Jen Mathews leads us through a perfect day in LA, complete with a tonic bar, her go-to market and cruelty-free beauty shops
The definition of a female hustler, Jen Mathews is the president of blogger consulting company, Top Tier Media and the founder and editor-in-chief of cruelty-free beauty blog, My Beauty Bunny.
“I started my blog in 2009 with the intent of getting more people to buy cruelty-free beauty products without judgment or shock-value images. I personally believe everyone should do what they can to become a more cruelty-free-conscious consumer when they are ready, and on their own terms,” says Mathews. “When I started buying cruelty-free products, the Leaping Bunny logo on the back would often be the deciding factor between two products. As time went on, I became more strict. Educate yourself and others, and do what you can.”
With events such as Beautycon and Generation Beauty, Los Angeles lends itself to bloggers like Mathews.
“Brands are constantly hosting beauty events for influencers, which is really great for networking and learning about the latest products. There are also quite a few makeup and beauty conferences and trade shows as well,” says Matthews. “I’ve also been lucky enough to meet and become friends with many of my fellow beauty bloggers.”
When she’s not logged into her computer or glammed up for a beauty event, Mathews explores the city with her fiancé.
“My fiancé and I love to play with our dog and two cats, eat at new restaurants, see the latest movies and shop for beauty products,” Mathews says. “If we’re being honest, I love to shop for beauty products, my fiancé ... not so much!”
The self-diagnosed social media addict found a cure in retail therapy. After all, you can’t swatch makeup and post to Instagram at the same time.
Fairfax, $$
Jen Mathews: I love to come in the evenings for dinner, people watching and shopping. There are so many different varieties of ethnic restaurants—always something new to try. And if you love hot sauce, check out Light My Fire—they have everything!
Larchmont, $$$
JM: You can find mainstream and indie beauty products here. They have a big selection, and the employees are very helpful if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Valley Village, $$
JM: Naimie’s is well known as a beauty mecca. They have (just about) everything a beauty lover could want. If you’re a makeup artist, stylist or blogger, ask about the industry and press discounts.
Beverly Grove, $$$
JM: The Detox Market is one of the first green beauty boutiques I’ve ever seen. They sell only high-end, cruelty-free beauty products with clean ingredients. They host a lot of special events for locals.
Beverly Grove, $$
JM: Credo sells cruelty free beauty products that are made with safe ingredients. You can also get Tata Harper spa treatments, makeup application and makeup lessons.
Fairfax, $$$
JM: I spend way too much money on food and beauty products from Erewhon! They say if it’s here, it’s good for you! There are a lot of celebrities who frequent this store. I’ve talked to James Cromwell and spotted Famke Janssen.
Venice, Melrose, and Silverlake, $$
JM: Moon Juice - You can get fresh juice, smoothies, tonics, and healthy snacks at the super cute Melrose Place location.
Santa Monica
JM: I love a good tonic bar, and this brand new spot has beautifully hand-crafted herbal tonics for health and beauty.
