We recently connected with Kelly Cazarez and have shared our conversation below.

Kelly, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

My Beauty Career Journey: Embracing Risks and Passion

My journey in the beauty industry began immediately after I graduated high school in 2002. I enrolled at Paul Mitchell Cosmetology School, setting off on an incredible path into the world of beauty. Soon after, I found myself in Los Angeles, California, where I had the privilege of assisting some of the top hairstylists. It was during this exhilarating time that I discovered my true passion for skin and makeup.

With determination in my heart, I took a bold leap: I walked into the MAC Pro store on Robertson Boulevard and dropped off my resume. Not stopping there, I visited multiple MAC locations, introducing myself to the managers. This initiative ignited my makeup career, which included freelancing for television as a makeup artist. I spent over a decade with MAC Cosmetics, starting in Los Angeles and eventually moving to Orange County.

However, after years of managing and working in retail, I reached a tipping point of burnout. Despite my love for makeup, I realized it was time for change. With unwavering support from my husband and family, I made one of the scariest decisions of my life: I left my role at MAC Cosmetics. That choice marked the beginning of a turbulent journey filled with trials, errors, and moments that felt like failures.

Determined to expand my expertise, I worked alongside renowned professionals and pursued further education in skincare. I became a certified clinical and administrative medical assistant and a certified medical coder, gaining invaluable experience in dermatology offices throughout Orange County. All the while, I continued to work as a freelance skin specialist and professional makeup artist, personally visiting clients in their homes.

In 2019, I faced a profound personal loss—the passing of my grandmother, who had inspired my journey into cosmetology. Her legacy motivated me even more. Then came 2020, bringing the challenges of COVID-19, which cast a shadow over many lives, including mine. Yet, amidst that darkness, I found the strength and courage to take another risk: I launched my own beauty business, “Glamorous by Kelly”.

I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason, and my journey has taught me the importance of perseverance. Today, I am proud to offer top-rated healing facials, empowering my clients to understand that true beauty begins from within. Each day, I strive to uplift others and share my passion for beauty and self-care.

Through every challenge, I’ve learned to embrace risks, never give up, and always keep moving forward. Thank you for being a part of my journey!

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 have been a licensed Cosmetologist and Professional Makeup Artist for over 20 years. I believe beauty starts from within and my innate ability to connect with others has led me to a successful beauty career. I bring my professional skin knowledge and makeup artistry skills to every experience, making my clients feel confident within themselves.
Over my beauty career, I have worked as an artist and manager for the cosmetic brand MAC Cosmetics for 10 years and the best beauty studios in Los Angeles and South Orange County, California. I also have been hired as a freelance makeup artist in television for several major networks. I am a licensed Clinical and Administrative Medical Assistant and have worked with some of the most prestigious dermatologists in South OC. I use my medical expertise to provide a luxurious and sanitized space for my clients.
I offer four exclusive one-hour healing Women’s Glam Facials that has been said to be “better than Burke Williams or any 5-star resort spa facial.” Each facial begins and ends with mindfulness and intention, designed to enhance your overall experience.
What’s unique about what I offer is that I travel locally to you within Southern Orange County. I create a spa-like-vibe in the comfort of your own home. I continue to educate myself by learning current techniques, and use the best quality skincare and cosmetic products to provide my clients with only the latest and greatest the industry has to offer. I love teaching my clients that beauty starts from within. I am known to bring a calming, healing energy to my practice which leaves my clients feeling restored and at peace within.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Throughout my years in the beauty industry, I’ve encountered a diverse array of individuals and personalities. Each interaction has been an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect. For me, the cornerstone of building a solid reputation has simply come down to being my authentic self.

As a highly empathetic person, I strive to be in tune with people and their needs. My approach is rooted in kindness and honesty, qualities that I believe have propelled me to where I am today. It’s essential to remember that no matter how genuine or kind you are, there will always be people who either appreciate you or don’t.

What matters most is staying true to yourself and maintaining your integrity. You can be the best and kindest person around while still setting boundaries and not tolerating any “BS” or allowing others to take advantage of you. This balance—being authentic while also standing firm—has been pivotal for me.

Ultimately, my message is simple: Just be YOU. Embrace who you are, and let that authenticity shine through in everything you do. That’s the best kind of reputation anyone can build.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

As I’ve developed my own skin and makeup business, one profound lesson I’ve learned is that stepping out of my comfort zone and engaging with my local community is key to attracting new clients.

Many may not realize this, but I’m naturally an introvert, despite my passion for helping people. About a year ago, a friend introduced me to a wonderful local business group called SCBiz (@scbiz). Joining this group turned out to be one of the best career decisions I have ever made!

Through SCBiz, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with incredible female entrepreneurs who inspire me every day. They provide invaluable business support and encouragement, reminding me to persevere even when the journey can be challenging as a small business owner.

Being part of this community has transformed my approach to building relationships and trust with potential clients. By actively engaging in local events and initiatives, I’ve been able to foster connections that have led to new, loyal clients.

Ultimately, my involvement in SCBiz and my local community has become the cornerstone of my client acquisition strategy. It’s amazing how much growth and opportunity can come from simply being present and open to connection.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.glamorousbykelly.com
• Instagram: @glamorous_bykelly

Image Credits

@meredithlynne_photo
@lauren_fishphotograpghy