Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Santiago.
Hi Karen, We’re thrilled to have a chance to hear your story today. Before we get into specifics, could you briefly describe how you got to where you are today?
First off, I want to thank you for this amazing opportunity and for sharing your platform to shed light on small business owners. I’m honored to say the least. Let’s get into it.
I was a dedicated Police Officer in Brooklyn, New York for 12 years, my career took an unexpected turn when an injury in 2014 prompted a premature retirement in 2016. While this shift initially felt daunting, it became a blessing in disguise for embracing my true passion: Makeup Artistry!
Transitioning from the structured world of law enforcement to the creative realm of beauty was a major change, but I embarked on a quest to elevate my makeup hobby into my next fulfilling career. Despite the uncertainties and needing a formal business background, I remained undeterred in my pursuit.
Upon relocating to Texas in August 2023 with my husband and three-year-old son, I committed to turning my dreams of owning my own small business into reality. Launching Glamorous Faces six months ago marked the beginning of an empowering journey where each day is dedicated to honing my craft and building a brand that embodies confidence and elegance.
At 41, I stand as a testament to the transformative power of resilience and determination. My entrepreneurial spirit has been fueled by the unwavering support of fellow women entrepreneurs, whose success stories have inspired me to push beyond my comfort zone. As I continue navigating business ownership’s intricacies, I am grateful for the opportunity to empower others through Glamorous Faces – Makeup Artistry. Together, I vow to celebrate beauty within, new beginnings, and the limitless potential within us all.
Please talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned. Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I don’t believe any small business owner’s or entrepreneurial road is a smooth one. There will always be struggles and challenges along the way. Personally, I struggle with imposter syndrome and trying to control every outcome, which I know for a fact many people struggle with, and I’m not the only one!
Relocating to a new state compounds these challenges, as establishing trust within the industry and among potential clients takes work. Unlike in my previous locale, where word of mouth sufficed, I now recognize the pivotal role of social media in building a brand from scratch. So much time, energy, and money goes into it all, but staying positive, continuing to push through, and looking at the end goal is motivation.
Speaking of motivation, sometimes it can be challenging to stay motivated. We expect things to happen the same way we process them, and we get discouraged when that doesn’t happen. Especially in the world we live in today, where everything happens as quickly as a click of a button. We are accustomed to everything happening now, but that’s not how real life works.
Overcoming loneliness is a huge struggle; it’s almost similar to motherhood, where you feel isolated and alone through the battle. Which opens up another struggle of balancing motherhood & small business success. While I’m fortunate to have a supportive husband and family, their inability to fully grasp my journey adds a layer of complexity.
Collaborative efforts often encounter setbacks, with last-minute cancellations being a frustrating reality. Nevertheless, networking is pivotal in fostering trust and connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar experiences. We have to trust the process and know that every step we take, whether big or small, is a step closer to that end goal or vision, and if we don’t put the time or work in, no one will hold our hand and do it for us. While the tunnel may seem endless at times, there’s always a beacon of light illuminating the way forward.
As you know, we’re big fans of your work. What can you tell our readers who might need to be more familiar with it?
Yes, of course. Thank you for this platform.
I am a professional makeup artist specializing in soft glam wedding makeup. I have honed my craft to deliver signature looks that accentuate my client’s natural beauty. My approach focuses on enhancing their features while maintaining a soft and natural aesthetic without necessarily altering their face/features. I love my clients to look in the mirror, feel beautiful, and see their beauty most softly and naturally.
I am most proud of my ability to create soft bridal, and beauty looks that make my clients feel confident and radiant on their special day. I invite my clients to participate actively throughout the process, encouraging them to voice any preferences or concerns. Their satisfaction is paramount, and I welcome constructive feedback with professionalism and grace.
Ultimately, my goal is to fulfill their vision while providing expert guidance. I understand that every individual is unique, with distinct features and preferences. Adaptability is key, and I approach each client with the understanding that not every look is universally suitable. Makeup is transformative yet temporary, offering the flexibility to adjust and refine until the desired outcome is achieved. The best part of makeup is that it isn’t permanent and can be wiped off.
Honesty and communication are the most important for building confidence, a genuine connection and trust with your clients. I want my clients to feel as comfortable as if catching up with a dear friend. This is what I feel will keep them returning or referring Glamorous Faces to their friends and family. Looking forward to making connections and seeing all Austin has to offer.
What were you like growing up?
I always laugh at this question because, reflecting on my journey, it’s amusing to consider the contrast between my upbringing and my current profession as a makeup artist. Growing up, I defied the stereotype of your typical girly girl. I embraced a tomboyish demeanor, enjoying rough games alongside my male friends. My transition to a career in law enforcement seemed a natural fit, earning approval from family and friends who recognized its alignment with my personality.
However, life often unfolds in unexpected ways, and my path eventually led me to the world of makeup artistry. While the tomboy spirit remains an integral part of who I am, I’ve discovered a profound love for makeup and cultivated a passion for its transformative capabilities. Witnessing the joy and confidence it instills in myself and my clients upon completing a makeup session is truly exhilarating.
I’ve come to recognize parallels between my former role as a policewoman and my current one as a makeup artist. Despite their apparent differences, both professions share a common thread: the commitment to helping individuals during their most vulnerable or significant moments. As a police officer, I approached situations with compassion and empathy, seeking to defuse tensions with understanding. Similarly, as a makeup artist, I aim to create a comfortable and empowering environment, enhancing my clients’ confidence and radiance for their most memorable occasions, such as weddings or special events.
In essence, whether in uniform or wielding makeup brushes, my underlying mission remains unchanged: to uplift and support others wholeheartedly, guiding them toward feeling their best selves most genuinely and compassionately as possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.glamorousfaces.online
- Instagram: Instagram.com/_KSGlamour
- Other: linktr.ee/glamorousfaces
