Meet Vilmarie Williams | Director of Human Resources & Beauty Educator

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

Hi Vilmarie, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
I’ve been able to show both of my children that being a parent has not hindered my career and ambitions. Growing up I was told to live my life before having kids because life would never be the same. I was determined to prove that my dreams would not have to take a backseat once I became a mother.

My daughter is 9 years old and she’s had a front-row seat in seeing me thrive in a corporate career and run a successful business on the side, all while still being a present and involved parent. Both of my blessings have sat with me while I’ve conducted corporate meetings and when I’m drafting up business contracts and invoices.

My goal is to teach them that they are both equally equipped to go after their dreams and still be amazing parents.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
From a very early age, I fell in love with all things beauty. I grew up doing hair and makeup for my closest friends before going to our formal dances at school. It wasn’t until my little sister entered the pageant world that I realized that there weren’t very many artists who knew how to properly match women of color. As two very yellow girls, we would always get matched with peach, pink, and every other shade except for our specific hues. From this point on, I was determined to make sure no one touched my sister’s gorgeous face unless it was me. I knew her undertones. I knew how to enhance her Afro-Latina features so she could step out on the stage and feel unstoppable. This was when I fell in love with not only makeup but the artistry behind it.

My company, Contour Kissed, was birthed from a mother who had lost her way after becoming a mom. After battling postpartum depression I needed to throw myself into a project that was just for me. A project that allowed me to be Vilmarie. Not a wife. Not a mom. Just me. Makeup did that for me and I, now, bring that joy to other women through my artistry and beauty courses. I make women of color feel like the most beautiful version of themselves when they sit in my chair. Many of them are moms who can’t remember the last time that they felt beautiful or like the woman who existed before the kids. I know what that feels like. I also have women who have specifically chosen me to be their wedding artist because they trust that my artistry knowledge will make their gorgeous beige, honey, mocha, caramel, and chocolate hues radiate on one of the most memorable days of their lives. The trust that I’ve built with clients is what I am most proud of in my business.

I believe that my corporate knowledge of business acumen, customer service, and contract management are just a few key components that have allowed my business to be so successful on the administrative side. My passion for uplifting women and helping them find their inner fierce are what keep my clients returning and referring me to their family and friends.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I grew up as a military kid and never did I ever think that I would call Cary, North Carolina home but I am so glad that I do. We experience every season (sometimes in one week) and we have access to everything within a short drive. With Durham and Raleigh only being a 30-minute drive from Cary there are so many possibilities.

Going to a Durham Bulls game is a must especially during the summer. Some of my favorite places in downtown Durham are Boricua Soul, Nana Steaks. Mateo Bar de Tapas and The Counting House in the 21C Hotel is such a vibe. In summer, the rooftop at the Durham hotel has such a beautiful view that will carry you into the night with great drinks and food.

Another short drive to Raleigh will have you snapping selfies in the Sunflower Field at Dorothea Dix Park and then a nice chill picnic at the NC Art Museum with some delicious food from Oak City Fish and chips located in the Morgan Street Food Hall. Botanical Lounge gives Sex in the City girl night rooftop vibes with delicious drinks and small plates. And is as trip really complete if we don’t have brunch?!??! Massages and facials at the Umstead Spa with brunch at Herons are an absolute must!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I wear several hats on a daily basis but the balancing act of working a corporate career and running a successful beauty business requires a lot of time in and outside of my home. I am thankful for the continuous love, support, and encouragement that my husband provides on a daily basis. He keeps everything running with the kids when I’m sharing my gift with clients. To be honest, the word balance would not exist in my life if it was not for the constant support that my village provides. When I am pulled away to meet with clients, my parents and sister are always a short drive away to lend a helping hand.

Website: www.contourkissed.com

Instagram: @contourkissed

Image Credits
Photogragher credits: Morgan Crutchfield Photography, Ariel Perry Photography, Art by Court Winter, Temilola Ajibulu Photography