KéNisha Ruff is the founder and creative director of Marie Hunter Beauty which is a US beauty brand that produces luxury makeup, skincare and home fragrances. She took time out to tell us how she created her beauty brand.

 What made you decide to set up your own beauty business? 

Since the beginning, I have always believed that beauty should be simple and ethical. Ten years ago, shopping for cosmetics meant deciphering between an array of multi-step makeup routines and products chockfull of harmful chemicals. You literally had to pick your poison - cosmetics that would mask who you really were or those that would damage you from the outside in.

Like many of you, I knew that our products didn’t have to come with such comprise. I believed (and still do!) that real beauty - both simple and safe - could be achieved. I wanted to see a change in the cosmetics industry for modern women seeking confidence, without compromise, in their cosmetics. This desire became the beginning motivation behind our business. 

What is the concept behind Marie Hunter Beauty? 

My personal experiences as a Makeup Artist brought to light the need for non-toxic, minimal beauty staples that could empower women to feel confident, but still like themselves. My journey led us to create our first line of nontoxic lipsticks. Now in our fourth year of business, Marie Hunter Beauty is dedicated more than ever to crafting clean cosmetics and fragrances for the modern muse - people just like you. Our mission is simple: To boldly empower women with beauty, confidence and class. 

 What sort of research did you do to find out what sort of products your customers needed? 

I spent five years identifying the best and most ethical cosmetic laboratories fit for the creation of Marie Hunter. I am also a licensed cosmetologist and did continuing education at the Fashion Institute of Technology for product development and packaging design for cosmetics and fragrances. 

How did you decide on the look and feel of your brand? 

In colour psychology, black is symbolic of mystery, power, elegance, and sophistication. White is symbolic of simplicity, purity, innocence, and perfection. As a luxury brand with product packaging that is designed to be minimal and tell a story, black and white were the best options to represent Marie Hunter. 

What are your future plans for the brand?

My future plans are to continue to add new and innovative products as well adding more lifestyle items. 

What are your favourite beauty products?

This is like asking me to pick my favourite child! Hahaha. Some products I will say I can’t live without are lipstick, toner, brow pencil/brow gel, bronzer and hand cream.  

What advice do you have for anyone who wants to set up their own beauty business?

First and foremost, I would advise that you are passionate about this industry. If you start a beauty business based on the fact that you believe you will make a quick buck you will quickly fail. I would also recommend doing continuing education, building relationships and having a strong support system during this journey.