We had the good fortune of connecting with Karen Angel Bear and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karen Angel, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Two things I have always been passionate about is freedom of expression and self love. I wanted to be able to help others let go of the societal pressure to fit into a mold simply to be accepted by others, and instead, embrace and accept themselves fully by freely expressing who they are and being their most authentic self. I truly believe that by being your most authentic self you are able to reach your fullest potential and therefore live a life filled with absolute bliss and purpose. ColorCherub has turned into more than just a business, it has become a safe space for all of my “Cherubs” and that is more than I could have ever dreamt of.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
ColorCherub is not only a space for people to come and transform their outer appearance to reflect exactly how they feel on the inside, but it has also become a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community and welcomes anyone who needs a place to freely express who they are without feeling judged. This is what makes me the most proud about my business. It has not been an easy road, I became licensed at 19 in 2013 when society still had not fully embraced the idea of colorful hair, alternative make up styles, or even the queer community. Safe spaces where not common, oftentimes I found myself in very toxic work environments, one day I decided I wanted to be a part of a shift in the industry, so I decided to create my own safe space for anyone who felt just like me and wanted something different.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We are having breakfast at Bread Winners Cafe & Bakery, lunch at Paradiso in Bishop Arts, and dinner at Cris & John. Taking 90s retro style photos at Uraenias Lounge, going to Wednesday night Drum Djam at the Green Elephant, and on the weekend attending the local Echo Con Amor Market.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Thanks to the encouragement of my husband Nathan Bear owner of Bear Landscaping who always encourages my creativity and inspires me by being the strongest person I know and Stephanie Maldonado owner of Imagine EPH:320 who mentored me into body painting and always offers her kind words of advice I was able to push through and open doors I never thought I would be able to open to on my own.

Website: ColorCherub.square.site

Instagram: Colorcherub

Other: TikTok: Ren.Angel

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