We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kelli Williams a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Kelli, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
While finding your purpose can be a lifelong journey, I think I have found mine. And that isn’t to say, that 10 years from now, my purpose won’t change. As early as I can remember, I’ve been told frequently and each time almost verbatim that I have a “kind spirit” or that I “put people at ease.” I spent the better part of the last decade working in a school and the same sentiments were echoed by parents, students and colleagues. I never thought too much about it because I was simply raised to be kind to others, When I became a freelance makeup artist, I started to receive the same type of feedback.
Because I felt my presence was impactful in my role as an administrative assistant, I struggled with whether or not my purpose was there at the school or if God wanted me to pursue my passion in beauty full time. After much prayer, I realized my purpose is not in one or the other. My purpose is to serve others in a way that brings them comfort, calmness and happiness regardless of what I’m doing.
My purpose is to be a light to others and I enjoy bringing positivity into every space I enter.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a licensed makeup artist based in Cleveland, OH and I work in a makeup and content studio called The Blush Gallery. I specialize in soft, subtle and natural makeup looks for everyday women of all complexions and ages. My services are booked for everyday occasions like brunch or job interviews or more momentous occasions like television appearances and weddings.
I had been doing makeup here and there for friends and family for several years, but recently decided to make it my full-time career.
This couldn’t be further from what I thought I’d be doing! With a degree in journalism and as a former writer, I’d imagined a completely different life – but that’s what is great about life… you can decide to do something new at any time!
I spend a lot of time creating videos that showcase my work. I do this to inspire other artists and for other women to embrace their own beauty. My makeup style is soft and natural. I don’t aim to change how anyone looks, but to enhance their unique features.
As I enter year 2 in my beauty business, I am focused on educating women. Doing your own makeup can be overwhelming when you don’t know where to start. I am currently offering services to assist with that because I know that it isn’t realistic for clients to book an appointment with me for every occasion. And I don’t mind sharing what I know to help the girls!
People can book online consultations where I serve as a beauty advisor. I offer one-on-one lessons virtually and in-person. I eliminate the frustration of finding the rights products can cause by building customized makeup kits for clients.
My goal is to make beauty and self-care EASY and FUN makeup-wearers of all ages.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three qualities that are necessary for being successful are:
Customer service – When you make your client’s satisfaction and convenience your number one priority, they will be a client for life. I’ve found that professionalism and kindness trump talent and popularity. People want to give their hard earned money to someone who values them.
Willingness to learn – In the beauty industry, things are always changing. Trends, techniques and products come and go and it’s important to stay on top of what’s new. I’ve never been afraid to ask more experienced artists for advice or guidance. Last year, I took a course from an artist whose work inspires me. I know that my success will only go as far as I am willing to go to improve.
Persistence – To any aspiring artist, keep going! Some people say the beauty industry is over-saturated and to some extent, it is. Go to any city and there is no shortage of talented men and women offering makeup services. As a new artist who was trying to build my own clientele, at times I wanted to give up. But with persistence (and patience), I was able to slowly build and gain confidence along the way.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
As I mentioned earlier, my first passion was writing. Even though my career path took a sharp left turn into the beauty industry, I’ve always imagined that the two would meet in the middle some day. I’d love to write for a beauty column in women-focused magazines such as Essence and Allure or any publication that appeals to those who have an interest in beauty tips and information about new products.
As a content creator, a goal of mine is to collaborate with major beauty brands. I recently started to reach out to PR teams of some of my favorite brands in hopes of partnering in social media campaigns.
Someone who shares similar interests or wants to collaborate can connect with me on Instagram @kelliwilliamsbeauty or email me at [email protected].
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelliwilliamsbeauty
- Facebook: Kelli Williams Makeup Enhancement
- Other: To book any service, visit styleseat.com/kelliwilliams
Image Credits
Self portrait in holding makeup brushes: Andrico Lamar of Drico Lamar Media
Self portrait: on flower swing: Melini Hodge of Just My Cam Pix Plus
Client Editorial Photos: Ashley Pouge of Ash Images Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
