We had the good fortune of connecting with Nirayl Kyeison and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nirayl, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was answering the question “do I keep going or turn back?”. I’d suddenly and unexpectedly lost my granny, Zella Mae’s namesake, and nothing in me could process that. After her passing I found myself thrust back into this world that I was building except she was no longer there to discuss our favorite scents or laugh about the time she found me covered from head to toe in her favorite perfumed talcum powder. I felt like I was in the middle of the ocean just wading water. I finally said to myself “Girl, you have swim either way it goes so you might as well press on”. It wasn’t until I began to see this brand I’m building as her legacy, and mine, that I truly started to heal and move the business forward.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I began my career in New York City as a theatre actor. I’ve gone on to perform on stages around the country, eventually moving to Los Angeles to do it all over again on television and movie sets. I’m most proud of my ability to bring my creativity and self -expression to each new venture.

Nature is the ultimate creation! So I love that I get to channel all the investigation, imagination, and creative juice (that I once poured into scripts) into making luxury products from nature’s best.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First on the itinerary is The High Museum! It’s one of my favorite spots in Atlanta and anyone visiting there is sure to leave inspired. I’m relatively new to ATL so I’m still cultivating my list of favorite restaurants but I’m sure brunch at Toast on Lenox will remain a staple. Brunching with besties is a must! Then off to the Halycon Alpharetta to shop the local boutiques.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a Shoutout to my mama, Pamela Green! Thank you for helping to shape and mold my ideas on beauty and being my very first, up close and personal, example of a female entrepreneur! I saw her make life and business happen with a little and I saw her do it with a lot and she was an inspiration in both.

I also have to Shoutout my family. Their encouragement and support has meant absolutely everything. In those times when I wasn’t quite sure what the way forward looked like, they walked alongside me until it was clear. Their trust and belief in me never wavered and for that I am so very grateful!

And last but certainly not least I want to Shoutout the customers who have become apart of the Zella Mae’s family. We’re so glad you love our products as much as we do and we appreciate the love and support!

Website: www.zellamaes.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/zellamaes

Facebook: www.facebook.com/zellamaes

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