Daily Inspiration: Meet Kellie Shells

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kellie Shells.

Hi Kellie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In 2020, I was working as a head preschool teacher when COVID-19 changed everything. Suddenly, I found myself at home, wondering how I could continue providing for my children while navigating such an uncertain time. Then one phone call changed my life. A friend called and asked if I could do her makeup for a date night—something soft and pretty. I didn’t think much of it because doing makeup for my friends and family has always been something I enjoyed behind the scenes. But when she saw my makeup collection, she looked at me and said, “Kellie, with all these products, why aren’t you a makeup artist?” It wasn’t the first time I had heard those words. My family had been encouraging me for years to turn my passion into something more. That moment gave me the push I needed to stop doubting myself, take a chance, and turn my passion into a business. And just like that, Pretty Faces LLC was born! What started as a passion during an uncertain time became a purpose, a business, and an opportunity to make women feel beautiful, confident, and empowered—one face at a time.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I entered the beauty industry walking by faith, not by sight, and that faith has been tested in more ways than one. Over the years, I’ve experienced setbacks, lost two different business suites, balanced full-time employment while building my clientele, and even stepped outside my comfort zone by traveling to clients. But October 2025 brought one of my biggest challenges yet. I was laid off from my full-time job, and just two weeks later, my rental car was stolen with nearly 80% of my makeup business stored in the trunk. In a matter of moments, everything I had worked so hard to build was gone. Without the extra finances to replace my supplies, I made the difficult decision to step away from my business for a while.

What I didn’t realize was that even when I felt like I was standing alone, I had an entire support system standing behind me. My family began purchasing makeup supplies for me, my clients sent gift cards, and my friend Antavia encouraged me to meet her at Ulta to create a makeup consultant video showcasing beauty products. Their love, generosity, and encouragement reminded me that my purpose was bigger than my setbacks.

By February 2026, I was back in motion, creating business cards, networking, and rebuilding Pretty Faces LLC one step at a time. Today, my clientele has grown tremendously in just a few short months—more than I had experienced in some of my previous years in business.

Looking back, I realize that every setback was not the end of my story. Sometimes God allows you to pause so you can come back stronger, wiser, and more focused. I could have given up, but I chose faith over fear, purpose over setbacks, and perseverance over defeat.

Pretty Faces LLC is more than a beauty business. It’s a testimony that when you believe in your purpose and keep going, what is meant for you will find its way back to you.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Pretty Faces LLC is a beauty business specializing in professional makeup artistry, including soft glam, full glam, and personalized beauty consultations. I am known for enhancing natural beauty, creating confidence, and providing a welcoming, personalized experience for every client. I am most proud of building my business over the past six years through passion, dedication, and hard work. What sets Pretty Faces apart is the personal touch, attention to detail, and commitment to making every client feel beautiful, confident, and special.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
The beauty industry continues to grow as consumers prioritize self-care, personal grooming, and professional beauty services. Makeup artistry remains an important part of the industry, with continued demand for everyday glam, weddings, photoshoots, special occasions, and special events!

Pretty Faces LLC is positioned to grow by offering personalized beauty services, including Soft Glam, Full Glam, beauty consultations, and beginner makeup education. My mission is to enhance each client’s natural beauty while providing quality services, a welcoming experience, and personalized attention.

By staying current with beauty trends, continuously expanding our knowledge, and building meaningful relationships with clients, Pretty Faces LLC aims to establish a recognizable brand, create lasting customer loyalty, and expand its presence within the beauty industry.

Pricing:

• Soft Glam $50 November/December
• 1 on 1 Beginners class $125
• Consultation (prices vary)

Contact Info:

• Other: https://Calendly.com/kellieshellsonthebeat