Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalena Murphy.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kalena. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
For over a decade, I suffered emotionally and physically with cystic acne. This was particularly traumatizing as it was during my teen years into adulthood. While most high school students were enjoying the simple things in life, I spent years in and out of the dermatology office searching for a cure. I was teased and bullied about my skin. Mentally fed up with my acne, I chose to take Accutane twice, a very strong antibiotic to eliminate acne. While working in Women’s Healthcare I decided to explore the skincare and makeup industry, there were people who tried to discourage and even belittle my abilities but I continued to practice on myself and friends. Eventually, I mustered enough courage to apply for a part-time job at Bare Minerals. Once I got hired, the rest is history. There’s a special place in my heart for Bare Minerals because during my acne years, it was the only brand that made me feel comfortable in my own skin.
I began this journey in Michigan working part-time and moved to freelancing in the South for other popular brands like LORAC cosmetics and Laura Geller. Now Georgia is home, I continue my work in women’s healthcare and freelance for MAKE UP FOR EVER while developing my own business, Refined Glam.
For years, Makeup was a form of therapy. Now, it’s artistry.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
To be honest, it was not a smooth road. For years, I struggled with low self-esteem. This was something that caused a constant uphill battle. I was ready to do well, move forward, succeed, but everywhere I went, there I was. I was my own worst enemy. I didn’t need any critics because I was now my biggest and most vicious. I did a great deal of soul searching and developed a newfound faith and love in myself. The kind of love that would eventually set me free and propel me to a new phase of life filled with positive energy and self-confidence.
I became determined to perfect my craft, which has led me on an amazing journey. I’m still learning every day; a true artist is never done learning.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Refined Glam – what should we know?
Welcome to Refined Glam. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. You define your definition of beauty. I created Refined Glam to showcase my journey, love for makeup, the artistry, and provide honest feedback on products/brands we know and love.
Refined Glam provides makeup services for all faces (women, men, and teens), whether celebrating yourself for the day or a special event. Refined Glam also offers one on one makeup lessons to perfect your skills, and packages to help build your makeup collection. I specialize in natural glam, striving to provide true enhancements to make an individual feel beautiful. Refined Glam reminds you of your true essence.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My biggest supporters are my family and friends, they push me to be my best! I spent countless hours watching and learning from YouTube pros, like Shayla Mitchell, Jackie Aina, Renny Vasquez, and Tatiana Ward, just to name a few. Last but not least, the many women, men, and teens with troubled skin, whether it’s acne, birthmarks, hyperpigmentation, burns, scars, you name it. I want to be a reminder that things will get better and there are people who have been on and through this journey. God has blessed me with some amazing talents and I owe it to the world to showcase them, one face at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://therefinedglam.com
- Email: refinedglammua@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therefinedglam/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/refinedglam/
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
