Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Little.
Hi Kelly, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Kelly, from Nashville TN, and now in Charlotte NC four years now. I am a Professional makeup artist and Esthetician of this month (March 2023).
In 2018, I tapped into the beauty world and realized, I can do this as a business and have my own brand (Slay by K Beauty LLC). Art was my background throughout high school and college, so my understanding of color theory was very helpful. I practiced and took 2 masterclasses in 2019 and improved my skills in makeup to another level. I also got asked to service my first wedding and it was amazing, Stressful, but amazing – I literally serviced 9 women by myself and my body ached for a few days lol. Working that one wedding by myself, taught me a lot and it also opened my eyes on how important structure is.
When the pandemic hit right after this time period and I was bummed because I shut down accepting clients to protect my home. I had my daughter summer 2020 and was booked for the remaining of 2020 with weddings and special events. It was a breath of fresh air when I could get back into traveling and servicing my clients. I work with a handful of artists here in Charlotte and we assist each other when needed and we get the work done. In 2020, I became a full-time entrepreneur after having my daughter because I needed to have more flexibility and the corporate world just wasn’t for me no more.
It’s definitely been a challenge because the fluctuation of rates are all over the place among the beauty industry and many don’t understand the expenses we take on. The rate has to make sense for the business owner, and I personally provide a luxury experience and also LONGEVITY. Working in the bridal industry taught me a lot and that you have to be structured and be precise with contracts and record keeping. People will run all over you and at the end of the day, this is my brand and my career and I run it properly.
Over the last two years, I focused on being more organized and built my website to present my work. Being more active on social media really gained more clientele and many find me on Instagram and Facebook. I have gained a lot of clientele over these few years and I truly enjoy assisting my brides on their special day. It’s very therapeutic for me to do makeup and just put smiles on all these beautiful ladies face. I also teach one on one lessons for those who want to learn how to do their own makeup for every day. I also aim to assist my fellow makeup peers on how to better their brands and run a more structured business. Now I have added esthetics to my brand. I am graduating Esthetician school this month (March) and I am truly excited to add skincare services to the business.
I aim to build my brand and open business locations among SC and NC and possibly GA over the next few years such as business suites and event spaces. I want to be able to continue to service my clients and also have passive income to have a team provide beauty services. I am excited for what the future holds.
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. Life has been a challenge since I was young. I never knew exactly what I wanted to do as I got older. I am a jack of all trades so I know I want to do multiple things and be flexible. I would’ve never thought I’d become a make-up artist, and that’s because I am a true tomboy but I love a glam! I didn’t grow up with parents, I was in a group home between the ages of 12 and 16 years old. I didn’t know what I wanted to go to college for because my resources and finances were slim. When I got in college, I worked 2-3 jobs just to keep my rent paid. I didn’t enjoy working just to survive out here. I got to the drawing board and found beauty.
Practice makes perfect and it’s a skill I know I’ve excelled at. I love helping people and I do many things outside of beauty to do so. I am also a mentor for a program called FOR GOD SHE LIVES here in Charlotte. I mentor a young lady and provide life skills and support. I didn’t have this growing up, nor any role models that I truly looked up to or to show me the ropes. In 2020, I lost my job during the pandemic after having my daughter so I literally had to RESET. It’s been a challenge because when I have no clients, I make no money. At 30 years old, I still don’t feel accomplished, however I am beating the odds and that’s what matters.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Professional makeup artist, educator, and esthetician here in Charlotte NC. My focus and what I am known for is soft glam and bridal make up along with teaching one on one lessons to beginners and other aspiring artists. I now will add esthetics to the brand (Slay by K Beauty LLC).
I am most proud of my strength and patience because I have faced many challenges and disappointments over the years. I am proud of the mother and wife that I am and how I can connect with others in many ways.
What sets me apart from others: I feel that my skills of communication and artistry set me apart from others. I feel you should have your own niche in the community. I never aim to copy someone else’s work or try to run their business like them. You have to run your business on how you want to run it. Everyone is not professional and I make sure I carry that title of being professional at all times.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I love sneakers. If I could have them all, I would. I am not materialistic but I love a sneaker. I hate heels and it’s because I broke my ankle real bad when I played basketball in high school. So this is the tomboy side of me. You’ll see a slayed face but I love my casual fits.
Pricing:
- $110 for my Signature Soft Glam
- $547 Signature Bride: Most requested Package
- $225 Beginner Make up Lesson – In person
- $60 Beauty Shopping Assistant – I help you get the products you need
Contact Info:
- Website: https://msha.ke/slaybykbeauty
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mskellybaby_mua/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/slaybykbeautyandbridal/?ref=bookmarks
- Other: TikTok.com/mskellybabymua
Image Credits
@champagnelovestories for shot of Couple (engagement shoot) @Paris_lovephotography for Bride and Husband snapshot @faithaustin.jpg for shot of Client in orange dress
