Tue 17 Nov 2009
Lime Crime vs internet bullies
Category: Unicorn Queen
You all know how I feel about making less-than-gleeful posts on my blog. However, I do feel it is important that you hear this from me, not elsewhere and taken out of context.
I have learned that a group of people is engaged in an online campaign to harm my company. They deliberately spread rumors and re-publish false information that I “defraud my customers”, call them “idiots”, have poor customer service, etc. Everybody knows I bust my hump to ensure everyone is happy! But that’s not all. They also began posting instructions encouraging people to file fraudulent PayPal claims and commit mail fraud.
All this has gone too far. This is why we’ve decided to take action. What they are doing is not merely ignoble, it is unlawful. We are not planning to sue anyone for money. In fact, it will cost us money that could be invested into more awesome Lime Crime products! But if a legal battle is the price for our dignity, we will do it without hesitation.
I’m sure this will be twisted around and used against me in an attempt to pass it off like I’m the bully trying to ’silence fair bloggers who simply chose to voice their opinion’. However, there is a big difference between saying you didn’t like something VS implying a company engages in illegal activity, & going out of your way to damage its reputation! Everyone has the right to express their opinion – I am exercising it right now, by posting this message. But just because you are doing it online, anonymously, or in a different country, doesn’t exempt you from the responsibility for your words.
I want you all to know that I don’t enjoy doing this. I believe that most issues in life can be resolved without lawyers’ involvement. However, it’s become very clear that these people see online bullying as a game, and openly revel in the attention they’re getting. It’s my own fault partially – if you let a bully bully you for too long without fighting back, they begin to think they have the right to. Well, I will not stand for this any longer. I’m going to stand up and fight, and hope you can do this with me!
How can you help?
- Spread the good word
If you had a positive experience with our products and/or customer service, write about it on your blog! Don’t have a blog? Use Twitter, Facebook & MySpace to let your friends know. Oh, and don’t forget to snap a picture of your pretty self wearing Lime Crime, we love that! :D
- Review
If you’ve bought from us, post a review on limecrimemakeup.com. We love hearing from our customers and rely on your feedback to improve our product. Plus, it helps others make the decision between My Beautiful Rocket and Countessa Fluorescent! ;)
- Speak up!
If you see someone perpetuating untruthful or misleading information about Lime Crime, tell them so! Do not tolerate defamatory comments on your own blog – your readers deserve better!
- Join TeamCandyfuture
If you haven’t already, join our Street Team. Read about the benefits by clicking the link.
- Write a testimonial
We want to feature YOU on our upcoming Customer Feedback page! Send in your testimonials, along with a picture of you wearing Lime Crime, to limecrimemakeup @ gmail.com. Don’t have a picture? Not a problem, I’m happy to hear from you anyway!
I am deeply grateful to everyone who came out and supported me. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart! xoxo
138 Responses to “ Lime Crime vs internet bullies ”
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November 17th, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Why are people doing such rude things?
It’s like they have nothing better to do
than go around spreading rumors because
their lives are so uneventful.
It really baffles me quite a bit.
I hope this will end soon.
Best of luck!
I retweeted!
Doe Deere Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 2:53 pm
Thanks sweetie! Regardless of what happens, I won’t let it affect me or my blog. Glee all the way!!!
November 17th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Sadly my man has been out of a job recently and I also totaled my car (no worries, I was fine. My car Bunny, took very good care of me) I am in the process of getting a newer vehicle (insurance has also been awesome) Once my awesomely supportive guy gets a new job, I will finally be able to purchase your awesome lipsticks. (retrofuturist and Stiletto especially for my Burlesque and clubbing activities)
I would happily write about my experiences with Limecrime from before you started selling your makeup, but I dont have experience with your makeup yet.
November 17th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
Oh no! I can’t believe some people’s children!
I don’t care what anyone says – I have purchased a couple of your lipsticks…and THEY ARE SO INCREDIBLE! Doe Deere, you are such a strong, dedicated, and inspirational woman…know that the people who matter and your customers who have followed you since you first did your tutorial blog know you are amazing! Don’t give up with fight! And I will spread the word of GLEE where ever I can ;-)
November 17th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
Hi hate rude people ! I love Lime Crime ! that’s why i want to support you everywhere !
I create this facebook page : http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lime-Crime-Make-Up/324085320111?v=wall
You’re a super gleeeee hero doe ! <3
Laura Cristina Ortiz Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 2:53 pm
Joined! I think that’s a great idea- props for making the page!
Doe Deere Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
Thanks Twigg, you’re awesome! :D
November 17th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Sorry…Don’t give up without a fight!*
November 17th, 2009 at 2:44 pm
People that are rude are just jealous! They don’t grant you any success which is not just stupid but also childish!
I can only say that I’ve always been happy with my purchases from you!
Lime Crime offers great customer service, great products and fast delivery!
So rock on girl! :=
xo
Akasha
November 17th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
i will most certainly be sending in a testimonial today! it’s so sad that in today’s world people lack some serious integrity and have no concept of solidarity or principle! i know Miss Deere, aka the Unicorn Queen, busts her ass trying to make us feel beautiful and i find it nauseating that certain people have allowed ignorance to cloud their minds!
Why do there always have to be haters?? C’mon people whatever happened to P.L.U.R.R.??(peace,love,unity,respect,responsibility)
November 17th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Online bullying, unfortunately, is as old as the internet itself. While the issue here is the damaging of reputation, there have been instances where harassment has led to suicide. Bullying seems like an infantile word at time, just because it simply doesn’t imply how dangerous it is. Why people even THINK to do this to another human being is beyond me (but perfectly explains a dysfunctional social background).
Sorry you’re dealing with this. You seem like such a wonderful, friendly, caring person. It seems like it’s the good ones who always get shit. :/ You an army behind you though!
November 17th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Man. You’d think people would grow up after they reach a certain age.
Anyway. You’re awesome. Lime Crime is awesome. Behind you 110%! x
November 17th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
I don’t understand why you are making them take down negative reviews as well… Yes, some of them have said things that were straight up mean, but some of them had very valid points about how the lip color stains and is drying. By making them put blanket statements of legal dribble, it is making you look petty, instead of having them take down what IS actually defamatory and leaving the legitimate reviews.
Pumpkin Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:38 am
I’m kind of inclined to agree here. While I think some of the comments were outright mean and the accusations that the lipsticks were stargazer ones were patently ridiculous, the reviews on some blogs were well articulated and the color swatches really helpful to future prospective buyers (after christmas airborne unicorn and my beautiful rocket are a MUST) and thats because of GREYS review that you made her take down. She compared My beautiful rocket to other oranges and described it as more pumpkin orange and I fell in love.
Basically what I’m trying to say is that in addition to all press is good press, is that these women aren’t trying to assassinate your character they’re just trying to give honest opinions and help out others in the online makeup community. They didn’t attack you, they provided information and comparable colors for the more frugal and flat out skint (which is what the online makeup community is all about!)
I’ll make the concession that some others who commented got more heated but thats probably because they felt betrayed. But the mob mentality doesn’t seem very different from some of your readers here, who are so quick to pass judgement and insult.
November 17th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
I feel like I have to admit that when I first heard about these rumors going around, I looked into them, and for a while belived them. The thing that made me realize how wrong they were was that the next day when I woke up, the first thought in my head was “I wonder if Doe has updated yet!”, and I relized that they were completly rediculous, I may not know you, but I’ve followed your blog for almost a year now, you’ve given me an inside look at your company like no other has, I’ve never recived anything but excellent customer service, and you’ve even done what I previously thought was impossible by convincing me that the color pink may not be evil. On the other hand I know nothing about these people starting the rumors, other than that they come off as very angery bitter people, and because I fell for them I put off ordering the lipstick I wanted until it was gone, luckily it’s back now and I can’t wait to order it on my next paycheck!
Anyways, this is getting much longer than I planned, just wanted to say I’ll be posting something about it on my DA page…
Nomi
November 17th, 2009 at 3:12 pm
I hope the link worked. I love your make-up x x x
ShannonM Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
the link doesn’t seem to be working :( I’d like to see it!
November 17th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
I wish you had taken this approach sooner. I’ve seen the negative comments, but when you the creator is keeping quiet, it’s hard for your supporters to do anything about it (because you are like the leader). Oh.. and I do support in fighting for your right, but do keep in mind you probably couldn’t sue these people. It’s very hard to prove that they did it to harm you intentionally, even if the case looks black and white to you. Well okay, you could probably sue them, but you wouldn’t be able to win, and it might just make you look bad for taking them to court instead of taking care of them on your own. Just a word of precaution.
