Meet Khyra Williams | Artisan & Student

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

Hi Khyra, why did you pursue a creative career?
I decided to pursue an artistic career due to my lifelong passion for self-expression, art & entrepreneurship. As a kid, I had a love for science fair projects, band, art and anything entrepreneurial. Running a small snack business throughout middle and high school, it’s always been evident that I had an interest in business. As I got older, I quickly realized that the careers I thought I would love, still did not allow me room for self-expression and creativity. Being an artisan, I have the amazing opportunity to share my research, passion and art with the world. Aromatherapy is a fascinating science and I feel that many people are unaware of the benefits, not only on the mood, but also hair & skin. I wanted to share my findings in a line of artisanal self-care products and that is how Atypical Apothecary came about. There is a feeling of fullness that I get when someone tells me their experience with my products, that I believe one can only feel when you’ve created it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The art of aromatherapy is a science that I feel is often overlook or underestimated. The unique thing about essential oils and aromatherapy is that it is natural, universal & the benefits are limitless. Essential oils can aide in the health and appearance of one’s hair, skin and nails. They can also act as natural insect repellants, anti-inflammatories, antibacterials and so much more. When I began studying aromatherapy, it was to help myself with feelings of anxiety, stress and depression, It wasn’t until later that I began to realize the vitamins and nutrients that all of the natural materials carried. It’s not only something that is great for you mood and mind, but your overall body…it’s a self-care experience. It hasn’t been easy and still isn’t. Getting people to try a new thing can be scary for them and myself. Some have never heard of essential oils or they’ve had bad experiences with fragrance in the past so they are scared to try something new. Spreading the science behind the products without boring your audience is something to navigate as well. I want people to know about these resources and their benefits because they are natural and they help. It is something that I use daily and I do it as a moment of self-care. Taking the time to take care of your skin, mind and spirit…is a necessary practice. I want people to know that self- care is not selfish and that you owe yourself that time.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My go-to spots in Houston would be anywhere with good eats and/or beer! I am usually setup at local popup shops so I meet a lot of cool food vendors like Poplifepopping & Tacorlano. I definitely have to take any visitors to BlkMkt Birria; everything on their menu is fingerlicking and worth the drive. For beers, I have to make a weekly stop at D & Q Beer Station in Montrose to pick up a few cans to go. If I’m drinking out, I’ll swing by The Craft Beer Cellar, The Burger Joint or The Flying Saucer for good eats and crafts on draft. Mai’s for late night weekend Vietnamese food, Frank’s for pizza and Micheaux’s for some fried fish. Any Houston visitors should definitely check out the local art & artisan markets like Crafts & Drafts, The Plant Project Party, All Access Art Show and Waves on Westheimer. It’s a must to #supportlocal and get the opportunity to make a small business’ day by supporting them. After almost every other popup, I make a stop at The Taco Stand on N. Shepherd before I make my 40 minute drive home to Fresno.

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?
I have 2 amazing women who have supported me in various way since I began Atypical Apothecary. My mother, Kae Williams, supports, loves and encourages me while I pursue my dream of having a successful business. There are a lot of hurdles and rough patches that may occur when taking the entrepreneurial leap and without a proper support system, I couldn’t imagine doing this. Dr. Gretchen Browne has been in my corner from the beginning of the leap as well. Not only does she invest her time and energy into helping me through my business existential crises, but her and her husband are regular butter lovers. My business literally would not be here without her and I can never thank her enough for believing in all my dreams.

Website: https://atypicalapothecary.square.site/

Instagram: @atypicalapothecary

Facebook: Atypical Apothecary

Other: https://etsy.me/3hkWFdD

Image Credits
Michelle Bethel All Access Art Show