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

Hi Krystal, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
No longer being a victim of imposter syndrome. I was so focused on comparing my work and accomplishments to others that I lost touch of who I really was, what I had to offer and who I wanted to offer it to. I also became more comfortable with reality…meaning calling shit what it is! I believe in radical honesty. Once I came to grips with those things, success fell into place because I was more clear on myself and my brand.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m Krystal Rae, your personal and professional makeup artist in Atlanta and just like you, I had to elevate and add some finesse to my image. I had been practicing my craft and traveling working in my industry for 3 years. but real talk, I wasn’t happy. I wanted to be taken seriously in my business and lifestyle. That wasn’t gonna happen without me stepping it up and working with professionals. No more DIY or lettin my homegirl or lil cousin (no shade cuz i’m someone’s cousin too lol) be responsible for my business and personal needs. I needed to work with trained professionals whose work I respected and aligned with my desires…desires to step into my purpose and show up lookin bomb af!​Why me? I mean, have you seen my work?! My client’s looks are impactful! During my 7 years in business, I’ve exceeded client’s expectations by providing an extremely professional service that left them looking and feeling like a goddess.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Anything with sun, food, drinks, music and hookah involved. I’m usually in these streets of Atl servicing clients and when I’m done, you can count on me to slide through wherever the vibe leads me. If I’m home, I’m sure I have Jhene Aiko vinyl in rotation while relaxing in my bubble bath courtesy of Lush products with my blue LED lights lit and smoke in the air. Don’t talk to me! LOL

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
ME! TF?! LOL J/K….well kinda… I definitely have people who’ve impacted my life and business but the credit still goes to me. I made a conscious decision to elevate and pivot my life and business at different times in my life based on whatever I wanted. I did the work to start finding those individuals (if need be) who could help me implement various strategies that aligned with my goals. I’m also really big on keeping a healthy circle around me so I naturally have influence from my dope ass friends and colleagues. If I gotta name names, I’d say my husband and best friend Naeem for his unwavering patience and support, my friend and colleague Shawnese McDaniel for her consistent positive encouragement and listening ear, my coach and client Britney Jeanine for helping me gain clarity in my services and offers, my friend and copywriter Rita Olds for helping me find my brand voice. My cousin and confidant Shirley for a lot of behind the scenes management and encouragement, and last but not least, my friend Robin for being there from the beginning of my makeup career and constantly being an inspiration in artistry and business…and a good ol time!

Website: www.krystalrae.co

Instagram: @krystalrae.co

Twitter: @krystalraec

Facebook: @krystalraeco

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