JAMES+JAKE

JAMES+JAKE

We caught up with our new friends JAMES+JAKE to find out what inspired them to create this niche brand.

What gave you the inspiration to start your own brand?

I’ve been trying and buying skincare products to improve my skin since I was a teenager and over the years I’ve learnt what works and what doesn’t. By creating James + Jake we wanted to use that knowledge to help other men look and feel their best. At the same time, we felt there was a gap for a brand that made products for today’s modern man, which fit into a busy daily routine.

What challenges did you face along the way?

Working full time in a 9 to 5 job for the first couple of years during the development stage was a challenge. It can be difficult to take calls, attend meetings and carry out the hundreds of tasks necessary when you’re employed. It can also be a challenge to find information, resources and trustworthy suppliers when you’re new to any industry.

What has been the highlight of your journey so far?

Positive feedback; reading great customer reviews on our products and a mention in GQ magazine all gave us a big buzz. Seeing James + Jake products on sale at themodernman.co.uk is right up there, too.

What makes your brand different?

We make products specifically for men’s skin that fit into their busy lives. It’s why our first moisturiser can be used at any time of day on any skin type, and why we included a post exercise foot spray in our first range. Times are changing, men are increasingly interested in skincare, and we think it’s time they had a high quality, contemporary, masculine brand all of their own.

Do you have a favourite product in the range?

I use the Major Hydrator every day without fail. It contains camellia oil to rehydrate the skin and is packed with vitamin E to counteract the effects of city life and pollutants - which ultimately leads to ageing.

How important is sustainability to you and your brand?

Sustainability is a priority for James + Jake. We use only high quality, sustainably sourced ingredients. We only use recyclable bottles and jars, and have rejected any single-use plastic packaging. With no harmful chemicals, artificial colours or synthetic fragrances in our ingredients, our products are not damaging the environment or oceans.

Tell us more about your 'Grooming For Good' initiative.

Our mission is to help men feel good about themselves. That includes every aspect of their life from skin health to mental health. Before founding James + Jake I also had my own personal struggle with mental health issues to overcome, such as anxiety. So now we operate a ‘Pledge One Per Cent’ charitable giving program. One per cent of our time, profit and product will be donated to an organisation that supports men’s health. Our latest project has been to support Whole Man Academy, an organisation that hosts events to encourage men to open up and talk about mental health and masculinity in the 21st Century.

What does the future have in store for you?

We’ve been working on new products that we can’t wait to launch this year, including an exfoliating gel. Long term we’d like to expand into other regions and continue our mission to help every man look and, most importantly, feel great.

What motivates you?

The impact we can have on our customer’s wellbeing. We obsess over the purpose, ingredients, packaging and benefits of each product. And I believe we’re building a brand that offers men skincare products they are proud to use and that genuinely help them feel good. Ultimately, success starts with yourself. So if we can in some small way encourage men to care for themselves, take time to connect with themselves for a few moments each day and be more mindful I think we can make a positive impact.

How do you relax and unwind?

Walking my dog somewhere peaceful is my favourite thing to do. I have a black Labrador called Tommy. And growing up I had a Golden Retriever, called Jake!

Do you have a favourite place in the world that you have visited? What makes it special to you?

Whistler, Canada. Whether you ski or not, it is one of the most stunning, peaceful, rejuvenating places to visit on Earth - a true escape where you can’t help but de-stress. The ribs are world-class, too.

JAMES+JAKE are now available on The Modern Man!

← Previous Next →