Firm Foundation Two entrepreneurs build a cosmetics empire based on flawless faces and celebrity clients.
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Vital Stats: Lisa Thurman (l.), 45, and Sue Katz, 46, ofAmazingCosmetics in Libertyville, Illinois
Company: Cosmetics manufacturer
Projected 2006 sales: $2 million
Formula one: In 1999, when Thurman approached friend andmakeup artist Katz to start a cosmetics company, they instantlyknew what their first product would be: a concealer that woulderase rather than cover up skin imperfections. "No one knowsyou're wearing anything," swears Thurman. The partners anda patient chemist worked extensively to create the perfectformula.
Beauty queens: Through cosmetic karma in 2000, Katz andThurman were able to get their AmazingConcealer into a catalog forspa and cosmetics company Bliss and noticed by the founder of theCloutier Agency, an agency for professional image-makers.Cloutier's cadre of makeup artists received samples andintroduced the product to clients including Demi Moore and NicoleKidman. Says Katz, "[Having celeb-rity clients] is a great wayto build a brand!"
Coloring kit:AmazingCosmetics expanded its line withproducts including mineral face powder and eye shadows, stickingwith neutral colors. Its new Perfectly Amazing kit comes with aninstructional DVD featuring a Hollywood makeup artist. The cosmeticline is found in select Nordstrom and Sephora stores, in mostUltas, and on the company's website. Katz and Thurman hope toexpand internationally to Canada, Japan and Korea; they'vealready found huge success on QVC and QVC UK.
Age defying: Entering the supercompetitive cosmeticsindustry wasn't too intimidating for Katz and Thurman, who areboth married with children. "I don't think I could havedone it in my 20s," says Katz. "I didn't have theconfidence." Thurman agrees. "I feel like I'm a latebloomer. Having children gave me confidence."
