Today we’d like to introduce you to Kailey Adler.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kailey. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
In 2008 I was introduced to my first hair and makeup session as a bridesmaid at my cousin’s wedding. I was just a high school sophomore at the time who enjoyed taking as many high school art classes as possible. But on the day of my cousin’s wedding, when the hair and makeup artist walked in with her bundle of brushes, dozens of palettes and cans of hairspray, I fell in love with a whole new world of art. At that moment, I first thought of becoming a hair and makeup artist myself, but I simply tucked that dream into the back of my mind.
However, ten years later that dream became a reality. “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him, and He will help you.” Psalm 37:4-5. That dream and those desires had never left my mind or my heart, and it became evident God was directing me into the hair and makeup industry just after I had my baby girl. I was desperate to be a full time mama, and honestly I resented the bleak desk job I had at the time. The thought of launching myself out of daily consistency with financial stability and into the unknown was beyond daunting. But there came a point where that dream and those desires forced me to come undone. Then, with my husband’s love, my parent’s encouragement, and my mentor’s support, I finally stepped out in faith by quitting my nine to five desk job and committing to God’s calling. Now, cultivating confidence and enhancing beauty is such a passion of mine as I continue to grow as a hair and makeup artist.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Honestly, my greatest challenge was committing to pursuing my dream. That initial step involved a great deal of faith but I knew I had to do it. When I finally did take that step, I had such a surreal peace in my heart. From there, the steps have been light, and joyful and sometimes they aren’t even steps, they’re leaps! I’m not saying it’s at all easy, but I definitely know I am where I am supposed to be.
But there are times I deal with self doubt and even feel stagnant. As an artist, I never walk away feeling content. Instead, it’s often I find myself questioning my work and worrying if my client truly does feel beautiful. When I fall captive to these insecurities, I feel a bit dull. Those are hard seasons to crawl out of. But ultimately, I am an artist, and those feelings are a part of growth.
What should we know about your work? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Although I cater to all hair and makeup styles, when given creative freedom I find myself creating romantic hairstyles with loose curls, twists and braids, and a bit of volume for an overall whimsical look. For makeup, I enjoy giving the client a natural contour with an angelic glow and lightly smoked out eyes.
But the process is always organic. That’s largely what I enjoy about hair and makeup. It is tailored to every client’s physicality and personality. Most of my clients are getting their hair and makeup done for a special event, like a family photoshoot, or personal portraits, or even a wedding. These moments have lots of heart and soul wrapped up in them, and the hair and makeup play an important role in giving confidence to the client.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership in your industry or generally?
Fortunately, I am working in an industry that is very open and fluid in its relationship to female leadership and I have actually been given much support from other artists along the way. In fact, I’ve been fortunate enough to have Amanda Haley-Johnston & Jackie Parker, a couple of inspirational leaders and daring creatives, allow me to come alongside them in much of their own work, progress, and success. Its like being a part of a team, or even a family, and for that I am forever grateful.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 936.777.5321
- Email: kaileyadlerhmua@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaileyadler_hmua/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kailey-Adler-HMUA-394624771395588/
Image Credit:
Stacy Fitzmorris Photography
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