Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Kinkela-Cook
Hi Andrea, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Before I entered the industry of tattoos and permanent makeup, I was a healthcare executive working in hospitals. I truly loved what I did, helping both employees and patients lives for the better. To be able to make a positive impact on someone’s life is what I thrived on. Then in 2019 my daughter was born. Then, Covid. I decided at that time that I wouldn’t return to that career. Being a mother meant so much more and I couldn’t imagine working 12-14 hour days any longer.
However, as time went on, and while extremely grateful I was able to stay with my daughter, I was feeling restless and unsettled. Mom is a big title, but I wanted to do more. From there, the journey began to figure out what I was truly passionate about.
Enter permanent makeup (PMU). I became very curious and eventually decided to have my own brows done. I had the classic 90s, too thin brows. I was beyond fascinated with the process and natural results and I was hooked! From there came research, classes, certification, continued education and training, which never stops because there is always something to learn. I am very committed to staying current and relevant in this field.
Once we relocated to Tennessee in 2022, I knew I had to find the best to work with. To me, that is someone well educated on PMU as well as the business side, and someone who had the same style as me. At TennSkin I found that with Blakely, who not only is the owner, master artist, and trainer, but is also an amazing person with a kind giving heart. I am unbelievably blessed that she has a chair for me at her salon. I’m also tremendously grateful to my husband for his support on this journey,
At the end of the day, choosing a career in PMU has made me feel happy and fulfilled. I’ve found something that I am passionate about. I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, as well as joy from making people feel good about themselves and rebuilding their confidence. AND ITS FUN! Im given the ability to work with, learn from, and collaborate with beautiful people and I’m blessed to build relationships with my clients. I am excited for all the possibilities that lie ahead, including adding paramedical services. Scars or stretch marks? Stay tuned!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been easy. This career requires a lot of work and time. Time to practice, shadow, continue education, trainings, building a business and clientele, and creating content. I feel moments of overwhelming guilt because it takes time away from my family. Keeping up with social media can slide in there too.
As you know, we’re big fans of Andrea Cook @ TennSkin . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Currently, you can find me at TennSkin in Cool Springs! I rent a chair but my business is my own. The owner and master artist, Blakely Russell, is there and ready to help whenever any of us need it. Together, we are one team and a family. The atmosphere is relaxing and pretty. You can guarantee that you will be in professional hands and also great company.
What sets us apart? We specialize in the most natural look possible. We want you to leave feeling the best version of yourself. I’m proud to be able to learn and be experienced with these teachings in this environment. I’m also proud of myself for taking the leap into something that was unknown and truthfully a little scary to jump into. It’s a big responsibility that I take seriously, and it’s a lot of hard work that most wouldn’t realize is involved.
Permanent makeup has evolved over the years and my advice is to ask someone in the field or do some research on your own before taking the leap. Many artists have different styles, so choose the one that best relates to you. Also, people always ask about pain. I PROMISE, if you work with me it will be far from painful. I use a prescription numbing cream and have had clients fall asleep in the chair!
In the near future, for those who have stretch marks they find unbearable, acne scarring, or surgical scars, treatments for these are coming soon (hoping to be offering by October) and I am SO excited to be able to provide these services. To be able to help individuals see their own beauty and to renew their confidence is immensely rewarding and is my true passion. It all circles back to helping people in any way I can.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I would say I’m not normally a risk taker. I’ve always been a planner, and spontaneous, but not risky. Yet after I had my daughter I have found myself being more relaxed. I still wouldn’t say I’m a risk taker, however deciding to change careers at this stage of life is definitely a risk, but I’m so glad I took it. I believe if you’re willing to work hard and provide a good product or service, then it’s worth it. No regrets!
Pricing:
- Microblading $400
- Powder brow $450
- Lip blush $450
- Combo service $800
- Coming soon- stretch mark and scar camouflage
Contact Info:
- Website: https://andreacookpmu.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrea_cook_pmu
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553382825279&mibextid=LQQJ4d