November 17th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
hey
The people who are doing that to you are just jealous
They really can’t have anything better to do with their lives
I was just wondering what the postage was for posting your products to the UK??
I want ALL of them!!
Keep up the good work!
=]
x x
November 17th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
I have a really good experience with your make-up !
you are the best !
November 17th, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Gosh. I saw one girl’s YT video where she alleged you sent a skirt hemmed with duct tape and made nasty comments that were later deleted. Funny how none of them have any proof of these online and very public incidents or purchases, and that it’s only coming out 5-6 years later. Sorry to hear this is all still going on, I hope the new plan of action works! Good luck =)
November 17th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
I must admit, I was hurt when I first heard the rumors. I felt like a child who learns her parent aren’t invincible after all!
But I continued to read your blog, and I placed several orders and have been absolutely pleased with everything! I have no reason to believe what is being said about you or your company. Even if there is some truth to what they are saying, I chalk it up to something in the past or an honest mistake. You and your products have been nothing less than wonderful.
I bought a copy of Nylon magazine the other day. I jumped up and down in the middle of the store when I found your article. :)
I can’t wait until I get a digital camera to start taking pictures of me in full makeup!
November 17th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
moderate my comment, but i’m not backing down. i’m very hurt that a blogger i trusted would turn out so shady.
Glenys Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Where’s the proof? Seriously? Can you prove it?
Neo Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
There is no concrete proof, but the fact that she moderates everything so heavily speaks volumes. I am also rapidly losing my trust in her.
Pullip Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 4:31 pm
Right. Moderating her comments is an admission of guilt. Riiiight.
I hardly see that as evidence.
Nor do I find “She repackages because some colors are similar!” or “She called me names over the internet!” credible reasons to put so much time and energy into trying to ruin someone’s business, even if they WERE true.
Don’t like it? Don’t buy it IMO.
Chels Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 4:33 pm
Some people have swatches of lime crime eyeshadows and wholesale pigments floating around the internet, I don’t know if this comment will go thru or not, but please do keep it, Xenia, just as some sort of confirmation that you’re NOT trying to silence people.
I have had no problem with customer service personally, just product dupes, the customer service’s been great though
Doe Deere Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
Let’s not fight over this, ok.
Ashley Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 3:40 pm
Lots of bloggers moderate their comments. Chill out.
Kat A Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
three other comments i’ve posted have been moderated. none of them were rude or hateful. i no longer trust xenia.
Zoe Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
surely there are more positive things to spend your energy on?
November 17th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
I know what it’s like to have your name dragged through the mud because of the gossip and bullying of individuals who seem to get joy out of ruining other people’s reputations and well-being. But when it runs far past the line of bullying (which, in Canada, is technically illegal but rarely acted upon by the police except in extreme cases, and this includes cyber-bullying) and into doing hateful things like filing fraudulent paypal claims is ILLEGAL, and needs to be addressed as such. People need to realize that their actions influence the lives of human beings just like them, whether they think they’re being clever or not.
November 17th, 2009 at 3:35 pm
What are you talking about?
November 17th, 2009 at 3:47 pm
You know, even though I understand how annoying this must be for you, you should know that most of us LOVE you and the things you do. You are the best, Xenia, and we all support you in this. <3
November 17th, 2009 at 3:51 pm
Doe,
These people are ridiculous. Making false accusations based on swatches alone. Even if they were repackaged (and i know they weren’t) what about the other companies that do it? Instead of posting helpful blog posts they have turned their blogs into nothing but Xenia bashing. Wow doe, it must be so nice knowing your the center of their world hehehe.
hold your head high gorgeous, people would kill to see you fall.
November 17th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
you fight on the good fight lady! and i was planing on doing a review on the kick ass lipsticks i got from you on my youtube, so that will be up soonish :) and dont let the hate get to you. you just keep up the great work :)
November 17th, 2009 at 3:54 pm
I didn’t even know there was controversy until you mentioned it. The first thing I read was a ‘geek’ girl’s blog. While she seemed sensible, she then jumped to an outrageous conclusion (that you duplicated other companies’ colors) that she couldn’t back up with solid evidence. In essence, she engaged in cut-and-dry sophistry. To make matters worse, you were attacked as a person.
Honestly, none of us *really* know you, but we do *really* know your product. I really like the few LimeCrime products I bought through Shanalogic. Few because I can’t afford much right now. In fact, it was your blog that helped me start trying to incorporate color into my wardrobe AND start wearing make up.
Geeks (a term I don’t use as an insult) are the absolute worst about online vitriol/wankery. Because it is far more entertaining to sit in the seat of the mocker than it is to actually give the benefit of the doubt. I know from experience; I used to bait people in political forums for entertainment while studying for my Int’l relations degree.
I’m a big fan of Shanalogic; coming in contact with your product there was a gateway of trust. Therefore, the allegations against you and your company shocked me. For a few days I questioned my trust simply because make up by its very nature seems superficial to me. However, the geekblog irritated me with its lack of solid evidence (all of it is based on assumptions and conjecture). In the end, though, it is about the product and how it makes the customer feel. I like my eyedusts. I like your effervescence. Both make me feel good.
Another thing: this geekblog’s sophistry started with the premise that you were duplicating other companies’ colors, yes? Well, I invite anyone to go to http://www.colourlovers.com and try to come up with NEW colors. It isn’t easy. The two notable times I managed it was when I attempted to duplicate Great Pink Planet and Airborne Unicorn. I never tried to duplicate the eye dusts at Colourlovers, but maybe I should.
Also, she alleged that your colors were ‘ordinary’. However, I’m not aware of any company (not that I am an expert) that ONLY offers bright colors. Sure, MAC offers a lot of bright colors, but they have a plethora of taupes, browns, and other safe neutrals. Limecrime doesn’t. So, yes, LimeCrime is original. You know your niche. Not only that, but it wears extremely well and is highly versatile.
So there it is. Until some solid, believable proof is offered, even though I am a skeptic at heart, you are innocent in my eyes.
(Sorry for spamming your comment box.)
November 17th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
I sent lime crime a tweet last week, I received Centrifuschia and I must say it is one of the superior lipsticks in my collection. I put it on at 8pm and when I woke the next morning, my lips were still nicely pink.
Regarding the blogs of other people, I can understand an opinion of someone who doesn’t like the product, different strokes for different folks. It won’t suit everyone. But going out of your way to make someone look bad is hard for me to comprehend. A bad review is one thing but telling people not to buy it and giving information about past events is pretty ridiculous.
You know what you’re doing Doe and you have people who believe in you. Keep up the hard work :)
November 17th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
two words to the haters = grow up.
November 17th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
Doe, I’ve been a long time follower of you since the livejournal days, I’ve nearly idolized you, my boyfriend gets annoyed at how often I gush over your pictures and such, and I even tried (unfortunately had to work) to go to your birthday party in the park, which would have been an 8 hour drive for me. When I applied for Team CandyFuture, I checked my email nonstop for a week, had dreams about it, I was sooo excited.
I recieved my first batch of eyeshadows and I’ll be entirely honest, I loved Mermaid, but one of your eyeshadows was nearly an exact dupe to mica from a wholesale make-up supply company, TKB trading. I have mixed feelings about everything, so here’s basically how I feel.
Good
+Customer service was great
+Delivery was fast, items were packaged well
+Colors were as shown on site, and had great colorpayoff
+As a long time follower, I love your blog and glee posts
+You’re a creative, wonderful person and you as well as anyone shouldn’t have to disclose their product secrets as a company, BUT….when confronted about said issues, I was VERY disappointed in the way it was handled, I’m sure there are some people that ARE flaming you, but people seriously having problems with some (not all) colors being repackaged are not necessarily “HATERS” or “jealous.” Also, for BOTH sides people need to make their own decisions, not just blindly follow everything they read, both good and bad.
As said before, I was a very loyal follower that’s been disappointed, I’m by far not a hater or jealous, as I still follow your blog, and I plan on eventually trying your lipsticks in hopes that they are original and filled with your creative, gleefulness!
I don’t know if your PR rep is helping you deal with these issues at all, but I really feel like using the hater/jealousy response isn’t making you look good for this situation. Again, not saying there aren’t some haters and if people really are suing you, thats ridiculous!! But as a hurt fan, I’d really to see it handled a little differently. I trusted and loved your company and you as a person and I keep getting disappointed =\.
