Embracing a New Chapter: From Colorado to Bath, UK

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Dear friends,

As I sit here in my cozy Denver studio, surrounded by brushes, palettes, and the familiar hum of creativity- I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nostalgia. After years of talking and dreaming about this next big adventure - we are finally taking the leap. After having spent nearly my whole life as a resident of Colorado - we are picking up this next chapter in the UK. My little family is embarking on a thrilling adventure—a journey that will take us from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the historic streets of Bath, UK.

Makeup has been my faithful companion—a language through which I express my creativity, tell stories, and transform faces. From the subtle glow of a bride on her wedding day to the avant-garde looks of fashion editorials, I’ve reveled without boundaries in the artistry of it all. And now, as I pack my trusty brushes, I carry with me the memories of countless faces I’ve had the privilege to enhance.

Bath—a city steeped in history, where the ancient Roman baths meet glorious Georgian architecture—is my next canvas. The cobblestone streets, the whispers of literary giants, and misty mornings by the River Avon—all of it awaits.

I'm excited to embrace the change, but I also hope to reestablish my career in the same realms that I've been lucky enough to establish myself in over the last 2 decades here in the USA. Bath, with its picturesque scenery, is often the backdrop for many period features, such as Bridgerton. And with the incredible creative hubs of London and Bristol just a short train ride away - I'm hopeful that the next 2 decades might be even more exciting than the first! I’m eager to collaborate with local talent, weave my magic behind the scenes, and contribute to the visual storytelling that unfolds on screens big and small.

But Colorado - don’t count me out completely! I will still be making biannual trips to Colorado to visit my family and friends, but also for a few gigs I just can't quit! Almost since its inception, I've been wielding a makeup brush annually for SeriesFest (who just completed their 10th season). I plan to be back every year in late April through mid May to continue that tradition. I also will be back around Christmas on alternating years - so I will still expect those Holiday party invites! ;)

To my clients, colleagues, and mentors in Colorado, thank you for believing in my artistry. I have worked with so many incredible individuals here. Colorado is a uniquely fortunate convergence of creativity and kindness. Those long days on set feel short when you get to smile and laugh along with such talented and vibrant people. Please keep in touch and don’t hesitate to give me an extra excuse to come visit.

Connect with me:

  • Website: KatelynSimkins.com

  • Email: katelyn@katelynsimkins.com

As I prepare to cross the Atlantic, I’ll carry with me the spirit of the Rockies—the resilience, wildness, and boundless raw potential. Here’s to new beginnings, unexpected color (or should I say colour) palettes, and the magic that awaits in Bath.

With love and lipstick,

Katelyn ✨🌿

New Year, New me?

New Year, New me?

Ok, so this is a little bit of a hot button issue for me. I am a makeup artist, and my job in most people's eyes is to "fix flaws". And every January 1st all of those glaring insecurities come flooding in full force. I am inundated with posts, commercials, and clients all going on about this whole "New Year, New Me" idea. And it gives me all the feels ... but in a BAD way.

Photo: Bryce Boyer.

Model: Elle Wagner of Wilhelmina Denver.

Hair: Matthew Morris.

Makeup: Katelyn Simkins.

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I am SO excited about these new images from photographer Kevin Alexander! The collection by Oscar Utierre is really groundbreaking as all his pieces are unisex. Gender fluidity is something we should all embrace. Our shell is ours to adorn as we see fit - an outer expression of who we are inside. Bravo to this all around stellar team!

Clothing by Oscar Utierre

Photos by Kevin Alexander

Models by Wilhelmina Denver, Donna Baldwin and Revolution Management (Liv Walker, Maverick McConnell, Nichole Martinez)

Hair by Dawn Steffensmeier-Pappas

Makeup by Katelyn Simkins

Testing, testing 123 ...

2015 has certainly started with a bang. With a move to New York on the horizon, and some very creatively inspiring projects replicating at an alarming rate here in Denver I'm starting to envision a future in which I can be whatever the Denver version of bi-coastal would be called ... mid-land-uni-coastal? Either way, I'm excited for the many adventures that lay ahead!

This last month had a couple wonderful days of shooting with photographer Kevin Alexander, hair stylist extraordinaire Charlie Price and some stunning models that are really starting to kick some ass on a global stage. Zella Christenson (Trump Models), Emma Reins (One Management), Brittni Tucker (DNA models), Kari Riley (Revolution Management) and more...

Here are some of the fun results we've produced.