Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Raxter.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up, I was a true tomboy, ponytail, t-shirt and jeans and some sneakers and ready to play some sports. However, I always had an eye for art and I really enjoyed art classes throughout High School. Kids in my class would get so mad at me because I had an eye for things and could complete a project in a day. Once I stopped playing basketball in college, I tapped into more of my feminine side and started wearing makeup for work and nights out. I then started learning more about skin type and color theory and I would practice on a few of my coworkers at the time. Fast forward to 2016 when I moved to Ohio, I was bored and knew nobody, so I started investing more into different products so I could service all skin tones and types. I was working in the corporate world full time and decided “maybe I can make this a career”, but of course I doubted myself. Moved back south to Charlotte in Oct 2018 and I started getting more and more clients word of mouth and advertising. Remind you, I’m still working in tech 10hr shifts and trying to get clients on the weekends. It was Summer 2019 when someone asked me to service their wedding, and a boost of confidence kicked in! I didn’t even think about getting into the bridal side of beauty, but it found me.
Ever since then, I’ve shifted my artistry and booked weddings left and right. I have really elevated my artistry by always educating myself with new techniques and products that provide the longevity for my clients. As a creative, I believe in continuous education whether it’s business etiquette or makeup techniques. Later, I had my daughter 2020 in the midst of covid and losing clientele due to the pandemic really affected me. I was questioning myself if I even wanted to continue this. Then, ten weeks after having my daughter, I lost my job… my FULL-TIME JOB that I moved here for. They wouldn’t work with me now being mother, nor to continue to work from home and not having childcare in the midst of a pandemic. I was completely devastated and frustrated. I then became a FT makeup artist, and this was never the plan. However, I have done pretty well since this happened. What I will say, Entrepreneurship is NOT easy and being a new mom was ALOT on me mentally. This was because I was so used to working and being able to rest when needed. Now, I’m a FT Mom, business owner and get no rest, lol. Servicing my clients has been an honor and I thank each and everyone who has sat in my chair or referred me to someone. I have had some amazing people mentor me and give me advice to help me run my business the best way for me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all. I had a lot of transitions in 2020. Frustrations with where my career was going to take me, being pregnant, beginning of a pandemic to losing my job. It was life-changing to not be working FT because I’ve never NOT WORKED. I had to take a step back to make the best decision for my family. My fiancé was very supportive in this transition because he knew I wasn’t happy at the time. I am just thankful for being a person who has a creative side and had a “hobby” at the time, be able to become a business and income for my family. I take being a makeup artist serious because I have invested into this, and sometimes we don’t feel respected as a creative.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a soft glam and bridal make up specialist as I call myself. I focus on skin and making sure the application looks as seamless as possible and it reflects well on camera. There are levels to make up and I feel that I’ve worked hard to get where I am today by making sure I further educate myself and learn from other creatives. I am huge on community and having those in your profession by your side. I can’t thank a few people enough for pouring into me and helping me adjust a few things among the back end to perfecting a technique. I’m proud of my growth with applying makeup. It takes an eye to notice what needs to be fixed. What sets me apart – I feel that I provide positive energy and longevity when it comes to the make up. I want each person to feel comfortable and not FEEL make up on their face. I always ask for feedback and so far, it’s been good feedback. I am never the one to not help another artist if they have any questions. I love when someone wants my advice or input. I feel like we can learn from each other in many ways as creatives.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Hopefully, in the next 5-10 years, I am owning my own salon suites. I want to be able to provide a space for other creatives and as a black woman, this would be good to see more black-owned salons. I want it to be a place where estheticians, lash techs, muas and etc., can provide their services. I am aiming to perfect my makeup application even further – I feel that I’m almost there but I need to tap into more of my creative side and connect with the right people.
Contact Info:
- Email: slaybykbeauty@gmail.com
- Website: https://msha.ke/slaybykbeauty
- Instagram: mskellybaby_mua
- Facebook: Slay by k beauty and bridal
Image Credits:
Credits: Maternity Shoot: Photographer @jamiewattsphotography via IG *verified Action shot of myself x2 (in hotel room with curtain behind me): @melissamayriephotography via IG *Verified Editorial shoot (colorful headshot): @blackprintphotography via IG Verified Client (Waist up with Drink): Shot by @arielperry via IG Verified Bride action shot with myself and her head shot: @DailyAlexandra via IG verified
