Grace products you know just how beautiful, how loved and how special you truly are.
You deserve all that is good in this world, you deserve affordable products that nurture your skin, your senses and your mind. You deserve to feel like royalty from the moment you open your first product, until the very last drop is used… I hope you know that when you use Mary Grace, or are a part of this family simply by proclaiming so, whether you choose to purchase or not, you are… exactly that. Part of this family. Part of my world.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about business or life, what would it be?

It gets better. So much better, more than you can possibly imagine.

How do you see your brand empowering women, whether through your products or your business values?

I pride myself on my values & ethos, both personally and professionally. Mary Grace is more than just a brand to me, it’s my whole life. It’s everything I’ve ever dreamed of, cared for, prided myself in… packaged in pretty little boxes. It’s a community that reflects social responsibility, environmental change and high quality luxury with affordable prices.
I hope that Mary Grace empowers women to seek change, in any phase of their life. To know that we can do it, anything we set our minds to. To take small steps, or giant leaps towards a better future. To look after our earth and ourselves.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about business or life, what would it be?

Trust yourself—don’t wait for the “perfect” moment. Take risks, embrace challenges, and enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

What are your hopes for the next generation of female entrepreneurs?

That they feel fearless in chasing their dreams, know there’s room for everyone to succeed, and support each other—because when women lift each other up, amazing things happen.

How do you want women to feel when they wear a Cadelle piece?

Confident, stylish, and effortlessly put together. I want every piece to bring comfort, versatility, and a little everyday luxury to their lives.

What’s been your biggest learning curve as a female entrepreneur in the fashion industry?

Realizing that creativity is just one part of the business. Staying adaptable is key, and no one has it all figured out—we’re all learning as we go!

If you could collaborate with any designer, past or present, who would it be and why?

Jane Birkin. Her timeless, effortless style is everything Cadelle is about. She made fashion feel natural, chic, and lived-in—just like the perfect leather bag.

What’s one piece from your collection that you think every woman should own?

The Patrizia hobo bag—it’s slouchy, stylish, and practical. It fits everything without feeling bulky and is perfect for everyday wear while still making a statement.

Your journey started in Mexico, influenced by your grandfather and mother’s natural remedies—how did those early experiences shape your approach to beauty?

My family has always been at the heart of my journey, especially my grandparents and parents, who were passionate about natural remedies. Growing up surrounded by this love for food and natural ingredients sparked my desire to create products that are both nourishing and free from toxins—much like the way I was raised. In 2002, I set out to develop beauty products that reflect this deep connection to nature and wellness.

Ere Perez products embody the philosophy of ‘beauty inside and out’—what does that mean to you?

Everything we put into our bodies has the potential to impact our health, and when we care for ourselves both inside and out, it reflects in healthy, radiant skin. To me, ‘beauty inside and out’ means that we need powerful, nutrient-rich ingredients ingested inside, but also absorbed topically, helping to nourish and heal from within.

What was the biggest challenge in creating a natural beauty line when you first launched in 2002?

My approach has always been less is more, focusing on safe, high-performance formulas that nourish and care for the skin without harmful ingredients. But when I first started, there wasn’t the level of awareness and resources available today. It was all about self-research, and gathering knowledge. While some brands in Australia were exploring sensitive safe skincare, free from parabens etc. truly toxic-free clean beauty was rare. It wasn’t until later, with the rise of mineral makeup, that the industry shifted and I knew I could create something wonderful.

What is one piece of beauty advice that you swear by?

Good sleep and maintaining a low-sugar diet are key to healthy, glowing skin. I also love using fruit skins, like tomato and papaya as a face mask whenever possible, as they’re full of natural antioxidants that can nourish and refresh the skin.

I would tell my younger self to embrace the present moment, live day by day with gratitude, and be open to new opportunities. Nurture human connections with a smile, as relationships are key, both in life and business.

At Ere Perez, we empower women by creating products that nourish the skin and promote self-confidence. Our clean, natural formulations allow women to feel their best, inside and out. We embrace values of integrity, sustainability, and positivity in everything we do, encouraging women to feel proud of their individuality and the beauty that comes with it. Through our products, we aim to uplift and celebrate women, making them feel empowered in their own skin.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about business or life, what would it be?

I would tell my younger self to embrace the present moment, live day by day with gratitude, and be open to new opportunities. Nurture human connections with a smile, as relationships are key, both in life and business.