Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Stewart.
Hi Courtney, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today and why you started LipRevolt?
LipRevolt was born out of the desire to make a difference in the world and to share my story to help someone heal. As a sexual assault survivor, a former foster child, and a Black woman in America, I noticed the need for people to find things to help them cope with trauma. For me, that was lipstick. Lipstick has a way of making people feel powerful, capable, and ready to take on the challenges of life. Hence, LipRevolt! LipRevolt is a cosmetic brand that promotes social activism. I created LipRevolt to empower people to use their voices and speak up for themselves and for others but also as a means to give back to the community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Ha! A smooth road? Not at all, but I was up for the challenge. I had to find a way to launch my brand with very little capital and limited experience. I had to find a manufacturer that could produce a formula that I liked. I needed to identify colors that would be bold enough for my first line but still flattering on all skin tones and lip shades. I also wanted to make sure everything was high-quality because my brand is a representation of me. While difficult, the opportunity to help others kept me on the right path and encouraged me to keep growing my business. It is certainly purpose-driven.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about LipRevolt?
I initially thought of starting LipRevolt in 2018, which, arguably, was the height of the #metoo movement. I frequently heard stories of women being disrespected and violated, and I identified with that on a very personal level. I felt compelled to do something about it, and I thought one of the best ways would be through lipstick. Lipstick highlights your mouth, which is the vessel for your voice. I wanted to make sure that women were empowered to use their voices and be equipped with something that would make them feel prepared for battle, like a new kind of war paint. LipRevolt merges beauty, activism, and inclusivity into one. This is apparent through our marketing and our mission-based structure. LipRevolt donates 10% of sales to non-profits supporting civil rights, women’s rights/ gender equality, and LGBTQ rights.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love Atlanta for many reasons, but one of the main reasons is the myriad of activists and changemakers who have set foot here. From Dr. King to John Lewis, the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee to Stacey Abrams, and the many more unnamed but all the same unparalleled. They made way for many Black people, or people in general, to have opportunities to thrive. The fight continues, but they made a massive impact. They are an inspiration for us to make the world a better place for the generations that come after us.
Pricing:
- All lipstick shades are $24 dollars on www.liprevolt.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.liprevolt.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liprevolt/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LipRevolt/
Image Credits
Aimee Joiner at Magpie & Rye Photography
