CONSCIOUS BEAUTY
The Clean Beauty Shoppe: A Sanctuary for Plant-Powered Skincare and Makeup
By Amy Kimball-Niepmann | Photos by Jon Rogers
Lake Louise Gillies’ journey to founding The Clean Beauty Shoppe is a testament to her resilience, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit. Raised in California, Lake’s path was far from linear, marked by significant life events that ultimately led her to establish a brand focused on health, beauty, and environmental sustainability.
“I’ve always been passionate about the earth, the environment, health, and beauty,” Lake shares. “Even when it wasn’t trendy, I was conscious about what I put on and in my body.” Her transition from education to entrepreneurship was driven by a desire to merge these passions into something impactful.
A Life-Altering Move
Lake’s educational background is impressive, with a degree from San Francisco State University and a master’s from Stanford University. She initially pursued a career in teaching, which she describes as entrepreneurial in its own right. “Teaching was kind of entrepreneurial because when my door closed, I was in charge, and I could do what I wanted,” she explains.
However, the demands of teaching and personal life changes, including a divorce, prompted a significant shift. Lake moved to Costa Rica, where she taught at the University of Costa Rica for three years in the Ecological Tourism Department. This move was transformative, allowing her to reflect on her passions and the direction she wanted her life to take.
“When I came back from Costa Rica, I asked myself, ‘What are you passionate about?’” Lake recalls. This introspection led her to the realization that her interests in health, beauty, and the environment could be the foundation for a new venture.
Birth of a Brand
Upon returning to the United States, Lake founded Lotus Moon, her flagship skincare brand. The creation of Lotus Moon was deeply personal. “My mother had eye surgery and wanted me to create an oil to help it heal instead of using petroleum,” Lake says. This challenge sparked her interest in essential oils and natural skincare solutions. The result was Skin Regen, an oil designed to aid cell regeneration, which became the first product in the Lotus Moon line.
“Lotus Moon celebrates 22 years this year,” Lake proudly notes. The brand’s name and logo came to her during meditation, symbolizing purity and renewal, much like the lotus flower that grows in muddy waters yet remains pristine.
With the success of Lotus Moon, Lake’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to explore other areas in the beauty industry. Recognizing the damaging effects of traditional makeup on the skin, she launched Plain Jane Beauty. The name itself was a reclamation of the term “Plain Jane,” transforming it from a negative connotation into a celebration of natural beauty.
“The names of the foundation shades are ‘I Am’ statements, like ‘I am joyful,’ ‘I am vibrant,’” Lake explains. “Every morning, when women put on their makeup, they are reading those positive affirmations.” This innovative approach not only addresses a gap in the market for healthy makeup options but also promotes self-love and confidence among users.
A Leap of Faith
In search of a more supportive business environment, ten years ago, Lake and her husband Edgar moved from California to Georgia. “The Bay Area got too expensive, and there was no business support,” Lake explains. This bold move was prompted by a strong intuition during a flight back from a business trip. “I got that nudge that we were supposed to move,” she recalls.
The transition was significant, involving the relocation of their entire business operation. “We decided in October, packed everything into two 55-foot trailers, and moved in May,” Lake recounts. Despite the challenges, the move proved to be the right decision. “Everyone in Atlanta was so welcoming. We love it here.”
The Clean Beauty Shoppe
The Clean Beauty Shoppe is the culmination of Lake’s experiences and vision. Located along a busy highway in Suwanee, the shop serves as a haven for those seeking natural and effective skincare products. It features both Lotus Moon and Plain Jane Beauty, offering customers a range of products that are kind to their skin and the environment.
“Opening a brick-and-mortar store was a dream come true,” Lake says. “We had been operating as an ecommerce business for years, but having a physical space allows us to connect more personally with our customers.” The store’s ambiance reflects Lake’s philosophy of mindfulness and well-being, providing a serene shopping experience.
Looking Ahead
As Lake reflects on her journey, she remains passionate about her mission. “I want to continue creating products that are good for the skin and the planet,” she says. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of following one’s passion and the impact it can have on the world.
Lake’s entrepreneurial journey is far from over. With her unwavering dedication and innovative spirit, The Clean Beauty Shoppe is poised to continue making waves in the beauty industry, one natural product at a time.
The Clean Beauty Shoppe is located at3550 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd, Suite 109, in Suwanee. For more information, go to CleanBeautyShoppe.com or call 470-655-9961.
