“There is no shame in black beauty”

- Lupita Nyong’o

Mission Statement

Our mission is to merge the worlds of self-care & humanity—providing a foundation for the progression of Afro-Ethnic beauty, empowerment, and entrepreneurship.

Black is beauty… Black is light… Black is LUV.

HERstory

Ori & Ara Essentials is an all-natural hair, body, and skin care line designed for the nourishment and wellness of Afro-Ethnic women and men. The terms “ori” (head) and “ara” (body) are derivatives of the Yoruba language—prominently spoken in Southwestern Nigeria. The Yoruba language is a member of the Volta-Niger branch of the Niger-Congo family of languages. Ori & Ara Essentials was founded in June 2020 by Courtney Harmon (CEO), a multi-state licensed cosmetologist with a background in organic chemistry and a passion for all things beauty. Courtney is also owner of Moi Bella Artistry, a beauty business specializing in eyelash applications, and the creator of The Joosbox Podcast on Anchor FM. Aside from being an entrepreneurial queen, Courtney is a full-time mother and advocate of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Ori & Ara Essentials believes in balance of the crown and temple, which can only be done through a healthy physical and spiritual regimen of cleansing and nourishing. Our spiritual investments directly reflects our physical presence, and neither can function properly in chaos. Though self-love promoted snd encouraged, we also recognize that each and every one of us play a part in lifting each other vertically. Therefore, we include words of affirmation, self-love activities, and history in all of our packaging. Ori & Ara Essentials is more than a brand; it’s an experience! We are passionate about uplifting the culture and traditions of the Yoruba people and all Afro-ethnic groups.

Black is beauty… Black is light… Black is LUV!

Ori & Ara’s goal is to not only establish a foundation for consumers to obtain great personal care products, but to also uplift the Afro-Ethnic community in the process via The LUV Fund— The “Lifting Us Vertically” Fund. This will be achieved by organizing and facilitating community workshops, grant offers for post-educational and entrepreneurial endeavors, partnering with other Black-Owned businesses, and assisting in the funding and implementation of community gardens. The LUV Fund contributes 100% of donations, as well as 25% of all LUV Lip Balm proceeds to Autism advocacy, community gardens, and assistance in funding the education and entrepreneurial endeavors of Afro-ethnic youth. You can assist us in our efforts by purchasing any LUV Lip Balm or by visiting our contact page to sow your contribution.