Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Kristina.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey in the beauty industry began in 2010 when I discovered my passion for makeup artistry. What started as a love for makeup eventually grew into something much bigger—a desire to continuously learn, evolve, and create new opportunities for myself. In January 2022, at the age of 32, I made the decision to step outside of my comfort zone and enroll in esthetician school, with the goal of becoming a licensed esthetician in the state of Missouri. I knew that there was so much more I wanted to learn and so many more ways I wanted to serve and connect with my clients. Becoming an esthetician allowed me to expand beyond makeup and deepen my knowledge of skincare and beauty as a whole. Taking that step was a reminder that it is never too late to invest in yourself, pursue your dreams, and become the woman you envision yourself being. My journey is a reflection of my passion, perseverance, and commitment to always growing into the next version of myself.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey definitely wasn’t a smooth road, but I was determined to see it through. I went to school every single day and never missed a day. Being on time and having perfect attendance was extremely important to me. I was determined to earn that $1,000 incentive for never missing a day and always being on time. Outside of school, I continued doing makeup, but I didn’t have a traditional 9-to-5 job. Looking back now, I honestly don’t know how I did it! I was exhausted, but I kept pushing because I knew what I was working toward.
The biggest struggle for me was mental and emotional rather than physical. During that time, my grandmother was sick, which was incredibly difficult to deal with while trying to stay focused and complete school. There were moments when it was hard, but I refused to let the circumstances around me stop me from reaching my goal. I leaned heavily on my faith and the support of my family, and I truly have to give all the glory to God. With their love, encouragement, and my determination, I made it through to the end. I’m proud of myself because I didn’t just finish school. I proved to myself that even when life gets heavy, I can keep going, stay committed, and finish what I started.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a makeup artist and licensed esthetician, offering a variety of beauty services including bridal makeup, everyday makeup, makeup classes, and customized facials. I love being able to help my clients feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in their own skin, whether they’re getting ready for a special occasion or simply investing in themselves.
I specialize in soft glam with a pop of color. I love creating looks that are beautiful, polished, and timeless while still allowing my clients’ personalities to shine through. Adding a pop of color gives me the opportunity to be creative and put my own signature touch on each look.
I’m known for being a makeup artist, of course, but I’d also say my personality is a huge part of my brand. I believe the experience is just as important as the makeup itself. I want my clients to feel comfortable, welcomed, and like they’re spending time with someone who genuinely cares about them.
I’m most proud of my determination. I can be very hard on myself, and sometimes I get in my own head and become discouraged. But I’ve learned that those moments don’t define me. Eventually, I snap out of it, refocus, and get right back on my grind with tunnel vision. I’m proud of the fact that no matter how many times I doubt myself or face challenges, I always find a way to keep going. That determination is a huge part of who I am and what has kept me moving forward in my career.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
One of the biggest risks I’ve taken in my career was leaving M.A.C Cosmetics at Nordstrom in 2018 to pursue makeup artistry full-time. At the time, I was in my 20s, and choosing to walk away from the security of a job to bet on myself was a huge leap of faith. I spent two years working full-time as a MUA and building my career until COVID hit, which forced me to return to a traditional 9 to 5.
But I knew that wasn’t where my story ended. In January 2022, at 31 years old, I made another major decision: I enrolled in esthetician school full-time and committed to finishing the program without working a traditional job. For seven months, I focused completely on school. I didn’t get another job until October 2022, and even then, I started part-time.I had bills, a car note, and real responsibilities, and I even had to pay a portion of my schooling out of pocket. Looking back, I honestly don’t know how I did it, but I did!
Those decisions required me to trust myself, step outside of my comfort zone, and most importantly, have faith. There were definitely moments when I questioned how everything was going to work out, but I kept moving forward.I believe God gave me the strength and the courage to take those leaps when I couldn’t see the entire path ahead of me. Sometimes you have to take the risk before you can see the reward.Looking back at everything I’ve accomplished, I’m so grateful I had the courage to bet on myself. God is so good.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @_HollyKristina @_Hollykristinaglam
- Facebook: Holly Kristina or Holly K Esthetics
