Enter 46: Nina Briance
Danucera Diaries
Q: Tell us a little about yourself and the journey that led you to founding Cult Mia.
Nina: I was the kid who fought to convince my school to let us ditch uniforms on Fridays. I've always believed style should be about self expression, not fitting in. When I realised so much of luxury looked the same, I founded Cult Mia to give exceptional independent designers a global platform and help people discover the most exciting brands they wouldn't find everywhere else.
Q: Cult Mia has become one of the leading destinations for discovering independent luxury designers. What do you think has been the key to building such a loyal global community?
Nina: Trust. We're incredibly selective - we accept just 8% of the thousands of brands that apply to join Cult Mia each year. Our community knows every designer has been vetted and chosen for a reason, so they come to us for originality, not what everyone else already has.
Q: You're constantly discovering emerging designers and brands. What qualities make you stop and take notice of a brand, whether in fashion or beauty?
Nina: I love brands with a clear point of view. They're not trying to please everyone. They know exactly who they're for and aren't afraid to do something different. That's what makes a brand feel authentic. Exceptional quality is the other non-negotiable.
Q: What's one emerging trend in fashion or beauty that you think is here to stay?
Nina: Personal style over brand names. People are becoming much more confident in discovering brands that reflect who they are, rather than simply buying the labels everyone already knows.
Q: As a founder and mother of two young children balancing the demands of a fast-growing global business, how do you make time for yourself and protect your own wellbeing?
Nina: I've learned that consistency beats perfection. Whether it's a workout, a walk or ten uninterrupted minutes with my skincare routine, those small rituals help me reset and show up better both at work and at home.
Q: Fashion and beauty often go hand in hand. How would you describe your personal approach to skincare, and how has Danucera become part of your routine?
Nina: I like skincare that's effective without being overly complicated. Danucera fits that philosophy perfectly. It's one of those brands I reach for every day because I know it works!
Q: As a founder yourself, what do you admire most about founder-led brands like Danucera, and why do you think those stories resonate so strongly with consumers today?
Nina: Founder-led brands are built with intention. Every decision reflects someone's vision and standards, and you can feel that as a customer. I think people are increasingly drawn to brands with a real story and a founder who genuinely stands behind the product.
Q: Walk us through your morning ritual. From your first coffee to getting dressed, what are the non-negotiables that set you up for the day?
Nina: Coffee first, always. Then skincare, getting my two little ones ready, and choosing an outfit that makes me feel put together. Before the day properly starts, I always take a few minutes to prioritise what matters most.
Q: If you could only pack three Danucera products for a week away, which would you choose and why?
Nina: Cerabalm because it does everything, Iconic Eye for looking well-rested after travel (or chasing two little ones!), and Cream Supreme, because hydrated skin always wins.
Q: Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of Cult Mia?
Nina: Seeing independent designers become tomorrow's global luxury brands. If Cult Mia can play even a small part in that journey, that's incredibly exciting.
