We were lucky to catch up with Audrey Presser recently and have shared our conversation below.
Audrey , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
Katie and I were college roommates, and our friendship blossomed through our shared love of hair and makeup. We spent countless hours in our little dorm room, chatting about the makeup “gurus” we loved watching on YouTube. It was back when YouTube hair and makeup tutorials were all the rage, and discovering that we both had this shared passion felt like fate!
We would talk endlessly about our favorite makeup products and, of course, loved swapping and trying each other’s stash. It felt like we were the sisters neither of us had growing up. Some of our best memories are from getting ready together before heading out to the typical house party or college bar. Our friends quickly picked up on our love for hair and makeup, and before long, we became the go-to girls for glam. We adored it! Sitting with our friends, chatting, laughing, and helping them feel beautiful was such a special experience. Seeing their confidence shine was just the best part.
A few years after graduating college, one of our girlfriends from school asked us to help with makeup for her wedding. She wanted us to do her and her bridesmaids’ glam on the big day, and, of course, we said YES! That day was so much fun, and the girls were amazing—hyping us up and encouraging us to turn our passion into a business. That wedding gave us the push we needed to take the leap.
We started by creating an Instagram page, sharing pictures of the bride, bridesmaids, and our work from that wedding. Word quickly spread, and soon we were booking wedding after wedding. We couldn’t believe how quickly things took off, and the excitement hasn’t faded one bit. Even now, every time we get an inquiry for a wedding or special event, we can’t help but think back to those college days in our shoebox-sized dorm room, experimenting with makeup and dreaming big.
This journey has been incredible, and we feel so grateful to do what we love. Helping people feel their best, most confident, and most beautiful on their big days is truly the most rewarding part. We can’t wait to see where this adventure takes us next!
Audrey , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Makeup by A&K is a hair and makeup business specializing in weddings and special events. Based in Madison (Audrey) and Milwaukee (Katie), we proudly serve weddings in both areas and are happy to travel to nearby locations, depending on the distance.
Our journey began with a college friend’s wedding, and through word of mouth, our little business quickly took off. We’ve been having so much fun ever since! Meeting new people and being part of a bride’s special day is truly an honor. The morning of a wedding, surrounded by all the excitement and joy, is such a memorable and special time, and we love being a part of it.
We also enjoy discovering new wedding venues and seeing how each one adds its own unique charm. You can check out our work and follow our journey on Instagram at @aandk_makeupandbeauty. We love connecting with you, so don’t forget to say hello!
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Instagram and word of mouth have been key to growing our business. Our Instagram account has been an amazing platform for showcasing our work, sharing stories, and spreading the word through personal accounts. It’s also a great way to message and connect with clients, as well as network with fellow makeup artists. Plus, it’s an endless source of inspiration for new ideas and trends.
Word of mouth has been another significant source of new clients for us. When we work with a bride, it’s often the case that a bridesmaid or friend is either planning their own wedding or knows someone who is. Simply chatting and connecting with people during these events has been an easy and organic way to spread the word about our services.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: aandk_makeupandbeauty
