For us it was important to create articles, videos, and accessible customer service. I approached my sister Madison with the idea and she quickly fell in love with it. Together we’ve developed a sophisticated way of marketing products to men (something that is historically sexist and absurd). We started fulfilling orders out of my loft in Downtown Los Angeles and then quickly set-up an office in Silverlake. Silverlake is great. It’s home to a thriving creative community and really amazing coffee shops, restaurants, and stores.
Since launching we’ve noticed huge changes in the grooming industry. Men are demanding more from the products they use. Is a good shaving cream really too much to ask for?! I’m finding men are also more comfortable talking about their grooming habits. They get so excited when I tell them that I work in shaving and skincare – they start talking about their grooming routines and what that they want to solve. [Laughs] My favorite product is the Port Products Balancing Daily Moisturizer. I’ve had oily skin my entire life but didn’t realize until recently that it can be balanced, and that my irritation and breakouts stemmed from that battle. The Balancing Daily Moisturizer provides a healthy amount of hydration, good-for-your-skin oils and ingredients (like bamboo extract, which is great for reducing redness). It’s also an anti-shine moisturizer, so it’s great for guys that get oily during the day.
Even though I’m constantly trying a lot of products, I like to keep my dopp kit light. I have 5-6 products that I use on a daily basis – my Port Products Detoxifying Daily Cleanser, Port Products Balancing Daily Moisturizer, Buckler’s Chapped Skin Remedy, Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes (perfect for a mid day pick-me-up), Urth Skin Solutions for Men Botanical Face Mask and The Motley Bergamo Cologne. I carry a Buckler’s Chapped Skin Remedy wherever I go. It’s like a super thick all-in-one moisturizing product. You can use it as a hand cream, body cream, dab a bit onto dry lips or even on sunburn.
Darren Criss has been a fan of The Motley for a couple of years – and quickly became a friend. We bonded over our experiences in the music industry and also our passion for grooming. After shopping with us and seeing what we were all about, he wanted to meet. Madison and I never thought we’d partner with a celebrity – but Darren is much more than that. He’s such a well-loved personality. He knows everybody and understands the business and our growth strategy. He’s become a great resource.
– Matthew Taylor Ruggieri, wearing a life/after/denim shirt, photographed by Alexander Atkins in Santa Monica, California. Visit The Motley by clicking here.
