Glitterevolution brings a guilt-free glitter for humans to shine brighter these holidays while spreading the word of glitter not fun if it’s made out of plastic. With this biodegradable glitter, you will indulge yourself, shine like an eco-warrior and support the donations to 5 Gyres for ocean plastic pollution research and education!! Because no one likes to see mermaids extinguish, here’s the truly Glitterevolution – made from plants, not plastic.
We interview Wendy, the daughter of this 2-women-led business and founders of this biodegradable glitter brand. They have partnered up with 5 Gyres, a US-based non-profit that is focused on fighting the epidemic of global plastic, same as Glitterevolution. Are you ready to shine?
What made you, mum and daughter, start a glitter, shining and stunning business?
It happened by accident! The whole story is on our website. But basically, I was struck by inspiration and then got obsessed. My mom got roped into it later, as she started helping me little by little.
What plants are used to produce the biodegradable glitter?
It’s made with regenerated cellulose film that’s derived from sustainably sourced eucalyptus trees. Because it’s plant-based, it goes back to nature quickly and easily once we are done using it. And unlike mica based mineral glitters, we don’t have to rely on a mineral that is nonrenewable and requires dangerous mining practices to extract from the Earth.
How does the production process look like?
All our glitters are mixed and packaged in California. I do the testing and product development and once I have the colour worked out just right, my mom takes over the ongoing manufacturing, packaging and shipping. It’s perfect because I love the creative process and she loves managing all the details.
We also see you give back, could you explain a bit more about the organisations’ mission?
5 Gyres is a US-based non-profit that is focused on fighting the epidemic of global plastic pollution, just like we are. That’s why they’re the perfect cause partner for us. We love that they are using science, education and adventure as the way to spread their message. We love raising awareness and having fun at the same time. It helps keep people engaged in the conversation because they don’t feel lectured to.
Do you think that many glitter-lovers were aware that glitter is made out of plastic? Have you found any reactions worth sharing?
When we started our business in 2016 most people we talked to had no idea that glitter was made of plastic. It was something they’d never really thought about or considered. A lot has shifted in 2.5 years. Thanks to a few viral news stories and the growth of the anti-plastic movement in general, a lot more people are aware. Now it’s more about educating people about the alternatives.
Aside from the materials, how different does Glitterevolution biodegradable glitter feel if you compare to the plastic-based brands?
It’s much softer on the skin because it’s cosmetic grade. Traditional glitter is not only bad for the environment, but it’s also often only craft quality, so that is not really something you should be putting on your face.
What kind of packaging do you use?
Our packaging is plastic free, always has been. We use aluminium containers for the fine and superfine blends and glass vials for the chunky blends.
You are based in California, how does a social entrepreneurial venture look like there? Do you feel there’s a change happening in the US in general?
We love seeing that there are so many for-purpose small businesses popping up everywhere. Many of them are women led. We like to partner with them whenever we can.
What has been the greatest success of the brand so far?
I think that as a small business owner, simply surviving the first two years is a huge accomplishment. The system is stacked against us, in favour of big business, so it’s not so easy to make this work. We’ve had to sacrifice a lot and we’ve had to say no a lot. The fact that I’ve managed to keep the growth at a pace that the work excites me without exhausting me is no small feat of magic!
Is there any advice you’d like to give to other businesses trying to make a difference for good?
Always remember why you started. Never compromise on your values. Grow slowly.
If you could write a message on a big wall that the entire world could read, what would it say?
Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. It takes all of us changing things in our own small ways, to create a massive global shift in very big ways.
Finally, where can we find you? Shops, online, worldwide…?
At the Glitterevolution online store and we ship globally. Our retail stockists are primarily in the US, Canada and Thailand. But that’s growing as we find more like-hearted store owners that share our ethos. Join our journey on Facebook or Instagram.
Is there any other similar brand you know or are curious about? Comment below, and we will make it happen!
