Pursuit 365 Day 181: Kelly Trerise

Kelly Trerise spent two decades as a professional makeup artist in the TV and film, fashion, and magazine industries, before founding Gloss Boudoir.

What makes an opportunity exciting to you – in business or in life?

For me, an exciting opportunity is something that I feel can help propel me forward both personally and in business. If I get nervous butterflies inside when an opportunity is presented to me, I know I have to take it!

What has been the greatest shift in your career or life and how did you navigate through it?

I started my career as a makeup artist 21 years ago and absolutely loved it. I was able to be creative, run my own business, and hone my skills. Eight years ago, my business partner – who is a photographer – and I decided to open a boudoir photography studio. It’s a very niche market and we weren’t sure how it would be perceived but it felt “right” in my heart to create a safe space for women to build their confidence and continue their personal growth. It’s been challenging to wade through the stigma of boudoir, but we really invested in our concept and believed in our ability to provide a life-changing experience. Now, eight years later, we’re running the busiest Boudoir studio in the province, Gloss Boudoir Studio. It’s not without its challenges, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world!

What has been your favourite experience you love to share?

I left a decade-long relationship that was unhealthy for me and decided the best thing to do for my own self-preservation was to go find what makes ME happy. I left Canada and travelled to 68 countries over the course of a year. I learned so much about humanity, culture and most importantly I learned to truly LOVE and rely on myself. It was a year of reflection and I felt uncomfortable in a lot of instances, but I gained so much confidence and respect for myself. It was life-changing!

What are you up to right now that people should know about?

My personal mission is to help women find self-confidence and uncover their inner goddess. At Gloss Boudoir Studio we’re working tirelessly to create a fun, welcoming, and judgement-free space for women to step outside of their comfort zone and reinvent themselves. My passion is helping women see themselves in a new light and in turn, helping them to re-focus on finding their inner strength. Gloss Boudoir Studio is my baby and I want every woman to experience the “Gloss Glow”!