Why Small Businesses Matter
Shop small, do big things for your community
Why Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their story
Meet Amanda Gabbard, founder of Amanda Gabbard Beauty.
Why did you start your business?
One of the main reasons I started my business was to empower women, helping to give them the gift of confidence. As women we can be so hard on ourselves, most of the time we are harder on ourselves than anyone else with our skin, our hair, and constantly changing and adjusting. A good support system that comes with no judgment (and a sense of humor) to lift women up is incredibly important! Whether they have a big event to attend, a performance, a photo shoot or just need a new routine, I listen to their concerns, their goals and in turn give them advice for an easy to follow skincare routine and light everyday makeup look that is fresh, pretty and elevating their style without breaking the bank. I don't sell products, but I definitely recommend specific ones to each person's needs and budget.
Can you tell me some of the celebrities you’ve worked with?
The celebrities most people ask about are Kamala Harris, Al Pacino, and Brooke Shields. It is an honor and a privilege to have worked with these icons and forces of nature. A few others that are memorable for me would be Tracy Morgan and Ana Gasteyer - growing up being obsessed with SNL, it was a definite highlight!
How was New York Fashion Week (NYFW)?
NYFW is always a whirlwind of excitement and electricity - quintessential New York fashion at its best! In the past, I had the pleasure of working NYFW beside the talented Gucci Westman (who lives in Bedford) for Brock Collection, and Ubuna. New York Bridal Fashion Week highlights have been with the masterful Claire Pettibone who brought her LA couture to the east coast and last year (Bethel CT resident) Lara Knights Collection.
The experience this year though, working with a true legend in the making, Christian Siriano, and his Spring/Summer 2025 Collection - with his dark fantasy fairy tale talents electrifying the Pierre Hotel was beyond amazing!
What are some of the local businesses you love and support?
The incredible local businesses here in Ridgefield are endless! My husband Michael McGuirk and I try and support local always, which is why his position as President of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce could NOT be a better fit. As a proud board member of Lounsbury House, I've learned so much about the importance of small business thanks to my good friend (and queen of Ridgefield) Suzanne Brennan.
Have you "reimagined" your small business?
My love of everything Ridgefield, the surrounding area and Connecticut as a whole has been the driving force behind my new business venture that has been a long time in the making. I have started a branding business with my producing partner, John White, called "OFF White Media" and we are currently working with local businesses. Not only am I showcasing and elevating clients with makeup but we are now elevating local businesses and showcasing them with video content that they can use on all media platforms.
Is there a small business in Ridgefield you’d like to nominate to be featured in our WSBM next?
I highly nominate Adrienne Banza owner of Amour de Visage for her phenomenon facials and treatments. Her gentle bedside manner and wealth of knowledge when it comes to skincare anf products is unmatched. You can literally feel her passion for what she does during her glorious one hour facials. My tired dehydrated skin has never looked better!
Visit Amanda Gabbard Beauty https://www.amandagabbardbeauty.com/ and follow along on social media @amandasgabbard
HamletHub thanks Fairfield County Bank for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!
** Photo of Amanda by Jennifer Zarine