I first met April Franzino when I was working in the print world at Cosmopolitan. She is by far one of the sweetest beauty editors around so I'm excited to introduce you to her! Check out her dish on what it's like behind the scenes at Good Housekeeping and listen to her advice on how to get in 'the industry:'
What’s your favorite part of working at Good Housekeeping?
There are so many things I love about working at GH— first and foremost, the people! They make coming to work every day truly a joy. I also love that every day is different— some days I’ll be interviewing experts, writing one of my pages, pitching ideas or meeting with our top editors, and others I’ll be meeting with beauty executives, attending launches, and trying new products. It never gets monotonous, and I’m grateful for every minute.
Who’s your celebrity crush?
I have a weakness for James Franco; he’s smart, funny, and there’s something about those eyes!
What are your must-have beauty products?
I could go on forever, but my Hall of Fame includes: Johnson’s Softwash Melt Away Stress 24 Hour Moisturizing Wash, The Body Shop Shea Body Scrub, Aubrey Organics Crème de la Shave in Toasted Almond, Herbal Essences Hydralicious Reconditioning Shampoo, Bumble and Bumble Crème de Coco Masque (transforms my hair from straw-like to soft and shiny unlike anything else), Smooth ‘N Shine Miracle Leave-In Treatment Conditioner, Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes (they’re biodegradable and smell like grapefruit!), Nude Cleansing Facial Oil, Suki Renewal Bio-Resurfacing Facial Peel, Kiehl’s Acai Damage-Protecting Toning Mist, Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15, Well People The Narcissist Mineral Crème Foundation/Concealer (moisturizing and masks all sins), Victoria’s Secret VS Makeup Bronzer/Highlighter Trio in Gilded, Philosophy The Color of Grace Amazing Grace Shimmering Face Powder (nothing gives an instantly ethereal glow like this!), Korres Jasmine Lip Butter, Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick in Brown (or any shade— eyes made easy!), and CoverGirl LashBlast Mascara (I’ve tested tons and have never found one that can compete).
What advice would you give to people trying to into the industry today?
I’d recommend getting as many internships and clips under your belt as you can—whether they’re in print or on the web; it’s the best way to experience the ins and outs of beauty publishing, and make contacts who can help you when you’re searching for a job. And don’t get discouraged— jobs are few and far between these days, but the people who want them most and are willing to persevere will end up where they want to be.
Confess! Your biggest beauty sin:
I neglect my nails in the worst way; they are definitely my beauty shame— always have been, and probably always will be. I’ve come to terms with it!
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
None of my pleasures are guilty!
