The Founder of Ruuby App

Meet Venetia Archer

What made you want to start Ruuby?
I have always wanted to run my own company, and I had a whole host of ideas I was considering. I remember waking up in the middle of the night with that moment of realisation that an at-home beauty services app was the best idea of the bunch. Nothing existed like it at the time. 

When you were younger what did you want to be?
An actress… desperately so.

What has been your favourite Ruuby app moment to date?
When someone told me they heard about Ruuby through the ROLLING STONES! Apparently they use us when they are on tour.

What is the favourite aspect of the app?
We are in such a privileged position to work with the most incredible artists and experts, across the spectrum of beauty. I learn so much every day from my team.

Who is the favourite person you have worked with?
Some of my advisors and mentors. I work very closely with a handful of people who have launched and built incredible companies. I learn a lot from them.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Always take a moment to look back at your accomplishments. It is very easy to constantly look ahead at everything that you haven’t yet done, and that can be stressful! Having space to actually reflect is important - oftentimes you are surprised by how much can be achieved in a year. And this goes for personal life, not just professional.

Which is your favourite service on the app?
A 7 am blow-dry! Obsessed. Good hair makes everything possible.

If you had to choose only one treatment for the rest of your life what would it be?
A massage.

Who is your ultimate business inspiration?
Marcia Kilgore of Bliss and Beauty Pie is pretty fabulous. Her story resonates with me.

What trend do you predict will be the biggest in 2020?
Not a trend but a movement. Sustainability in the fashion industry. I think fashion rental businesses like WORN, HURR and By Rotation are game-changing.

What are 3 words to describe yourself?
Driven, curious and excitable.
What are 3 words to describe your brand?
Innovative. Luxurious. Witty.

What is the secret to success?
Never ever give up.

What advice would you give to future female generations?
Shout loud, and don’t be afraid of speaking up about what you believe in. People will listen.

What motivates you?
Success. 

Which 3 people would make up your dream dinner party?
Alain de Botton, Elon Musk, Lady Gaga.

What are you grateful for?
My family.

What is one thing everyone should do?
Travel on their own.

What are you reading right now?
'The Courage to be Disliked' by Ichiro Kishimi.

What is your spirit animal?
A cat - 9 lives!

What are you most unapologetic for?
My eternal optimism.

What is the best thing about having your own business?
Being able to work to my own schedule.What is the hardest thing about having your own business?
There is a lot of inherent stress, and responsibility always rests on you.

What is something you’re currently working on?
Our Manchester launch! And our first international launch…

What will Ruuby look like in 10 years time?
It will be the app everyone uses when they touch down in a new city to book a much-needed massage and beauty treatment!