Aspera: Luxury Skincare Reimagined

Aspera began with a simple yet powerful question: why settle for less when we can create something better? My partner, Mat, and I—owners of Greenbriar Market + Refillery—were constantly on the lookout for high-quality, sustainable skincare for our customers. But after facing product failures—unstable formulations, unreliable deliveries, and even a toner that wouldn’t stay mixed—we knew we could do better.

The turning point came when a trusted Calgary-based skincare lab reached out to collaborate. Armed with frustration and determination, Mat and I sat down with the lab to create what we had always envisioned: skincare that worked, felt indulgent, and aligned with our commitment to sustainability. And so, Aspera was born.

Luxury Made Local

From the very beginning, we had a clear vision for Aspera. It had to be luxurious yet attainable, sustainable yet effective. Every product had to feel like a treat—from its silky textures to its gentle, inviting scents—while delivering visible results. Sustainability was non-negotiable, with refillable packaging as a cornerstone of the brand.

We knew that true luxury doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag, and we wanted Aspera to feel just as accessible as it was indulgent.

Developing Aspera wasn’t without its challenges. With no background in skincare formulation, Mat and I worked tirelessly with the lab to vet each ingredient. We delved into the science behind the formulations, ensuring every component served a purpose and met the high standards of our eco-conscious clientele. It wasn’t always easy—there were moments of frustration, but those led to breakthroughs that made the final product even more rewarding.

We wanted products that not only performed but also made people feel good about using them.

A Beautiful Beginning

Testing each product on ourselves, family, and friends became a ritual. The first moisturizers and serums began delivering noticeable results, and Mat and I knew we had created something special. But it wasn’t just the product that stood out—it was the experience.

My background in luxury retail added another layer to Aspera’s appeal. Beautiful packaging matters—it’s the first connection people have with the product. Partnering with a talented designer and friend, we crafted branding that felt as elevated as the products themselves. The moment the first bottles and jars arrived on the shelves was unforgettable—a milestone that reflected our hard work and vision.

Calgary Roots, Nationwide Dreams

Calgary’s strong support for local businesses is woven into Aspera’s identity. “Being local allows us to collaborate closely with the people who make and design our products,” Mat says.

But Aspera’s aspirations extend far beyond Calgary. We want Aspera to be a household name and offer luxurious, refillable skincare that everyone can enjoy.

Skincare as Self-Care

At its heart, Aspera is about more than skincare—it’s about creating moments of care. We want people to see results that make them feel like their best selves. Using Aspera should feel like an act of self-love.

With Aspera, Mat and I have redefined what it means to combine sustainability, luxury, and accessibility. It’s not just skincare; it’s a ritual to look forward to every day.

Ready to discover your new favourite skincare ritual? Explore the Aspera line today.