Karen Atkins Purifoy is a Certified Etiquette Professional, Image Architect and the Founder of "A Refined Me" Image + Etiquette Studio. Our studio specializes in Etiquette, Image Management, Personal and Professional Development, Content Creation, and Fashion. At "A Refined Me", we provide services throughout the Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. With over 25 years of experience in the Interior Design Industry, Ms. Purifoy brings a wealth of expertise to her work. She is deeply committed to ensuring Etiquette, Protocol, Image, and Style are universally relevant, seamlessly integrating these elements with "The Art of Refined Living."

Ms. Purifoy holds a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture + Design from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban Planning and Design from Morgan State University. Her creative expertise extends to Interior Design, with studies at the New York School of Interior Design, as well as Fashion Design and Image Architecture from various esteemed platforms.

As a former Vice President of Education with the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) and Vice President of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW), Ms. Purifoy's leadership has left an indelible mark on professional circles. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences transcends social and economic boundaries, whether she's engaging in grassroots campaigning, fundraising for charitable causes, or attending prestigious black-tie events.

Ms. Purifoy continues to enhance her communication and leadership skills thRough memberships within organizations like Toastmasters International, Business Women’s Network and many networking organizations.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ms. Purifoy has dedicated herself to youth development, serving as a Design Instructor for the National Building Museum's Design Apprenticeship Program in Washington, DC, and as a Business Leader with Junior Achievement Capital District. She has also volunteered her time and expertise with programs focused on Domestic Violence support, Homeless individuals' business skills and job preparation, as well as teaching youth sewing and fashion skills.

Presently, Ms. Purifoy serves as the Black Student Achievement Program Community Liaison and works with the Bridges after school enrichment program for Howard County Public School System in Columbia, MD, furthering her commitment to education and community involvement.