As Assistant Vice President of Integrated Consumer Communications at essie (the iconic nail brand that is part of L’Oréal USA), Greenwich resident Liz Hanigan says she has her dream job. “I’ve been in love with the beauty industry since is started as a beauty editor at Shape Magazine in 2003. After four years at Shape, I accepted a role at L’Oréal and have been with the company almost 12 years,” says Liz. We spoke to the mom of two about her cool career, family life in Greewnich and more.
Can you please tell us a little bit about your family and where you live in Greenwich?
My husband, Shan and I live in Byram with our two sons. Henry is 19 months old and James is 9 weeks (we are busy!) This summer marks our fourth year in our home.
Why did you choose your neighborhood?
I love living in a different part of town than I grew up in. I grew up closer to town, on Glenville Road. When we were moving out of NYC and looking at houses, we wanted a place to start our own little family, plus we love that we can walk to the beach from our house!
Sounds lovely. What is your favorite part of living in the ‘burbs?
Everything! After a day of working in the city, there is nothing better than coming home to space and greenery! The weekends are so much nicer with lots of things to do for adults and kids. Plus, my family and most of my friends are out here. Best of all, it’s an amazing place for children to grow up in!
How would you describe your job with essie?
In my current role, I oversee all communications for the brand, including public relations, influencer/celebrity relationships, partnerships, social media, paid media, platform and data collection.
Such a cool job! What’s your typical go-to style?
I love dresses – they’re so easy as it’s one piece and I’m done. Especially these days, I barely have enough time to get dressed. I’m a beauty junkie, so I have a few products that I use everyday and I’m obsessed with, but it all starts with skincare! I love the Beauty Rx 10% Glycolic peel pads to keep my skin clear and glowing. For makeup- I use a tinted moisturizer all over, Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer under my eyes and wherever else needed, then I top everything off with the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Finishing Powder. A little blush, a swipe of the Tom Ford Skin Illuminating Powder Duo and always curl my lashes and finish with mascara – usually Maybelline Lash Discovery. Don’t forget a good mani too!
Of course! Since you’re on the front line of trends, what are some that you love right now?
I love clean glowy skin – in my opinion, this will always be “in”. I’m always a fan of subtle, classy nail art. These days, if I can sneak out for a manicure, it’s my “me time” of the week. I’ve been sticking to neutral shades like ‘hi maintenance’ and ‘topless and barefoot’ (by essie of course) and always topping it with the gel couture top coat – this helps my mani last through many rounds of bottle washings.
How did growing up in Greenwich prepare you for your career—I know you went to Greewich Academy?
I’m what’s considered a “lifer” and attended Greenwich Academy for all 14 years – it definitely helped prepare me for my career. There, I learned a lot about leadership, strength and integrity. GA taught me to feel secure in who I am and that I could do anything that I set my heart to. Many of my closest friends today are my GA girls – and this is a quality we all have common. Also, growing up with parents, who own their own business, taught me the value of dedication and that hard work pays off.
What are you most excited about, in terms of sharing where you grew up with your own family?
I’m so excited to take my boys to all of the places that I loved when I was growing up here (and still do). Todd’s Point, Island Beach, Bruce Park…to name a few.
What is your best tip/strategy as a working mom with babies?
I’m currently on maternity leave, so going back to work as a mom of two will be a whole new thing for me! My tip is to find a balance – it’s different for every parent. For me, I’d make sure I was ready to go before Henry woke up, so I could spend a little time with him before I left in the morning. I’d work super hard to get everything done at work, so I could be out the door early and work on the train home. I’d get home just in time to play before bedtime. I’m lucky to work for a company that’s flexible and has a great work from home policy.
What are your favorite places in your local area to:
Eat with/without kids
We love taking the boys to Versailles for brunch, Terra and Pasta Vera for lunch (I used to love going there as a little girl). Bar Taco and Boxcar Cantina are also super kid friendly. I love the Drawing Room for a girls lunch.
Grab a drink with friends
Have a date night
We love Alba’s in Port Chester or maybe drive into the city to JG Melons for a burger!
Spend time together as a family
We love Tod’s Point – it’s the perfect place for a walk, or a day at the beach. The new splash pad in Byram is a favorite too on these hot summer days.
When it’s not so nice out, we love to go to the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk.
Shop for yourself/kids
I love the dresses from Persifor – they’re chic but really comfortable. Also, I love to shop at Roller Rabbit for myself (and the boys). For kids clothes, my favorite is Sammy + Nat in Rye or Jacadi for some key pieces.
Spa/salon
Massages at the Delamar Spa are a treat! I love the manicures and pedicures at Cozy and especially the back massage.
If you want nail art out here, the best I’ve found is To and From in Darien.
Grab coffee
I love the coffee at CFCF!
Any hidden treasures or other favorites you want to share?
Mikes Organic for the best produce!
Best lobster roll at the Crab Shell in Stamford.
Want to try the new Essie Rocky Rose Collection? Stay tuned for our giveaway by following us on Greenwich Moms!
