On September 13, as Mary Kay Inc. marked its 60th anniversary, the iconic beauty brand took its celebrations to the heart of the nation’s capital. Hosting a “Mary Kay Day on the Hill” in Washington DC, the company showcased its commitment to engaging with the country’s top lawmakers on the importance of fostering women’s entrepreneurship and advancing product safety and innovation.
The event was more than just a celebration—it was an opportunity for Mary Kay’s Independent Beauty Consultants, both seasoned and new, to connect directly with their members of Congress. Seventeen successful consultants shared their personal entrepreneurship journeys, highlighting the unique circumstances that led them to start their own businesses with Mary Kay. Their stories served as powerful testimonials, educating policymakers on the significance of the Mary Kay opportunity in their respective Congressional districts. The emphasis was clear: flexible income-earning opportunities are crucial for today’s entrepreneurs.
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), who attended the breakfast reception, underscored the importance of civic engagement, the role of women in the labor market, and the need for women’s entrepreneurship.
Sheryl Adkins-Green, Mary Kay’s Chief Experience Officer, paid tribute to Mary Kay Ash’s vision from 60 years ago. She reflected on the company’s journey, from its inception just weeks after Mary Kay Ash lost her husband, to its current global impact under the leadership of CEO Ryan Rogers, Mary Kay Ash’s grandson. The theme of “Then, Now, Always” resonated throughout her speech, emphasizing the company’s enduring commitment to changing lives worldwide.
The day was packed with legislative meetings, with Mary Kay representatives and Independent Beauty Consultants engaging with over 50 Congressional offices. Discussions focused on the brand’s legislative priorities, from women’s empowerment through entrepreneurship, to product safety and innovation, international trade, and corporate social responsibility.
The day culminated with the launch of the Congressional Cosmetics Caucus under the bipartisan leadership of Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (D-CA) and Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) which aims to build awareness and advance policies to support the continued growth of the cosmetics and personal care products industry.
Mary Kay Day on the Hill was a testament to the company’s determination to work with policy makers to advance policies that create an enabling environment for direct selling and entrepreneurship. The event underscored the importance of connecting constituents with their representatives to ensure the voices of women entrepreneurs are heard and valued at the highest levels of government.
