Her Story
About Karen
Karen Van Buren has spent 37 years working in the beauty industry. She owns her own business and continues to take on contracts representing larger companies at special events held at Ulta, Sephora, Belk, Nordstrom's, and for launches such as a celebrity fragrance event with Sam Edelman. Her work centers on women's empowerment, which she pairs with beauty and fashion to create engaging experiences for women. Karen trained at a school for aesthetics taught by Carol Waldeman immediately after high school, later attended college as a psychology major but did not finish the degree. She is the author of multiple books, including the anthology Becoming an Unstoppable Woman that became an international bestseller, as well as other bestsellers, and she is currently writing a solo book called Beauty and the P's that explores one's purpose. Karen attributes her success to her natural ability to connect genuinely with people, treating each interaction as an opportunity to meet a new friend and viewing others as blessings in her life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karen
01What do you attribute your success to?
I naturally connect with people. I'm very genuine. When I meet people, by the time I start a conversation until I end it, it's almost like meeting a new best friend. I always connect with people and look at them like they're a blessing in my life.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My industry at this point, as far as beauty goes, it's very oversaturated. And you have to stand out. You have to really be memorable. I believe that connections on how you connect with your client is more important than anything. When people get into a service, if they're sitting in your chair, you have to connect with them, so it's more than just the service. You're with that person, and it should be a whole experience.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
It's very oversaturated. Some of the smaller companies are really struggling... The larger companies have done a lot of cuts.
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