Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelli Williams.
Hi Kelli, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Almost every new client asks me, “So, how did you get started in makeup?” I never mind telling the story because I’m still amazed that it turned into my career. Around 2014, I began to experiment with makeup looks after following a makeup artist on YouTube and MAC makeup artist on Instagram. This is before makeup tutorials and beauty bloggers became popular. I started posting my photos on Instagram – for no one in particular. At that time, Instagram didn’t even have video capabilities. This was very early in the platform’s existence. Anyway, someone from my hometown saw my pictures and messaged me to ask if I would do makeup for her friend’s wedding. I told her I had never done anyone’s makeup before, but she had faith I would do a good job. Her friend came to my home, and I did a “practice” look, and she booked me for the job. I did make up for her and her bridal party. Through word of mouth and people seeing those photos, a few more people asked me about doing their makeup. At that point, I considered it fun hobby that I’d do every once in a while. Over the years, I built relationships with photographers, event planners, and venue owners, and that is what contributed to the beginning of an actual career in beauty.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I started to consider myself an actual makeup artist, the biggest struggle was comparison. There are so many talented makeup artists, especially in the city of Cleveland. Despite my experience working in color (makeup artistry) at Sephora and the education I received from high-end cosmetic brands, I wasn’t sure where I fit in or if my work was up to par, even though I never had a dissatisfied client. It gave me major imposter syndrome and kept me from finding my own style for a while. For many years, I operated as a freelance artist while working full-time. Working for a school district, I had the luxury of weekends, holiday breaks, and summers off, which allowed me to do makeup part-time. But once business started to pick up, I had to turn down a lot of great opportunities due to my full-time job. This is what led my to becoming a full-time artist just this past summer.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a professional, licensed makeup artist, I get to service clients by applying makeup for all types of events and occasions: weddings, birthdays, lifestyle photoshoots, corporate headshots, baby showers – the list really goes on and on! I’ve had two clients schedule makeup to defend their dissertations! Basically, any day a client wants to look their best and feel extra confident.
I specialize in soft glam makeup, which I define as makeup that is timeless and enhances each clients uniques features. I didn’t realize that was my specialty until clients started telling me that they booked me because they love how ‘natural’ my clients look rather than looking overly made up.
In the last few years, I’ve developed such a passion for bridal makeup. I am such a sucker for love, and something about wedding days bring me so much joy! I love helping the bride and her bridal party start the day off with great energy. I work really well in a busy environment. I’m great at staying calm when things are a little chaotic! Something I’m really proud of is clients’ perception of me. On several occasions, they’ve complimented me by saying I have a ‘kind spirit’ and make people feel comfortable and at ease. I love that because it is my goal to put positive energy out into the world.
Some of my most fun projects have been doing makeup for editorial photoshoots and working with a production crew doing makeup/male grooming for Mayor Justin Bibb throughout his campaign.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out.
For aspiring MUAs, my advice is stay true to your own style. Find the looks you love to create, and you will attract the clients who love those looks too. Practice really does make perfect. Take advantage of as many opportunities to do makeup as possible, even when unpaid. Don’t get too comfortable working with just one age group, ethnicity or complexion. Working in retail gave me the chance to work with so many different people, and that gave me a wide range of what I could do. Always be professional – take care of your clients by being on time and showing up with a clean kit of makeup. Sanitary practices are SO important. Lastly, find a mentor. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kelliwilliamsbeauty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelliwilliamsbeauty
- Other: https://www.styleseat.com/kelliwilliams
Image Credits
Melini Hodge
