Naturally Safe Meets: Tarj Mavi - Creator of La Mav

(3 minute read)

In this article, we go behind the scenes to talk to Tarj Mavi, to find out what inspired her to start Australia’s first and largest organic skin care brand – LAMAV.

Founder of LAMAV organic skincare and natural makeup brand - Tarj Mavi (image: supplied)

When did you start your business & why?

After the birth of my second child, I developed a severe case of postpartum pigmentation and as I was not able to find a solution that was both effective and not harmful for my health, I decided to turn to nature. I was still breastfeeding and it was extremely important for me to find an alternative that was 100% toxic-free. So, I took my knowledge as a scientist and my experience in the development field and started formulating products based on healthy, effective, organic ingredients that are good for our bodies, good for the planet and good for the generations to come. Long story short - this is how, in 2008, LAMAV came into being.

How does your business reflect you as a person?

I like transparency, which is why I am honest about company’s values and goals, and above all - about the ingredients we use in our products.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your business and what lessons have you learnt during your LAMAV journey?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced was educating our customers about the importance of making the switch to organic personal care products. I took me a lot of time and I put a lot of effort in it, but it was totally worth it. What I’ve learnt is that persistence and patience are essential for achieving your goals.

Were there times you wanted to give up and, if so, how did you overcome them?

I am really passionate about everything I do, and I suppose that this is what keeps me going through tough moments. So far, I’ve never thought about giving it all up – I love LAMAV!

If you could, would you do anything differently?

I believe that everything in this life happens for a reason, therefore I wouldn’t change anything – I am where I am thanks to all things that happened to me throughout the years – both good and bad.

What’s the best advice you ever received?

Trust your guts. Your heart will never mislead you.

What is your definition of success: do you have ‘successful’ work habits?

To do everything you do with love.

What’s your best moment so far as a business owner?

Seeing the positive change – more and more people are adopting the organic lifestyle and this makes me very happy! I feel I’ve achieved one of my main goals and this gives me incredible satisfaction.

How do you ensure a healthy work-life balance?

I try to sleep well, eat well and take some “me time” no matter how busy my schedule is. I also finish every day with Bikram yoga - it keeps me fit and it helps me relax and take the stress away. I spend every free moment I can get with my family – they are the most important part of my life and even one hour with them gives me a lot of energy and motivation to move on and do my best at everything.

How is LAMAV different to other organic skincare brands and how do you stand out in a growing marketplace?

We are the first brand to successfully infuse our mineral makeup with Certified Organic Rosehip Oil and vitamin C and the first one that launched an all-organic BB cream on the market.

Here I’d like to mention that all LAMAV products were created after years of extensive research. We use carefully selected organic ingredients that provide visible long-lasting results. All returning customers are the best proof that our products work.

Where do you see the organic skincare/organic beauty industry going in the future?

The industry is growing very rapidly and new brands are being created literally every day. The market is very competitive, but I see this as a plus - we are constantly trying to create new, better products or reformulate old ones in order to increase their effectiveness. The future for the organic skin care industry is definitely bright.