We had the good fortune of connecting with Kim Stewart and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kim, how do you define success?
In my opinion, success is when you finally break out of your comfort zone. The fact that you have pushed yourself to start taking those steps to accomplish new goals is a success! Success isn’t measured by a certain numerical value, your status amongst friends or materialistic value. I want people to understand success is the feeling you get when you’re so proud of yourself for beginning or completing your journey!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
When I became a young mother I was motivated even more to do everything in my power to become a business owner. I officially became the owner of True To You Makeup Artistry in 2008. I was just 20 years old and had no clue on how to run a business! But, I googled “how to start an Independently Owned Business” and found out I needed to establish my business name. So I went and filed a DBA as my first step! It was a small step but it felt amazing, like I just became an actual adult. Moving forward I began implementing social media platforms to promote myself as well as creating Ads on search engines. There were several years that I did really well and then I hit a plateau. I had to go back to my corporate job full time to make ends meet. However, I never gave up on my dream even if that meant just booking 1 or 2 clients every few months. Eventually I told myself if I want to be my own boss with a thriving career I would have to be fully invested. Then Covid hit and I was forced to shut down. Fast forward to the end of 2021, we’re coming out of lockdown and weddings are backed up from having to postpone. Unfortunately, due to this horrible pandemic my career actually took off. I was so busy with back to back weddings that I was able to quit my corporate job and focus on my Makeup and Hair career full time. I developed my niche in the wedding industry which is very soft glam makeup and hair artistry that stays true to you with a luxurious VIP experience!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would definitely have to have breakfast at Studio Diner in Kearny Mesa and go for a stroll through Balboa Park! Afterwards we’d have dinner at Royal Mandarin! The absolute best Asian food! To see the coastal views we would go to Sunset cliffs for the best photo ops! Morning Glory is another amazing brunch spot for the fluffy pancakes and cutest cocktails. We can check out Little Italy for the most delicious Italian food at Mona Lisa and head to happy hour at the hidden tiki bar in Craft and Commerce! The most friendly and exciting people are at Rich’s in Hillcrest! Go there for dancing, drinks and unlimited compliments! Haha North park also has some of the best food, activities and bars! We could spend an entire week there with the amount of places to try!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I began my artistic journey always doodling, painting and drawing as a kid. When I turned 17 I started using cosmetics as another creative outlet. I watched YouTube tutorials on avant garde, full glam and everyday makeup. I practiced on my family and friends. If it wasn’t for them always telling me I could be a professional makeup artist, I wouldn’t have had the courage to put myself out there and network.

Website: www.truetoyoumakeup.com

Instagram: KimStewartMUAH

Image Credits
Victoria Perez Cate Batchelor Savanah Pool

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