Zoë Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 7:49 pm
I agree with you Chels. Even through all this negative press lately, I still follow Doe Deere’s blog and will continue to do so. She has many amazing qualities…but at the same time too I do feel somewhat disappointed in how her team has handled the sitution. I would have advised her to confront it head-on and comment on some of the stand out points the others are accusing her of…even it it meant owning up to certain things. I feel she has glossed over the major critical issues and it seems to making matters worse…for now.
Though I am sure this will all eventually die down and we can all carry on our gleeful ways. It’s only makeup and I thought it was suppose to be fun. Can’t a girl from Russia make a living. Be decent Xenia. I still hope for the best for you, be true to yourself and others :D
Chels Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
I do have to add, I think a LOT of the negative publicity IS because Xenia’s so popular! Which is a good (because of the popularity!) and bad thing, because of all the problems being caused.
I just looked over Archetype Cosmetics, Pure Luxe, and Fyrinnae, as well as a handful of other independent make-up company sites, and they had a few dupes too, and a few mixed, its not entirely fair that Xenia has to be the one to take a lot of the heat for things that most mineral companies do. I don’t entirely have a problem with SOME repackaging, just not thrilled with how its being dealt.
You’re right, it IS only make-up, and it should be fun! I bought a lot of wholesale micas, and its a blast making my own great make-up, but really think about it, when you buy from a company, its because you support that company or person. You’re buying to support in this case, Xenia and buying into her image, so prices will be inflated to a degree. Again haha, lots of mixed feelings.
November 17th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
All I’m going to say is this: When I get bored with my life – which doesn’t happen very often, though – I usually harness by boredom and energy into doing something positive in the world, not something detrimental to others for no reason. Getting attention is so not worth the effort if the cost is negative or bitter. And gossip never did anyone any good. Well, except for Perez Hilton, maybe. ;)
Anyway, I challenge all of my darling futurettes to stand up for this company that they are so passionate about and stick up for it online! Send your positive energy and love to Doe in any way that you can!
We are all here for her!
November 17th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
I’m so sorry to hear that some people are trying to hurt you and your company. I know you’re working so hard with Lime Crime! They treat you awful! I would never listen to those stupid rumors and I hope people do like me. You’re doing a great job. I really admire your passion! They’re probably just jealous because they could never achieve something awesome like Lime Crime themselves.
Keep up the good work!
xoxo
November 17th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
You go, Doe Deere! I’ll continue to support you and Lime Crime. [I picked up the latest issue of Nylon today, and squealed excitedly to everyone that you were featured in it!]
Another great way to support Lime Crime: buy pretty eyeshadows and lipsticks for all your friends this Christmas =) I know my friends are gonna love it!
November 17th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
I keep trying to post this but the server here is on overhaul. Sorry if this gets posted twice.
I would also watch this thread http://tinyurl.com/yztpaxp. You know how *that* particular group of individuals gets. Rock on girl!
Simone Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 3:57 am
No, I wouldn’t ‘watch this thread’. That review has a right to exist and people have the right to comment on it. Nothing remotely illegal about that.
November 17th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
While I am a supporter of Xenia, I have been hearing some disturbing things online. These were comments not just from random people on LJ, but also from bloggers I trust and respect. I would truly like to have the whole “skirt hemmed in duct tape” and “music box for charity” issues clearly dealt with by both sides. The things I heard confused me, even though I am a long time reader of your blog, and I have seen evidence that backs up some of these claims. I am truly worried, especially by the heavy comment moderation. Please, help people trust you!
November 17th, 2009 at 6:26 pm
I do understand, but I just don’t think you’ve cleared up the rumors. Honestly, it sounds like you’re throwing around the words slander and libel but you haven’t cleared up the reasons WHY people have been speculating (Which they have a right to do).
So, I have to ask, and please don’t moderate this comment, because I’m genuinely concerned (I’ve been a follower of your work online for years but I’d like to know the truth. I ordered some glitters from you years ago and was truly pleased with the customer service you offered. In fact, I kept the cute packaging!)
- Since all evidence that you claimed to create your products from scratch in a lab are gone from the blogazine, are you hiding something along the lines that you lied to your customers about how your products were produced? Did you really meet with chemists in a lab to create a brand new product? If this was explained it would be helpful.
I don’t think anyone wants to attack your company. There are some of us out there that just want answers because it’s hard to see the speculation and not a straightforward, honest statement from the company itself. I don’t think anyone would think less of the company if they were honest or if they made a mistake. Then again, that could totally not be he case.
If some of the speculation is true, you’re not doing anything bad by marketing products that weren’t completely created by yourself. There’s nothing wrong with that. People just want honesty, that’s the core of the problem.
So if you made an honest statement on behalf of you and your company, the speculation might end peacefully. If you were honest with the whole community instead of targeting speculative bloggers personally, you could end the rumors and gain a lot of respect.
I hope you do the right thing and speak out for the sake of your fans.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:26 pm
Hold on. When did I remove something from my sites? If anything, I added a video of me making my eyeshadow and a huge post how I made my lipstick. I have nothing to hide and for this very reason I am able to be so open with my customers. That, and because I find it fascinating and worthy of sharing with others.
Most reasonable people can see how passionate I am about this and don’t need any further proof (this includes fans & industry professionals). The only ones left unconvinced either had their trust in my company shaken by untrue rumors or simply don’t want to be convinced. *shrug*
November 17th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Cheer up, doe!
Richie Nickel on YT reviewed your lippes (and he loves D’Lilac!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oljC6qlXwXg
ShannonM Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
That a lovely review! I liked how he swatches different lipsticks to compare the colors, really showed how rich LC lippies are.
November 17th, 2009 at 6:31 pm
im a makeup artist & i also blog about ur products ..i love ur stuff they are awesome and original..i love love love ur lipsticks…i dont know u personally however i think ppl are threatened by ppl who are talented and u are indeed they are intimidated by ur success i personally dont think its a bad thing if u dont have ppl knocking you that means u are not doing something right..so consider it a compliment ppl are gonna love u then u have others who are just gonna love to hate u ..not everyone is gonna appreciate what u bring to the table ..u dont need to prove urself to them..just continue to do what u do best..there are others like myself who admire u and love ur products and think you are truly talented and we are the ones who should matter..silence to me is the best weapon..these are ppl who will never get to the level u are in life ..so why even give them the time of day…keep the products coming the colours are gorgeous =)
Doe Deere Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:15 pm
Thank you! I promise to continue coming out with products that make me squeal “GLEEE”! :)
November 17th, 2009 at 6:35 pm
I don’t have a dog in this fight. However, I do question the critical thinking skills of people who so readily believe that the “mutiny” is about altruistically “spreading knowledge.” Note that the campaign is being led by a makeup competitor.
Google “astroturfing.” This is not unique to this situation at all.
Also, keep in mind that this campaign is a technique to take customers that are already “into” mineral makeup. That’s thinking small, looking at your business as a zero sum game. Why fight like vultures over the small market of “online makeup fanatics”? The energy that went into this campaign would be better served in working to expand the market.
You’ve got good business acumen as far as I can tell from this blog. Look to examples of how (nonmakeup) sucessful companies would deal with something like this. Honestly, I’m not sure if your approach is correct–will a judgement in court help your business? Do you want to be proved “right,” or do you want Lime Crime to be as successful as it can be? You might have to choose between the two. Remember, when you talk to a lawyer, they get $ if you decide to sue. If you have a business mentor, be sure to talk to them about this and how to proceed.
anon (again) Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 11:40 pm
I’ve thought about this a little more. Here’s a few points of constructive criticism:
1-I would have had no idea about the “controversy” if you hadn’t mentioned it in the youtube blog post. Of course it piqued my curiousity, and I searched out the other sites (via links in the comments, but it would have been google-able). Look at your web traffic statistics. By alluding to the other sites here, you essentially boosted their audience by sending all the blogazine readers who would have never seen that site to their direction. If you wanted to rally your core supporters to defend you, an email to Candyfuture subscribers would have been best.
which leads to:
2-I would drop this. You don’t fight negative press by negating it. It just highlights it. Drown it out with positive press.
3-to expand on my “small thinking” criticism of your competitor, I’d like to point out the example of Starbucks and local coffee houses. Coffee houses use to freak at the idea of a starbucks coming to their area. But in actuality? Starbucks was the BEST thing that could have happened for them, for a number or reasons (see slate article). One of which was that they were responsible for getter more people into buying $5 flavored coffees. And a lot of this expanded customer base ended up patronizing the other coffee shops.
