Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristina Makris.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
There once was a little girl who loved makeup. When I was 11 years old I said, “one day I’m going to have my own makeup store.”
It all started inside of my mom’s makeup bag. I started wearing makeup for dance recitals before I could even remember! I actually became more obsessed with the art of makeup. I was an artist growing up- always drawing and being creative with everything- it was my passion. But that passion was not a typical career back when I graduated high school in 2004.
While my fellow classmates were talking about colleges they were applying to, I had no desire. I didn’t want to go to college but I had parents giving me the eye -eek!
Fast forward 5 years with an Associates in Liberal Arts, and a Bachelors in Science with a Certificate in Radiology from the University of Hartford- What the heck happened! Well that’s when I put my foot down and my best friend Leanne giving me the best graduation gift… A Bobby Brown Makeup book and inspiration to follow my dream.
In March of 2010 I started working at MAC Cosmetics- my dream job. I was ecstatic! I gained tremendous experience working with all different skin tones and eye shapes. I was #1 on my counter for sales and one of the most requested Artists.
After 3 years working for MAC I knew it was time to move on. It was a stepping stone to my next venture. I took a huge risk leaving a steady paycheck every week but I didn’t care. I knew I’d fail a bunch of times but it would only make me stronger. Failing is only a sign of weakness if you don’t get back up and try again.
In March of 2013 I was an official corporation. Flawless Face & Body, Inc. was my first company name offering onsite makeup and spray tan services. I worked my butt off! Built my own website, did my own marketing, and started creating a name for myself. I did a lot of free work my first year- I hustled. In August of 2014 I was invited to feature my work in RAW Boston’s Kaleidoscope Showcase. They are an underground organization showcasing and celebrating artists every month from all different forms of art! It was a great way to get my name and work out there! At the end of that year I was voted into the final- Super excited! I created what I called, “My Beautiful Creatures” inspired by beautiful futuristic aliens- it was one of my most rewarding moments tapping into my most creative side. I was in the running to be named Makeup Artist of the Year- it was down to 3 Artists and I won the title. It was such an incredible feeling for me as an artist. That same year I had the opportunity to work on set as a “spray tan artist” of an HBO movie called The Normal Heart. It was such an amazing experience working and meeting with movie stars like Mark Ruffalo & Julia Roberts.
After 2 years, I needed a professional setting. I rebranded my company to Flawless Makeup Company and rented a small studio in Lexington- Another stepping stone to learn from all my mistakes and successes. I was only there 8 months until my dream pretty much slapped me in the face! I saw an opportunity and knew this was it.
I met with a friend also in transition- an artist but with hair. I asked if she would be interested in looking at storefronts together. I wanted to open a makeup lounge with a hair salon next door. The two naturally go hand in hand. We took a drive that same day to Wakefield center and our first stop- two vacant storefronts. 1 an already existing salon and the other an old vitamin shop. One call to the landlord and a dream became reality.
Holy cow! I have a storefront- It didn’t look so pretty though. I saw the vision and got to create it from scratch- an artist’s dream. A complete renovation in 6 weeks with the help of my dad, mom, friends and boyfriend. It brings tears to my eyes thinking back to that little girl saying “one day I’ll have a makeup store.” And now I do- Flawless Makeup & Beauty Lounge.
Awards: Best of The Knot 2015, 2016, & 2017. Boston A-List. RAWards2013
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Nothing in life is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, and difficulty. I made so many mistakes and learned from every single one- That’s how you grow and become stronger. Anytime I failed I didn’t give up, I said what are we going to do to fix it and moved on.
One of my biggest struggles is balancing my personal life with my business. I’m still trying to find a good balance but my mind is constantly going and there’s just not enough time in the day. Sometimes I wake up at 2am and have a great idea so I literally write it down in my iPhone notes! I don’t take much time for myself anymore but I know it will soon pay off!
I knew having my own business was going to be challenging but I do love to problem solve!
Starting my business from scratch means I am the owner but I’m also the marketing team, the accountant, HR, answering emails, booking brides, creating my own marketing material, the cleaning lady, managing inventory, and while doing all that servicing clients and doing weddings. I struggle keeping sane ah!
Now that I have a storefront I have more people helping with specific roles but I struggle to let go of that control. Creating Flawless was always just me so having to let go of some of that control is one of my biggest struggles- I’m controlling, a true Scorpio!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Flawless Makeup & Beauty Lounge – what should we know?
