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

Hi Kali, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business was deeply personal for me. It wasn’t just about creating a career, but building a legacy. I’ve always believed in the power of beauty to transform confidence, and after years of experience, I knew I needed a space that reflected my vision and heart. As a mother of three, I wanted to show my kids the value of pursuing your dreams, even when it’s hard. Moving from Nepal to the U.S., I faced many challenges, but I learned that growth often comes from stepping into the unknown. My business is a reflection of my journey, resilience, and love for what I do. It’s more than a job—it’s a piece of me that I get to share with each client.

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.

As a brows artist with over 12 years of experience, my journey has been one of passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to my craft. I began my career at the young age of 16 in Nepal, where I first discovered the transformative power of brows and beauty. This early start allowed me to hone my skills and develop a keen eye for detail, which has become the foundation of my work today.

What sets me apart in this competitive industry is my unique blend of traditional techniques and modern styles. I draw inspiration from both my cultural roots and contemporary trends, ensuring that each client leaves my studio not just satisfied but empowered. My focus is on enhancing natural beauty, and I pride myself on creating results that not only look good but also boost confidence.

Reaching this point in my career hasn’t been without its challenges. Transitioning from Nepal to the American beauty scene presented its hurdles, from cultural differences to mastering new techniques. But with each challenge, I found opportunities for growth. I surrounded myself with mentors, attended workshops, and practiced relentlessly. The key was perseverance; I refused to let setbacks define my path. Instead, I embraced them as lessons, learning to adapt and innovate.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the transformations of my clients. Whether it’s through microblading, ombre brows, or fine line tattoos, I love helping people feel more like themselves. I’m especially excited about my dusty eyeliner technique, which has become a favorite among my clients for its subtle yet impactful enhancement.

Through this journey, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about authenticity, empathy, and the importance of community. Building a brand is not just about the services you offer; it’s about the connections you forge with your clients and the trust you build over time. I want the world to know that my brand is a reflection of my dedication to beauty and my clients’ well-being.

As I continue to grow my studio, I remain committed to providing exceptional artistry while fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment. My story is still being written, and I’m excited for the future—filled with new techniques, more training opportunities, and the chance to continue making a difference in the lives of those I serve.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend visited for a week, I’d create an unforgettable itinerary filled with local flavors and experiences. We’d start with brunch at Anna’s House, explore the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and enjoy lunch at Founders Brewing Co. After a day at Frederik Meijer Gardens, we’d unwind at Reeds Lake before dining at The Bull’s Head Tavern. The next day, we’d check out Heritage Hill, have lunch at Kowalski’s Market, and visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum. For a midweek getaway, a day trip to Saugatuck would include breakfast at The Farmhouse Deli and a relaxing afternoon at Oval Beach. We’d also shop in Eastown and savor dinner at Peppino’s Pizzeria before wrapping up our week with a memorable meal at The Grill at the McKay, sharing our favorite moments from an amazing trip.

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The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Husband and my family

Website: https://www.jgpermanentmakeupstudio.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaO90TLXDJ1q6EEC30GW-f3K1_oxNaaKzmU57rXJID2hA9qUN7fCrxt9Qk_aem_OkbHiX5jvpuNQUHOGiT_6Q

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/browsbykali_?igsh=dGV1bHltNzQweXJz&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/browsthreading.17/ 

Image Credits
Kali

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.