One of the best things you do for both Lime Crime AND the other companies is work to broaden your customer base. You make crazy colors seem like a possible purchase to people who would normally not consider it. You don’t just market a product, you have a “lifestyle” that the product represents (Candyfuture, GLEE, unicorns, costumes, etc). You market that if you use these products, you won’t just have bright eyelids or neon lips, these things represent a more carefree lifestyle your consumer can adopt.
Why would your competitors want to tear down a company that is so effective at increasing the appeal of colorful eyeshadows to a wider base? Some of the new customers Lime Crime recruits would no doubt eventually explore other brands once they forayed into nontraditional colors. Getting them to consider that first purchase is the hardest; if Lime Crime can do that tough work, then they should be happy for it.
November 17th, 2009 at 6:40 pm
LimeCrime is the only mineral makeup company I buy from. I have received comments on my LimeCrime videos that I should buy from this company or that company because the colours are the same and they are cheaper.
To that, I say thats nice. I don’t know those other companies. I beleive that there are only so many colours and colour combinations in the world, so yes, different companies are going to have similar if not the same colours. Thats life. Many companies have exact dupes for another companies eyeshadow. Happens with MAC all the time. You never hear anyone saying that MAC just repackages things or steals from other companies. Different companies will have similar products. Its life. Deal with it.
I buy LimeCrime because of Doe, and because of this blog. Plain and simple. You make connections with people on the internet, regardless of meeting them or knowing them IRL. I read this blog everyday, and you feel as though you know Doe. You are invested in her, so you invest in her companies products. I have been reading this blog for almost 2 years now and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
I do not believe that Doe is just repackaging these colours. Seems like a complicated lie to keep up. Yes, you get the raw product from a wholesaler. But then you mix it, and whatever else. People need to chill.
Also, Doe has great customer service. I just dealt extensively with Mark D, and it was one of the most pleasant experiences I have ever had. Always email before filing a PayPal dispute. That is just common sense. Its Christmas time and the Postal Service is overloaded and things just happen. Jeez louise. Doe cares about her customers, and wants to make sure that they have the best experience with her company and products possible. Don’t ever change that! Dealing with a rational, nice person when there is a problem makes everything better. Remember: if you are nice to them, they will be nice to you.
On a side note, I don’t know how the American legal process works, but in order to sue for libel you have to go through civil court (not small claims or modified rule) and that can cost crazy amounts of money. Luckily for you, 90% of civil cases end up settling out of court. Also, civil cases can take years.
Lastly, (I promise lol!) in terms of moderation, why would Doe NOT moderate comments that are negative? Would you let people lie about you on your own website? No. You wouldn’t. Like I said, Doe says she doesn’t repackage, and it seems like that would be a hard lie to keep up, so allowing accusations to be posted on her own website would just be silly. Why would you let comments like that be posted, where you could see them all the time? Really now. That would just bring me down every time I saw them. Her website, so she gets to post what she wants. We do not own the Blogazine, so really we can have no say as to what Doe decides to post.
Sorry for the novel. Futurettes, Stay positive and don’t let bullies get you down. Remember: people bully because they are insecure and need to bring others down to make themselves feel better.
Much love and support in whatever you do
Kat Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:22 pm
Because by moderating them it seems like she’s trying to silence anything negative people have to say and makes it seem like she has something to hide, even if she doesn’t.
By not moderating and facing any criticism on, this whole business would be made to appear significantly less shady.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
Some of these comments are such trash, I have to moderate them. This is my blog and I have a responsibility to my readers.
November 17th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
How awful I haven’t got around to trying your products but I am rather looking forward to doing so!
I hope this all blows over soon xx
November 17th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
There’s nothing wrong with them hating your product but it’s the fact that they are trying to frikking RUIN your company. Did they not think for a second that if they wrecked your company some people would be really, really heartbroken? (I intend on buying airborne unicorn over and over) they have only thought of themselves. They could have left people to make their own minds up but that wasn’t enough, they just got so catty and disapproving of anyone who LIKED limecrime for whatever reason. People know the situation now, they can make their own minds up…but, nope, that wasn’t enough!
November 17th, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Haters gonna Hate.
The only reason I’m not naming my first-born daughter “Doe”? Her surname would be “Roe”.
VIVA CANDYFUTURE.
ShannonM Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 10:39 pm
Doe Roe? XD to funny!
November 17th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
Lime crime is awsome
You are an everyday inspiration
Keep up your unbelievable work
Haters are jealous unsensitive people
November 17th, 2009 at 8:36 pm
Internet bullies suck. People are certainly entitled to their opinions, but expressing those opinions in a cheap, mean fashion is just, well, cheap and mean. It seems like if they had to complain about something they would pick something more legitimate than the finite amount of colors available to a makeup creatrix!
Personally, I think your makeup looks spectacular, have heard much more good than bad about it, and even more important than brand loyalty, I think your entire outlook on life says some cool things about you. Long live the queen of unicorns <3
November 17th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
Not to sound argumentative, but a blog post that reviews your lippie as drying and staining is defamation? If so, you’ve still got some blogs to find. Sorry, but I more than understand being upset about the claims they are making against you personally, but a review is a review. The reader can take it or leave it knowing that different customers prefer different things. It might’ve been a step too much, and I know I certainly wouldn’t have paid this issue so much mind if I hadn’t seen articles get replaced with pictures and comments go missing myself, it just makes you look a tad suspicious if you don’t offer a more immediate defense and instead just look like you’re hiding something shameful.
I’m still a fan, I’m just saying.
Alice Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 8:51 pm
Agreed. Personally, I trust a product that has received some negative reviews more than one which only receives glowing reviews. No product is right for every single person. I read positive and negative reviews to figure out if a product is right for me; I don’t automatically assume a product is fantastic or awful because one person says so.
Defamation involves things that aren’t true. If a lipstick dries out someone’s lips and they say so, that’s not defamation–that merely means it’s not the right product for that particular person, and they have every legal right to say so.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 9:33 pm
Some people don’t like my products, that’s fine. I am not at all against honest reviews. However, interspersing your “review” with defamatory trash – i.e., implying I did not make my lipstick – is a whole different story.
Anyone who thinks this is about recrimination for bad reviews is very much mistaken.
MarySunshine Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 9:42 pm
Then why not simply ask for the review to be reposted without the “extra” rather than removal of the whole?
November 17th, 2009 at 8:48 pm
Doe,
What you have done with your company is truly inspirational. It’s amazing to see a small company grow and compete against corporate giants like MAC.
However, any company that sells a product will have people who love and/or hate the products. If your company makes it (I hope it does) you are going to have to get used to negative comments and reviews. SIlencing people is only going to intensify any hostility towards your company.(the current uproar with Gothique) If you really want to silence the rumors, all you have to do is post proof of falsification.
I hope everything works out for you.
peace and love
Doe Deere Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 9:28 pm
I welcome all reviews from my customers – positive and negative. These are a priceless form feedback which helps me improve my products. It’s not true that we only approve 5-star reviews; ALL reviews get posted, as evident from my site.
kitten Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 12:38 am
I understand. It is sad for me to see a small independent business be the target of so much criticism. My advise is to keep your head held high and ignore it. All they want is a reaction out of you. If you don’t give them one, they will get bored and eventually forget about it. All they have on you is swatch comparisons. I have various eye shadows from different companies that are IDENTICAL. It’s going to be ok :)
ShannonM Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
I have eyeshadows that are exactly the same form different companies as well, it is SO hard to make an original color now days!
For example, if I swatch 3 random black eyeshadow, they all end up essentially the same. Same thing happens with white, blue, silver, beige, ect ect ect. Some are more pigmented than others, but so many colors are identical. Some people just need to take a chill pill and stop floucing.
November 17th, 2009 at 8:51 pm
Thats horrible. You not only give away your products through contests you also offer some of your music for free if people cant afford it. I think thats the opposite of being rude to your customers. I LOVE DOE DEERE!
November 17th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
This is terrible. Why would people go through SO MUCH just to run your business into the ground? I love your stuff, I haven’t gotten any myself but I’m working on that and hopefully I can get some lipstick before my birthday so I can look amazing. :) But people just don’t understand how hard you’ve worked to get where you are. I imagine it was very tough!
November 17th, 2009 at 9:41 pm
I suppose I might as well pitch my two cents in with everyone else!
I, personally, love Lime Crime products. I constantly use the eyedusts I ordered last month, and have another order on the way, this time with a lipstick ordered as well (Retrofuturist, if anyone was curious!). All of my girlfriends comment on my makeup and ask where I bought it! I even had a friend order some for herself and for Christmas gifts for others. I have no complaints about the customer service – My order arrived within the time frame offered and there were no problems regarding payments and the like. I was completely satisfied with my product and my experience with Lime Crime!
