We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Katie Mae Burke a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Katie Mae thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
In 2016, my husband and I tied the knot. We lived in Rexburg, Idaho while my husband was earning his Bachelor degree at Brigham Young University – Idaho. Soon after, we made the decision for me to quit my current job. I was unemployed for 8 months. Living in a 500 sq. foot, one bedroom apartment as a newly wed, all I had going for me was applying for jobs in the morning and having nothing to do but wait for my husband to come home. I am an enthusiastic reader and had finished every book in my possession at the time. I was bored out of my mind and had a hard time looking forward to anything. One afternoon, I was talking to my older sister and was whining about having nothing to do all day when she told me to stop blubbering and to do something about it. “Find a new hobby. Try something new!” she said. I thought about it and couldn’t think of anything and she told me, “Hey! You like makeup.. so LEARN!”
I started my journey, learning everything I could from YouTube and practicing on myself everyday. Two years passed, and I continue learning and getting better every day. My family tried convincing me to go to school and get my certification. I had imposter syndrome and I didn’t believe that I was good enough to do it. My wonderful husband had so much confidence in me that I decided to start finding a school. In March of 2018, I attended Taylor Andrews Academy in West Jordan, Utah and received my certification in Makeup Artistry. Although I went to school, I have continued my education through learning on the job, going to masterclasses and keeping up with trends as they come and go.
To speed up my learning process, I wish I had gotten out of my own head and listened to those around me. I wish I would’ve found confidence in myself and my skills. I held myself back comparing myself to others, critiquing every little thing I did, and hating myself for the mistakes I made.
Living in Idaho can be hard to have a makeup artistry business. People around here still don’t see makeup artistry as a real job. They see it as a hobby. I have encountered many people that don’t see the value in my work. It made it hard to keep going because I had to learn everything on my own. I had to research a lot to find exactly how I wanted to run my business. I had to create my own website, network with others in the industry, and learn how to market myself. I didn’t have anyone that I could turn to for advice, guidance, or help. I had to find confidence in myself and know that I am worth it. I had to rely on myself and my amazing husband; lucky me he is so adept with technology; I couldn’t have done it without his help. Through all of this my business Katie Mae Beauty was born.
The skills that are most essential for my business is my education and confidence in my craft. Learning everything that I can like color theory, face shapes, contrast, photography and more has improved my artistry. I have created an image and reputation based off my skills, knowledge, and the joy I have for my job. Networking has been the most important advantage in my business. Almost exclusively, I work in the wedding industry as a makeup artist for future Brides. I have met, worked and collaborated with many wedding vendors and have created strong business relationships and friendships. Through these relationships, they have recommended me to many of their clients and I have done the same for them. In doing so, I am able to help others find success in their businesses while doing the same with mine. Creating a community of trust, kindness, and confidence in our businesses has helped bolstered me to continue to grow, reaching new heights and helping others along the way.
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’m a certified, professional makeup artist, having graduated from Taylor Andrews Academy in West Jordan, Utah in 2018 and have been working in the beauty industry ever since. I have been published in Rocky Mountain Bride, Top Posters Magazine and Moevir Magazine Poses in Paris, France. I have been married to my forever best friend, Matthew since 2016 and we have two beautiful children.
In 2016, my husband and I tied the knot. We lived in Rexburg, Idaho while my husband was earning his Bachelor degree at Brigham Young University – Idaho. Soon after, we made the decision for me to quit my current job. I was unemployed for 8 months. Living in a 500 sq. foot, one bedroom apartment as a newly wed, all I had going for me was applying for jobs in the morning and having nothing to do but wait for my husband to come home. I am an enthusiastic reader and had finished every book in my possession at the time. I was bored out of my mind and had a hard time looking forward to anything. One afternoon, I was talking to my older sister and was whining about having nothing to do all day when she told me to stop blubbering and to do something about it. “Find a new hobby. Try something new!” she said. I thought about it and couldn’t think of anything and she told me, “Hey! You like makeup.. so LEARN!”
