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

Hi Keri, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Experiencing chemical burns and hair loss from a relaxer touch up a few years ago, I was determined to grow my hair naturally without any products containing harsh chemicals. My journey was a little frustrating due to the lack of natural beauty products for women of color on the market. I took on the arduous task of learning about herbs and natural products for skin and hair. My research gave me the knowledge I needed to make my own products and I started making products for my family and friends to try. After wondrous results, my family encouraged me to share my products with the world after seeing their hair’s healthiness and growth. And that is how Seeli Naturals was born.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am a proud graduate of Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science. I am the creator and innovator for Seeli Naturals. Seeli in Yoruba means fusion. Our products feature premium ingredients that reflect its wholesomeness and purity and are infused with love. Seeli was made for people like myself and my sister that have skin and scalp sensitivities. Our formulas have the perfect organic chemical-free herb infusions and formulations that heal instead of adding more harm. Our woman-led, black owned business provides hair and skincare products at affordable prices for men and women of color. Our ingredients are pure, plant-based, cruelty and fragrance free. I saw that my community lacked products that were comprised of pure, elevated ingredients. I wanted to make a brand of products that my community deserved. My entrepreneurial journey has not been easy. I have taught myself ingredient formulation using my scientific background knowledge and experience. When times got tough, I set smaller new goals that were obtainable. I learned that everything does not have to be perfect, sometimes it can just be right. In business, sometimes a closed door means not giving up, but pivot to a similar or new idea. I want the world to know that Seeli Naturals is an alternative organic herbal infused luxury brand as an option for women of color.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
My best friend and I would definitely Sunday brunch at Maple Leaf Diner and order the Chicken & Waffles with mimosas. Saturday would be spent at Six Flags to ride the Riddler and eat turkey legs and funnel cakes. Later that night we would mingle at Sandaga 813. Tuesday we would be laid back with our feet up watching the newest movie at Studio Movie Grill eating the fried wings, popcorn and drinking sweet tea. Fridays are not complete without a shopping trip at the North Park Mall and eating at Kona Grill. Afterwards, we would spend happy hour at Vinetti’s. Monday we would walk around downtown Ft. Worth and catch a late lunch at Reata. Eat seafood at Krab Kingz in Richardson on Thursday. Wednesday we would go to the outlets in Allen. Later we’d catch happy hour at Union Station.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My sister, Topeka, has been a valuable part of my Seeli Naturals team. She encouraged me to create my business. Cheerleading me through my journey as an entrepreneur. I created my products in part to help my sister conquer her scalp condition and regain her confidence. She has been such an inspiration to myself and Seeli Naturals.

Website: www.seelinaturals.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/seelinaturals
Facebook: www.facebook.com/seelinaturals

Nominate someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.