We recently connected with Kennedy Whitten and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Kennedy with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
Work ethic is something that some people think just comes naturally, but that couldn’t be more far from wrong. Passion drives everything. Without it, you are left with a laundry list of to-do’s and an overwhelming aura over you. When I founded Skin by Ken, I knew this was my passion and I knew I was good at it. Thats not saying I am the best makeup artist in the world because I have connected with so many artists who are 10x more talented than I am! I am good at connecting with people. I am good at creating a positive memory and experience for people. After my first wedding, I just knew I was made for this! Even when the going gets tough, you will never lose sight of your passion and your love for your craft.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am an innovator, a creative, and a realist. I enjoy creating a safe and comforting space for my clientele to enjoy their time with me. Over the past (almost) two years I have officially been in business, I have traveled through many trial and error phases that have taught me what is truly important when you are a service provider. I have spent countless hours perfecting my craft and my work to stay up with industry trends and standards, and I have also educated myself on how to provide a comforting space for my clientele when they are with me. When you book with me, you are not only going to leave feeling spectacular and glamorous, you will also leave feeling joyous, energetic and empowered. My passion is not only making people feel beautiful, but also making an impact.
Recently, I have launched a new service, spray tanning! I have found it very beneficial for my bridal clientele to bundle their makeup and spray tan, making it not only easier on them but also cheaper! Skin by Ken is just one step closer to being your one stop shop!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I think self awareness, the ability to take criticism, and the discipline it takes to be a business owner is how I got to where I am today. Self awareness is key, especially when you are providing an in-person service that is as personal as makeup artistry. There have been many times I have had to stop myself from either oversharing or under reciprocating with a client. its a hard part of the business to balance but it just takes time and gaining confidence when facing your clients. The ability to take criticism is a hard one for a lot of people, including myself. I’m a Virgo, in my mind I am already perfect. TOTALLY KIDDING! But seriously, I am a perfectionist and I have always thought my ideas are already great as is and I do not need a second set of ears to listen to them. Have I ever been more wrong. Drop the ego and seek advice from those closet to you. They want to watch you succeed so I can guarantee they would be more than happy to help you with anything you needed. The only way to get better is to have others evaluate your work/current operations and let you know what they think or what they would like. It can be hard to take criticism but it is such a healthy part of growing your business! Lastly, discipline. the hardest part of the whole ‘business owner’ thing for me. I am young. I still enjoy having fun on the weekends and going out with friends. I had a hard time balancing business life and social life when I first opened. This is where that passion enters the chat. I would do anything or go to any length to make sure my clients are satisfied at the end of the day, and I knew not prioritizing my business and my clients would only set me back. Sometimes it is alright to say no to something in order to be on your A game for your people. Without learning these three key components of what it takes to start, grow, and manage/maintain a business, I would not be where I am today.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am ALWAYS looking for people to collaborate with. Whether it be other professionals in the industry or clients. I am always eager to meet new people and form new connections. If you are reading this and you are a makeup artist or a hair stylist in the industry, I would love to connect and see how we could collaborate in the future!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @skinby.ken
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/groups/1923338647827481/?ref=sharehttps://m.facebook.com/groups/1923338647827481/?ref%3Dshare&exp=7ffb&mibextid=S66gvF
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedywhitten
