#BusinessSpotlight on Alice Revel of Running in Heels

We recently caught up with Alice Revel, founder and Editor of Running in Heels at our dinner with James Wise of Balderton Capital. Take a look at this week’s #BusinessSpotlight, delving into the future of her startup.

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What’s the elevator pitch for your startup?
Running in Heels is an online magazine for intelligent, stylish women: think Vogue meets The Economist. Our USP? Opinionated, in-depth features on society, culture and politics alongside sophisticated, stylish content on fashion, beauty, travel and lifestyle. It’s also the only online magazine that mirrors content with an eCommerce offering, enabling readers to buy what they read about in a seamless experience.

What were you doing before you launched your startup?
I studied languages at UCL and then worked for a magazine in Italy, as well as consulting for luxury fashion and beauty brands on digital strategy and future trends.

If you have co-founders, where did you meet them?
I was introduced to Caroline Rolfe by a contact of a contact! Caroline is a real asset to the business – she has over 12 years experience in launching and running websites for luxury brands including Clinique, Belstaff & Links of London. She’s also a member of the Institute of Digital Marketing’s Digital Council and lectures on their digital marketing diploma course.

What’s your biggest ‘hindsight’ moment?
Nope, no regrets, ever! I’m a firm believer in things happening for a reason and always learning from your mistakes. They’re what make you stronger, both professionally and personally.

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What will 2015 bring?
Running in Heels is already an established brand with a desirable and engaged audience – it’s a highly scalable business model, which is why we’re in the process of seeking investment. There’s absolutely huge potential for revenue growth, so this is a really exciting opportunity.

One piece of advice for someone starting a business in your sector?
Get as much advice as you possibly can from people in your sector. I’ve found that most people are incredibly generous with their time and sharing their experiences which can really inform how you run your business. Remember to be generous with your time, experience and contacts too!

Convince someone to use your product/service in under 50 words.
Bored of gossip, diets and celebrities? Want more from a magazine? Our unique mix of substance and style is what you’ve been waiting for.

What’s your favourite startup in your sector (not including your own)?
In terms of online magazines, I think Get The Gloss is fabulous – well-written, informative, fun and a great on-the-go read. When it comes to eCommerce, I love what Lyst are doing and Buy My Wardrobe is definitely a game-changer. Apps-wise, DePop and Stylect are two of my favourite recent downloads.

What’s your favourite London restaurant?
Far too many to list! If I have to pick just one….I really love Sunday in Barnsbury for their sublime brunch menu. But it’s like asking me to choose a favourite parent!

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You can read more #BusinessSpotlights here.

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