20 questions with Louise Roe

Louise Roe
@louiseroe

Photography by MACKENZIE HUNKIN
Dress by MORÉ NOIR

Hello gorgeous, Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hello! My name is Louise, I’m a journalist and TV host. I lived in LA for a decade before moving back to the English countryside with my husband and daughter, last year.

How would you define yourself in three words?
Focused, kind, silly

In what ways have you been incorporating self – care into your daily routine?
I try to give my skin a face mask once a week, to play tennis a couple of times a week, and to put the phone away and switch off with a movie at the end of a long day.

What’s the most fulfilling part of your job?
It used to be the travel! Actually, it’s the makeovers. I absolutely love seeing the change in people’s demeanour and reaction when they’ve had a full makeover. It’s often quite emotional for everyone!

Can you tell us about an exciting time in your career?
I once hosted the Oscars red carpet, live, for ABC. We had 31 million viewers, which (thank goodness) I didn’t know at the time. I interviewed every nominee and had my very own stage, it was such a buzz.

What would you title this current chapter in your life?
The happiest I’ve ever been. So much family time and back in England, which I missed.

How do you educate yourself on ways of maintaining healthy skin?
I love learning about clean products, effective ingredients and new things on the market. Also- a huge difference is made from the inside, so I keep hydrated and eat a lot of healthy fatty foods, like salmon and avocado, which make a noticeable difference.

What do you love most about Pixi Beauty?
It works! The pigment stays in place all day, and the colours are beautiful. I’ve tried a lot of makeup in my life so when I find something flattering and affordable, I stick with it.

What are your top 3 favorite Pixi Beauty products?
Vitamin C sheet mask- it instantly makes my skin look plumped and happy, eye reflections palette Reflex Light- the colours are just perfect, I love them. And Other Glow blush- Juicy, it’s this peachy, apricot shade and perfect for Summer.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?
Education, empathy, compassion, courage.

In what ways do you use your platform for the greater good?
That’s very important to me. What’s the point in having followers and a voice if you don’t use it the right way, particularly right now. There are different ways I try to use mine. On a day-to-day level I respond in depth to messages, many of which are from people seeking help and advice. I work with children’s charities Spread a Smile and Step Up, and I’m also hosting a live session giving people tips on how to become a mentor, with a list of links to organizations that help communities in need. I use my blog for more in-depth articles about causes I really believe it.

During these tough times, what has kept you motivated?
I’ve actually felt more creative during this time than I have in years. Maybe because our brains can rest for a second, they’re able to think in ways they haven’t for a while. I’m launching an entirely new business and can’t wait to share more!

How do you remain fit, active, and healthy with stay-at-home orders intact?
I’ve been working out from online classes (I wrote a blog post all about my favourites ) and in the beginning we planted a bunch of fruits and veggies in the garden, which we are now picking to eat! That’s very satisfying, and our daughter loves it.

As a creative in quarantine, how have you found inspiration and ways to create?
I’ve read more books, gone on long walks and watched a lot of old movies that have been on my list for literally years!

What and/or who has had the most influence on your growth and why?
Becoming a mother. It focuses the mind and prioritizes life in a completely new way.

How can you as an individual actively take part in fighting a system of oppression and standing in solidarity with your peers of color to amplify their voices?
There are so many ways, big and small, and personally I think that begins with education. I read Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race, along with a few other titles, and am still making my way through different documentaries. Podcasts too. It’s also really important to me to educate our daughter about racism, including what institutional racism means. I’ve been sharing what I’ve found helpful and interesting online, including children’s book recommendations, and some incredible black-owned brands in the fashion, beauty and interiors space too.

How have you found ways to educate yourself and those around you?
As above!

What do you think are ways that others can help society and our surrounding communities?
I believe so much in mentorship. It’s something almost anyone can do (people often think you need special qualifications – but you do not). I was lucky enough to have 2 incredible mentors in my career, and it’s important to pass that forward, particularly to a younger generation in less privileged communities.

In what ways has your life changed due to current events?
We have spent so much time at home – like everyone else – and just appreciate any moments much more now. Going for a coffee with a friend is a huge treat now!

What advice do you have for someone who aspires to create a career like your own?
Contact lots and lots of people for an internship- it’s the best way to start and learn on the job. Always smile and be early to work- work your butt off! Keep in touch with any contacts you meet there, and you’ll be top of mind when a position arises. There are no shortcuts, even though social media might make it look that way- so do lots of research and just go for it. You can do it!