Blake Lively’s short-lived lifestyle brand, Preserve, is back in the spotlight as former employees reveal shocking details about its toxic work environment. The company, launched in 2014, shut down within a year amid allegations of mismanagement, unpaid wages, and unprofessional behavior led by Lively’s brother, Eric Lively. These claims resurfaced as Lively battles a legal feud with her It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni over similar workplace misconduct accusations.
Preserve was marketed as a high-end online shop selling artisanal goods, but insiders say it was far from glamorous. Employees described working in a cramped Manhattan studio apartment owned by Eric, who allegedly oversaw a chaotic and dysfunctional operation. Staff reported delayed paychecks, no furniture for months, and Eric’s frequent absences due to oversleeping or substance use.
One former employee told The Daily Mail, “The entire company was an absolute disaster. It was one of the most insane, toxic, emotionally draining environments you could imagine.” Another added, “Blake gave me the impression that she doesn’t care.” Workers claimed Eric drank alcohol and used marijuana during work hours, while some threatened legal action over unpaid wages, resulting in settlements up to $300,000.
The brand’s collapse was kept quiet thanks to strict non-disclosure agreements. Former staffers find it ironic that Lively is now accusing Baldoni of fostering a toxic set on It Ends With Us. Baldoni denies her claims and has countersued for $400 million, alleging defamation and extortion.
Preserve’s downfall also involved legal troubles. Neighbors complained about the apartment being used as an illegal commercial space, leading to city violations. Eric, an actor who filed for bankruptcy in 2009, was accused of being unqualified to run the business. Employees said he had an affair with a staff member and failed to provide basic workplace necessities.
Lively’s publicist, Leslie Sloane, reportedly buried negative press about Preserve. Former employees claim Sloane ensured no details leaked, even as the company crumbled. Meanwhile, Lively faced criticism for seeming detached from the staff’s struggles.
The renewed focus on Preserve comes as Lively and Baldoni’s legal battle intensifies. She accuses him of sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign against her. Baldoni’s team calls these claims false and argues Lively tried to control the film’s production.
Preserve’s brief existence contrasts sharply with Lively’s current ventures, like her successful Betty Buzz beverage line. The brand’s failure highlights the challenges celebrities face when launching businesses without proper management.
Former employees say Preserve’s problems stemmed from Eric’s leadership. “He was completely unqualified to run a company,” one staffer said. “There were a lot of ways in which the employment was unprofessional.” Others recalled working on the floor for months and dealing with erratic schedules.
The company’s troubles extended to its public image. Critics called Preserve pretentious, and its products—like $300 blankets—were seen as overpriced. The site shut down in 2015, with Lively admitting it was “not a success.”
Lively has not commented on the recent allegations. Her focus remains on her legal fight with Baldoni, which is set for trial in March 2026. The case has drawn in high-profile figures, including Taylor Swift, who was subpoenaed but denies any involvement in the film.
Preserve’s story serves as a cautionary tale about celebrity-backed brands. Without strong leadership and clear vision, even A-list star power can’t guarantee success. For former employees, the brand’s collapse was a painful chapter they’re only now speaking about openly.
Credits: Sources include The Daily Mail, Yahoo Lifestyle
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