KéNisha Ruff shares how her parents and Parisian beauty rituals inspired her to launch Marie Hunter Beauty
BY TAMARA CURL-GREEN
Marie Hunter Beauty is on a mission to give modern women the confidence to be the best version of themselves by stripping away unnecessary excess and providing a minimal, luxurious alternative.
Growing up in Chicago, Marie Hunter’s founder, KéNisha Ruff admired her parents’ beauty regimens for their simplicity.
“My mom didn’t wear a ton of makeup but she always wore lipstick or lipgloss. She didn’t need a full face of makeup, but a good lip color gave her a boost of confidence,” Ruff tells thirteen lune. “My dad on the other hand, his thing has always been skincare. So of course the first beauty products I became obsessed with were lip products and skincare.”
This influence is apparent in Marie Hunter’s offering—vibrant, eye-catching lip color and nourishing, carefully-crafted skincare, and luxe home fragrances. All presented in sleek, iconic packaging. “I’m inspired by Parisian beauty rituals and made it my mission to create a line of luxury minimal beauty staples that could empower women to feel bolder.”
“We need more BIPOC in corporate positions and more social campaigns focusing on gender equality, age, color and body positivity.”
Get to Know – KéNisha Ruff
What was the impetus to start your brand?
I wanted to see a change in the cosmetics industry for modern women seeking confidence, without compromise, in their cosmetics. A swipe of lipstick and glowing skin will make any woman feel like she can conquer the world.
Do you have a beauty philosophy? What is it?
My beauty philosophy is to always be bolder. For me that can be refined and timeless or bold and unapologetic.
What inspires you most about the beauty landscape and industry today?
What has been inspiring me most lately is the personal story behind each brand. Brands are beginning to have a human feel to them and I think that’s key when connecting with your customers and potential customers.
What has been the biggest challenge in starting your business?
The biggest challenge has been funding. We are a self-fund brand which leads to me having to wear all the hats in my business.
What has been the biggest win thus far?
The biggest win has been the community we’ve built along the way. Our customers are like family to me and to know that so many people around the world love Marie Hunter and that our products are making a difference in their lives is an indescribable feeling.
What would you like to see more of in the beauty industry when it comes to diversity and inclusivity?
I would like to see more initiatives and outreach. We need more BIPOC in corporate positions and more social campaigns focusing on gender equality, age, color and body positivity.