We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bekah Parker. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bekah below.
Bekah, appreciate you joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?
There are countless factors that contribute to success in today’s business world, but succeeding as a creative entrepreneur involves a unique set of challenges. For my business, the secret ingredient is fluidity. As an artist, it’s essential not only to adapt to change but also to embrace and be inspired by it. Fluidity can mean both the ease with which a substance flows and the state of being unsettled or unstable. It’s It’s pretty cool how these two sides of fluidity can actually work together. Embracing discomfort is crucial for business growth. Every entrepreneur starts out thinking, “What on earth am I doing?” but they persevere and remain open to whatever comes their way, continuously redefining success. It’s not just about hitting a financial target; success comes from pursuing your passion, doing what you love, and making a positive impact on your own life and the lives of others. Whatever that looks like for you.
I took a leap from Austin to Portland right after beauty school, with no connections and no clue where to begin. It took years to find my footing, and some days still feel a bit wobbly. But wow, have I had some amazing experiences! I’ve worked on short films, styled brides, curated art shows, collaborated with big brands on commercial shoots, and have collaborated on workshops with 20 different photographers snapping away at my work. If you stay ready, you ain’t gotta GET ready. (Yes, that’s a Rupaul quote.)
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’ve been in the hair and makeup industry for almost a decade now, and wow, it still feels surreal to say that! Before I found my niche, I explored countless creative paths—drawing, painting, even playing instruments—but none of them truly clicked. Despite my efforts, I didn’t make it into the fancy art club in elementary school, wasn’t accepted into art school, and was last chair in the band. But each attempt led me closer to discovering where I truly belonged.
I always knew I thrived in the service industry. I love the dynamic nature of it—meeting all kinds of people and providing services that genuinely make a difference. But it wasn’t until I woke up one day and made the bold decision to move across the country to a city I’d never been to and attend beauty school that things really fell into place. Some might call it impulsive; I like to think of it as destiny.
Starting out was way harder than I imagined, but my passion and drive set me apart. I’ve never shied away from the long hours, juggling multiple jobs, or doing free work just to network. I’m proud to say I give 100% to every client I work with, whether I’m in the barbershop or on a photoshoot.
Collaboration is also at the heart of my work. There’s nothing quite like the energy of working with other creatives—photographers, models, you name it. Sharing my art with those who truly get it, while also lifting up their work, is an indescribable feeling. I get to create living, breathing art that not only tells a story but also makes people feel something. And that’s what it’s all about.
We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.
Support is everything. The smallest gestures can make the biggest difference. Whenever I’m on a shoot, I make it a point to connect with every person who contributed, gathering their information so I can follow, tag, and stay in touch with them on social media. You never know how much a simple connection can benefit your business—or theirs.
Loyalty is a core value for me, both personally and professionally. The way I show up for the people in my life is the same way I approach my work. I’m dedicated to building strong, supportive relationships that help everyone thrive.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Unlike regular office jobs where you see the same faces every day, we’re constantly meeting new people. While that can be exciting, it can also lead to periods of extreme loneliness. For our mental health, it’s vital to have a creative community—a group of people who understand all the quirky, weird sides of us and can offer inspiration and advice, which are simply invaluable.
When I first moved to a new city where I knew absolutely no one, it was tough. Without resources like creative meetup groups or photography workshops, it was hard to connect with others. I worked in salons where no one shared my passion and met photographers through Craigslist—definitely not ideal. But eventually, I realized how much finding a community or a mentor could make a world of difference. Having that support system is everything, and it’s something I’m deeply grateful for now.
Shout out to all my favorite creatives in the Portland area!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.bjoyartistry.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjoyartistry_/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bjoyartistry/
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/bjoy-artistry-portland-or-97214
- Other: Google reviews: https://www.google.com/search?q=Bjoy%20Artistry&ludocid=16954745378888282268&ibp=gwp;0,7&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiarrLRz_WHAxVJweYEHSocEUYQ_coHegQIGxAB&sxsrf=ADLYWIIAuvQ4OGcewTXNHXvbQzlr6_KKJA:1723677652331
Image Credits
Models:
Elle Langton
Miranda Chacon
Demitra Olague
Leann Anderson
Albrey McNeill
Rose Gerber
Photographers:
Nick Blair
Gritchelle Fallesgon
Morgan Wright
Irina Negrean
Studios:
New Wave Studio
Cobalt Studios
Chroma Club