Flawless Makeup & Beauty Lounge is a luxury lounge offering high-end Cosmetics & Skincare, Makeup Applications, Waxing, Skin Care Services, Custom Blend Foundation, Prom, Weddings, Special Events, Makeup Classes, & Girls Night Out!
I wanted to create an environment where you can get your makeup done without having to go to the mall, deal with crowds or department stores. As a former MAC Cosmetics Artist, I worked at a higher volume counter doing makeup applications but having to assist walk up customers at the same time. I always thought it was terrible customer service having to constantly step away from my makeup appointment to help another customer pick up out a lipstick and ring up sales. I created Flawless Makeup & Beauty Lounge so you can be serviced in a beautiful, intimate environment without worrying about interruptions during your appointment time and having parking right out front!
I am most known for my makeup applications. I love the art of what I do and the way I make women feel. As a growing Artist, I had to expand to bring on new artists to accommodate all of the requests from clients and brides.
I am most proud of what I have accomplished in 4 years. I went to school for Radiology, I never studied business, and honestly learned everything as I stumbled upon it.
What sets me apart is how meticulous I am. I take a long time with my makeup appointments but it’s because I care and a perfectionist. I could be on my 10th makeup of the day and I treat my last client like I did my first. The artists and estheticians I bring on to the Flawless team have to have that passion and talent behind their work. My interviews are based more on passion then anything. Flawless is called flawless for a reason. When someone comes to Flawless Makeup & Beauty Lounge they know they will receive a certain amount of detail and artistry behind their service.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
There are a few who absolutely deserve some love.
My dad, Milton Makris is an incredible human being. He was the one who pushed me to go to school for Radiology but only to set me up for success long term. What he didn’t know was how passionate I was as an artist and how I could create my own financial stability. After he calmed down about my change of careers and when he saw how serious I was, I think he actually got really excited I was starting my own business. My dad became my business advisor. He helped me from day 1- registering my business, to giving me advice to creating my makeup mirrors from scratch! He deserves the most credit for always being there when I needed him. Business meetings to manual labor renovating the Flawless storefront. He’s the most patient person I know and I want him to know how much I appreciate him. Love you Papa dukes.
My Mom, Diane Makris is my biggest cheerleader. She has always been on my side from day 1 pushing me towards my passion. She started me in dancing when I was 2 years old, Let me play in her makeup bag and was the first one to introduce me to makeup. She’s always been my biggest fan. I call her my Agent- always referring clients to me and talking me up to EVERYONE! I love you mom and appreciate you very much.
Andrew Kimball, my Rock, my boyfriend. God bless this man for putting up with my crazy life. We rarely see each other so it’s tough but he’s been so supportive of my choices & business and always there when I need him. He put in so much hard work into helping build my store. Working his plumbing job then late nights building makeup stations at Flawless. I appreciate and Love him so much. Love you babe.
Michaela Means, my best friend from Elementary School. She is the first one to ask if I need help at the store. From regular work days to events. She literally shows up some days and just starts cleaning! She’s like a sister to me- an amazing friend. Always helping without even asking. I am truly blessed to have her in my life. Love you Mic.
Andrea DiBlasi Tierney, my cousin. My very own graphic designer. She’s a very busy mommy of two beautiful babies. She’s helped design my business cards, storefront sign and graphics-Always available with my last minute requests. I’m so appreciative of her late night work with me and her time & support. Love you Andy.
Last but definitely not least, my clients and friends. They are the most amazing people. Clients who have followed me from my days at MAC, Clients who hunted me down when I left MAC, Brides and friends who have referred so many new clients- Always supporting me and my business on social media. My business would not be where it is if I didn’t have these incredible people part of it. Blessed to be surrounded by such positive and inspiring people. You know who you are. Love you for all you do.
Contact Info:
- Address: Flawless Makeup & Beauty Lounge
452 Main Street
Wakefield, MA 01880 - Website: www.flawlessmakeuplounge.com
- Phone: 781-245-4264
- Email: flawless@flawlessmakeuplounge.com
- Instagram: @flawlessmakeuploungeoffical
- Facebook: @flawlessmakeuplounge
- Yelp: Flawless Makeup & Beauty Lounge