As for the accusations of repackaging, copying, and moderating…
Seriously people? While I am a fan of Lime Crime products, there are only so many colors in the rainbow, folks – Sooner or later you’re going to find something similar elsewhere. It’s a fact of life. Chill out. I don’t see anyone freaking out because Covergirl, Loreal, Revlon, Maybeline, etc all have similar colors. Oh horror of horrors! They must be simply repackaging each others’ products!… When you put it that way, that kind of logic sounds absolutely ridiculous. You can’t accuse people of things like that without solid evidence!
And for the people who are complaining about comment moderation… Ask yourself honestly; How would you feel if you and your work were being personally attacked on your own website? Everyone has the right to their opinion, but Doe is a person just like anyone else, and I’m sure all of the controversy and negativity is hurtful to her. If you were in her shoes would you want to log on and see all of those negative and hateful comments all the time? I’m not saying it’s necessarily the right thing to do, I just think people should remember that she is a person like any one of us and that no one is perfect! I honestly don’t think many others would react any differently or much better.
You can be critical AND constructive. If you weren’t happy with the product then you should of course post a review or contact the company so that they can improve the product. However, I don’t think it’s fair to personally attack someone or try to ruin their reputation simply because you didn’t enjoy their product. Again, using the Covergirl/Loreal/Revlon/Maybeline model, I don’t see anyone else personally attacking the people who create those products; because Doe is so visible to her readers and customers she takes a lot of heat, and I think that takes an incredible amount of guts. You can voice your dissatisfaction with something without being hateful or negative – And that kind of constructive attitude is much more likely to garner a positive response in turn than accusations and the repetition of gossip with little factual evidence to back it up.
So, I suppose I ended up chipping in my dollar’s worth rather than two cents =P. But all jokes aside, I think this whole situation is a shame and I applaud Doe for continuing on with her company and blog despite all the negativity! I’m really looking forward to my next order arriving in the mail!
November 17th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
I don’t understand why anyone cares if one of the eyeshadow colors is similar to another one. Like it’s impossible to mix a color and end up making one that’s really similar to one already on the market? There’s gotta be millions of different shades of eyeshadow out there. I bet if I made one at home in my lab today just for fun, it would look exactly like one for sale out there. I also know that if I liked a brand’s eyeshadow color, but wanted it to last longer and be brighter, I’d make my own and try to match that color so I could have what I wanted. What’s wrong with that exactly? It’s not exactly what’s already out there on the market because I tailored it to what I want, not like that matters either.
I just don’t get why anyone cares if her colors are extremely similar to someone elses. I loved the eyeshadows I bought, I got them incredibly fast, and Xenia was very polite. I am a happy customer, and I would never let someone else’s opinion overrule my own experience. Never have, never will. I had a good experience, and I liked the eyeshadow.
November 17th, 2009 at 9:50 pm
I am a bit bummed, I guesse with all the comments mine got deleted or something … it was between comment 33 and what is now 34 and what I said then I will say again (from memory, however its epicnss is forever lost i cyberspace) now:
People on the internet have nothing better to do than bash others. And that your colours are as creative as they get and the haters who post about your colours being ‘dupes’ have obviously never walked in a drugstore or a department store. More than 75% of the makup there is the same.
I hope this one does not get killed by the internet. Good luck in the future!
<3 Cait
November 17th, 2009 at 9:58 pm
People cannot prove that you “repackage” anything by swatches alone.
The human eye can only see about 300 colors, so some colors may look the same to some people but not to others.
That is hardly proof positive to bring down your company.
People can believe what they will, and not everyone will be convinced, but you know the truth and your real fans and friends know the truth.
If these bloggers think they have some kind of tangible proof, then they should bring it before a judge. If not, they should sit down and shut up.
Guaranteed most of them won’t be able to grow a pair and bring this so-called proof into a court of law. If they do, then they will most likely lose, as what they are alleging is near impossible to prove without some sort of scientific degree.
It continues to blow my mind to see what people think they know and are entitled to. Yet, they refuse to do their homework and back up what they say. Why? Because they know it isn’t true.
Bottom line, people want attention and recognition, but are not willing to do half of what hard working people like you have done to EARN it.
Notoriety isn’t given, it is EARNED.
Suzanne C. Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 2:54 am
Really!? Only 300 that’s fascinating, and actually explains everything! LOL i’M NOT BEING SARCASTIC i’M SERIOUS i MEAN YOU KNOW HOW MANY SHADES SOME COMPANIES HAVE!? OOPS CAPS LOCK SORRY!
Whit Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 8:51 am
Yeah, only 300. Isn’t that crazy? Basically what you see are primary colors and then a bunch of other shades mixed in.
Kat (again) Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 8:25 am
Actually it’s about 10 million.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colour
November 17th, 2009 at 10:13 pm
I’d liek to read these damming blogs . . . just to see what they are whining about.
I guess osme people like to complain and grapple at people who are making it in the world to make them selves feel better. Clasic bullies.
Oh sure, your makeup colors may be close to other companies colors . . . but there are so many colors out there so it will be nearly imposable to create something truly original. It is REALLY hard creating something truly original, and some people don’t realize that, and ya know what? Booo to them!
I intend to take some cute pictures in my LC makeup! I will send them to you my dear! (pun intended, hehehe!)
Boo to all the haters, I support you!
November 17th, 2009 at 10:21 pm
How come your lipstick packages say “made in LA distributed by Limecrime?” I thought your lab was in New York.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
“Distributed” refers to where my company is located (NY). “Made” is where our products are manufactured (our production lab is in LA).
“But, but! You can’t be in two places at once! This means someone is making your cosmetics in LA while you’re sitting doing nothing in NY!”
Not really. I develop colors at a sample lab in NJ and mail them off to the production lab in CA. Production lab matches the colors, sends them back for my approval, and hopefully goes into production immediately after. Yes, it’s a pain and I wish I had a lab closer to where I am… but a lot of things get done long-distance in this business.
I hope this answers your question extensively. If you have any doubts that this is a common practice, look at boxes on other makeup. You’ll notice that most companies take their production to PROC/China and distribute in Canada or US.
November 17th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
It’s a lie that all of her reviews get posted. I have heard from many customers that they posted a less than stellar review which NEVER got posted! She may have changed this now that she’s getting called out, but up until a month ago, only 5 stars and the occassional 4 star (to throw us off) would get posted.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 17th, 2009 at 11:28 pm
I can assure you that every single review gets posted on my site – including the 2, 3-star ones. Hey, I don’t expect my product to work for absolutely everyone & value any kind of feedback!
November 17th, 2009 at 10:42 pm
YAY! I’m glad you’re doing this! I can’t believe people would deliberately defame someone who works hard. One of the people posting on the blogs has the same name as me! I’m offended! I have a lot of eyeshadows but I’m hoping to buy some prettyful lipsticks and I don’t care what they say! I’m glad your sticking up for your product. There are a lot of companies who sell less than you do for a whole lot more. Ilamasqua (I’m not sure if I spelled that right)and other prestige companies sell lipsticks for 20 dollars. Yours are cheaper and prettier. Thanks for putting up a good fight. A lot of the blogs are making comments about your fans being your “minions” or “immature teenagers” or whatever and it’s ridiculous. I’m so happy that you’re fighting back because it’s like you’re fighting for us too! We have your back. For every hater (and by this I don’t mean someone who has a legitimate complaint, I mean someone who drags your name through the mud) there’s 10 more people who love you and your product. Keep up the good work! We support ya!
Love Michelle C.
xoxo!
November 17th, 2009 at 10:57 pm
Honestly, just ignore them.
November 17th, 2009 at 11:04 pm
This sucks man. It’s really bad, when you go to websites where someone has gotten your product and talks about it, someone comments saying, “You know she just resells wholesale stuff, how do you feel about that?”
It’s honestly rude. It’s a smear tactic. It’s wrong. It’s one thing to say you don’t like something and you were unsatisfied, but, to try to drag someone through the mud and ruin them is just wrong and unfair. This is your life, I’m sure it’s part of the income that pays your bills. They must not realize how much they could hurt you by doing this.
ShannonM Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 12:14 am
It seems the people who are smearing her, they are grasping at straws, just a little bit. I have read through some of the blog entries that play the hate game . . . really, they seem floucy, a little inflated, and it seems like they don’t really anything to be all snotty about. Yes yes, they are two sides to every story, and it is good to read into both sides and form one’s own opinion.
