Meet KiSSandMaKeUp’s LADY BOSS and makeup artist, Pamela! She started the company in 2007 and grew to the team you see today. Pamela’s goal is to inspire and educate. Being a part of the team and seeing what her clients need allows a personalized experience from start to finish. Creating that trial to aisle relationship is what makes KiSSandMaKeUp stand out from other bridal beauty teams. Learn more about the lady boss behind it all on National Boss’s Day!

What inspired you to start your business? 

I loved doing my own makeup and I’ve always been artistic. While I’ve always been inspired by art and creativity, I feel as though my business found me. I began working in the cosmetics department at Nordstrom and my love for doing makeup really grew and evolved. I did my best friend’s makeup for her wedding in 2007, then another friends wedding, and before I knew it, it I was booking clients steadily. 

Over time I began to have multiple inquiries on the same day or even larger bridal parties that I needed help with. It was then I knew I needed to build a team. Since building a team, I have shifted my focus and what inspires me in my business has changed. I now enjoy seeing my team grow and thrive in their artistry and business. I get joy from inspiring and empowering other female entrepreneurs. While I still enjoy being apart of our brides special day doing their wedding makeup, I also feel fulfilled teaching my team as well as other beauty pros the business of beauty! 

What’s your favorite part about weddings?

Seeing the bride react to her final look. Once the hair and makeup is done and the dress is put on, I love seeing it all come together. If I’m lucky enough to catch the first look, that is really special too! Also, when educating industry pros, it is so rewarding seeing them achieve their professional goals in their businesses.

How do you find your “zen” of work/life balance?

Sticking to a schedule and literally scheduling in “me time” is huge. I am constantly busy. Whether I am coordinating a project, doing makeup, hosting a workshop in the studio…there’s always something to do. Between teaching my 16 year old how to drive and taking care of my ill mom, and making sure I spend quality time with my husband, juggling it all can be tough. It really helps that I have a team of awesome ladies that help me to juggle it all. 

So when I do find the time I love a good massage. The work I do is hard on my body and my muscles need a good massage every so often. It really relaxes me and takes me to a zen place. I also enjoy getting facials frequently. It is relaxing but also a necessity to take care of my skin. My daughter and I frequently are at the Spa Room at KiSSandMaKeUp.

I enjoy watching POWER with the hubs. Curling up on the couch with a good book under a blanket is my idea of a relaxing way to unwind. A day on the beach, or a family cookout by the pool is another happy place. I’m always learning and I enjoy online courses. I never find the time to paint but when I do I enjoy acrylic painting.

What is your biggest piece of advice for brides?

Do your research before booking your vendors. Read reviews, ask questions, have a consultation. Especially for your hair and makeup! Trials can add up if you’re unsure of what you’re looking for. Decide on a look you want prior to booking your trial. If you’re unsure we can always help but it’s better to have a general idea. 

Also being organized and communicating to your bridal party is huge. We take most of the stress away by creating a timeline for you and your bridal party and also giving you all the tips and tricks of how to make your day run smoothly.

“Last word of advice….Take care of your hair and skin leading up to the wedding. Get on a regular skin care regimen if you aren’t already so your skin looks it’s best on the day of. Same with your hair, keep up with your trims and color touch ups as needed.”

Are you a lady boss? Are you interested in building your brand?
Join Pam’s Private Facebook Group: The Beauty of Business with Pamela Contreras where you’ll find education, tools and other boss babes just like you!