The Business of Beauty

Born shortly after the turn of the 20th century, Josephine Ester Mentzer was one of nine children born to Hungarian Jewish immigrants in Queens, New York. Her father owned a hardware store which she and her siblings worked at during their childhood. Josephine, who would later become known by her nickname Estee, gained valuable insight into entrepreneurial skills and what it took to be successful in retail. While in high school, Estee became enthralled with her uncle’s business. Dr. John Schotz, a chemist, created lotions, makeup and fragrances for women. Upon completing high school, Estee started selling her uncle’s products to friends as well as beauty salons and resorts.

Estee married Joseph Lauder in the early 1930s and continued to sell beauty products wherever she could. Together with her husband, Estee Lauder started making her own products; and in 1947, Estee Lauder Inc. was born. In 1948, Estee convinced Saks Fifth Avenue in New York to display her products. Her initial supply of product sold out in just two days, securing her space at the popular department store.

Estee Lauder added a variety of new brands to their collection including White Linen, Origins and M.A.C., while continuing to introduce new lotions, cosmetics and fragrances through the Estee Lauder brand. Although Estee passed away in 2004, her legacy lives on. The company has more than $3.6 million in sales annually and is available in countries worldwide. Her passion for beauty and her products were inspirational to all who knew her.