Inspiring Conversations with Kelsey Leal of Kelsium Beauty

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Leal.

Hi Kelsey, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Kelsey, and I am the owner and master artist of Kelsium Beauty! My love for artistry began at an early age. Growing up, I loved drawing, crafting, and anything that allowed me to express my creativity. Over time that passion for art transitioned into a love for makeup. After graduating high school, I decided to enroll in college and soon realized it wasn’t the right fit. I craved to spend my time and energy doing something I love, so I dropped out and pursued a job within the beauty industry. I came across a position at the Chanel counter, applied, and crossed my fingers. After getting hired and adjusting to the industry seamlessly, I knew this was just the start of my journey and would later support my ultimate dream of having my own makeup and hairstyling company.

Originally from Illinois, I decided to continue to chase my dreams and relocate to Arizona to work at the Chanel counter at Nordstrom in Scottsdale. While employed at Chanel, I continued educating myself and constantly practicing my craft for 2 years at this counter until 2020. Like many others, I was laid off due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. In the downtime during the shutdown, I continued to move the needle and master my skillset. This is where I realized opportunity comes in many forms. After years of experience working for Chanel Beauty and even more personal time dedicated to enhancing my abilities, I started my own business offering high-end beauty services. With over 7 years of experience as a professional makeup artist, 3 years of hairstyling, and an eager and skilled team of artists, I have quickly built one of Arizona’s fastest-growing hair and makeup companies. My unmatched passion for beauty has made my company a trusted name in the industry.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been fairly smooth?
Beginning a new chapter in life always comes with its fair share of difficulties. There is a saying I heard when I was younger that has stuck with me since. “The journey of a thousand miles beings with one step.” Your business can take you places and grant you experiences that one would never have thought possible, but none of it can be accomplished without first finding the strength to take on the difficult task of getting started. When I founded Kelsium Beauty, I never expected things to be easy or to fall into place for me. I am no stranger to rolling up my sleeves and having to do the hard work. Leading with this perception and mindset, paired with my passion for being an industry leader, has helped me limit the difficulties I face as I expect and accept new challenges when they arise. But, like most entrepreneurs, one of the bigger struggles is balance. Finding a space between giving everything you have into your business and reserving personal time for yourself and others in your life is difficult but important. It is no secret that you will not get results if you do not focus and put in the work. On the other hand, what is the purpose of planting all these seeds of success and not being able to enjoy the fruits of your labor?

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Kelsium Beauty is Arizona’s fastest-growing hair and makeup business that offers Bridal, Photoshoots, Education, and Special FX services nationwide. We have built a reputation for our beauty and Bridal hair and makeup specialties. We provide on-site services, or you can visit us at our super chic studio in North Scottsdale! Flexibility is key to success, so we do not just service areas in Arizona. Regardless of where you need to feel beautiful, we will show up with everything needed to unleash the undeniable beauty within each of you. One of our proud accomplishments is being awarded “Best Of Weddings” in both years we have been in business. We are also proud of growing from offering services out of my home to having my own studio space that offers multiple services in under 2 years of operation. We are excited for everyone to see what we have planned for 2023!

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice is to surround yourself with like-minded people who not only uplift you but are willing to provide constructive feedback on your ideas or vision. It is crucial on your road to success that you continue to encompass yourself around individuals who inspire and challenge you but, most importantly, want to see you win. Also, focusing on becoming a part of the community and supporting other small local businesses will always net you a positive result for your personal and business growth. Talk about your business with everyone you meet in passing; you never know what connections or opportunities will arise!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kelsiumbeauty.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsiumbeauty/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelsium.beauty/
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/kelsiumbeauty/ 

Image Credits
Blum’s Brand House @blumsbrandhouse Cacie, Carroll @caciecarrollphotography, Olivia Hope Photography @oliviahopephotography