The Beauty Wellness Tea Proust Questionnaire with special guest: Kerrie Kelly
[Published in the Nov/Dec 2026 issue of Beauty Wellness and Tea magazine]
Our Guest, Kerrie Kelly, is CEO & Creative Director Kerrie Kelly Studio, kerriekelly.com
For this edition, meet the designer, creative director, and industry connector, Kerrie Kelly; internationally recognized design strategist, creative director, and CEO of Kerrie Kelly Studio, bringing more than three decades of experience shaping exceptional interiors and influencing the future of the design industry. Known for her signature California aesthetic and strategic business insight, she partners with leading brands to develop innovative products, immersive brand experiences, and forward-thinking initiatives that inspire designers, builders, and homeowners alike.
As Chair of the 2026 NKBA Board of Directors and an ASID Designer of Distinction, Kerrie is a trusted voice at the intersection of design, business, and innovation. She is frequently called upon to advise manufacturers, speak on emerging trends, and help brands navigate the evolving design landscape through thoughtful strategy and meaningful collaboration. Her work and insights have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The New York Times, USA Today, and other leading national media.
Whether collaborating with global brands, designing award-winning spaces, or championing the next generation of design leadership, Kerrie believes great design does more than transform environments—it creates connection, builds community, and elevates the way we live.
When we asked Kerrie to participate, she replied, “I love the connection between beauty, wellness, and the rituals that make everyday life feel special. As a designer, I believe our surroundings have an enormous influence on how we feel. I love the connection between design, wellness, and the way we choose to live.”
TEA Q’s
Q: What is the most memorable cup of tea you have ever tasted?
A: Jasmine tea with my grandmother. To this day, its delicate floral scent brings back those special moments together and never fails to make me smile.
Q: What is your idea of a perfect cup of tea?
A: Served in a beautiful cup, at just the right temperature, with a little something sweet and absolutely nowhere I need to rush.
Q: If you could share tea with any historical or fictional figure, who would it be?
A: Ralph Lauren—I'd love another opportunity to talk about creating a lifestyle, not simply designing a product.
Q: If you were a tea variety, which one would you be?
A: Turmeric Ginger—warm, vibrant, a little spicy, and full of energy, with just the right balance of comfort and kick!
BEAUTY Q’s
Q: Which quality do you admire most in yourself?
A: My ability to see possibilities and bring the right people together to make them happen.
Q: What quality do you most admire in others?
A: Generosity of spirit—people who celebrate others' successes without diminishing their own.
Q: What's the most important thing you've learned about beauty?
A: Beauty is in the edit; knowing what to leave out is just as important as knowing what to include.
Q: Which scent or texture brings you the most comfort?
A: The scent of fresh flowers and the softness of cashmere—both make an ordinary moment feel a little more luxurious.
Q: Is there a beauty or self-care mantra that you live by?
A: My mother's favorite saying: "Let's make it nice." I believe even the smallest everyday rituals deserve a little intention.
WELLNESS Q’s
Q: What is your idea of ultimate relaxation?
A: A beautiful destination, a leisurely meal with my husband with the dog at our feet, and a day with absolutely nothing on the agenda.
Q: Where do you typically find inspiration?
A: Travel, art, architecture, nature, and conversations with creative people who see the world differently.
Q: How does your environment influence your sense of wellbeing?
A: Everything should have its place; thoughtful lighting, natural materials, and an edited space give my mind room to breathe.
Q: What is the most important thing you've learned as an entrepreneur?
A: A successful business should support the life you want to live, not consume it.
Q’s FROM THE ORIGINAL PROUST QUESTIONNAIRE
Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
A: Building a career that continues to evolve while creating opportunities for others to grow alongside me.
Q: Who are your favorite writers and artists?
A: Marc Chagall for his dreamy, romantic storytelling through color, and for a modern twist, David Hockney, whose vibrant palettes and playful perspectives always inspire me.
GUEST DIRECTORY: To find a directory and introduction to our series of Beauty Wellness Tea Proust Questionnaire guest features, please visit www.beautywellnesstea.com/proustquestionnaire
