FGI Rising Star Honoree D’Andra Simmons Chats with PinkMemo

November’s “Night of Stars” gala presented by Fashion Group International Dallas is getting closer! This week we chatted with Rising Star honoree for Beauty – D’Andra Simmons.

PM: What inspired you to create Hard Night Good Morning?

DS: My background is in nutrition and skin care. I have worked with my mother for the last 15 years in product development and formulation of nutrition and skin care products for her company, Ultimate Living and Dee Simmons Skin Care. Hard Night Good Morning was the result of my years of hands-on experience in the lab, my meetings with raw material providers, as well as my interviews with countless women as I traveled the globe to speak to them regarding their skin care concerns and preferred regimen, while researching new and unique ingredients.

PM: What is the one beauty product you can’t live without?

DS: Hard Night Good Morning Facial Cocktail Serum, the original product that started it all! This has been named everything from an “overnight sensation” to a “boozehound’s best friend”. It is a lifter, toner; tightener and primer that give you a glowing appearance and make you look as if you have had a restful night’s sleep even if you haven’t slept a wink!

PM: Where is your favorite place to buy beauty and skin care products?

DS: My website! I shop everywhere, but for beauty products I mostly shop in stores like Ulta, Sephora and Spas and online as well. Most of my makeup is purchased at skin care shows and through wholesale companies. Also, you can find me at the Nordstrom or Neiman’s makeup counter for something special or specific I need like a hot lip color by a particular designer etc. For lashes I go to Lemmon Wig. They are a real deal or steal at a dollar a pair!

PM: Where do you hope to see your business in 5 years?

DS: I hope to see Hard Night Good Morning and D’Andra Simmons become household names, and two separate but equally identifiable brands. I want to be known as the “luxury brand at an affordable price.”  I learned a long time ago that you make a lot more money being the “Queen of Target” and selling volume to the masses.

PM: Who is your favorite designer and why?

DS: Sara Blakely – how did we ever live before Spanx? Oscar de la Renta- his clothes are feminine and flirty and made to accentuate a woman’s curves (of which I have an abundance). Also, Annette de la Renta is my fiancée Colin Duchin’s godmother, so maybe the stars aligned when we met!

PM: What accomplishments are you most proud of?

DS: The success of my skin care line, Hard Night Good Morning and my daily TV Talk show “Ultimate Living with D’Andra and Dee.” This year I am one of eight recipients to receive the Distinguished Women’s Award from Northwood University.  This past February I chaired the Junior League of Dallas, “Into Africa” Ball.  I am the Media Spokesperson for AIDS Services of Dallas. I am most proud of the fact that I champion the cause of eradicating this disease, and helping those who are suffering with its consequences without caring what other people think about my decision to do so.

For more information about of this year’s Fashion and Lifestyle Award honorees and to purchase a ticket or table at the event visit SCOOP.

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