Inside Blake Lively’s Controversial Workplace: ‘Toxic Environment’ Claims at Her Former Lifestyle Brand

Six former employees of Blake Lively’s short-lived lifestyle brand, Preserve, are shedding light on a troubling workplace environment. They described it as "toxic," "chaotic," and "unprofessional."

One ex-staffer didn’t hold back, saying, “The entire company was an absolute disaster.” This critique gained attention following Lively’s recent criticisms of a colleague, stating the irony in her allegations, given Preserve’s infamous workplace.

Lively started Preserve in 2014, aiming to sell unique home goods. But the company closed its doors in just a year. Staffers shared that the environment was emotionally draining. "It felt like she didn’t care," said one former employee, echoing a common sentiment.

In one incident, Lively reportedly showed up to a photo shoot disheveled, which left staff feeling undervalued. Her brother, Eric Lively, was mentioned as an unqualified creative director who often “overslept,” causing delays for the team. Employees even recounted sitting on the studio floor for months before furniture arrived.

Some ex-employees struggled financially because of late payments, with two stating they couldn’t afford subway fares. Frustration grew to the point where some staffers received settlements—as much as $300,000—after threatening legal action.

Despite all this turmoil, the issues remained largely hidden, thanks to Lively’s publicist, Leslie Sloane, according to the former employees. They claimed Sloane worked to "bury" any negative information about the company.

In a 2023 interview, Lively reflected on her experience with Preserve and acknowledged mistakes. “I poured everything I had into that company,” she said, hinting at challenges behind the scenes without elaborating extensively.

The revelations come at a time when Lively is involved in a legal dispute with director Justin Baldoni, whom she has accused of serious misconduct. This ongoing saga has kept the media attention on her.

As discussions around workplace culture grow, experts emphasize the importance of healthy environments. Research shows that toxic workplaces can lead to high employee turnover and decreased productivity. Companies must prioritize mental well-being and foster open communication to avoid similar situations in the future.

This story not only highlights a specific case in the entertainment industry but also serves as a reminder that the pressures of public life and business can often obscure the challenges behind closed doors.

For more insights on workplace culture and management best practices, visit the Harvard Business Review.

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