Spotlight on Local Entrepreneur: Keya Delarge-Williams, Founder of Kute

In the bustling suburbs of Atlanta, nestled in the heart of Stone Mountain, Keya Delarge-Williams is making waves in the beauty industry with her all-natural, handmade lip gloss brand, Kute. As a seasoned makeup artist with over a decade of experience, Keya has combined her passion for beauty with her dedication to creating safe, age-appropriate products for young girls.

From Passion to Purpose

Keya’s journey into the beauty industry began in 2008 when she worked full-time as a freelance makeup artist. Over the years, she honed her craft and collaborated with Creative Soul, a renowned photography duo known for their stunning editorial work with children. Through these collaborations, Keya noticed something important—young girls were fascinated by makeup. Yet, the products available to them were often not designed with their safety in mind.

“I realized that a lot of the products out there weren’t as safe as they could be, especially for young children,” Keya recalls. “I wanted to create something that parents could trust, something that was not only fun but also safe for their kids to use.”

This realization led to the birth of Kute, a brand that stands out for its commitment to safety and its focus on inclusivity. Inspired by her experiences growing up as a dark-skinned African-American girl, Keya highlighted a diverse range of skin tones in her branding. “I wanted little girls to see themselves represented in the beauty products they use. Representation matters, and I’m proud to showcase that in my brand,” she says.

A Brand with a Mission

Kute is more than just a lip gloss brand; it’s a statement. Each product is carefully crafted using all-natural ingredients, including organic castor oil and natural colorants. Keya’s dedication to quality is evident in every aspect of her brand. She’s even considering incorporating monk fruit sweetener to replace stevia, ensuring that every ingredient is as safe as possible.

What sets KUTE apart is its approach to beauty. The products are designed to enhance natural beauty without overwhelming it. “I didn’t want the little girls to look like they were wearing lipstick,” Keya explains. “Our lip glosses add just a touch of color, making them perfect for young girls who are just starting to explore makeup.”

A Personal Touch

Keya’s brand is a true reflection of her personality and values. From the thoughtful packaging to the carefully selected ingredients, every detail is a testament to her commitment to quality and safety. Even the name of the brand, Kute, reflects her desire to create something that is both fun and classy. “I wanted the packaging to be a bit more sophisticated, something that young girls could feel proud to carry around,” she says.

But beyond the product itself, Keya’s story is one of perseverance and passion. Starting a business is never easy, but with the support of her family and close-knit community, Keya has turned her vision into a reality. “My family has been incredibly supportive from day one,” she says. “Their encouragement has been crucial in giving me the confidence to pursue this dream.”

Looking Ahead

As Kute continues to grow, Keya has big plans for the future. She hopes to expand her product line and continue educating young girls on the importance of safe, natural beauty products. “I want to be more than just a lip gloss brand,” Keya shares. “I want to help young girls learn how to use makeup in a way that enhances their natural beauty without feeling the need to cover up who they are.”

In a world where the beauty industry is often criticized for promoting unrealistic standards, Kute is a breath of fresh air. It’s a brand that celebrates diversity, encourages self-expression, and prioritizes safety—all while being incredibly cute.

For more information about Kute and to browse the collection, visit their website.