Meet Kate O’Grady - Licensed Esthetician, Educator and Owner of Kate O’Grady Skincare

Are you interested in getting your products in the hands of aestheticians? This is a VERY different experience than working with other types of retailers. Here’s a little insight on how it all works from Kate O’Grady - who in addition to her extensive experience and wealth of knowledge is responsible for keeping my own skin in the best shape!

So, who are you exactly? Tell us!

I’m Kate O’Grady, Licensed Esthetician, Educator and Owner of Kate O’Grady Skincare located in Saratoga Springs, NY.

How did you get your start?

I went back to school at 31 after realizing my hoarding of beauty samples and New Beauty magazines could be a career. I was initially drawn to the industry because of my interest in oncology esthetics.

You offer services but also retail. What types of products do you look for to bring in - both backbar and retail?

I offer products for the care of the skin, body and nails along with makeup and at home tools and devices. When bringing in new lines, I listen to the needs of my clients and try to fill in the gaps. This way items move and I don’t have much backstock sitting around because the need is there.

Can you share a little about the differences between the types of product you look for in the treatment room vs retail?

When searching out a backbar, unedited before and afters, white papers and educational opportunities are at the top of my checklist. I also want to see backbar exclusive products. A large amount of SKUs is not necessary. Much can be accomplished with 3-4 exfoliators and 2-3 serums. Green Envee was my first retail line. I was attracted to the experience through packaging, aroma and ingredients. They have clear labeling of “Gluten Free” or “Nut Free” too. I find allergen labeling becoming more necessary and helps build brand loyalty.

How do your clients purchase products via recommendations from you? Can you walk me through what that might look like?

I have consults with every new client. For in-studio, I utilize an old fashioned branded prescription pad that lays out when and how to use the products and what a treatment plan would look like. I also incorporate Shop.My.Shelf for virtual consults. Everything I sell in-store is available to purchase through my website. I won’t work with a brand that does not allow online sales. I’m too small of a retailer to exclude the opportunity for an online sale.

What types of products do your clients seem to enjoy?

They want results. Educating the customer is my #1 so they understand the why and how to use a product. I’m also located in the northeast, so I’m big on seasonal skincare. We go from balms and heavier weight moisturizers in the winter to barely there BB creams in the summer. They like finding and sticking to a brand that can take them on that journey.

As a retailer, what appeals to you about a brand?

The people. Everyone can make pretty packaging, but if the dreamers behind the brand don’t align with my values as a company then it's a no go. 

How important are things like low opening orders, brand reps etc. in your decisions as to what retail to bring in?

This may come as a surprise especially as a small business owner, but low opening orders is actually something that I don’t look for. I find low openings lead to oversaturation. Location exclusivity is a must. I’ve passed on a number of brands because they are readily available down the street. I love building meaningful relationships with brands. When I lived in LA, I worked at a small cosmeceutical company where every month I would start at the top of my accounts list and do a check in call. No matter how small or big the client was, I took the time to let them know I was here for them and their success. I want that in the brands I partner with.

What are some of your favorite brands right now? Why?

Green Envee and Environ have been my go to since opening. Whether it's the luxurious experience of using Green Envee or the results that clients get with Environ, they’ve been my mainstays. The active facial oils from Biography NYC are a dream and I can’t wait to see what the line expands to in the coming year. Claws Out is a fun nail polish brand that donates 20% of their profits to different causes depending on the color. My clients love choosing their shade based upon the cause especially when it comes to gifting.

What are your favorite things about working in the beauty industry?

The evolution. Both personally and professionally. When I graduated I went right into doing my own thing. I started off with deep peels and the idea that trauma was the only way that a client would see changes in their skin. Overtime, my skin soul changed. My work became more therapeutic and holistic resulting in longer lasting results and my clients really appreciate that side of my skincare philosophy.

What is one thing you would like brand founders to know about you?

That I love to share and spread the love! I’m passionate about every product I carry. If I didn’t love it, it wouldn’t be on the shelves. The growth of my business is based on the success of the brands that I partner with. I want us all to succeed.

What is one thing about you no one would ever guess?

I’ve been performing since I was 7. I love the theater and have studied around the world. My last show was 10 years ago. It was an amazing cast who have gone on to win fancy awards and have bountiful careers. It was a great send off. Maybe I’ll go back one day, but for now the performance exists in my facials. Every facial is like a dance. It keeps me on my toes.

Minimalist or maximalist?

Minimalist for sure (except for my cleanser collection). From my clothes to shoes and believe it or not, my daily skincare regimen. I consistently use only 5 products between my morning and night routine.