Phoenix in Flight MUA was founded in 2011 under the name Kristen Ridge Makeup Artistry in Bamberg, Germany. Kristen started her career with a local boudoir photographer, getting acquainted in the world of professional beauty. In 2012 she returned stateside with her now retired military husband and one-year-old son, to continue her work with local photographers.
 
Kristen did makeup and hair on the side for a few years while maintaining a part-time job. In 2014, after Kristen and her husband welcomed their second son, she decided to become a full-time makeup artist again.
 
Phoenix in Flight was re-branded in the early Spring of 2017 after Kristen lost her mother the previous year.

" After losing my mother in the Winter of 2015, a fierce depression washed over me. For almost a year, I was a hermit, ignoring self-care, and consumed in darkness. There was a day that everything could have changed, it could have been my last, but here I am. Sobbing in the mud after I realized I couldn't take my own life, it hit me harder than anything. It was like my mom was right there telling me, 'Kristen, get up, you are worth more than you could imagine'. Right then and there I snapped out of my own mind of a prison. I got up and I said NO MORE. I am going to rise out of these ashes, and soar like the Phoenix I am.
My story isn't over ; "

Once the re-branding was official, Kristen wanted to offer more than just makeup. She wanted to offer her clients a soul-changing experience, so in the Spring of 2017, she went after her esthetics license at Tricoci University.

" Since a well-prepared canvas truly enhances the masterpiece, knowing the science of skin is one of the greatest advantages of being a professional makeup artist. Also, with this license, I will be able to create a relaxing and luxurious environment with soul-fueling services for my amazing clients. "

Today you will find her working her meticulous magic in Downtown Lafayette, specializing in what she's branded, "Elevated Glowing Glam™"