Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalene Gentles.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kalene. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was first introduced to makeup at the age of 13, and I usually practiced on myself and loved watching YouTube videos. As I taught myself how to do makeup, during that time, it was very hard to find shades for my skin tone because of my skin complexion. Because of that, I had always told myself that if I ever had the chance to change the makeup industry, I would love to create a cosmetics line that would cater to all skin tones but especially darker skin complexions. I never had the thought to start my own business in makeup artistry but after a year at Howard University, my friends encouraged me to start my own freelance business. During my downtime at Howard University, I took the time to shadow other experienced makeup artists in the area to expand my clientele, learn more about the beauty industry and perfect my craft. After I graduated from Howard, I took my talents to Atlanta, GA to take my career to the next level. I didn’t know what exactly I wanted to do but I knew I wanted to do more than makeup, I wanted to create ART.
After discovering editorial and high fashion makeup, I started to change my techniques for how I apply makeup and rebranded myself after working with @Jordanviision and @gabthestylist in Atlanta, GA. I want my work to speak volumes when you look at it, I want every shoot to tell a story. In addition, after hearing many disheartening stories from models saying they sometimes had to do their own makeup because the makeup artist did not have their skin tone, it really propelled me even more to changed the industry. As an African American makeup artist in 2020, this didn’t sit right with me because in an industry that showcases inclusivity across all boards, why is this still a problem? We need more black representation and I am ready to be another face to fight injustice within this industry. That is why I am excited to announce that Essentials Cosmetics will officially launch products in January 2021 to the public. Every woman or man should be able to find their perfect shade regardless of their skin tone.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I personally do not think any journey will be smooth, everybody has their ups and downs. It was hard at first when I moved out to Atlanta, GA because I was lost and it was hard to find a job in a new city. I knew that I wanted to do makeup but I did not know where to start or how I was going to start without knowing many people. Therefore I started to reach out to others in the area that had the same vision as I did. You can’t make any external decisions until you have internal journey with yourself. God will never give you an idea or a talent if he did already give you a vision. Sometimes you have to create a way out of no way, you have to create your own lane. You have to get your mind right, be consistent and work hard. If it is meant to be for you and you have passion for it, a bump in the road will never stop you from accomplishing those goals, the external will fall into place.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Essentials by Kalene Gentles story. Tell us more about the business.
Essentials by Kalene Gentles is a freelance makeup artist that specializes in editorial or high fashion makeup. I pride my artistry on natural soft glam but always adding emphasis on the eye look. I love dewy and glowy skin therefore skincare and prep is really important. I am most proud of my consistency and ambition to give good customer service to everyone. I specialize in photoshoots, magazine covers, fashion shows and bridal.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I really not a person that believes in luck, but I believe what is for you will be for you. I also have a very strong faith therefore everything that has been given to be is God’s doing. Express what your heart desires and people will follow and support. The energy you exude is beautiful and it is different for everyone.
Contact Info:
- Website: Essentialsartistry.cargo.site
- Phone: 2407518540
- Email: essentialscosmeticskg@gmail.com
- Instagram: Essentialsartistry
- Twitter: Essentialsmua
Image Credit:
@jordanviision, @gabthestylist, @banvoa, @justussteele, @_b.media, @demetriusw, @brooklynnsummers, @iamgraceleann, @tionna.b , @felicia.smith, @therealsuyung, @naviagutta
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