Artisan Labs VP Mara Reed Named to Idaho Business Review's Prestigious Accomplished Under 40 Awards
Innovation meets leadership: How our VP of Product Development is driving industry-leading growth while championing STEM education across Idaho
Published: Friday, June 13, 2025 | Reading time: 4 minutes
Image courtesy of https://idahobusinessreview.com/
We're thrilled to announce that Mara Reed, Vice President of Product Development at Artisan Labs, has been named to the Idaho Business Review's prestigious 2025 Accomplished Under 40 awards. This recognition celebrates Idaho's most dynamic business leaders who are shaping the future of their industries before reaching age 40.
From Soap-Making Teen to Industry Leader
Reed's journey to cosmetic science excellence began early. As a teenager, she demonstrated soap-making techniques at the New York State Fair—an experience that sparked a lifelong passion for formulation science. Today, she leads product development initiatives that have driven Artisan Labs to achieve 50% growth in 2024, with projections showing an impressive 200% growth trajectory for 2025.
"Ms. Reed is a unique blend of talents," said Matthew Bryant, CEO and founder of Artisan Labs. "She is an expert cosmetic scientist with unmatched relationship building skills and a unique ability to interpret industry trends to support product development for the brands we serve."
Building Excellence from the Ground Up
When Reed joined Artisan Labs as the company's first hire in 2021, she faced the challenge of building an entire research and development department from scratch. What began as a one-person operation has evolved into a comprehensive team including:
- R&D management specialists
- Professional cosmetic chemists
- Laboratory technicians
- Stability testing experts
- Regulatory compliance specialists
This strategic team building has been instrumental in Artisan Labs' ability to deliver industry-leading formulation services to brands seeking to develop innovative personal care products.
Academic Excellence Meets Real-World Innovation
Reed's commitment to excellence extends far beyond the laboratory. In 2024, she completed her graduate degree in Cosmetic Science from the University of Cincinnati, one of the most respected programs in the industry. Not content to rest on her achievements, she has been admitted to the University of Utah's MBA program, beginning studies in Fall 2025.
"Ms. Reed has always been personally driven to improve and grow," Bryant noted. "Her humility and hunger to learn is clearly one of her greatest strengths."
Industry Leadership and Professional Impact
Reed's influence extends throughout the cosmetic science community. She currently serves as Chair of the Intermountain West Society of Cosmetic Chemists, where she oversees professional networking and continuing education for cosmetic industry professionals across a five-state region. In her previous role as chair-elect in 2024, she championed revised programming that successfully increased both membership and meeting participation.
Championing the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
Perhaps most impressive is Reed's dedication to STEM education advocacy across Idaho. She regularly hosts student field trips to Artisan Labs' state-of-the-art R&D laboratory, where she:
- Teaches third graders about the fascinating science of bubbles
- Shows high school food science classes the principles of cosmetic chemistry
- Demonstrates real-world applications of scientific concepts
- Inspires students to consider careers in formulation science
Her commitment extends to advisory roles with ISEE STEM (Idaho South & East EcoSySTEM) and active participation in events like the She Can STEM 2025 conference.
"While Ms. Reed's educational and career accomplishments stand alone, the most exceptional trait of Ms. Reed is her level of commitment to helping others to pursue their STEM education path, and to help them envision how they can make a difference," Bryant emphasized.
The Artisan Labs Advantage: Where Innovation Meets Partnership
Reed's recognition highlights the caliber of expertise that drives Artisan Labs' success. Our approach to product development combines:
✅ Scientific Excellence: Advanced cosmetic chemistry expertise backed by academic credentials
✅ Industry Insight: Deep understanding of market trends and consumer needs
✅ Collaborative Partnership: Unmatched relationship-building skills that ensure client success
✅ Proven Growth: Track record of delivering results that drive business expansion
Ready to Craft Your Next Breakthrough Product?
Reed's achievement reflects the innovation and expertise that defines every project at Artisan Labs. Whether you're an established brand looking to expand your product line or a startup with a revolutionary concept, our team combines scientific rigor with market insight to bring your vision to life.
Ready to partner with industry leaders who deliver results?
Let's Craft Your Success Story Together
Our R&D team, led by award-winning professionals like Mara Reed, is ready to help you:
- Develop innovative formulations that stand out in competitive markets
- Navigate regulatory requirements with confidence and expertise
- Scale production efficiently from concept to commercial success
- Access cutting-edge laboratory facilities and testing capabilities
Contact us today to discover how Artisan Labs can accelerate your brand's growth through expert formulation science and strategic partnership.
About the Idaho Business Review Accomplished Under 40 Awards
The Idaho Business Review's Accomplished Under 40 program honors Idaho business and professional leaders who have achieved success before the age of 40. This prestigious annual recognition celebrates the next generation of influential decision-makers and industry leaders across the Gem State.
Read the full article: Accomplished Under 40 – Mara Reed | Idaho Business Review
Artisan Labs specializes in custom formulation, product development, and manufacturing services for the personal care and cosmetic industry. Located in Idaho, we partner with brands nationwide to bring innovative products from concept to market.
Keywords: cosmetic formulation, product development, Artisan Labs, Mara Reed, Idaho Business Review, Accomplished Under 40, cosmetic science, STEM education, R&D services, custom manufacturing
Meta Description: Artisan Labs VP Mara Reed honored in Idaho Business Review's Accomplished Under 40 awards. Discover how our expert formulation team drives 200% growth and industry innovation.
