Meet Kelly Miller

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Miller.

Kelly, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Ever since I was younger, I knew I belonged in the beauty industry. My parents encouraged me to receive my Bachelor’s degree before pursuing it as a career. I graduated from the University of Illinois in 2014 with a degree in Advertising, and soon after, enrolled in cosmetology school. I developed a great interest in color and makeup. I work independently behind the chair as a colorist in the West Loop, and also do bridal and editorial makeup as a freelance artist. I love making brides feel like their most beautiful self on their big day, and have had the opportunity to work on editorial shoots with awesome brands, such as Nike. As a stylist, I believe my best work is done when I can combine my talents with my passion: marketing and beauty. I enjoy building strong relationships with my clients and use Instagram as my main platform to build my clientele. I am in love with the industry, and the ability to use social media as a business strategy is incredible to me. I can’t wait to see where it will take me next!

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Nothing comes easy and I am definitely somebody who likes to do it right the first time. I have found that there is so much to learn from other stylists, and I owe all that I know to them! I have been blessed to be surrounded by incredibly talented coworkers and stylist-friends that have pushed me and helped me become who I am as a stylist– both technically and personally. I love that they are able to give brilliant advice and feedback and share new things they have found to be successful. Whether it be formula or placement, everyone has their own style and came from a different background, so their unique approaches on achieving the same look always keep me thinking and learning. Additionally, color can be challenging and trends are ever-changing, and I enjoy the unpredictability of every day behind the chair.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am an independent stylist and I rent a modern loft in the West Loop! I work behind the chair during the week and on Saturdays if I do not have a wedding or other makeup obligation. My style can be defined as timeless, seamless and beachy and I specialize in hand-painted balayage and babylights. I love to create a natural look that appears effortlessly sunkissed. Because my style is more natural, I prefer to create a look that grows out seamlessly between appointments rather than with a harsh or unnatural line of demarcation. My first priority is the health of the hair while achieving my clients’ hair goals. It is important to me to explain that not all end results are achievable in one appointment, especially if the integrity of their hair would be compromised as a result. I enjoy educating my clients on proper maintenance and how to reach their desired style at home. I am proud that most of my clients find me on Instagram!

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My parents deserve all of the credit for my success as they pushed me to pursue this lifelong dream and supporting me every second of the way. I never would have gone to beauty school and ultimately run on my own business without their love, encouragement, advice, and knowledge. Some parents may have been opposed to my non-traditional career path, but this has never been the case. In fact, at times they had more faith in me than I did in myself and they have made me so confident in my career.

Contact Info:

• Phone: 312-219-HAIR (4247)
• Email: kellymillerhair@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellymillerhair/

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