Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiam Barrese.
Hi Kiam, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Mount Vernon, NY where I opened my first salon Backstage Beauty & Cosmetix 12 years ago. I got my Cosmetology License in 1997 after I was looking to reinvent myself after my career as a 90’s Hip Hop Dancer! Yes… I got into the beauty industry as a secondary career. Prior to this, you could see me in iconic music videos like Johnny Kemp “Just Got Paid” Slick Rick “Children Story” & more. It was actually quite easy for me to transition into the beauty industry because Hair & Makeup has always been a part of my life as a dancer … funny how life works out like that. In 2002, I took a short hiatus from the salon and wandered into the Makeup world. I became a product specialist for MAC and then Lancome until I launched my own cosmetic brand Backstage Cosmetix in 2010. Following my inaugural year as an entrepreneur in 2011, I started an annual runway show called Glam Fest that featured some of the best upcoming Fashion Designers, Models, Hair & Makeup Artists in the NY Tristate area. Glam Fest gained the attention of Fashion Week Press, Magazines and local Radio and continued successfully through 2013.
Fast forward, I moved to Atlanta in 2015 looking for a lifestyle change and to pursue more TV & Film work as a Hair & Makeup Artist. Since moving here, I did exactly what I set out to do. I have worked on numerous TV & Film projects for Tyler Perry, Wil Packer, BobbCat Films & more. Currently, I take Hair & Makeup appointments in my salon suite at Salons By JC in Sandy Springs as well as my salon in NY.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey has definitely had its share of challenges as life is always happening… However, through my faith and perseverance, I have always managed to push past it. I don’t look like what I’ve been through… But that’s another interview… lol.
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 think what sets me apart from others is that I’m pretty much one stop shopping when it comes to beauty because I do both Hair & Makeup equally well. I’m most known for my short cuts and hair color For me Cut & Color go together like peanut butter & jelly. I’m most proud of my work when I see how it makes my clients feel even more than how gorgeous they look. People will forget what you say and do, but they will never forget how you made them feel.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Yes! The Covid pandemic showed me that if I wasn’t sure before, I am very sure now… I’m a survivor!
Contact Info:
- Email: kbmakeupartist@gmail.com
- Website: www.backstagecosmetix.com
- Instagram: @thecutslayer @backstagecosmetix
- Other: www.styleseat.com/kiam-barrese
Image Credits:
Seven Clicks Photography
