Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimmie Fay.
Hi Kimmie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Growing up, I was obsessed with science. I wrote a paper in the 8th grade about wanting to study physiology because I was mesmerized by the body’s ability to adapt and evolve. I didn’t know it yet, but that curiosity would shape who I am and what I have created today.
I grew up moving…a lot! I claim Austin, TX as my hometown and that’s where I feel my journey began. A summer internship led to 5 years behind various beauty counters. Instead of taking my manager’s word on products, I would write down the ingredient lists and research them in the school library. The next ten years were spent studying biochemistry at The University of Texas, nursing at Austin Community College, and becoming a Flight Attendant for SkyWest Airlines.
It was at SkyWest that I discovered so much about who I was and what I wanted to mean to the world. While my airline didn’t take me to fancy spots like Paris, France, it took me to places like Paris, Texas, and taught me confidence, innovation, and adaptability.
It was shortly after my fifth anniversary with the airline that I knew I wanted to get back to my “roots” within the beauty and service industries. So I hung up my wings and applied to The University of Aesthetics in Chicago, IL. I knew it was meant to be when I discovered that the head admin was a former Delta Air Lines flight attendant. Us flight attendants just can’t help but be life’s chameleons.
I applied for jobs while still in esthetics school and landed an interview with Kelly Mack of Absolute Precision Skincare. After my final interview, she proudly told me that pending my state board test results, I had the job. That very evening I received the email telling me that I had passed my boards; making me Board Certified and an employed Licensed Esthetician. The memory never fails to bring joyful tears to my eyes.
Kelly taught me so much and allowed me the freedom to challenge myself, grow, and feed the hunger I had to not only succeed, but to flourish.
I spent three amazing years at Absolute Precision and only left to move back home to Austin. The plan was to grow my clientele at a local salon and then maybe venture out on my own.
But then…REMIX! Enter a new set of wings at Delta Air Lines. What can I say? I had to get to Paris, France somehow.
It was within my five years at Delta that I experienced a world that created memories forever vivid, friendships so dear, and introduced me to my biggest cheerleader and the “lub” of my life.
It was also during that time that I found a bigger voice, a stronger disposition, and I grew hungry for even more.
While working a flight with my dear friend Kyle, I admitted that I was ready to ditch my wings (and grumpy passengers) and go back to esthetics. But this time, I’d do it my way, and open my own studio. I wanted to create a space that focused on the importance of ingredient knowledge and understanding the “why” of skincare. Bringing forward the passion of skin physiology and teaching how consistency and having a sassy southerner on your side could bring you healthy, beautiful, life-long results.
Kyle being the supportive friend he is, stated, “When you get the doors open, I’ll be your first booking”.
February 18, 2020 Kyle walked through the doors that housed my dream…”seven twentyseven skincare”. Complete with her signature blue walls and lots of starter pack IKEA bookshelves.
Now, almost 6 years later, seven twentyseven skincare has survived the uncertainty of a pandemic and has grown into her own three room, three estheticians strong, storefront space.
I often reflect with gratitude on the fact that those blue walls will always be proof that a science nerd from Austin, TX can withstand the turbulence of life, gain wings that teach human connection, and create a safe space for those that seek a sassy skincare advocate.
Complete with custom cabinets to replace the IKEA bookshelves.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I opened my studio at the beginning of a pandemic. Within a month of opening my doors, I was shut down to “flatten the curve” and that uncertainty lasted almost 6 months. Once I was able to open back up, I moved locations and embarked on my journey not knowing a soul in Memphis.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At seven twentyseven skincare, we believe that skincare is more than just a luxury; it’s a science, a commitment, and a journey to confidence.
Founded by Licensed Esthetician Kimmie Fay, our studio is built on the principles of results-driven treatments, advanced technology, and a deep understanding of skin physiology.
Our mission is simple: to combine expertise with innovation, offering treatments that are backed by science and tailored to each individual.
We don’t believe in quick fixes, only real results.
Whether you’re seeking corrective skincare, advanced treatments, or simply a place to feel heard and understood, seven twentyseven skincare is here to guide you every step of the way.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
I would advise someone new to the industry to really dig deep and figure out what you want your niche to be. Take the time to watch and learn from those that came before you and ask questions. Don’t rely on someone else to do it for you. If you want to be successful in the skincare industry, you have to be focused and self-motivated.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.727skincare.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/727skincare/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/727skincare
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/seven-twentyseven-skincare-collierville?osq=seven+twentyseven+skincare