And no, I am not sure the people who are smearing Doe realize that this is her lively hood. How would they like it is someone comes to their work and smears them? Hhhuumm? It is rather petty and silly, and really now, childish.
November 18th, 2009 at 12:12 am
I’m fairly stoic about the whole thing.
I mean, go around to all the makeup companies, and you’ll find most have colors that look like colors that someone else has. Unless someone has access to mica that no one else does, then there’s only so many mixes you can do. And just because one company has the same color as another doesn’t mean they intentionally copied… I mean, there’s too many companies too look through to make sure that none of your colors look similar to anyone else. Duplicates are bound to happen.
Not saying she did just repackage, or didn’t. Just looking at another possibility.
HOWEVER… prices.
While I (slightly) understand the price of her lip stick after the process she does (the lab, custom packages which is expensive…), I must say the price of her mica pigments is slightly outrageous. These micas can be purchased in higher quantities for lesser prices. There is no secret ingredient, only mica and standard oxides that come mixed in anyway. Anyone could purchase the micas and dink around to create the colors she offers. SOOO, $12 dollars for what I could get more of for $1.50…. nah. I don’t have that kind of money to spare.
November 18th, 2009 at 12:30 am
**This is just my opinion.**
I’ve been doing my research on both sides of this spectrum & find that while you may be correct that you make all of your cosmetics, that you seem to be the one putting force on others to delete their postings due to the fact you can’t handle the bad press. But, in my opinion, I feel that you might be dragging this out into something that seems a bit maniacal, especially if you are just getting others to delete posts of reviews of your products.
I do not believe that anyone should try to sabotage your Paypal & things like that. I believe that if others are doing these things that it is going too far. One post in particular though that I found just to be a review has since been removed. In my opinion, I find that to show a bit of cowardice on your behalf. I think you should stick to going after the ones that are trying to do the more serious illegal activities, such as trying to put false claims to your Paypal account.
In my opinion, all the bad press you are getting seems to be a tad bit self made. If someone seriously considers your product valuable they will buy your product no matter what. Also, for every bad review I’ve seen, I’ve seen many good reviews! I’d quit worrying about the reviews, gossip & hearsay and focus on getting rid of the ones attacking your Paypal & conducting mail fraud!
November 18th, 2009 at 12:36 am
I’m sorry this is happening to you, Doe. It seems like it’s the bullies time of year right now! I’ve been getting ridiculed at school lately about my dreadlocks (being teased and downed on having them). These girls have been telling people to not schedule appointments with me (I’m in beauty school)! I think you’re doing an amazing thing with your makeup line, and I do hope they back off soon. I can’t wait to see where Lime Crime goes!
November 18th, 2009 at 1:19 am
If every celebrity went after each single paparazzi that sell deliberately horrible pics of them, after every tabloid that deliberately publishes them, after every single lie and rumor spread about them – when would they have time or energy – to create and give their fans what their fans love them for?
Doe, you are a Star. Of course losers hate you. DUH! What’s to like: Talented, professional and gorgeous – A triple threat.
You are a gem. A treat. An indulgence. An inspiration. keep doing what you’re doing.
Your loyal fans friends and followers love you, respect you and wish you nothing but continuous success.
BEST REVENGE IS MASSIVE SUCCESS
p.s. Me, being a guy is the only ‘drawback’ when it comes to your makeup :)) if i was a girl I’d be buying from you like crazy.
November 18th, 2009 at 1:50 am
babes!
Welcome to the “grown-ups” league…Apperently along with fame and glory come sometimes bitterness and jealousy. Toss all those petty-oh-so-small people aside, and continue focusing on what you do best: Great Make-Up!!!
Cheer up!!!
Love-ya. Yafutoo
November 18th, 2009 at 4:49 am
I’ve never read any of these things, never knew anything about it and have no interest in what a bunch of petty gossips on the internet say. I bought the products for myself and made MY OWN decisions about them. This is what most people will do, I think.
I know it’s painful but most people out there probably don’t even know that this is happening. Ride it out and keep doing what you’re doing. I know it’s easy for me to say that and this is probably incredibly painful for you, but it gives them too much power to let them affect you like this.
November 18th, 2009 at 9:20 am
I have read some of the bad things that have been posted about your company and thought I may as well put my two cents in.
There are haters out there, people trying to ruin you for what seems like the fun of it. They are spreading rumours about your company which are unfair or simply saying cruel things about you. I totally disagree with this treatment of you, it really is bullying.
However I think there are people out there who are genuinely upset about how things are being dealt with. Not all of the ‘bad’ press is just about slandering you, some people are confused by how you have handled the situation.
It seems a lot of people think you are not being honest with your company, quite a few people have said they don’t like how you moderate things for example. This post is good because you’ve let all the comments through, whether you moderated out the bad in the past or not at least everyone can see that you are not doing it now. I think that people were worried that they couldn’t trust you not to ‘edit’ the view of your company through comments, seeing something like this where you are responding to everyone will give people more trust in you.
Also there are comments that you have been back and edited your past posts which were saying that you created your products from scratch, personally I don’t know about this but I think it just goes along with the whole ‘honesty’ policy. If you were going back and editing entries significantly, please don’t. It makes people feel as though you are lying or trying to hide something.
Another thing I’ve seen people take issue with is the way you price your products and the quantity you get for what you pay. I’ll be honest, your products can be quite expensive and the quantity isn’t always what you would expect for the price, at least not with the eyedusts. I have bought from you before and was a little surprised that the pot seemed quite small, still I took no issue with the product as I really enjoyed the makeup itself.
It seems to be that people are saying that they could go somewhere else and get good makeup without it being so expensive.
However, personally I can see why the prices might be a little higher. You are making the casing and packaging as well as the product in your own company which is smaller than the bigger companies like MAC. I don’t know for certain but I just assume that being on a smaller scale just makes it a little more expensive to manufacture.
Also despite what people say I think that at least some of your colours, especially in your lipsticks, are not easy to come by with other companies. You have a niche that you are providing for and making a product that, even if it’s not TOTALLY original (and what is 100% original?), is definitely rare in the market.
Overall I think it’s really good that you are now responding to questions people have for you out in the public where everyone can see. Honesty gets you a long way, if you are honest with your fans they will stick by you, all the rest of the unfounded slander can go to waste.
November 18th, 2009 at 10:02 am
I’ve ordered 2 eyeshadows and 2 lipsticks from LimeCrime, they were all very good products and there was absolutely nothing wrong with them and they arrived to my home in the UK quickly. I think people making defamatory statments are just resentful of Xenia’s success online. I agree that people have the right to an oppinion, but I belive that when Xenia refers to bloggers and blog comments being unlawful and defamatory, she is refering to the simply downright nasty and idiotic stuff, like her products being repackaged stargazer items for example.
I will continue to shop at Limecrime dispite this rubbish, even if the ridiculous rumours were true, Xenia’s product packaging brings me glee on its own!!
November 18th, 2009 at 11:07 am
This blog is one of my favorites, it just brightens my day on the world wide web. I’ve ordered a couple eye dusts and three lipsticks and I love all of them. I got so many compliments on My Beautiful Rocket and I never would’ve dared to wear bright orange lipstick before, so thanks!
Regarding the controversy, if you step back the “attackers” are acting out a classic case of projected insecurity. Makeup aficionados or not, we all know beauty is skin-deep and their insides don’t seem to be too lovely if they’re so hell-bent on ruining a fellow female’s independent business. What a truly sad “mission” to be on. I sincerely hope that one day they find peace within themselves.
And really, I love the comment someone else made about – would you let people slander you on your own website? NEVER. I am glad you erase those comments because *I* don’t want to read their negative bs while I’m trying to enjoy the unicorns…
The other thing that bothers me about this whole thing is that I really wish there was more of an uproar about the fact that MANY MAJOR COSMETIC COMPANIES – people who make billions in sales – STILL test on friggin’ animals! In the ’50s perhaps they could justify it, but it’s nearly 2010 and we know so much more than back then. I’d love to see all makeup bloggers, especially these angry gals, rise up against something truly worthwhile like the torture and exploitation of millions of innocent creatures every year.
Shayne Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
I agree with you. I wish there was an uproar like this about animal testing. Many companies still test on animals and it makes me furious. I strive to only buy vegan and non animal tested products. This goes for all everything too…not just makeup. I don’t even eat animals or wear leather or fur either because animal rights is a HUGE issue for me.
Limespark - Please Feed the Bears. Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 2:15 am
Oh, my god, I agree 100% with you. It constantly saddens and angers me that people get up in arms over silly irrelevant things when actual life is at stake… no matter how much your feelings get hurt, no matter how cheated you feel, you’re not dead!
