We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kate Chavez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Kate thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made (either in terms of time or money)? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

The best investment and smartest career move I ever made was diving deep into the art of makeup, skincare, and hairstyling. While being a makeup artist is undeniably wonderful, I quickly realized that versatility is key in this industry. My journey began as a makeup artist in retail, where I gained priceless real-world experience. Getting up close and personal with diverse skin tones and textures was an invaluable lesson that I wholeheartedly recommend to fellow MUAs and makeup enthusiasts. Those experiences allowed me to refine my skills, turning tasks like eyeliner and lash application from minutes to mere seconds. I even learned to “outsmart” hooded eyes using eyeliner, all thanks to my retail stint.

This venture into mastering makeup techniques eventually led me to explore the world of skincare. If a makeup artist’s canvas is the face, then skincare is the essential foundation. I proudly became an Esthetician in March 2018, and this newfound passion enabled me not only to create flawless makeup but also to provide valuable skincare advice to my clients. I could offer facials and address their skin concerns, transforming their experience into a pampering journey.

However, my quest for excellence didn’t stop there. Surprisingly, hairstyling entered my repertoire. Initially, I hesitated, fearing it was too much to handle. But my perspective shifted, and I discovered that with the right knowledge, resourcefulness, and basic skills, I could create elegant and beautiful hair looks. Just as makeup and skincare complete the picture, hairstyling adds the finishing touch, enhancing the overall experience for every client.

Armed with this trifecta of skills, I am well-prepared for every major client or gig that comes my way in this dynamic industry.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a first-generation Latina entrepreneur based in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. My journey into the world of makeup artistry and the entertainment industry is a testament to my passion and dedication.

My story began with a fascination for the transformative power of makeup. Over the years, I honed my skills through hard work and determination, eventually landing opportunities to work as a Makeup Department Head on a variety of projects. I’ve contributed my talents to music videos, studio shows, and indie films, where I’ve had the privilege of helping artists and actors look their best, enhancing their performances.

What sets me apart in my field is not just my skillset but also my commitment to making a positive impact. I’ve donated my makeup artistry skills to various charity organizations, using my craft to support causes close to my heart. It’s important to me that my work not only brings beauty to the world but also contributes to something greater.

I take immense pride in my ability to solve the creative challenges that come with each project. Whether it’s crafting a unique look for a music video or ensuring that actors’ makeup is flawless under studio lights, I approach each task with precision and creativity.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that I’m more than just a makeup artist; I’m a passionate creator who strives for excellence in every project. My brand stands for quality, versatility, and a commitment to giving back. I believe in the power of makeup to tell stories, boost confidence, and support worthy causes, and I look forward to continuing this journey with all those who share my passion.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely, there is a profound goal and mission that fuels my creative journey. As a Latina makeup artist and entrepreneur, I’m deeply committed to building greater representation in the entertainment industry. I believe that diversity is not only important but essential in Hollywood.

My mission is twofold: first, to showcase the immense talent and creativity within the Latina community in the world of makeup artistry, and second, to build a strong and supportive community for women in Hollywood. I want to create a space where women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, can come together, share their experiences, and empower one another.

My creative journey is driven by the desire to break down barriers and shatter stereotypes. I aim to use my platform and skills to not only excel in my craft but also to uplift others. By doing so, I hope to inspire the next generation of Latina makeup artists and entrepreneurs, proving that there are no limits to what we can achieve when we support each other and work towards a common goal.

In a nutshell, my creative mission is to be a catalyst for change, to bring more diversity to Hollywood, and to foster a sense of community and empowerment among women in the industry. It’s a journey I’m deeply passionate about, and I look forward to making a lasting impact in this regard.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building an audience on social media has been an exciting journey for me, even though I’ll admit I’ve been a bit shy in front of the camera. Initially, I used to blank out when put on the spot, but I’m determined to change that in the near future.

I started by sharing makeup looks and connecting with fellow artists on a wide range of topics and collaborative projects. Interestingly, the more I focused on building genuine connections with people, the more my following began to flourish.

My initial posts showcased my makeup artistry, but it was the conversations and relationships I cultivated that truly propelled my social media presence. I actively engaged with fellow artists, discussing everything from the latest beauty trends to the intricacies of our craft. These connections not only enriched my knowledge but also expanded my reach within the makeup community.

Engaging with my followers and friends has also been a priority. I respond to comments and messages, take the time to connect with those who appreciate my work, and actively participate in discussions related to makeup, skincare, and the entertainment industry. This interaction has allowed me to build a loyal and supportive community around my brand.

For those just starting to build their social media presence, I would offer a few key pieces of advice:

1. Be Authentic: Authenticity is your strongest asset. Share your passion, personality, and unique perspective. Don’t be afraid to show your journey, including the moments where you’re trying to overcome shyness or hesitation.

2. Consistency is Key: Regularly post content that aligns with your niche. Consistency helps keep your audience engaged and eager for more.

3. Engage and Interact: Don’t just broadcast; actively engage with your followers. Respond to comments, ask questions, and foster a sense of community.

4. Quality Over Quantity: Focus on creating high-quality content rather than overwhelming your feed with posts. Quality content is more likely to resonate with your audience.

5. Learn and Adapt: Social media is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date with platform changes and trends to ensure your content remains relevant.

Remember, building a social media presence takes time and patience, so don’t be discouraged by slow growth. Stay true to yourself, keep working on improving your on-camera presence, and continue engaging with your audience. Over time, you’ll see your community grow and thrive.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @kc_beautyandskin
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/K8.Chavez
• Other: Tiktok @kc_beautyandskin

Image Credits
Jay Rivera Rafa Llamas Raul Romo Gerson Lopes Alvis Pham Mike Anderson