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

Kaleb, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?

While we all know that becoming a successful entrepreneur takes time and dedication, but many seem to often forget that PASSION is the number one thing that will truly help to see you through. I have worked tirelessly in the hair and makeup industry for 15 years and many of the battles and obstacles we face as a community could have never been overcome had I not had a true passion and love for what I do.

I remember first starting out all those years ago; noticing the incredible amount of competition and talent that surrounded me. Even then, I didn’t understand the magnitude of what it would mean to dedicate my life to an industry that is constantly changing and growing, full of others that strive for greatness. I was only able to truly set myself apart because of the intense joy I feel every time I pick up a makeup brush or each moment a new client takes a seat in my chair for a consultation.

That passion is what lead me to opening up my own business and creating a successful and long-lasting name for myself as an individual that takes the utmost pride in every creative undertaking I get to be a part of. After all the trials and tribulations, I’m still lucky enough to feel that rush to this day.

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?

As a bilingual, first generation Italian-American, my natural flair and talent for the art and craft of creativity is the quintessential reason for my 15 year journey to success. I am an experienced cosmetologist, makeup artist and special effects artist with a strong foundation in film, television, and editorial spanning multiple states and countries. As a trans artist and activist, I always guarantee a safe space for community to authentically express individuality across the spectrum. I have an in-depth understanding of color theory, style, and innovation, coupled with a proficiency in the ancient art of wig and facial hair creation, ensuring a well-rounded and unique sense of craftsmanship and perspective brought to every project and client I work with. I will be sure to make every client a top priority, providing them and their project with high quality work and professional dedication.

I offer hair styling, makeup application, custom wig and facial hair creations, bridal hair and makeup, and am always happy to work in film, commercial, advertisement, theater, and in my private salon space!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

It wasn’t very long ago that I actually made a huge life changing decision. I relocated my entire life from San Francisco, California to Indianapolis, Indiana. Ever since then, I have always gotten the same reaction and question: WHY?

I moved for the love of my life. While the love and support of my now-marriage has been extraordinary, I cannot forget the challenges it came with from a business perspective. Starting over after so many years in an industry like this is a daunting task. I needed to rebuild a name for myself in a brand-new state with a community that I didn’t know. Not to mention, I moved in the middle of the global COVID pandemic! Those two things alone could have been the perfect storm to squash my business into the ground.

It was a grueling two years. Our industry was nearly non-existent due to the dangers of the pandemic. Work was scarce. I hustled harder even than I had to in San Francisco! Slowly, it all came together. I managed to begin making connections with others local to me. I found a beautiful private salon that I managed to open and gained a loyal clientele. I worked in tandem with others and was able to show my worth in my creative work as well as my willingness to be flexible and team oriented.

That move was a pivotal moment in my career. It taught me that I could handle any obstacle that came across my path with passion and integrity. It’s been 6 years now since that move. My career is booming, my marriage is successful, and my journey is leading me along a truly beautiful path. I am, at my core, grateful and humbled by such an amazing experience.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

The thing that has helped me build my reputation in my industry the most, would have to be my ability to be flexible! I have always thoroughly enjoyed being a one man show, but that’s also never stopped me from adoring joining up with a team and working alongside others with amazing creative minds! I also try to embody humility and kindness each time I step onto a job. With those two things, I believe a person can move mountains while maintaining the dignity to not need to step on others to reach your goals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kalebtalaricoartistry.com
• Instagram: @kalebtalaricoartistry
• Facebook: Kaleb Lukas Talarico
• Linkedin: Kaleb Talarico
• Yelp: Kaleb Talarico Artistry

Image Credits

Steven Brokaw
Mikaela Helane
Ashley Riley
Kat Martenet
Wil Foster
Nyankuer Arou
Alyssa Towning
Lauren Surface
Oscar Hofmann