Meet Kirby Suarez | Founder of The Glam Archives

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kirby Suarez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kirby, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
I think every business owner, at some point, has wondered whether it’s time to quit or keep going. When business is slow, or when we start comparing ourselves to others who seem to be doing better than us, quitting can feel like the easier option. But every time I’ve entertained that thought, I just can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I keep going because I know what it feels like to not chase my dreams — and I refuse to be that version of myself again.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a travel Hair & Makeup Artist with over 8 years of experience, who specializes in long-lasting, soft glam makeup—whether this is for a production, wedding, or just for fun. I especially love glamming my fellow boss babes that have a lot going on, bring me ALL the special event requests. Last year, I launched my group makeup classes and it made me realize how much I love educating others so they can grow confidence in their makeup skills; I’m excited to do a masterclass soon.

It wasn’t easy getting to where I am today. I was raised to believe that the only path to success was to receive the highest level of academic degree that you possibly can, get a full-time job in that specialty, and you’ll be set for life. It took me graduating with my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology to realize that’s not the path I wanted to take, and it shattered me mentally. With no clear answer on how to move forward, I turned to my familiar passion, makeup. I started reaching out to photographers in order to build my portfolio and to practice on models, I returned to my job at Sephora, and later on I began freelancing at MAC Cosmetics. Eventually, I did attempt one last shot at the life my family wished for me, and wound up at a full-time administrative office job. It was short-lived, I took that as the blessing that it was, and finally listened to what I kept getting pulled back into doing. I wound up taking a makeup artist mentorship program that changed the way I viewed the business as a whole—that it’s based on skill and strategy, not solely on luck and connections.

Since then, I’ve learned and continue to learn how much mindset plays into your success, as well as overall consistency in your actions towards your goals. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to take action every day towards your dreams because the more you prolong them, the more you’re robbing yourself of the time you’ll have to enjoy them.

I’d want people to know that regardless of what the people you love may want for you, it’s okay to do something else. It’s your life, and as long as you’re happy and working towards something that fulfills you, keep doing it. And my god, if that thing can bring you money? Put your all into it. It won’t be easy, but there is always a way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve lived in Miami for almost 20 years now, and I still feel like a tourist when I realize how many spots I don’t know about. To be fair, I’m usually in Doral. But if I had to pick some… my favorite area is Coconut Grove. AC’s Icees is a classic, there’s a run club, a farmer’s market, it’s walkable, and the water views are ugh amazing. Wynwood is obviously a must-see, either in daytime or nighttime–it just changes so often that I couldn’t provide you with any specific spot besides good old Gramps, or Joe’s Pizza (my fave as an NYC native). Oh and then there’s salsa dancing at Ball & Chain, of course! I prefer places where you can discover new activities, dance, or eat… Actually, could you give me some recommendations instead?

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve had several people help me along my journey, and am thankful to say that the community of artists and network I have surrounding me continues to grow. I’m grateful to Tricia Hernandez, the owner of Flirtacious Looks Agency—she was my first ever mentor, who taught me not only how to start a makeup business, but also that I wasn’t alone in this endeavor. Since then, I’ve learned an incredible amount about the hair and makeup industry, and am now taking Lina Zuniga’s mentorship program, in order to scale my business even further. The way her community of artists help and motivate one another is inspiring, and oftentimes, much needed.

Website: https://theglamarchives.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theglamarchivess/

Image Credits
@kkvptured: 1) Kirby doing makeup on a model who’s in a director’s chair, 2) Kirby’s arm holding a brush up to the model’s face
@the.muse.miami: 1) Kirby touching up the “Joker’s” makeup
@dreamysocials: 1) Group of girls holding a newspaper, 2) Two models facing each other while blending concealer, 3) Kirby teaching a group makeup class
@bloom.socialmediaco: 1) Kirby sitting in a black lounge chair