Ever wondered what it takes to become the Head of Fabulosity? It’s a title that sounds like it was plucked from a dream, but for Tony Baumann at Mecca, it’s a reality—and a role that’s as unique as it is inspiring. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is ‘fabulosity’ just a buzzword, or is it a genuine skill that can transform industries? Let’s dive in.
Welcome to How I Got Here, a series where we uncover the journeys of individuals who’ve mastered their crafts and landed roles that leave us in awe. From marketing gurus to fashion designers, we’ve explored it all. But Tony’s story? It’s in a league of its own. When we first heard about his role, we couldn’t help but wonder: What does a Head of Fabulosity actually do? And how on earth does someone get that title? Spoiler alert: It’s as fabulous as it sounds—and then some.
‘Making someone feel at ease and confident with you will be your greatest asset,’ Tony shares. This simple yet profound philosophy is the cornerstone of his career. But what does it mean to embody fabulosity? According to Tony, it’s about ensuring that everyone who interacts with him—whether a customer, a brand founder, or a colleague—leaves feeling wonderful. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not about him; it’s about creating an experience that elevates others.
Tony’s journey to this role is as dynamic as the job itself. With 40 years of experience, he started as a fully qualified hairdresser and makeup artist, eventually climbing Mecca’s ladder from in-store roles to the head office. His days are anything but routine—one moment he’s collaborating on product development, the next he’s hosting beauty icons like Charlotte Tilbury or Gucci Westman. Ever found yourself in a taxi with someone texting Madonna? Tony has. ‘I was dying on the inside but tried to stay calm and cool,’ he recalls with a laugh.
But let’s rewind. How did a kid who loved playing with blue eyeshadow and styling his mom’s hair end up here? Tony admits his dream was always to work in beauty, making people feel great about themselves. ‘Beauty has always been a playground for me,’ he reflects. ‘Even after all these years, it still gives me that same buzz.’ His transition into the industry wasn’t linear—he brought his artistry background and small business acumen to Mecca, where he quickly became a jack-of-all-trades.
Here’s where it gets even more fascinating: Tony’s role is fluid, adapting to the needs of the business. One day he’s refining the retail service model, the next he’s brainstorming marketing campaigns. And yes, he still works in-store, staying connected to the customer experience. ‘My role is to ensure everyone has the most fabulous time,’ he explains. But it’s not all glitz and glamour. As Mecca has grown, Tony’s biggest challenge has been learning to let go and trust his team. ‘Growth demands a different version of you,’ he admits. ‘You can’t be everywhere, doing everything.’
So, what’s the secret to his success? Kindness, flexibility, and a dash of humor. ‘Laughter is medicine,’ he says. And his advice for aspiring fabulosity experts? ‘Master the craft of interaction. Figure out what it is about you that resonates with others, and amplify it.’
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question: In a world dominated by technology, is the human touch—the ability to make someone feel seen and fabulous—the ultimate skill? Tony’s story suggests it might be. Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast or just curious about unconventional careers, his journey is a reminder that fabulosity isn’t just a title—it’s a mindset. What do you think? Is fabulosity a skill you’d want to master? Let us know in the comments!
