We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kerry Young a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kerry, looking forward to hearing all of your stories 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?

A lot of my knowledge and skill was obtained by watching videos, specifically Youtube. While in cosmetology school, we did learn about makeup, however, it was seen as more of an esthetician based skill so we did not spend very much time on the subject. I began focusing more on makeup artistry in 2018 and still find myself watching videos to learn and grow.

The process took a long time and thousands of hours or videos and practice, but I don’t really think it’s something that can be sped up or rushed, especially is you are wanting to do it professionally.

The skills I personally think are most essential are the ability to do makeup on medium/deep/dark skin and making it look as flawless and bright as other skin tones. If you are able to do that, then you can do anything because there are a lot of products that aren’t designed for us and knowing how to make them work is one of the best skills to have.

I don’t feel that I have really had any obstacles that have stood in my way in regards to learning. With the development on technology, I have the ability to learn where, when and how I want, and I take full advantage of the privilege.

Kerry, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a self taught (with the help of videos) makeup artist in the DFW Metroplex. I attended cosmetology school and decided to specialize in makeup artistry as I felt that was the best outlet for my creativity, although I do perform occasional hair services as well.

My most sought after services are bridal services (hair and makeup) although I offer general makeup application for special occasions, hair services, etc.

I am able to help clients bring out the features they love and tone down the features they don’t, although I would do my best to help them love themselves as the are in the process

I am most proud of how hard I have worked to get to this point. I am a single parent, I have had some hardships, but through it all I have tried to go through life with dignity and integrity and love what I do.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

At the beginning on 2020, I made the decision that I was going to restart my time in the cosmetology industry. I had obtained my license back in 2009, however, left the profession for other opportunities. For 2 years (until 9/2022) I spent almost every day watching videos, studying and practicing procedures. There were several late nights, on top of being a parent and having a day job, so it became tiresome after a while, but I was able to reobtain my cosmetology license and start my own business

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

Currently, the best source of clients is on the site the knot and wedding wire. While I do have pages on other sites, those 2 are the main one’s I receive inquiries from.