Name: Eden Gilliam
Brand: Eve Milan NYC
Established December, 2009
Hometown: White Plains, New York

What motivated you to start Eve Milan NYC?

The motivation behind the brand was definitely me trying to find a way to create generational wealth. I started the company at 19 years old as a teen mom and as a way to support my daughter. The name of the brand is actually an acronym that combines both of our initials together. Creating this brand was a way of me saying “just because you became a mother doesn’t mean your aspirations go on the back burner.”

What would you consider your hero product from your brand?

The hero product of the brand is definitely our sheet masks. That was the first product we launched. There are no black owned beauty brands that make sheet mask so we wanted to solidify ourselves in that space and we did.

What standards/non-negotiables do you take into consideration when thinking about enhancing or developing new products?

Ingredients! I’m big on what’s in the products and what it’s going to do for my customers. The brand is big on herbal ingredients and moisture and things that are beneficial both internally and externally.

What do you think are some of the biggest challenges for "beauty/wellness" brands today?

I would say awareness, having people know you exist. It’s such a noisy world everyone is talking, posting, starting something new and when your vibe is different it can be challenging at first to figure out how to stand out amongst all the noise.

What has been one of your proudest moments since creating Eve Milan NYC?

One of the proudest moments recently would be now that we are growing and looking for people to work with the brand we don’t have to introduce ourselves. When people say “oh, I know exactly who you are” that’s a pretty dope feeling.

What can we expect in the future from Eve Milan NYC?

In the future you can expect to see more sheet masks from us and some fun innovative nutritional products. 

What advice would you give customers who want to make the most out of your brand?

I definitely tell all my clients to think outside of the box and to use our products everywhere. If you have back acne use our cleanser and exfoliants on your back. If you have ingrown hairs in places use our products there. Skincare is more than just your face.

How do you start your day?

In my email, that’s so horrible! I need to be more conscious and pray first but that’s honest. I most definitely look in my email first thing in the morning.

Do you have a morning/evening ritual?

My morning ritual or one thing I can’t live without in the morning would be a glass of water and a fresh green juice or warm tea. I believe in waking my body up gently. At night one of my mantras is, never miss your nighttime skincare routine. And I also love to stretch at night.

What is your daily skincare routine?

I’m a 3 step Queen! My life is hectic so I cleanse with Gentle Cleansing Gel, a little pick me up with a Hydrating Toner and then SPF. At night I cleanse, exfoliate and treat with a serum. 90% of the time that’s my routine.

Do you have a daily wellness routine?

Deep breathes, letting go of things that don’t make my spirit feel good. And definitely keeping an agenda. That might sound far from a wellness routine but organization keeps my mind less stress, less chaos. A planner is my wellness staple.

What is a beauty product or tool you can’t live without?

Mascara & Lip Gloss

What do you do for R&R when you need to reboot?

I lock myself in the bathroom, light a candle and soak in magnesium flakes. I love a good bath and some Jhene Aiko.

What are your must haves when traveling?

Money!! Lol A pair of comfortable sneakers for sure.

What selfcare advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago?

“Eden be confident” loving yourself and believing in yourself gets you so far and it helps you to avoid situations you don’t belong in.

Do you have any beauty/wellness advice for our followers?

Learn how to manage your stress. I see how it can effect so many areas of life negatively. As women we deal with sooooo much and we are so big on looking good and looking like everything is okay. Truly be well on the inside.