We recently had the chance to connect with Genesis Billinger and have shared our conversation below.
Genesis, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, it’s been how I’ve been showing up for myself. For about a year now, I’ve been intentional about doing the inner work in areas I needed to grow. In the past, I would talk about it or even convince myself I was doing it but now I’m fully committed to the process. The thing about joy is that it’s not the same as happiness. Some of the steps I’ve had to take for personal and spiritual development have been uncomfortable, even stretching me in ways I didn’t expect. But when I think about the purpose, the outcome, and also allow myself to enjoy the present moment, I find joy. For me, joy always supersedes happiness it’s deeper, lasting, and rooted in growth.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Genesis, and I’m a makeup artist originally from Atlanta, GA now based in Colorado. A few years ago, I had the honor of being featured in Voyage ATL, and I’m excited to share the next chapter of my journey. My brand, GGALLERIE CO, is so close to my heart because it truly is a gallery of my life’s work a collection of beauty, artistry, and purpose.
Recently, I uprooted my business from Atlanta to Colorado, and by the time this article is published, I’ll be relaunching my brand with a new vision:
MINISTRY X MAKEUP. What makes my work unique is that I believe makeup is more than just beauty—it’s a ministry. It’s a way for God to touch his daughters through creativity and connection, and I’m humbled to be the vessel for that.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has most shaped how I see myself is my relationship with Jesus Christ. We live in a world that constantly tells you who to be or tries to force you into a box, and for a long time, I was a victim of that. Everything shifted when I began to form a genuine relationship with my Creator—the One who knows me best and who so carefully crafted me.
Through His Word, He declares over and over who I truly am, and as I began to declare those truths for myself, they slowly but surely became real to me. Now, when lies try to creep into my mind, I can stand firm and remind myself exactly who my Creator made me to be.
This relationship hasn’t just shaped how I see myself—it’s also given me the clarity to see others as God created them to be.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
It taught me that the work is done in the suffering and that growth is found there. Ever wonder why movies need plot twists and unexpected turns? It’s because that’s what builds the victory—the moment of overcoming at the end.
I’ve recently come to terms with the fact that pain is not normal, but the fact that it must happen is. Success doesn’t really hold meaning for me without the suffering that precedes it. Over time, success disconnected from suffering becomes entitlement and pride.
The suffering brings me into God’s presence, where I receive divine instruction and revelation. When I eventually reach the point of “success,” I now have evidence and lessons to hold onto. Truthfully, the success for me is mastering how I show up in the suffering the next time it comes.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the makeup industry is that women need to “cover up” in order to feel beautiful. I love debunking that myth. You should absolutely feel beautiful in your raw, natural form, but for me, it goes deeper. Let’s be honest, we don’t always feel confident about how we look. But the one part of us that truly shines, the part we can cultivate and see reflected, is the soul, our spirit.
How much inner work are we doing so that we can radiate on the outside? That’s the kind of makeup I vouch for. Makeup isn’t about hiding; it’s a tool for creativity, fun, and self-expression, but it should never define your identity. Your beauty starts from within, and everything else is just the sparkle you choose to share with the world.
As humans, male or female, we express ourselves in several ways: through the clothing we wear, the vehicles we drive, the homes we live in, big and bold or simple and modest, as our budgets allow. But none of these things should mask who you truly are. Your essence, your spirit, and your authenticity are what matter most. Every external expression, makeup, fashion, lifestyle, is simply a reflection of the inner work we do and the confidence we cultivate.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
Me!
To all my fellow business owners, you need to be just as good as the product or service you’re offering. Think about it—why do multi-million dollar companies still need a sales pitch for a great product? Because people need to believe in the person selling it.
I’ve made it a point to always present the best version of myself to my clients. What’s a beat face if your service is awful? Beyond the surface, I’ve been very intentional about cultivating the most peaceful and safe space for my clients to feel seen, valued, and cared for. That’s the experience that keeps people coming back.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ggallerieco.as.me/schedule/b2086426
- Instagram: ggalleriemua
Image Credits
IG: CLHPHOTOSATL (Cecil)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
