We were lucky to catch up with Kayla Pitre recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kayla, thanks for joining us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

When I was in college I realized I wanted to pursue my passion. I knew college wasn’t for me but I pushed through and earned my degree. I was keen on making my parents happy. Once I graduated I decided to go to cosmetology school full time because I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. While I was in school I had the opportunity to work with Gladys Knight as a fill in for her previous makeup artist. I needed something a little more steady so I decided to work at Mac Cosmetics to really perfect my craft. While at Mac, I was offered a full time makeup gig with Mrs. Knight. And eventually I was hired as her full time hairstylist. I am so grateful that I trusted and believed in myself. Growing up I was always told I was special and I knew that I was destined for greatness. Having faith in God lead me to pursue my dreams without any doubts. My path is my own and I look forward to all the blessings in my future. I have been with Mrs. Knight full time since 2018.

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?

I am a licensed cosmetologist and professional makeup artist in both Nevada and California. I am also the personal makeup artist and hairstylist to Gladys Knight. I travel the majority of the year with her on tour. When my schedule permits, I travel to clients for both hair and makeup services. I fell in love with my gifts at about 18. I was so passionate about everything I did and I always felt fulfilled. I provide makeup services, custom wig services, and extensions. I really pride myself on natural installs and looks. I stay in my own lane and I do what’s best for my clients. I truly love to see my clients smile. I am proud of myself for pushing through and pursuing my dreams. I am glad I didn’t listen to the naysayers who told me this is not a career. I am proud of myself for being authentic. I can only be me and I encourage everyone to be them. My advice to anyone struggling with going after there dreams is, have faith in yourself, perfect your craft, and be consistent, disciplined and professional.

How did you build your audience on social media?

To those who are building their social media I encourage you to just post. Post your work. Don’t be afraid to share your photos and videos. Also, post often. I started gaining more followers when I consistently posted everyday. My social media started getting more traction when I started posting everyday.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is doing what your love everyday. I am so happy to be an example for others. I want people to be encouraged by my journey because I believe that everyone should be happy.

Contact Info:

• Website: Kaylapitre.com
• Instagram: @kaylaspitre
• Facebook: @kaylaspitre

Image Credits
@lotusvalentinevisuals @shotbysham @gettyimages