We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Karissa Cullett. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Karissa below.

Alright, Karissa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

I grew up in a family of artists/entrepreneurs. Both my mother and father were creators in their own right, and both owned their own businesses. I saw that they had multiple talents and gifts that they would express from. It was never a dull moment in our house! They were always working on creative projects, and doing amazing things in the community. I always thought my parents were so cool. From a very young age they encouraged me to never work for someone else, and to think outside the box when it came to my career. My mom would often bring me into her photography studio and I would play secretary, answering her calls and booking her appointments after school. Looking back, my mom is the one who taught me customer service, business skills and setting boundaries with clients. She really gave me my foundation as an entrepreneur. As hard as it could be at times I saw that they didn’t ever give up on their dreams. They weren’t afraid to pivot, or re start at any time, but they never stopped creating. As a child in school this often confused me, because I could see that school was conditioning me to be an employee, & to go to college even if I didn’t know what I wanted to be. I’m so thankful that my parents encouraged me to follow my heart and my passions. While I did further my education, I felt less forced to choose my entire future at such a young age. I was able to express my creativity through music, art and now I approach my businesses in this way too. I learned how to manage myself, my creativity and my time in a way that works for me, not against me. I’ve been able to experience life to the fullest and create my own path in this world. I’m not afraid of change, and I always find creative solutions that work for me. Their influence has impacted me greatly, and I am so grateful for them!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started my journey in the beauty and wellness industry through theatre arts. I was studying to be an actress and singer. In college I took a stage makeup class, and I fell completely in love. One thing led to another and I found myself on a deep wellness journey marrying beauty and self care together. I’ve always had an obsession with reading labels, discovering new ingredients and alternative healing. I had the opportunity to work for amazing brands like Hourglass Cosmetics, Caudalie, Natura Bisse, Yuni Beauty, and Erno Laszlo. I always wanted to elevate Eco Sustainable Skincare by using gentle yet powerful ingredients. Reilo and Seed is composed of all natural and aromatic ingredients that both heal the skin and stimulate the vagus nerve instilling a sense of peace and calm while you’re applying your products. I want my clients to take out the “need” to do anything, and make your ritual something you look forward to. I find that if you bring peace, calm and good intentions to whatever you’re doing, it makes the product or technique that much more effective. Our words thoughts and emotions have more power than we currently understand, but research on neuroplasticity is opening the conversation on that. Reilo and Seed has therapeutic and effective ingredients such as Reishi Mushrooms, Aloe Vera, Blue Tansy, CBD & Nigella Sativa. These ingredients are wonderful for even the most sensitive skin, but prove incredible results. I teach my clients to work with their skin instead of working against it. All of our products are placed in Amber glass containers, with minimal plastic to ensure the highest quality of product, and to be gentle on the earth. You can now experience the entire line in spa, at our new wellness center by booking the Goddess Facial at Twenty Seven Gems Spa and Boutique, located in Baltimore Maryland.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

If I could go back, I absolutely would still choose the same profession. I have a huge passion for wellness, skincare and beauty as well as educating my clients. The incredible people I have met on this journey and everything I have learned both in my wellness and professional life have been so incredible. This industry is constantly evolving and there is never a dull moment!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I launched my company just 6 months before the Covid 19 Pandemic and nothing could have prepared any of us for what was to come. Going from doing services and pop ups in person we had to pivot to primarily online connections and sales. This period of time taught me so much and helped me develop my brand online in ways I may not have explored until years down the line. Having this experience really helped me understand website development, marketing and so much more. It really set me up to be successful both online and in person once things opened up again. In addition I was able to connect more with clients all over the country!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.reiloandseed.com. www.twentysevengems.com
• Instagram: @reiloandseed @twentysevengems
• Facebook: facebook.com/reiloandseed facebook.com/27gemsbaltimore

Image Credits
Studio Gagliano