Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaitlin Francois.
Hi Kaitlin; thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve loved makeup since I was 8, wearing this particular shade of metallic purple lipstick. My mom affectionately nicknamed me “lipstick Lulu.” I grew up traveling across the country with my family for over 10 years in Motorsports racing. After high school, I couldn’t see myself at a 4-year college, and there weren’t many options for makeup artistry education in 2007, so I traveled to Fort Lauderdale to attend a makeup artistry school and started my career with MAC Cosmetics in the fall of 2011 in South Florida. I spent 9 years with them in management, training/artistry development and built my clientele within the city. I can remember working at my MAC store in the Avenues mall, and at any given moment, I’d hear someone yell my Instagram name, “Hey, makeup boss!” as they walked by. I love the people just as much as I love the artistry of it all. At the beginning of 2020, I decided to put my notice in and dive right into being a full-time freelance makeup artist. I also added hair styling to my services to provide a better experience for my clients, and the growth has been exponential. I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the best photographers and artists in the city. I’ve learned so much from my peers. My best friend and I opened a new studio in Orange Park called “Glam Lounge,” where we provide luxury hair, makeup, and individual lash services in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been some bumps along the way. I always say, “Whatever is for you, will be for you.” Push forward when necessary but don’t force it. I did a lot of free and TFP (trade for print) work initially, and I realized sometimes it leans unevenly in one direction. Do your best and try not to burn bridges along the way. Being authentic is the best thing you can do for your brand and your business. It comes with time.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My clients often refer to me as a “Makeup Stylist.” I create looks based on their style while incorporating my artistry to give them a customized look. My style is polished, refined, and modern. I’ve worked with the Jaguar cheerleaders “The Roar” for 9 years.
I started with them as one of many artists, and for the past 2 years, I’ve curated the makeup artistry team for their poster and calendar shoots. My relationship with the team spearheaded my career in athletic artistry, receiving a referral for the US Women’s National Soccer Team and working with some of the most badass women in sports. I’ve been their east coast hair and makeup artist for over 5 years, providing services for the past 2 World Cup jersey uniform kit releases and Volkswagens’ “23 Stories” in 2019 in San Jose, CA. My clients become family, as I’m with them through engagements, weddings, maternity and newborn shoots, plus anything in between. I also travel all over the country and the state for weddings and events. I wish my social media reflected my travels, but I live in the moment and leave my phone behind. Getting your makeup done isn’t a special occasion anymore; it’s whenever you want to feel good and come hang out with your favorite artist.
The number one thing that sets me apart in this industry is my diverse clientele, with makeup and hair. I have clients of all skin tones, cultures, and backgrounds. My portfolio is an excellent showcase of the knowledge I have built over the last 13 years.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
As a small business owner, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without the support of my family and fellow industry professionals. Their support is priceless regarding growing and succeeding of this business. Don’t take it for granted; even if you can’t give it back, always pay it forward. As a mom of 2 amazing girls, a wife, and a best friend to my husband, I couldn’t do it without them. Always dragging them to different cities and airports sometimes too, smiles always in tow.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bossmakeupartistry.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/makeupboss
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/bossmakeupartistry
- Other: https://g.co/kgs/27XuE2
Image Credits
Pompy Portaits, KC Nealy Photography, WOJ Weddings, Michele John Photography, US Women’s Soccer, Blu Franswa, Gregory McKinnon
