We were lucky to catch up with Key Middlebrooks recently and have shared our conversation below.

Key, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Beat by Key LLC started from a deep desire to empower women and help them feel truly confident. Growing up, I struggled with my self-esteem and often didn’t feel beautiful, so I understand that feeling all too well. That’s what drives me to make sure every woman who sits in my chair walks away feeling like that girl. There’s something so special about seeing the transformation- not just physically but emotionally too. When my clients start running their fingers through their hair and smiling at their reflections I know understood the assignment. I’ve even had clients cry after their makeovers! It’s not just about makeup- it’s about changing how they see themselves. That switch in their mood from the moment they leave? That confirms I nailed it, and it honestly fills me with so much joy and purpose.

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 started Beat by Key as a professional makeup artist during COVID-19 when I had to cut back on traveling. But honestly, even before that, people were always asking me to do their makeup since I’ve always had a knack for beauty and makeup. In my business, I offer a range of services like SFX makeup for Halloween, bridal makeup, photoshoots, brand shoots, prom, and more. But it’s more than just makeup- what I do is about helping clients feel like the best version of themselves. I don’t just want you to look good on the outside, I want you to feel like that girl on the inside, too.
What sets me apart from other artists is that I really take the time to connect with my clients. I listen to their concerns, learn what they want, and avoid those common makeup mistakes that can make people feel overdone. A lot of artists in my area tend to use heavy makeup that alters the face entirely, but I focus on enhancing natural beauty.
One thing I’m really proud of is that I’ve built everything from the ground up: my logo, promoting my business, creating a loyal clientele, and even teaching makeup classes, all on my own. For my future clients, I want you to know that I’m here for you. This isn’t just about the makeup you see on my page; I work with you to create a look that feels right for you. Plus, when you’re in my chair, it’s more than just a makeup session- it’s a space where you can relax, vent, cry, laugh, and listen to music. I want my clients to know they’re in a free, supportive space where they’re valued.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of new clients for me has definitely been word of mouth. Nothing beats a personal recommendation from someone who has experienced my work firsthand. When a client feels good about their makeup and they tell their friends, family, or co-workers, it builds that trust and connection right away. I also can’t forget about those Google reviews- they go a long way! When potential clients are searching for a makeup artist and see those positive reviews, it gives them confidence in booking with me. Plus, those reviews help tell the story of what it’s like working with me, from the atmosphere to the actual makeup results. Both word of mouth and reviews have been game changers in growing my business.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn as a makeup artist was feeling like I had to keep up with every single trend that popped up. In the beauty industry, there’s always something new whether it’s a viral product or a makeup technique that everyone’s raving about- but trends come and go so fast. I found myself wasting money trying to keep up with the latest, only to realize that a lot of them fizzle out just as quickly. Once I developed my routine and found what works for me and my routine and found what works for me and my clients, I learned that it’s fine to tweak things here and there, but chasing every trend isn’t always smart. It’s more important to stick to what makes my work stand out and what makes my clients feel confident, rather than trying to jump on every beauty bandwagon.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://beatbykey.as.me
• Instagram: Citationmachine.net/bibliographies/e7f94160-12e3-4b79-a1bd-f2390795bc2f