Not saying that this whole Lime Crime scandal is silly. Well, on second thought, it is silly that people are so pissed about things every single makeup company does and take it out on someone as fantastic as Doe…
November 18th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
I love ya, cutie pie, and the eyeshadow I bought from you as well. No complaints here. Smooch.
November 18th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
I think people forget that there are limits to free speech when it becomes slander and potentially harmful to someone’s or a company’s reputation. People just back up all their slanderous comments with the “free speech” claim, but you can’t defame people left and right without significant proof. This feeling of entitlement to slanderous speech is only exacerbated by the internet.
If they truly feel you are handling your company illegally, then they should approach it through the law, not through internet bullying. I think you have right if not a duty to pursue this on a legal level, because they have taken it to a legal level. Posting a bad review is free speech, defamation is a legal accusation that can have consequences if not well-founded.
Sorry it had to come from this, but you tried to stop it, and they should have looked into what free speech really means if they didn’t want lawyers involved.
ShannonM Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
It is like they are hiding behind the Free Speech thing without really understanding it. There is a difference between Free Speech and harmful slander, some people really need to read up on that. I hope they do.
November 18th, 2009 at 12:27 pm
P.S., here is my shout-out to you, and the Lime Crime eyeshadow I looove:
http://www.thewhocaresgirl.com/?p=1407
ShannonM Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 4:48 pm
Oh wow, that is lovely!
Doe Deere Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
SPARKLY!!! Yay! :D
November 18th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
I didn’t know what a lot of the huff around your company was until recently. I decided to research and try to find out the full story once you started posting those blogs about it. Some people are being out right rude and childish over the whole thing. So many colors are the same within make up brands so the fact that you may have repackaged some eye shadows or used already made recipes doesn’t bother me. And I don’t believe at all that you repackaged your lipstick. What does worry me a bit are those accusations regarding the skirt with duct tape and the charity issue. The charity issue (if it is true) really bothers me since I am a huge animals rights activist so if you took people’s money and never gave it to a animal shelter that is beyond horrible. I do wish you would speak out and explain some of these accusations and get it out in the open.
I also don’t agree with the action you took to remove the lipstick review by Gothique. I read the review and I don’t see anything wrong with it. It was her opinion. We all have different opinions. I love reading good & bad opinions on products because that is what gets me to decide if I want to buy it or not. This is why I love Sephora. They keep all their reviews online…all bad and all good ones. And since everybody’s skin is different those bad reviews are helpful to me. For instance, if someone with oily skin keeps saying a product makes their skin even oily or shiny and they hated that about the product, I know this product may actually be GOOD for me since my skin is on the dry side. Or if someone says a product is drying I know I should be hesitant about buying it because it most likely will make my skin dry since my skin is sensitive and on the normal-dry side. The only thing she said that was questionable was that she didn’t think you made your lipstick. You could have asked her to take that down and leave the rest of the review since there was nothing wrong with the rest of the review. You threatening to sue her if she didn’t take it down stir the issues up again.
I do hope this all blows over soon and I hope it doesn’t ruin business for you because I love your blog and your style and I want you to succeed. I can’t say anything about the quality of your products since I haven’t bought any of your products other then the primer that you used to sell. I personally didn’t like the way it felt on my skin (it was drying)but I don’t think it’s a bad product. It just wasn’t meant for my skin.
My advise, just be honest about EVERYTHING and if you did do something shady in your past, own up to it. I think people would rather you be honest now and forget those past shady issues (if any are true) then not know and question whether they should trust you and your company.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
I’ve opened up my process to everyone – I don’t know how much more honest I could possibly be.
Some of these accusations are so outlandish (like the one that claims I stole from an animal shelter – come on!!), it’s clear to me they are not coming from ‘concerned customers’. My customers communicate with me directly, not post on message boards. :)
By the way, I would never go after someone simply because of a bad review. That particular person was deliberately spreading false rumors with the sole intention of harming my company. This type of behavior is unlawful, and was addressed in a very appropriate manner.
ShannonM Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
Oh please! Some people are so silly and flouncy, it is like they want to gripe over something and it happens to be you.
If someone posts a complaint about LC makeup on a message bored and not contact you about it . . . yea, we are TOTALLY going to believe them . . . *eye roll* it looks fishy if they do it that way.
Kat (again) Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Obviously you wouldn’t steal from an animal shelter, that’s a despicable thing to do. Which animal shelter is it they’re accusing you of ripping off?
November 18th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
So sorry you are still dealing with this. Sending some good glee-ful vibes your way!xo
November 18th, 2009 at 2:02 pm
You now what I think is ridiculous? That this is even an issue. I mean really, really? No company, business or government give us as much transparency as Doe has with her videos and her post on the lab…and even if she did use stock colors, who gives a shit? If you like the colors and you will use them, why do you care how they were created? As long as someone or something was not harmed in the process.
I mean there are tons of people who have mineral make-up lines and there isn’t this much backlash for them… why is it such a big deal? You aren’t going on to the MAC site and demanding a step by step process of how they came up with their make-up or accusing them of stealing from Make-up Forever?
Grow up people, Doe doesn’t have to answer to anyone. period. If you do not like her or her stuff, don’t buy it!
Kat Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
I think the issue isn’t with Doe reselling stock colours, it’s the fact that she made such a big deal over her creating them herself.
Even if it does turn out that she’s just repackaging, hell, other companies do it too…but they admit to it, and I think that’s where most people’s issues lie.
Kat (again) Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 5:37 pm
Just realised that comment comes across like I actually think she is just repackaging. I don’t. I think she’s too intelligent to do it, because it’s obvious that if she did eventually people would realise. The colours may be similar but I doubt they’re identical.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
I wrote this yesturday morning, watched it dissapear , re-wrote it and saved it but it would not post not even when I tried to post it again last night. I just hope you read it:
My comment deissapeard AGAIN!
I guess I’ll try and remember what I wrote.
I will do everything I can to help. I was writing a review on Nymph but I didn’t think my writing was good enough so I didn’t finish or submit it. But I will no! I <3 NYMPH! I'll also have to start working on a testimonial. I wonder what I should wear? I don't have any lipsticks yet (getting 4 X-mas) maybe Cleopatra?
I LOVE you Doe and want you to know you are so inspiring. Good luck and i hope
this doesn't get drawn out. I'd kick their butts for you if I could.
November 18th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
I am glad you are addressing these issues and standing up for yourself. Although not everyone was aware of the rumors, I think a lot of us were, so it’s nice to have you comment on them. It puzzles me why people think you are throwing a fit over people giving negative reviews. Yes the ones that spread rumors do often give negative reviews about the products themselves, but those negative comments are interspersed between unprovable, harmful accusations. After all, how many of the people perpetuating the rumors are going to encourage people to go buy the products?
Makeup is expensive, especially good brands. I can’t tell you how many times I have seen makeup at MAC and then run off to a drugstore to purchase the same color from another brand, like Milani.
As far as LC lippies looking like Heatherette and other MAC lipstick tubes, yes, they do look kind of similar. You know, in that way that every lipstick tube looks similar. The LC tube is thicker and not as tapered. As far as the holographic unicorn? Anyone who has ever read Doe Deere Blogazine really shouldn’t be surprised by that. Doe Deere and things that sparkle? Let’s take a minute to contemplate how obvious that is.
One actual criticism (not rumor) I find odd is that people are whining about the lipsticks staining your lips. I agree that they do. So do MAC lipsticks. So do Neutrogena lipsticks. Should I keep listing brands? I have yet to find a lipstick in an intense color that doesn’t stain my lips.
I got 11 LC products in the mail today! Unfortunately, I only get to keep 5 of them for myself. :( I am extremely pleased with them though. Once my life slows down a little (after December 16th), I am going to post tons of reviews.
ShannonM Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Some Revlon lippies stain lips . . . same with Avon and looots of others. It’s a fact that some lippies stain people’s lips, it seems people are picking on Doe because she is small and an easy target I guess.
When I get a little pocket money, I totally am going to get a few more eyeshadows and maybe a lipstick. I like the shadows because they are SO pigmented and reasonably priced to boot.
Meru Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 3:02 am
Agreed. Oh my god! This lipstick stains my lips. As does almost every other lipstick on the market. I have never found a red lipstick (whether from a cheap brand or a ridiculously expensive one) that didn’t stain my lips.
Meru Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 3:03 am
oops. That should be in quotations. :) I haven’t gotten around to it yet but I would actually be a little happy to see my lips stained Oh No She Didn’t blue!