I started my journey, learning everything I could from YouTube and practicing on myself everyday. Two years passed, and I continue learning and getting better every day. My family tried convincing me to go to school and get my certification. At that time, I had imposter syndrome and I didn’t believe that I was good enough to do it. My wonderful husband had so much confidence in me that I decided to start finding a school. In March of 2018, I attended Taylor Andrews Academy in West Jordan, Utah and received my certification in Makeup Artistry.
Ever since I was a little girl, I have always had a fascination with art and beauty. My father was an artist and he always encouraged my imagination and creativity and has made me into the woman I am today. From the moment I first held that brush, I haven’t been able to let it go.The joy of makeup extends far beyond enhancing natural beauty – it’s about the happiness and empowerment it brings to those who wear it. My favorite part of being a makeup artist is witnessing the spark of joy in my clients’ eyes when they see themselves for the first time and realize just how stunning they truly are. In recent years, I have made it a tradition to video each of my clients reactions when they see their makeup for the first time. The joy and happiness I am able to bring with just the stroke of a brush is better than anything I could imagine. Makeup is no longer just a fun pastime – it has grown into a deep-seated passion of mine.
I am a highly adaptable makeup artist with a passion for connecting with new people and excelling in diverse work environments. My expertise spans a variety of makeup styles, including special event makeup, bridal makeup, boudoir makeup, fashion editorial makeup and more. I am skilled at creating impeccable, long-wearing makeup that looks radiant both in natural light and under the camera’s flash. I am continuously seeking to expand my knowledge and stay updated on emerging techniques and trends, empowering me to offer the best possible service to my clients. My expertise lies in ensuring my clients feel beautiful, confident, and fully embrace their authentic selves by the time they leave my chair. I take the time to learn about their likes and dislikes, customizing the makeup to reflect their personality and style!
Throughout my career, interacting with a wide variety of individuals has deeply transformed my worldview. Growing up and living in Idaho, my experiences were often limited to a smaller, more homogenous community, leading some to say I lived a sheltered life – and they wouldn’t be wrong. However, through my work, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with people from all walks of life, each with their own unique stories, cultures, and perspectives. These encounters have opened my eyes to the richness of human diversity and taught me to appreciate the beauty of our differences. What once felt like a narrow view of the world has expanded into a deeper understanding and empathy for others, shaping not only how I see the world but also how I navigate my place within it. I am proud of the person I have come and the success my business has achieved. My place in this world has changed my life forever. Each person I have worked with has touched my heart, helped me grow, and given me confidence that I am fulfilling my calling in life to bring more happiness, empowerment, joy, and confidence into the world.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being a makeup artist is the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from self-expression and the ability to connect with others on a deeply emotional level. Creating art allows one to translate abstract thoughts, emotions, and experiences into tangible forms, whether through painting, writing, music, or in my case makeup. This process not only fosters personal growth and self-discovery but also has the power to inspire, challenge, and move others. The act of sharing one’s work with the world can create and ripple effect, sparking conversations, evoking empathy, and even driving social change. Ultimately, being an artist is about leaving a unique imprint on the world, and the joy of seeing how your creations resonate with others is unparalleled.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
As a mother, my children are everything to me. Building a business from the ground up as a mother is a testament to unwavering resilience, determination, and the ability to balance multiple roles with grace. It requires juggling the demands of motherhood – nurturing, guiding, and caring for my children – while simultaneously laying down the foundation for a successful venture. Every late night I spent working after putting my kids to bed, every obstacle I overcame, and every small victory I had achieved reflects my deep commitment to creating a better future for my kids. My journey is not just about financial independence or professional success; it’s about showing my children the power of perseverance, the importance of chasing their dreams, and the strength it takes to rise above challenges. As a mother and entrepreneur, I have strived to embody resilience, proving that with passion, hard work, and love, it’s possible to build something extraordinary from the ground up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://katiemaebeauty.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiemaebeauty21/
- Other: Tiktok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@katiemaebeauty21?t=ZP-8tZISoDDFc6&_r=1
