We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Anna Kleman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Anna below.

Anna, appreciate you joining us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

“What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?” That question takes me back to countless moments in my life when my parents’ unwavering support and belief in me shaped the person I am today. Their guidance and resilience in standing by my side have left an indelible mark on my journey.

One of the earliest memories that come to mind dates back to my 6th grade, a time when I was discovering my identity and individuality. I decided to experiment with a streak of colored hair dye, something that seemed trivial to many but held great significance to me. I vividly recall the graduation ceremony, where my choice to express myself through that streak of color became a target of mockery by the principal. The embarrassment I felt was overwhelming, but it was at that moment that my parents showcased their unwavering support.

My parents didn’t hesitate for a second. They stood up for me, confronting the principal to defend my right to express myself and be proud of who I was. Their actions spoke volumes about the kind of parents they were – the kind who wouldn’t let anyone diminish their child’s individuality. They taught me that it was okay to be unique and to embrace the things that made me stand out.

As I reflect on my life and career, I realize that this early lesson in self-expression and individuality has had a profound impact on me. It taught me the value of authenticity and the importance of staying true to myself, regardless of societal expectations or judgments. My parents instilled in me the confidence to pursue my own path, to make choices that reflect who I am, and to always take pride in my work.

Throughout my life, they have consistently emphasized the importance of doing my best in everything I undertake. Whether it was school, hobbies, or my career, they ingrained in me the idea that as long as I gave my all and took pride in my efforts, they would be proud of me. This attitude has been a driving force in my career, motivating me to constantly strive for excellence and to approach every task with dedication and passion.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

From a young age, my fascination with makeup was undeniable. It was a passion that seemed to flow through my veins. I remember vividly how I would always find my way into my mom’s makeup stash, no matter how well she thought she had hidden it. It was like a treasure trove, and the allure of colors, brushes, and the transformational power of makeup was irresistible to me. I’d spend hours experimenting with different looks and trying to recreate the magic I saw in magazines and on television.

Makeup became my safe haven and a way to express myself. It allowed me to tap into my creativity and artistry, even when I was just a child. Over time, my skills and knowledge of makeup artistry grew as I continued to experiment and practice. I started doing makeup for friends and family, which eventually led to small gigs and freelance work. It was a journey of self-discovery and self-expression that ultimately led me to where I am today.

Today, I am proud to be a makeup artist working with Le Reve, a company known for its commitment to excellence and innovation in the beauty industry. As a self-taught makeup artist, I bring a unique perspective to my work. What sets me apart is not only my deep-seated passion for makeup but also my determination to continuously learn and evolve. I believe that makeup is an ever-changing art, and I stay updated with the latest trends and techniques, ensuring that I provide my clients with the best and most up-to-date services.

In my role, I provide a range of makeup services, from natural everyday looks to bold and creative transformations. I work closely with my clients to understand their preferences and desired outcomes. Whether it’s for a special event, a photoshoot, or just to boost their confidence, I take pride in enhancing their natural beauty and making them feel like the best version of themselves.

What I’m most proud of is not just the artistry itself, but the joy and confidence I bring to my clients. The transformation that occurs, both outwardly and inwardly, when someone feels beautiful is incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about makeup; it’s about empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty and express themselves through their appearance.

I want potential clients and followers to know that when they choose me as their makeup artist, they are choosing someone who is deeply passionate, dedicated, and committed to their satisfaction. I prioritize communication and collaboration to ensure that the end result aligns with their vision. My goal is to make every client feel special, and I strive to create a memorable experience for them, whether it’s for a wedding, a special event, or a simple day-to-day look.

In a world where makeup is not just about concealing imperfections but celebrating individuality, I am here to make that journey beautiful, fun, and inspiring. I’m excited to continue growing in my craft and sharing my passion for makeup artistry with the world.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a makeup artist, for me, extends far beyond the artistry itself. It’s the fulfillment of living my dream and being an example for my two precious daughters that truly fills my heart with joy.

As a makeup artist, I get to wake up every day and do what I love. I’m living the dream I’ve had since I was a child, and that’s a privilege I never take for granted. It’s incredibly fulfilling to pursue a career that allows me to express my creativity, connect with wonderful clients, and constantly learn and grow in an ever-evolving industry.

But what makes this journey even more special is knowing that I’m setting an example for my daughters. They get to see their mother not only following her passion but also thriving in it. I want them to understand that it’s possible to pursue their dreams and achieve success with hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

I hope to instill in them the belief that they can be whatever they aspire to be and that they should never compromise on their dreams. Being a makeup artist isn’t just a job; it’s a testament to the importance of self-expression, self-confidence, and the empowerment of women in any field they choose.

So, the most rewarding part of being a makeup artist is the ability to inspire and be a role model for my daughters, showing them that they can reach for the stars and create their own paths in life. It’s a privilege that makes every day in this profession a source of immense pride and happiness.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Certainly, I’d be happy to share a story that highlights my resilience and the challenges I faced on my journey as a makeup artist.

At the start of my transition into the field, I had a close friendship with another makeup artist We had bonded over our shared love for makeup and often collaborated on various projects. Our relationship was built on trust and mutual support. However, as time went on, a difficult situation arose that tested our friendship and, more importantly, my resilience.

This artist, someone I considered a friend, started to accuse me of copying her work. The accusation was not only hurtful but also caught me completely off guard. I had always strived to be authentic in my artistry, taking inspiration from various sources but always putting my unique twist on things. To have someone I cared about deeply question my originality was disheartening.

At first, I was devastated and considered walking away from my career entirely. I questioned my abilities and felt a profound sense of self-doubt. It felt like a personal and professional betrayal that I hadn’t anticipated.

But, as time passed and with the support of my loved ones, I decided not to let this incident define my path. I knew deep down that I was dedicated to my craft and had a unique voice as a makeup artist. I resolved to use this challenge as a catalyst for personal growth.

I began to focus even more on honing my skills, experimenting with new techniques, and building my own distinct style. I realized that proving myself wasn’t about confronting or competing with others; it was about self-discovery and artistic evolution. I used the experience as a source of motivation to become the best version of myself as an artist.

Over time, the wounds healed, and the accusations faded into the background. I proved to myself, more than anyone else, that my resilience was stronger than any obstacle thrown my way. The experience taught me that challenges and setbacks are part of any journey, but it’s our ability to bounce back and grow that truly defines us.

Today, I can look back on that challenging period in my career with a sense of gratitude. It pushed me to become a more resilient, authentic, and confident makeup artist. I’ve learned that the greatest validation comes from within, and I’m proud of the artist I’ve become, unapologetically true to myself.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeup.with.annak/

Image Credits
Photographer – marissabellephotography