Work Life

From Med Tech to Mermaids: A Family Startup Story

When Byron Myers considered stepping away from his twenty-year career in medical technology, he famously quipped, "I'm going to go from med tech to mermaids?" Yet, that pivot became the foundation for Glimmer Wish, a family-run beauty brand born from his daughter Sydney’s childhood desire for nontoxic, whimsical cosmetics.

From Med Tech to Mermaids: A Family Startup Story

The brand’s origins trace back to a difficult period in the family’s life, marked by Tiffany Myers' seven-year struggle with Lyme disease. Driven to eliminate potential toxins from their household, Tiffany insisted on clean products, leaving then-10-year-old Sydney frustrated by the lack of fun, safe options. Sydney began drafting designs for unicorn and mermaid-shaped bottles, eventually pitching the concept to her father, an experienced entrepreneur. While Tiffany managed the complex task of ingredient sourcing and manufacturing, Byron provided the structural business plan.

The venture gained momentum in 2020 after the family transitioned to remote schooling, which provided the flexibility for Sydney to balance academic requirements with trade shows and business meetings. In 2021, Byron left his medical tech firm to take on the role of CEO, providing the legal backing necessary for a business founded by a minor. The collaborative effort culminated in a successful appearance on Shark Tank, where the family secured a $200,000 investment from Lori Greiner and Kendra Scott for a 20% stake in the company. Today, with Tiffany serving as chief creative officer and their younger daughter, Audrey, contributing to operations, the family views Glimmer Wish as a triumph of shared purpose over past health challenges.

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