Today we’d like to introduce you to Bonnie Kalner.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I moved to New York City back in 2008 from the Adirondack region in upstate New York to attend Makeup Designory to be trained in make-up artistry for film, television, fashion and retail. I made this move after attending the Aesthetic Science Institute in Latham, NY and completed the aesthetics program with certification and state licensing. I felt it was important to have a thorough understanding of the skin and how it is affected by products that are used on it before attending school to learn how to apply make-up.
After completing the beauty make-up artistry course at Make-up Designory, I proceeded to work with numerous production companies in New York City and was able to obtain on-going free-lance jobs in fashion and film. My main focus was to work for myself, but also to build long-lasting and consistent working relationships with a handful of companies, designers and/or photographers that I knew I would gain knowledge and further work from. I did just that, learned a lot and worked with some fun and well-known people along the way!
After about six years in New York City, I met my future husband and we decided that we were ready for a change of location, so we packed up and made our way to sunny San Diego in the fall of 2013. With the location change, I wanted to take some time to explore some other passions of mine- I volunteered to work with rescue horses and dogs, dabbled in real estate for a short period of time and then pursued my other passion and worked with small animals in the veterinary industry. As fulfilling as this was, I felt there was a part of me that wasn’t being fully satisfied- I needed to express my creative side through make-up! Understanding the San Diego region and educating myself on the needs of local people, I decided that my focus would be on bridal and special event make-up rather than fashion, film and photography. I did some research and found a local make-up course that I could attend to be sure that I was still up to date with the current techniques and trends and from that point, I shared my business with people in the area and borrowed as many willing models as possible that would let me practice on them as I refined my talent. I have had the pleasure of working with many friends, neighbors, models, brides and bridal parties throughout this process and because of them, I have fulfilled the artistic side of me that was missing!
Has it been a smooth road?
I wouldn’t necessarily say that it has been a perfectly smooth road, but thankfully it has been going pretty well, which I am very excited about! It definitely has taken a lot of time, money, dedication and networking to get to even the level that I am at and there are many more levels than I’d like to go! I would advise anyone that is trying to make it in the make-up artist industry to do their research and have a goal in mind for how they would like to pursue their profession (I.e. working in a salon, working for a brand, building their own business, etc.) Also, always take the time to learn from others and talk to as many other professionals about techniques and products as you can! There is ALWAYS something that can be learned from another artist.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with BonnieK Makeup – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I take pride in only using products that are cruelty-free on my clients and like to enhance the natural beauty of each individual. I feel that make-up should be something that brings out the unique beauty of each person, rather than masking features to look like someone they thought was attractive in a magazine. I like to offer a little gift for each one of my clients after our sessions as well to show my appreciation to them and to give them something that they can keep and use time and time again!
Beyond all of that, I LOVE what I do and I think my personality portrays that and makes me fun to be around!
Who have you been inspired by?
On a personal level. I would have to definitely say, my family! My mother and both of my sisters have always done things without hesitation that they wanted to experience and things that they were passionate about and I have always admired them for that.
On a professional level, Bobbi Brown was the first makeup artist that I followed and read about. I still admire her passion for what she does and her talent as a make-up artist.
Pricing:
- Bridal trials $85
- On-location bridal make-up $150
- Special occasion make-up $85
Contact Info:
- Phone: 518.524.4810
- Email: BonnieKmakeup@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/BonnieKmakeup
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/BonnieKmakeup
Image Credit:
Amanda Noel Photography, Vishaka Kavle Photography, Gabriel Conover Heartfelt Photography, Carlsbad Photo, Peyton Photography, Brandon Marks – Brama Photography
Suggest a story: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
