Kim Gravel is a prominent figure in the beauty industry, widely recognized for her expertise in pageantry, business ventures, and television hosting. Nicknamed “Kim of Queens,” she has not only coached numerous girls to victory in beauty pageants but also holds the distinction of being one of the youngest Miss Georgia winners in history. Beyond her success in pageantry, Kim has carved a niche as a businesswoman, motivational speaker, and TV personality, with a signature style that blends southern charm, humor, and authenticity. Her story is a testament to perseverance, versatility, and passion.
Early Life and Family Background
Kim Gravel was born on July 27, 1971, in South Carolina, to Brooks Hardee and Jo Hardee. She grew up in the heart of Georgia, alongside her younger sister, Allisyn Varalla, who would later become her partner in the pageant coaching business. Kim’s upbringing was deeply rooted in southern values, and her parents played an instrumental role in shaping her strong work ethic. Her mother, Jo, worked as a pageant instructor at The Pageant Place, a family business that would later become a key part of Kim’s career. The Gravel family is known for its close-knit bond, with Kim’s parents celebrating their long-lasting marriage since August 5, 1966.
Although details about Kim’s formal education remain largely private, it is evident that her natural charisma and leadership abilities were honed from an early age. Her journey toward public prominence began in her teenage years when she developed an interest in music and pageantry, two passions that would later define her career.
Kim’s Musical and Pageant Beginnings
From a young age, Kim showed a keen interest in singing and even became the lead vocalist and songwriter for a recording group called Beloved. While she pursued music, it was the world of pageantry that would propel her to national attention. At the age of 19, Kim won the Miss Georgia title in 1991, becoming one of the youngest contestants to ever claim the crown. This victory opened numerous doors for her, leading to appearances as an American Goodwill Ambassador to Japan and a contestant in the Miss America Pageant. The experience provided Kim with a platform to showcase not only her beauty but also her intelligence, poise, and determination.
Her early success in pageantry set the stage for a career devoted to coaching and mentoring young women. Through her experience, Kim learned the intricate dynamics of pageants, from mastering stage presence to delivering powerful interviews. Her knowledge, combined with her genuine passion for empowering others, eventually led her to create a thriving career as a beauty coach.
“Kim of Queens” and Television Stardom
Kim’s foray into television came in the form of the reality show Kim of Queens, which aired on Lifetime. The show, which featured Kim alongside her mother Jo and sister Allisyn, focused on coaching young girls to succeed in beauty pageants. With a blend of humor, tough love, and expert advice, Kim became a beloved television personality. Her coaching style stood out for its emphasis on inner beauty, confidence, and authenticity, as she helped young women discover their potential both on and off the stage.
The show highlighted Kim’s work at The Pageant Place, a beauty coaching center located in Georgia where she trained clients with her sister Allisyn and voice coach Amy Goins. It was through this platform that Kim expanded her reach, teaching girls the skills they needed to excel in competitions while also instilling life lessons about confidence and resilience. Her tough yet compassionate approach won over both viewers and the aspiring beauty queens she mentored.
In addition to Kim of Queens, Kim has made several appearances on other television programs, most notably as a regular guest on The Steve Harvey Show. As one of Steve Harvey’s panelists, Kim brought her southern charm and candid personality to a broader audience, further cementing her place in the entertainment industry.
Business Ventures: Belle by Kim Gravel
In 2016, Kim expanded her influence in the beauty and fashion world by launching Belle by Kim Gravel, a clothing and cosmetics line sold on QVC. The brand, known for its stylish yet comfortable designs, reflects Kim’s belief that beauty should be accessible to all women, regardless of size or age. From jeans to sweaters to skincare products, Belle by Kim Gravel has been praised for its versatility and emphasis on empowering women to feel confident in their own skin.
Kim’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond her clothing line. She has built a personal brand that encompasses not only fashion but also health and wellness. Through her website, Kim shares tips on everything from beauty and fashion to self-care and personal development. She frequently engages with her fanbase, offering advice and encouragement to those seeking to live their best lives.
Personal Life: Marriage and Family
While many in the entertainment industry struggle to balance career and family life, Kim has managed to maintain a stable and fulfilling personal life. She married Travis Gravel on August 25, 2001, and the couple has two sons, Beau (born in 2010) and Blanton (born in 2012). Despite her busy career, Kim places a high priority on family, often sharing insights into her home life with fans. Her marriage to Travis has been notably free of the scandals that often plague high-profile relationships, and the couple enjoys a quiet life in the metro Atlanta area.
Not much is publicly known about Travis, aside from reports that he did some modeling in his younger years. However, it is clear that he and Kim share a strong partnership built on mutual respect and love.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite her outward success, Kim has faced her share of personal challenges. In her early years, she struggled with the pressures of being in the public eye, particularly in the beauty pageant world, where physical appearance often takes precedence over personal attributes. However, Kim has always been open about her journey to self-acceptance, using her platform to encourage other women to embrace their uniqueness.
Her ability to overcome these obstacles has not only contributed to her success as a pageant coach but also to her popularity as a speaker and motivator. Kim frequently speaks at events, sharing her wisdom on topics ranging from leadership and entrepreneurship to personal growth and empowerment.
Kim Gravel’s Net Worth and Legacy
Kim Gravel’s success as a beauty coach, television star, and entrepreneur has earned her a significant following and a substantial income. While her exact net worth remains undisclosed, it is clear that her various ventures, including Belle by Kim Gravel and her television appearances, have made her a financially successful figure. As she continues to grow her brand, Kim remains committed to helping others find their confidence and inner beauty.
Through her many roles—as a coach, businesswoman, TV host, and mother—Kim Gravel has made an indelible mark on the beauty industry and beyond. Her down-to-earth personality, combined with her undeniable expertise, has endeared her to audiences across the country. As she continues to evolve her career, Kim’s impact will undoubtedly continue to be felt by future generations of women looking to make their mark on the world.
Conclusion
Kim Gravel’s journey from a small-town girl in Georgia to a household name in the beauty industry is a story of grit, determination, and passion. Whether coaching young girls on Kim of Queens, creating her fashion line, or empowering women through public speaking, Kim has always stayed true to her core values of authenticity and confidence. Her influence reaches far beyond the world of beauty pageants, touching the lives of women everywhere who are looking to live with purpose and grace.
