Founder

PHOTO CREDIT: ALYSSA FIORAVANTI

Q: When did you start PLUS ULTRA and why?

I first came up with the idea for PLUS ULTRA during my undergrad when trying to come up with a way to decrease plastic pollution. When I learned how much plastic was thrown away each year with toothbrushes, I knew that was it. It was a pipe dream at the time, but now years later, we’ve been able to build a really exciting brand centered around things that are so important to me. I’m so proud of where we are!

Q: How did you get started?

Honestly, I’d love to say I got a nice break and this was easy but it was nothing short of blood, sweat and tears, and grinding with a second job at Whole Foods to build knowledge and create relationships. While I did start the company on my own, I can not say how much value came from the relationships I built along the journey, from friends to advisors and everything in between. 

Q: Aside from PLUS ULTRA, how do you spend your free time?

Aah, PLUS ULTRA takes up a lot of time, but I’m fortunate to still be really excited and passionate about it, so it doesn’t feel so much like work. 

That said, I definitely take time to enjoy- traveling, caring for the environment, morning rituals, infrared saunas, decaf oat milk lattes, collecting kimonos and robes, Hong Kong, Puerto Rico, french red wine, teaching kids about oral hygiene and the environment, trying new skincare brands, bikram yoga, quiet beaches and learning how to fly (lol... but seriously I'm in flight school).

Q: What are your current top 5 favorite products for self care/ beauty rituals?

Oohhh I love this topic! Currently, these are my daily favs. 

1. Tata Harper's Restorative Eye Cream
2. Josh Rosebrook's Active Serum (and his face wash is amazing too)
3. Le Labo's Hinoki Shower Gel 
4. Necessaire's The Body Lotion 
5. Lesse's Refining Cleanser

Q: One piece of advice for a young female founder just getting started? 

I know this is going to sound cliche, but if you really believe in your idea don't give up. You might need to pivot or move in a different direction that you had envisioned, but you are still excited about it- keep going!