Born and Raised in Ohio, Kellee has always been immersed in creative and performing arts. After earning her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree, she pursued a career in the beauty industry to further refine her craft while developing into a multidimensional artist. 

 

  In 2010, living in the Washington, DC area, Kellee attend Graham Webb Hair Academy -  a European technical school specializing in advance cutting and color.  She later obtained her cosmetology license and began working at one of DC’s top Salons, "Bang on U St." During this time, she developed a diverse clientele and her experiences styling men. 

 

In 2016, Kellee relocated to Atlanta, Georgia with the intention of continuing her cosmetology career.  However, she quickly realized she was navigating a male-dominant industry.  Fortunately, her experience cutting mens hair allowed her to remain competitive, and her growing admiration for barbering inspired her to pursue formal barber training.  She enrolled into CEI’s Crossover Program to become a licensed Master Barber.

 

With dual licenses and mentorship under master barber Kevin Dunn at Groomed Gentlemen's Parlour, Kellee continued sharpening her craft- building her skill and confidence which led her to become the Owner and Master Barber of K.Smith Cuts Up. 

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Today, Kellee has expanded her impact in the beauty industry as a Licensed Cosmetology Instructor, sharing her knowledge, technical expertise, and passion for the craft with the next generation of professionals.