Kenyan socialite and beauty entrepreneur Huddah Monroe has called out local influencers for inconsistent pricing and unrealistic rate cards, particularly those who charge different rates depending on the client and those who insist on quoting their fees in US dollars despite never having traveled outside the country.
In a fiery series of Instagram Stories posted on Friday, March 21, 2025, the Rich Beauty founder expressed her frustration, revealing that she rarely hires influencers because of what she considers inflated and inconsistent pricing.
“It’s insane how people have different rate cards for different people! Esp when it comes to me, Alhuda! I don’t use influencers, and I am forever sold out! It’s all by God’s grace. We are forever sold out! I rarely use influencers coz when it comes to Rich Beauty, the price triples. I surveyed with a team,” she stated.
Calling Out the Dollar Pricing Trend
Huddah also criticized influencers who send their rate cards in US dollars, despite having never set foot outside Nairobi, implying that pricing in a foreign currency does not necessarily increase their brand value.
“And refrain from sending rate cards in USD when you have never set foot out of Nairobi. It doesn’t make you look expensive or extra. They all messaged the same influencers I was DMing,” she added.
She further accused influencers of price gouging, saying that when they realize she is the one inquiring, they triple their rates.
After conducting a market survey with her team, Huddah discovered that the same influencers were charging her significantly more than they charged other clients for the exact same services.
Double Standards in Brand Promotions
The beauty mogul also pointed out what she sees as hypocrisy among influencers who eagerly accept free PR packages from international brands and promote them without hesitation, yet overcharge local businesses.
“The price was 70% less. Oh, and when these random international stores who will never ever know them, come over and give free PR, they are proud to post. Then locals overcharge you coz it’s end month and they have no one to pay their bills,” she stated.
Huddah Monroe is the founder and CEO of Huddah Cosmetics, a beauty company offering a wide range of makeup and skincare products.
She has built a massive online presence, particularly on Instagram, where she shares her lifestyle, beauty tips, and fashion choices with her followers.
Over the years, she has also ventured into modeling and participated in various fashion events and campaigns.
