Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Kami Powell of Grand Rapids

We recently had the chance to connect with Kami Powell and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kami, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Working out has been a big source of joy for me lately. I’ve recently gotten into hot yoga, and it has been such a refreshing outlet. It not only helps me strengthen my body but also gives me the chance to slow down and focus inward. As someone who is usually surrounded by others in both business and daily life, this time allows me to recharge, build confidence, and reconnect with myself in a really grounding way.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kami Powell, and I’m the owner of Divine Beauty Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I’m a licensed esthetician, tattoo artist, and permanent makeup specialist. At Divine Beauty Bar, I offer a range of services from brows, lip blush, and eyeliner, to fine line tattoos, facials, and more. What makes my brand unique is that it’s not just about beauty services—it’s about building confidence, creating a welcoming space, and helping people feel their best inside and out.

My journey started when I took a leap of faith and stepped away from nursing school in 2020 to launch my business. Since then, I’ve been able to grow Divine Beauty Bar into a place where artistry and self-care meet. Right now, I’m working on expanding into teaching and building a training academy where I can empower other aspiring artists to build their own careers in beauty and tattoo artistry. My story is rooted in resilience, faith, and the belief that you can reinvent yourself at any stage in life, and I bring that same energy to my business every day.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My mom taught me the most about work. She’s always been one of the hardest-working people I know. No matter what was going on, whether she was sick, tired, or dealing with life’s challenges she still showed up and got it done.

Watching her push through every situation with strength and dedication taught me the true meaning of work ethic and perseverance. It’s because of her that I approach everything I do with determination and consistency.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to trust the gifts that God placed inside of you. You don’t have to follow the path that others think is best, your purpose was never meant to look like anyone else’s. For years, I tried to fit into what people expected of me, but deep down, I always knew I was meant to create. Art and creativity have been a part of me since I was young, and once I finally embraced that, everything started to align. My confidence grew, my business flourished, and I began to feel peace within myself. I’d remind my younger self that your talents are not random — they’re a part of your calling.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the tattooing and permanent makeup industry is that success happens overnight. People see the highlights on social media and assume that once you start a business, you’ll be booked out and making money right away. But the truth is, success takes time, effort, and heart. You have to study your craft, understand your audience, and never stop learning. It’s not just about talent, it’s about consistency, mindset, and how much you’re willing to grow through the process.

As a woman in this industry, I’ve learned that you have to believe in yourself even when things move slow, because that’s where real growth happens. Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but when you stay committed and lead with passion and purpose, the success eventually follows, and it’s worth every bit of the journey.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I were to retire tomorrow, I think my clients would miss more than just my services, they’d miss the entire experience. My studio has a vibe that makes people feel comfortable and cared for from the moment they walk in. I take pride in my craft and hold myself to a high standard; I’m a perfectionist when it comes to my work. My clients know they can always count on me to be professional, punctual, and respectful of their time. I value being on schedule and rarely ever run over appointments, which helps create a reliable and enjoyable experience they can trust. And of course, my outgoing personality keeps every visit fun and personal — that connection is what truly sets my space apart.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://divinebeautybar.square.site/
• Instagram: @getdivined
• Facebook: Divine Beauty Bar