ShannonM Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 8:05 am
Blue stained lips, cute!
November 18th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
@ Sharon: “Oh please! Some people are so silly and flouncy, it is like they want to gripe over something and it happens to be you.
If someone posts a complaint about LC makeup on a message bored and not contact you about it . . . yea, we are TOTALLY going to believe them . . . *eye roll* it looks fishy if they do it that way.”
The only reason why we’re not “posting our complaints about LC” here is because they get deleted! We’re trying to voice our opinions, but anything in a negative direction goes straight to the garbage bin. I would love to give Doe a “fair fight” and have her defend herself, but it’s not fair when our voices are silenced out. The only way we can speak them is on message boards and forums.
Kat A Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 6:35 pm
how true. anything of substance i try to say in these comments is moderated, even the ones that are calm and fair.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 18th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
I’m always happy to address civil concerns, but attacks and such will never make it on my blog. It’s just not the right place for that kind of stuff, if there ever was a place.
Some people have taken this too far, and I sincerely hope that you guys take everything you read about me outside this blog with a grain of salt. I know why I’m in the business and I’m going to stay true to my mission no matter what others say. I’m ready to move on from the negativity and focus on the more positive, exciting stuff. Hope you can too! xo
November 18th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
Hear, hear! (and eh, there’s nothing else I can say!)
November 19th, 2009 at 12:33 am
Doe,
I hate to say this, as I was once a devoted reader of your blog (I still love the idea of GLEE!), but the recent events have troubled me. Greatly. I hate feeling like I have to be suspicious of anyone, but that is honestly what is happening to me as an individually thinking person.
You keep saying that we should just “move on from the negativity”, but negativity (particularly when it is this public) needs to be addressed and not ignored. Attacks against an individual person SHOULD be ignored, but ALL attacks on a person’s business (current complaints about physical packaging quality, customer service, etc), need to be allowed to individually addressed if trust is to remain between the company and customers.
Vice versa, I personally think that in this case, it is inappropriate to tie in your personal journey with the issues at hand. We all know you worked your butt off to start and promote this business, but the problem is where the company stands NOW. On this note, the looming issue (the origins of Lime Crime’s wares) should be addressed on a COMPANY level, not on an individual one, since that’s where the concerns lie. We don’t need to know how cool bright colours are; we need to see proof of real lab conditions and professional business practices.
This publicity could be GREAT for Lime Crime, but only AFTER people have been given no reason to be suspicious. Counter-attacks and threats aren’t going to work half as well as undeniable proof that no one needs to worry.
I just hope things turn out all right.
Lorelai Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
I have to agree, there’s been some really disturbing issues that still haven’t been cleared up. Personal issues should not be brought up into business issues. It’s just not ethical, and doesn’t sit right. Doe, standing up to the especially malicious bloggers is fantastic. But I don’t see anything really being done to change what’s going on. I’m only seeing counter threats and telling fans to “Don’t Panic” so to speak. This is a business, we want to see you clearly address individual issues. Right now, you sound very vague. You have great ideas, very fashionable and talented, I don’t want to lose faith in you. You seem like a girl after my own heart, and I really like your blog. Just this whole dramatic business on both sides is very shady.
November 19th, 2009 at 6:52 am
this is an honest, non-defamatory, non-offensive, well-meant message, i hope it doesn’t get deleted
i’m sorry Doe, but vast majority of the people are trying to offer constructive criticism, hoeever, anything that even slightly hints at you reacting badly to honest reviews gets deleted and you keep repeating the same sentence in response.
it seems like a genuine possibility that vanity and unwillingness to learn from your mistakes might be to blame. also, i feel that your communnication with fans is superficial at best, all about you, most gifts you give are for self-promotion purposes only, and unless it is balanced with some genuinity, the reputation you are trying to build will be nothing but harmed.
i understand the drive for success, but you should consider that most people like honesty, humbleness when it’s due, they like dynamics and can easily recognise vanity and fakery.
only you can decide what stance you will take, and i hope you will chose the right path, but for the moment you might want to work a little on your pride and belief that you can bully peole into liking your products or writing sweet reviews of your products only.
many have told you already to address actual illegal activities such as PayPal defrauding, and to leave ordinary people who just didn’t like your products alone. you continue not to take their advice. all that put together, if your company fails, you have only yourself to blame.
because, the fact is, the obvious lack of genuine negative reviews due to moderation IS making your products look worse and discouraging people from buying from you, whichever way you want to look at it.
in any case, good luck, i do hope you find the right path in all of this.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Hmm I’m not sure why you think that most gifts I give are for self-promotion only. I do DDBD on a monthly basis, hand-pick and put together a special care package for one very special reader. I do it purely out of the goodness of my heart & simple gratitude & never include any promotional items.
My communication with my readers is more involved than you think – what you see on the blogazine is maybe 20%. I spend at least 2 hours EVERY DAY responding to email – and it’s never about me. You don’t know what my days are like, but I can assure you I give back as much as I physically can because it’s important to me.
Lastly, I would never go after “ordinary people” who “just didn’t like my product”. I am not the egomaniac people paint me to be and in fact have quite a thick skin (I wouldn’t have lasted this long without it). I can assure you that the blogger in question had a much more severe charge against her and it was only one of the many posts she made about my company. I know they all want you focused on “why did she make her take down that lipstick review!!” but that’s not the question I would be asking. Bottom line, stay diligent and be careful who you trust on the internet, especially if they protect their anonymity so fiercely.
November 19th, 2009 at 7:12 am
I think this whole thing is rediculous!
I have been following Doe for many many years too, and have never heard a bad thing until recently when Lime Crime brand started getting more and more popular.
I’m positive Doe doesn’t repackage her products, I think the thing people are getting mixed up about is that there’s a difference between repackaging and what Doe does.
I believe Doe doesn’t repackage, she spends a lot of time and energy mixing the different mica’s and colours herself til she finds shades that she finds appealing and wants in her collections. The mixing is of standard colours that every other mineral make up company has, so? Big deal. She’s using these colours from wholesalers to create her own individual colours which make Candy Future!!!
When you pay for Lime Crime make up you are paying for the love, energy, and GLEE that Doe puts into her makeup! <3
November 19th, 2009 at 7:58 am
I’m afraid I don’t have any experience with your products (just yet!) but I’ve been a lurker fan since you were just doing simple (and stunning!) make up tutorials.
I say lurker as I really enjoy reading your blog and seeing the way you interact with your fans and customers and keep up to date with all the news and info like you would tell a friend, however I’ve not really left any comments on here before.
You’re such an inspiring person, and I love that you do things your way and aren’t afraid of what people think, and you fill your life with the things you love and it’s amazing to see. You seem so down to earth and adult yet at the same time you have this brilliant imagination and bubbly nature.
It’s such a shame to hear that these pathetic individuals would try to go out of their way to bring someone down who works as hard as you do, I hope what goes around comes around for them.
Best of luck!
xxx
Sarah
November 19th, 2009 at 8:21 am
Yay ! I just got my Cosmopop lipstick ! It came in the mail today,; and I’ve been wearing it ever since : it’s just fantastic!
So yes yes yes, Limecrime makeup is GOOD <3
And the holographic unicorn is kind of …. hypnotising.
Doe Deere Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Haha, it is hynotising isn’t it. :)))
November 19th, 2009 at 11:22 am
Wow, who would say you made up something about an animal shelter? :( why not just tell them the name of the shelter so they can stop making up stuff like that?
November 19th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
WTF is wrong with people? I know….they r JEALOUS of ur pretty self and your wonderful products….I’m sure they have ‘wonderful” lives as they sit behind their computer blogging slanderous comments as they sit with their big bag of greasy chips between their legs. Keep up the good work, I will continue to purchase and pimp your products as well!:)
November 19th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
WOW. If you think the product is too expensive (which I personally do but from a business standpoint I can understand) then don’t freaking buy it! Stop trying to ruin this girl’s business just because you don’t have the money and she is a great promoter…it’s disgusting! Most of that negative lipstick review was OBVIOUSLY influenced by all the crap written about Doe on the internet which is why I can’t take it seriously and to blame her for being upset about it is ridiculous. And she has a right to take legal action..this crap is spreading like a virus and a lot of it is based on assumptions and not facts and clearly it is affecting her business. That’s not fair. There are so many makeup companies that do the same things she does and not 1 person complains. Doe your blog is great and I really hope you continue with it despite all these hateful people.
November 19th, 2009 at 10:48 pm
Thanks everybody for your participation. This comment thread is now closed.