BRHQ Behind The Scenes: Merilyn aka Queenie

by BR Kellie

BR Merilyn, aka Queenie. Our one, our only dynamic, delightful, divine founder of Beauty Review. I remember how knee quiveringly nervous I was to meet with her in order to talk about joining the BR Crew. I literally spent hours agonising over what to wear, what I'd say and how I'd impress someone who'd created a community that I, as a then member, adored. I was sure she'd take one look at me and dismiss me with a flick of regal hand. Instead I was welcomed with a warm smile and an even warmer hug. Since that first interview I've had the privilege of getting to know an intelligent, creative, forward-thinking woman, who also has one of the biggest hearts around. While this interview in no way does her brilliance justice, I hope it gives you a goodly glimpse into our fearless and fabulous leader and her day-to-day life.

What inspired you to create Beauty Review?

I'd noticed that people were no longer just believe what advertising said and were looking for more authentic sources of whether products worked or not. When it came to reviews, the only beauty reviews in existence were on brand sites, so I thought... What if we set up an independent community where people in an independent space could review products they’ve used, and then review new products that were coming to the market? And that thought seeded what flourished into Beauty Review.

How has it felt seeing Beauty Review grow over the years?

It's been really exiting. Especially seeing how it’s developed into a community. We’ve people who’ve been with us since we first launched, and they’re still here ten years on. It's also been great to see friends made within the community.

I've also loved seeing Beauty Review become New Zealand's most trusted source of information about beauty products, with our Top Rated badge now the most recognised beauty award in New Zealand.

What does your average Beauty Review day look like?

Generally it will start off with me checking emails to see what new campaigns have come on board. I'll also look at new trial teams for clients, as well as checking how products are tracking in trials.

There's also meeting with our team for planning articles and briefing on trial teams. Checking in on the site. Looking at research. Oh, and LOTS of client meetings, which involve everything from talking about what's coming up for Beauty Review to recommending marketing strategy. We're busy and I wouldn't have it any other way.

What do you most love about being part of Beauty Review?

The great team that we work with, obviously. What I enjoy about our team is the flexibility we have. We’re not all in the office as most of the team have young kids, and it’s a buzz to give them the flexibility to have full times jobs but run their work around their families.

Care to share your favourite skincare, cosmetic and haircare products?

For skincare I’m hard pressed to nail something down as I'm lucky that in this job we get a lot of opportunity to try a lot of products, and I have the type of skin that can tolerate pretty much anything, so when it comes to skincare I’ll throw anything on it and be happy.

When it comes to haircare I don’t think you need to spend a lot to get a great product. Elvive from L’Oréal is my favourite product range.

As for makeup? I've gone through many tubes of Mellow Liquid Lip Paint. The formula is amazing.

Have you found any lifelong loves working at Beauty Review?

One of the most surprising products that I bought after seeing the results of the trial team, was the Braun Epilator. I’ve never used one because of the horrendous stories from back in the day, but I wouldn’t be without it. It’s like you’ve had your arms and legs professionally waxed, and it only takes five minutes.

Do tell… What’s your best bit of beauty advice?

Take the time to watch a YouTube clip to how to curl your hair with straighteners. You won’t regret it. Don’t persevere on your own – you’ll end up looking like you’re wired to the national grid.

Finally, what are your hopes for the future of Beauty Review?

In the next few months we’ll clock over 150,000 independent reviews, and we’ve some great ideas for making those reviews more accessible at point of purchase, which I'm excited to work on. I see the future of Beauty Review as being a great tool for people to help them make the best beauty shopping decisions.

So, do tell, how long have you been part of our Beauty Review community? And what products have you discovered since being a member that you wouldn't be without? Get chatting below!