Women Entrepreneur Launches Sustainable Cosmetics Biz.
Paige DeAngelo, a member of the Class of 2023 majoring in Communications, arrived at Drexel University with aspirations of pursuing a dual path in meteorology and journalism. However, an unexpected visit to CVS Pharmacy set in motion a remarkable journey that led her to become an entrepreneur, and she is about to unveil her business venture this month.
The story of DeAngelo's sustainable mascara brand, Aer Cosmetics, involves several pivotal moments. While she was initially drawn to meteorology and journalism, her passion for dance and makeup was equally strong.
A long-time dancer, she had been using makeup since childhood due to her involvement in dance performances. Although her original career path focused on meteorology and sustainability, her passion for makeup and dance remained a constant part of her life.
During her time at Drexel, she joined the Drexel Dance team and pursued journalism, covering sustainability topics for the university's television news show, "Inside Ambition."
This experience led her to promote waste reduction strategies for college students, but she realised she wasn't applying those concepts to her own life, particularly regarding makeup waste.
Motivated by this realisation, DeAngelo embarked on a journey to find sustainable makeup options. When she couldn't find a suitable solution, she decided to create her own: a water-soluble mascara tablet that could refill a tube instead of being replaced entirely.
This ambitious endeavour led her to the Entrepreneurship Co-op programme at Drexel's Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship. Through this programme, DeAngelo's business idea gained momentum, and she honed her pitching skills through competitions.
Her venture, Aer Cosmetics, gained recognition for its innovative vegan mascara formula and its commitment to sustainability. DeAngelo's inspiring personal story and solid business concept earned her a place in the U.S. finals of the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA), a competition akin to "Shark Tank" for college students.
DeAngelo's journey showcases the transformational power of entrepreneurial education and experiential learning. Her passion for sustainability and makeup led her to switch her major concentration to public relations and add a minor in entrepreneurship and innovation. With the support of her advisor, Chuck Sacco, and the resources at the Baiada Institute for Entrepreneurship, she transitioned from pitching ideas to actualising her business vision.
DeAngelo's determination resulted in the creation of a vegan, cruelty-free mascara formula that promotes lash growth and offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative. Her goal of making sustainability accessible to everyone resonates throughout her venture. With an agreement in place with a Florida-based manufacturer, she is on track to launch Aer Cosmetics officially at the end of August.
Looking forward, DeAngelo is assembling a design team to handle packaging and social media outreach. As she prepares for preorders and shipping, she recognises the transition from student to full-time entrepreneur. Her journey exemplifies the possibilities that arise when passion, education, and entrepreneurship intersect.
DeAngelo's dedication to creating positive change through accessible and sustainable products encapsulates the essence of innovation and empowerment. As she navigates this exciting new chapter, she anticipates contributing her newfound knowledge to Drexel's entrepreneurial community while eagerly embracing the unpredictable path ahead.
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Source: Drexel News
