Marianna Hewitt, 35, and Lauren Ireland, 34, are no strangers to the intricacies of beauty and skincare. As prominent Instagram influencers, they had the unique advantage of sampling numerous beauty products, discerning the hits from the misses. This extensive exposure inspired them to create their own line of skincare products, designed to cater to the needs of their dedicated followers. The result was the birth of Summer Fridays, with the Jet Lag Mask as its inaugural product.
The Jet Lag Mask's success was instantaneous and overwhelming, selling out within weeks of its launch. This ultra-hydrating mask, which can be applied either during flights or as a quick 10-minute treatment at home, resonated deeply with consumers. Its appeal lies not only in its efficacy but also in its versatility and ease of use. The mask's ability to hydrate and rejuvenate tired skin without the need for rinsing makes it a staple in skincare routines worldwide. On average, one Jet Lag Mask is sold every two minutes, a testament to its widespread popularity. Hewitt and Ireland's approach to product development is deeply rooted in their influencer backgrounds. They leveraged their social media communities as focus groups, gathering invaluable feedback on ingredients, efficacy, sustainability, and packaging. This direct line to their consumers allowed them to craft products that were not only effective but also aligned with their audience's desires. The Jet Lag Mask's recognisable blue aluminium tube became an Instagram and TikTok favourite, further amplifying its popularity through user-generated content.
Building on the success of the Jet Lag Mask, Summer Fridays expanded its product range, introducing favourites like the CC Me Serum, Dream Oasis Hydration Serum, and Lip Butter Balm. Each product launch was met with enthusiastic reception, as the brand continued to deliver on its promise of high-quality, effective skincare solutions. The brand's aesthetic, characterised by pastel colours and chic aluminium packaging, has also contributed to its appeal, making Summer Fridays a favourite among beauty enthusiasts globally.
Managing a burgeoning beauty brand while maintaining their influencer status requires meticulous planning and organisation. Hewitt and Ireland have perfected a routine that allows them to juggle both roles efficiently. They dedicate specific days to Summer Fridays, focusing on product development, financial planning, and marketing strategies. On alternate days, they create content for both their brand and other collaborations. This structured approach ensures they can devote ample time to each aspect of their careers without compromising on quality or engagement.
While based in Los Angeles, Summer Fridays has garnered a significant following internationally, with particularly strong support in Australia. Customers rave about the brand's commitment to quality and the transformative results they achieve from the products. The combination of effective formulas, aesthetically pleasing packaging, and a resonant brand story has solidified Summer Fridays' position as a global skincare powerhouse.
As Summer Fridays continues to grow, Hewitt and Ireland remain committed to their founding principles: creating skincare products with good-for-you ingredients and a brand story that resonates. Their journey from influencers to successful entrepreneurs exemplifies how passion, community engagement, and a keen understanding of the market can lead to extraordinary success. The brand's trajectory shows no signs of slowing down, promising continued innovation and expansion in the ever-evolving world of beauty.