Meet Kimberly Watson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Watson.

Hi Kimberly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My love for all things beauty started at a very young age. I remember standing on the couch next to my dad while I did his hair (my dad has never had much hair lol) I remember how supportive they were in making sure I had all the necessary tools. No heat of course, I was only four. 😊

As I got older, I started doing my friend’s hair. Braiding and Flat Ironing were my specialties. In high school that trend continued. I expanded my horizons and began doing up-dos for dances and once, a child’s spa themed birthday party! I took chemistry classes so I could understand the science behind the hair. My passion was growing, and I was young. The world was my oyster. I graduated a year early and immediately enrolled in beauty school. At 17, I didn’t realize how unprepared I was for the real world. “Adulting” meant having to go to school 40 hours a week.

It was hard, I didn’t work much through high school, and all my friends were still in their senior year. Nine months later they gave me the boot due to my attendance. It took me four years before I was ready to try again. Four years of constantly asking myself “are you ready now?” This time around though, my attendance and attitude had completely changed. I was a full-time student and proud of it. It took me four months to graduate, and I thought I was ready to conquer the beauty industry. My first salon job was overwhelming. I realized I wasn’t quite ready to be on my own behind the chair. I needed guidance and more experience. I didn’t have my own clientele; I was almost drowning.

My 22-year-old self wanted to throw in the towel. Instead, I swallowed my pride and decided it was time to move on. I went to work as an assistant at a 5-chair salon. Almost 4 years later I decided it was time to move on and I went to work for a corporate salon. Someplace I could learn and grow at my own pace. Somewhere I could find my place in this industry and thrive, all while constantly trying to build a business from the ground up. I set myself up with a short-term goal of five years and then would reevaluate and plan my next move. 2021 turned out to be MY year.

I had a solid client base; I was continuously increasing my knowledge. I felt confident I was ready. It was time for me to put into motion the steps to execute my five-year plan. I think if I could give my 17-year-old self any advice, it would be to have patience. Life gives you what you can handle at the time. I wasn’t ready then but good luck trying to stop me now.

The road was long and bumpy, but I have arrived. I now share a suite with my sweet friend at BlueSky Salon Suites in Corbin Park. We have created a beautiful space together. Come check us out at Crown Beauty KC!

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?
One of the biggest challenges of my industry, is that you don’t get instant gratification. The beauty industry, like many other trades, is about paying your dues. You don’t graduate and instantly have a successful career. I’ve worked in this field for years and paid a lot of dues. I still struggle sometimes, it’s just the way it goes. Another thing people don’t always think about, we are commission-based.

If we don’t have someone in our chair, the client is a no-call no-show, or they are even late to their appointment, we aren’t making any money. For my business to successfully run, it’s all about the hustle, baby!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
You hear “stylist”, and the typical words jump into your head; Haircuts, Blow-outs, Blonding, Fashion Colors, Extensions, etc… but it’s just so much more than that. I was blessed with the ability to make women and men feel as beautiful on the outside, as they are do on the inside. I help them feel confident as they walk out of my space. That confidence gives them the power to take on the world. That right there is actually “what I do”. It puts an extra pep in your step, knowing you look as fabulous as you feel.

I also believe something that sets me apart from others is my love for continued education. In fact, this last year I went to Barbering School and learned how to Straight Razor Shave. Men’s cuts have always been difficult for me, so this was my opportunity to boost my confidence as well as my skill. I truly enjoy taking classes, both online and in-person.

I’m constantly on my phone& laptop watching videos, reading how to: tips + tricks, and learning new techniques that I can bring to my chair. Every client I service gives me a sense of pride in myself and the growth of my abilities. It’s been 14 years, and I grow more in love with my career every day.

Not a lot of people can say that in this age, and it’s very humbling.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
First and foremost, my parents. I was born in Costa Rica. When I was 5 after several years my adoption was finalized and I came to Missouri. I have lived the most wonderful life because of their generosity and kindness. They have always pushed me to do my best work. I didn’t always want to follow their rules as a young adult, but I wouldn’t be where I am without their love and guidance. They taught me to always give my all and when I fail, to do better next time. Failure is not always the end, as with my story. Sometimes it’s just the beginning.

Secondly, my James. From day one he has been solid as a rock. He is my listening ear and my helping hand. He gives the best advice, even if I don’t always take it. I am beyond blessed to share a beautiful home with him and our two dogs.

Certainly not forgetting the most important aspect of my business, MY CLIENTS -The biggest THANK YOU to you. If it weren’t for your continued support, the loyalty you have shown as I grew through the years, and the beautiful kindness you’ve showered me with, I wouldn’t be the successful suite owner I am today.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: kimberlywatson1.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/Hair.by_KimberlyV
• Facebook: facebook.com/Hair.by_KimberlyV

Image Credits
@EverGracePhoto