Building genuine relationships has been key for Kyle Hjelmeseth (LA’04) throughout his life. As a public relations student at Purdue, he recognized the importance of making connections and creating a memorable persona. He knew his ability to network and form bonds with others would prove valuable in any field. “I had a vision for myself that I would inspire people in my line of work,” he says. “I’ve found that I get to be an incredible creative partner to a few, who go out and inspire many.” 

“I’ve found that I get to be an incredible creative partner to a few, who go out and inspire many.” 

—Kyle Hjelmeseth

Hjelmeseth jokes that he owes a lot to karaoke. A chance introduction to a fellow performer on an evening out kick-started a completely new career path — his ability to create a lasting impression landed him a job interviewing designers backstage at New York and Miami Fashion Weeks. He was completely unfamiliar with the fashion industry, but his natural charisma lent itself to on-camera appearances. He quickly realized that the merging of fashion and storytelling presented an abundance of opportunities. 

Hjelmeseth’s fashion experience combined with his high energy and enthusiasm led to a position at Chloe + Isabel, a jewelry brand whose aim is to empower female entrepreneurs through social retail. The company was in need of a development manager who could inspire and mentor its merchandiser community. A friend suggested him for the role, and Hjelmeseth saw it as an intriguing endeavor. “It was a life-altering job,” he says. “I met thousands of women from all over the country and mentored them to achieve personal success.” Directing the creativity of others, helping them attain a vision, and inspiring them to achieve more was a challenge he found immensely fulfilling. 

While Hjelmeseth was working at Chloe + Isabel, his now wife, Stephanie Liu, was growing her career as a prominent Los Angeles fashion blogger and influencer. He assisted her in small ways, mostly providing moral support, but she thought his creativity and business acumen could be a great asset to her brand and suggested they join forces to increase its reach. He was hesitant at first, but within the first month of their partnership, they were able to quadruple the revenue of her blog, Honey & Silk. Some close friends in the blogging world were impressed and asked Hjelmeseth to represent them as well, and he began to wonder if his ability to serve as a creative partner could be the foundation for a viable business. With so many requests for collaboration, he decided the time was right to launch his own company and nurture influencers through the creative process. 

Near the end of 2015, Hjelmeseth opened his agency, God & Beauty, and he hasn’t looked back. “My role as a manager and creative partner to my roster allows me to express ideas, create beautiful campaigns with brands, and foster the dreams of those I manage,” he says. Hjelmeseth also appreciates that he’s able to travel frequently and experience a variety of cultures around the world.  “My dream of being a part of the global community has been realized quickly because of this career.”

Hjelmeseth’s agency continues to grow, largely due to relationships he’s cultivated over the years. However, his goal is to maintain a small, dedicated team so that he has time to allocate to each project. “I get great value personally out of helping those I work with achieve their individual dreams, and I see that come to fruition every single day.”