Meet Kirsten Taylor | Celebrity Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kirsten Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kirsten, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
One piece of conventional advice that I disagree with is “Make sure to always have a plan B.”

I disagree with promoting the idea that everyone needs a backup plan. While I believe in having structure and security, it doesn’t guarantee success.

In my opinion, more people should dedicate their lives to plan A solely, especially if that plan brings them happiness. Interrupting your initial plan with preconceived doubts and reservations counts you out of the race before you even begin to run. If you reel in and focus on your initial goal, you will be successful throughout your journey and at its end.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
The Kay Way LLC. Started out as a young college student trying to figure her way through adulthood. At age 18 I decided to pursue what was at the time a hobby to make some extra money. Little did I know what was a fun pass time would become my passion.

I’ve always heard do what you love to do and you’ll never work a day in your life & I never understood because how could work not feel like work?! When I reached the feeling of pure bliss and was able to uplift and inspire others is when I knew that makeup artistry was my calling.

I was not always confident in my artistry but I have always been determined to be better than I thought I could be. I studied the greats , I figured out what others weren’t doing and I set out to master it. I was way past my time, utilizing social media and creating content before “content creators” existed.

The power of collaboration and network carried the beginning of my career. I set out to partnership with other creatives with crazy passion just like mine. As an obsessed fan of ANTM (Americas Next Top Model) I wanted to recreate that atmosphere that I saw on TV. I appreciate the teamwork it takes to make a look complete . I have had the pleasure of working with a lot of talented Models , Hairstylist , Wardrobe Stylist & Photographers that allowed me to produce professional “industry standard” images for my portfolio.

Having such a portfolio that easily stands up to master makeup artists that have been in the industry for decades has opened so much doors for my career.

I have had the pleasure of doing makeup for NYFW , British Virgin Island Summer Sizzle Fashion Show, Various Celebrities to ANTM Finalist Darian Ellis,Reality Tv Star “Lollipop” , Boosie, Mia X, Renni Rucci, Shirley Murdock , Jekayln Carr, Lauren Ashley Beck, just to name a few.

I look forward to adding more prestigious clientele and groundbreaking opportunities to my roster. I am now working on some major projects that will change the trajectory of my career path for the better.

You can look forward to my cosmetic line, a second storefront location and opportunity for hands on and online educational services in 2024.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I always love taking anyone who visits me to the beach! Many people have experienced the beach but never like on the gulf coast! Being in a coastal southern city includes chill vibes , clear water , blue sky’s and good eating!

Before heading to the beach we most definitely have to pick up some seafood from one of the many great local seafood markets in the area. If in season I would recommended the lemon pepper crawfish. 🦞

We would probably hit the causeway and go fishing or go hit up Top Golf , Surge or Axe Throwing For some competitive fun.

For good drinks & food I would recommend a few of my favorite restaurants : Pour Baby , Vandals , Dauphins or Halfshell Oyster House.

If you aren’t to worried about food and rather have a snack , fire drinks and an elevated vibe I’ll give you the password to an underground lounge that resembles a “speak-easy” , there you will be able to enjoy live music and Caribbean inspired beverages. Or walk the strip downtown bar hoping at the local bars and clubs.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to my tribe & my loyal Kay Baes!! I have an amazing support system of family, friends & clients along with my boyfriend who inspire me daily .

Each one of these people are apart of the atmosphere that fuels me to push beyond my limits . There is never a dull moment with any of them , we hold eachother accountable, we listen to and respect eachother and challenge eachother while providing a safe space to just be ourselves.

Having such a safe space allows me to be creative and confident in my craft.

Website: Www.thekaywayk.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/thekaywayk

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/kirstenktaylor

Facebook: Www.facebook.com/thekaywayk

Youtube: Www.youtube.com/thekaywayk

Other: https://linktr.ee/thekaywayk?fbclid=PAAaZcF7duVyZysYAaKTHmBXH5NURcJ0UuDXti0eBHQVK4eL7QhFsQaK0mbq0_aem_AbU-VYoS1trTEckzLgbObm3X75g1PqrnQqxCpoYWeNsJh0lZw7pPLndILrvYE9JfvXI