Why I Became a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant Just As I Began my Legal Career
Because it was the 1980 State Fair and the pleasant woman in the grandstand offered a free facial.
Because I was 27 and had never had a facial.
Because I was 27, had never worn makeup, and didn’t know exactly what a facial was.
Because I loved to explore all things foreign.
Because Judy, a former teacher instructing us around her dining room table, was competent and encouraging as well as pleasant.
Because my face felt so soft.
Because the subtle blush, smoky eye shadow and all the rest looked surprisingly good.
Because despite my feminism, I liked how looking good made me feel.
Because we laughed a lot that night, encouraged each other, and told each other we were beautiful.
Because I bought everything that was on my face.
Because I wanted to learn how to use it.
Because I could get a discount if I hosted other women.
Because all of us laughed other nights too, encouraged each other, and told each other we were beautiful.
Because my enthusiasm made it fun for all of us, and I got good at picking colors and creating professional “looks.”
Because I wanted to support a company created by a woman, for women.
Because I was my own boss, set my own hours, created and met my own goals.
Because at every gathering we laughed a lot, encouraged each other, and told each other we were beautiful.
Because I had just started working as an Assistant Hennepin Country Attorney.
Because my boss was male and most of the other county attorneys were men.
Because I spent my days working on cases of child abuse and murder.
Because laughter in the office was mostly dark humor.
Because I ignored any sneers whispered behind my back.
Because combining the two occupations was joyfully crazy.
Because combining the two occupations was powerfully subversive.
Because building the confidence of women was crucial and profoundly rewarding.
Because we laughed a lot, encouraged each other, and told each other we were beautiful.
Because we were beautiful, together.
I had no idea & I love that you chose to do such totally different things simultaneously & I love the “why”s of why you chose do be a Mary Kay consultant! What a delightful post to read, and to get to know another aspect of your BEAUTIFUL, JOYFUL self!!
Thanks so much Kate! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
I never knew you were a Mary Kay kind of gal! Thanks for telling your story of contrasts- i think many of us had them back when feminism was claiming us and we were claiming it…
Yes! Since I’d always been a feminist, I think the whole MK thing was a big surprise–I followed the intuitive urge but didn’t fully understand it until later.
What a great writing prompt! I love your story! I’m not sure I ever knew you were a Mary Kay consultant. Always enjoy reading your articles Anne!
Thanks Holli! Yes, I figured lots of people probably didn’t know about that time in my life–many years ago now!
Anne,
You didn’t know, you didn’t need others to tell you that you were beautiful! You didn’t need to put Mary Kay make up on to be beautiful. You have been beautiful inside and out, and it came naturally when you were born. Thanks for sharing this. Mary
Thanks Mary! You are so right about the inner beauty tucked inside all of us (and radiating out from some, like you!) I think tending and adorning my skin gave me needed confidence, and I loved seeing how it gave that to others too (it was the early 80’s after all). I think mostly I just wanted to spend time joyfully with women.
Thank you!!
Beautiful!!!
Thanks Jan!