Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Wardwell
Hi Kara, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Several years ago, I explored a career as a freelance makeup artist but soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. As I came to terms with closing that chapter, October arrived, bringing requests for Halloween face painting. Intrigued by the idea, I purchased a small face paint kit from a local costume store. From that moment on, I was hooked! On April 1, 2025, I will celebrate my 10th anniversary in face painting!
Face painting has brought about countless joyful memories and helped me make some incredible friends. As an artist, I deeply appreciate the creativity involved in both face painting and balloon art. I also enjoy the opportunity to bring happiness to any event! Working with kids is so much fun, and seeing them smile in the face-painting mirror is incredibly rewarding.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve been fortunate; most of my time as an event artist has been a terrific experience. However, I have always struggled with anxiety in crowded and noisy environments. It’s common for people to gather around an artist to get a better view, which was very challenging for me. I’ve since learned to advocate for my boundaries, but in the early days, I often left events feeling overwhelmed and began questioning whether I could continue.
Fortunately, I met a fellow Austin face painter, Lisa, at an event where we were both hired separately. She recognized my potential, encouraged me to keep going, and mentored me during those early years. Lisa has become a wonderful friend, and I likely would have given up without her support!
I also quickly learned that event guests are often just curious and may not realize how close they are standing. I appreciate their interest and am delighted that people enjoy watching the face-painting process!
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?
My business, Parties By Kara, offers event services, including face painting, balloon twisting, balloon decor, and glitter tattoos. I am also in the process of setting up a waterproof airbrush tattoo service that I plan to roll out during the summer months. A few years ago, I began learning how to twist balloons, and I take great pride in providing face painting and balloon twisting simultaneously at my events, which has become my most popular service package.
In addition to providing event services, I have a passion for body painting and have participated in several competitions and showcases. I’ve been fortunate enough to win some awards for my work! Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to teach a class at an artist convention and filmed face-painting tutorials for a streaming service called FabaTV. It is truly indescribable to have my peers appreciate and value my work.
What were you like growing up?
My dad likes to say that I was an artist from birth and is the best authority since I inherited my artistic talent from him. As a child, I was curious and precocious, and I went through a rebellious phase in my teenage years. I’ve always enjoyed anime and manga, and although I haven’t kept up with the latest media, I enjoy rewatching and rereading my old favorites for comfort. I developed a love for Studio Ghibli at a very young age, and I have a very special place in my heart for their movies.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.partiesbykara.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/partiesbykara
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/partiesbykara
- Other: https://popl.co/card/p2LQHzkB/1/dash
