As part of the Morning Lazziness series about empowering women who encourage and do incredible things with their ideas in society, I had the pleasure of interviewing Katie Crecion.
Katie Crecion, a highly skilled makeup artist and esthetician, embarked on her journey in the beauty industry in 1995. Originally from Los Angeles, she took a creative turn after earning her B.A. in Communications from Seattle Pacific University. Establishing a flourishing freelance career in Seattle, she worked across various fields including on-air news, editorial shoots, fashion, television, and weddings.
Later, Katie relocated her business to Oahu, Hawaii, where she rebuilt her freelance career and partnered with Paul Brown Salon. There, she became one of the most sought-after experts in eyebrow shaping and makeup artistry, catering to clients such as CNN, Baywatch, and local celebrities like Miss Universe Brooke Lee and Miss America Angela Baraquio.
In 2003, Katie returned to her roots in Los Angeles and joined Anastasia Soare’s prestigious Beverly Hills salon. For nine years, she honed her skills under Anastasia’s guidance, mastering her renowned techniques and serving a diverse clientele, including celebrities. During this time, she also expanded her expertise by learning the SofTap technique for permanent makeup.
Now, Katie brings her exceptional skills and extensive experience to Westlake Village. With a strong foundation in beauty and brow artistry, she has established herself as one of Southern California’s leading eyebrow specialists.
Here’s what we found out about Katie’s daily routine, followed by an exclusive Q+A.
Can you share the story behind your journey as an entrepreneur and what inspired you to start your own business?
My story is one of resilience and artistry. Abandoned at birth in Korea and adopted twice, I turned early adversity into fuel for growth, shaping my perseverance and passion. I began my career as a MAC Pro makeup artist, then refined my craft alongside the legendary Anastasia Soare in Beverly Hills for nine years, mastering brow shaping, waxing, and microblading. In 2014, I opened Beautique, my own 3-suite salon in Westlake Village, and this year, I launched Kiki House of Beauty with my hero product, Kiki Balm – a pre-wax barrier balm designed to elevate the waxing experience. My journey has been about transforming challenges into opportunities and using my expertise to empower others to feel confident and beautiful. What inspired me to start Kiki House of Beauty was the desire to bring salon-grade products to everyone, making professional-quality care accessible to all.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the business world, and how have you overcome them?
As a woman in the business world, one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is navigating the startup phase with limited resources – both financial and informational. Finding funding for the long haul and building a team you can trust, especially for areas like marketing, sales, social media, and PR, has felt like an uphill battle at times. For a long time, I’ve been a one-woman show, which has been both a challenge and a blessing. Managing everything on my own taught me every aspect of my business hands-on, which ultimately gave me the insight to delegate effectively and find a team that aligns with my vision. There’s also very little guidance out there on creating professional-grade products and building a brand from scratch. It’s been tough without a business partner, but taking it one step at a time has helped me overcome those obstacles.
How do you balance your professional and personal life as an entrepreneur?
Balancing professional and personal life as an entrepreneur comes down to effective time management and prioritizing what truly matters. I have had to make definite decisions on how to break up my time, I love silent time and daily “me” time, such as a yummy lunch or yoga. I put selfcare on my schedule because scheduled personal time is a MUST for any entrepreneur. For me, being fully present with my husband is just as important as putting in a 10-hour workday and tackling my to-do list. I also juggle multiple roles – I continue to work in my 3-suite salon, Beautique, in Westlake Village as a brow expert, makeup artist and esthetician, while managing my business, Kiki House of Beauty, and staying dedicated to my family life. It’s a constant balancing act, but staying organized and knowing when to switch off helps me give my best to each area of my life.
What strategies have you found most effective for networking and building connections in your industry?
One-on-one interactions are my favorite way to connect because they allow me to share my story directly with someone. I’ve found that attending industry events, especially those focused on women supporting women, is incredibly effective for building meaningful connections. I love bringing samples of my Kiki Balm to these events—it’s a great way to introduce my product while starting genuine conversations. Social media is another powerful tool I use to connect with potential customers and offer them samples. It allows me to reach a wider audience and grow my business authentically. If you’re interested in learning more about Kiki Balm, visit me on Instagram @KikiHouseofBeauty
How do you approach mentorship?
I approach mentorship with an open-door mindset because I know how valuable it is – and how much I missed having a mentor when I first started out. If someone comes to me seeking guidance, I’m honored to share my knowledge and experiences to help them succeed. Mentorship is about giving back, empowering others, and supporting them on their journey to reach their full potential.
How do you stay motivated and resilient during tough times in your business?
I stay motivated and resilient by finding joy in the creative process, like making fun social media content – it’s a great outlet for me to express myself and connect with others. Additionally, the team I’m building plays a huge role in keeping my spirits high. We support each other, keep things fun, and act as one another’s cheerleaders. Their positivity and encouragement help me push through even the toughest challenges.
What advice would you give to other aspiring women entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
My advice is simple: be your own advocate – for your brand and for yourself. Don’t let pride or shame hold you back. I always say, “No shame in the game!” When it comes to your dreams, your passion, and your product, be confident, bold, and unapologetic. Don’t be afraid to ask for the sale! Building resilience and having tough skin are essential because the journey can be challenging. Believe in yourself and your vision – that’s the foundation for success.
What is one quote you live by that has guided you in your entrepreneurial journey?
One quote that has guided me is from Maya Angelou, shared by Oprah: “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” It’s a powerful reminder that actions speak louder than words. This wisdom has helped me recognize the importance of surrounding myself with the right people – those whose actions align with their promises and who truly show up when it matters most.
