Inspiring Conversations with Danielle Kjenstad of DK Beauty Bar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Kjenstad

Hi Danielle , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
When I was 21 I was engaged and quickly wanted to make my American dream happen but I didn’t know what to do. My cousin is a hair dresser and u always imagined how fun and freeing that would be. I quickly got into a cosmetology program and was so excited to start my dream. After putting in 12 hr days and assisting for Carlton’s while in school as well as working part time, I graduated within 9 1/2 months of what was supposed to be a 12 month program. Once I passed my boards and worked on clients I realized hair wasn’t my dream. I tried focusing on nails and realized that wasn’t it either. I struggled throughout the years finding what worked for me and what didn’t. I lost passion and realized I just need to work so I worked a couple of jobs but found myself in the beauty industry again. I worked as a salon coordinator that was filled with independent contractors with their own room. My personal life changed where I needed more flexibility with my schedule and quickly realized how much I wanted to get back into the industry. I suffered horribly from acne during my teen years and struggled with self esteem. I realized I really wanted to get into skin and help others with their skin since I was able to heal my own. I studied more into skincare and took tons of training to get more advanced into skin. I started subleasing a room with a fellow coworker of mine as well as working full time coordinating/managing. My life was chaotic but at the time my small business was my sanity. It kept me motivated and the smiles of my clients to continue through the storms of my life at the time. The more I realized I made a difference to people whether it was just their day, their skin, or whatever, it’s always kept me going and continued to make me feel this passion within me to always keep going.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This hasn’t always been the easiest or smoothest road as a small business owner. I’m also an introvert/extrovert. It takes a lot for me to make myself do these types of things especially marketing myself. Throughout the years I’ve been learning to pull myself out of this introverted bubble to make things happen. There’s always a huge learning curve but when you go through Covid and inflation you’re gonna have to figure a way to get through it. It’s been hard I’m not gonna lie. The more I work the more I hear clients telling me they’re gonna have to boom when they have the money again when they used to be monthly clients. Everyone is struggling but I’m so thankful for the clients who stay loyal and continue to still book with me. I know I’ll make it through all of this. You just have to stay positive and hopeful. I’m a Capricorn. I’m very stubborn, motivated, hard working, and passionate when I love something. You always have to have a plan no matter how comfortable you get. Throughout the last year I’ve had to make a shift and go back to work for the man at a nonprofit behavioral school where I help special needs kids overcome hardships in their life and get their behaviors in check so they can return back to public schools to succeed further in life. It’s been very rewarding but I still count the days I can work my business full time. Once this economy can get balanced you can guarantee I’ll be back with a bang! Until then I’ll continue to grind and work my job and business with as much passion I can give.

We’ve been impressed with DK Beauty Bar, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
DK beauty bar was established in 2018. I’ve been in the beauty industry for over 16 years. My business focuses on skincare, waxing, lash lifts, and more. Throughout the years I’ve taken several hours of training on each service on my menu. Throughout the years my clients love me for my hydrodermabrasion facials as well as my lash lifts. At DK Beauty Bar I value each client and love the bonds that are forms throughout the years where clients become more like friends as well as family.

How do you think about luck?
I’ve never really been a lucky person. My life has always been surrounded by having to survive. I don’t know how to sit and let things come to me. I’ve always had to jump through every hoop in the room and fight for what is mine. Some people tell me you’re so lucky to have a business. It’s not easy by all means but is worth it.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://dkbeautybar.glossgenius.com/
• Instagram: @dk_beauty_bar