As we celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March 2025, it’s an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible women who are business leaders and innovators in beauty, particularly those who battle societal expectations, gender biases, and the demands of family life—balancing the multifaceted roles of mother, student or therapist and business owner, while leading industry innovation.
When Madame Bachè came to Australia in 1954, she blended her passion for beauty, science, and entrepreneurship to create an Australian skincare brand, starting by selling products at David Jones counter in Sydney, and growing an extensive salon network, backed by a beauty college that today combines business and beauty.
Not unlike other women, our salon owners, therapists and students are also balancing the demands of being both mothers and business leaders. The challenges of raising children while running a business or studying are multifaceted as they balance the ever-present juggle between family life and professional growth, with a clear vision for success and refusing to let these challenges hold them back.
Like the countless other women juggling the challenges of motherhood and leading industry innovation, Ella Bache’s CEO Pippa Hallas, has openly shared how her Great Aunt, Madame Baché influenced her life.
“We all have generations that come before us, that influence us, are our role models before we even realize it. Mine was Ella.” Says Hallas. To her, Ella was a woman surrounded by amazing women, who owned their story and paved the way for our generation of woman.
“She taught us to be courageous and not let our gender define us,” shares Pippa.
In an industry rich with inspiring women, one of the things that sets Ella Bachè skincare apart is the sense of community they foster. Backed by the Ella Bachè College, the extensive salon network offers support for students, therapists and salon owners, knowing that the challenges of being a woman in business can otherwise feel isolating. The nurturing spirit of motherhood often extends into the workplace, with women mentoring each other, sharing knowledge, and lifting one another up.
“The power of community and collective strength is what helps women push boundaries while balancing their careers and family life.” says Pippa.
With Pippa leading the charge, Ella Bachè continues to innovate skincare and develop targeted salon treatments in the Australian market, long recognised for its harsh climates and abundant resources, that provide the locally sourced botanical ingredients that are used in Ella Bachè products today.
“IWD is always bittersweet. A celebration of woman who have come before us and our younger daughters, sisters and family. But I am saddened that we need to shine a light on a day for woman. So many still suffer from abuse of dis- empowerment for so many reasons. Today, reach out and support a woman in your life,” says Pippa.
We wish you a Happy International Women’s Day!