Lash artistry is a growing industry, and there are many opportunities for lash artists to have a successful career. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges that can come with this profession and to take steps to ensure your longevity. Nothing breaks my heart more than seeing artists work so hard to get into this industry and then within 5-10 years they burn out and hate their jobs. It doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s your new game plan.
Plan to charge high prices and attract your ideal clientele. You can’t play small forever. If you’re doing $70 fills, taking 6 clients a day you’re gonna be mentally and physically exhausted in a few years. Trust me, I lived that life for a long time until I leveled up and decided to become the most sought after lash specialist in every state I lived in. This isn’t easy, but it’s the best long term plan.
Aim to take 2-4 clients a day charging double what anyone in your area charges, do the best work in your area, have a better client experience and offer a differentiated service that people can’t get anywhere else. Then, maintain those great client relationships.
You’ll love your career more when you’re excited to see your clients everyday. Think of it this way, your clients are your co-workers. If you LOVE them like family, you’ll be excited to come to work. Make it your highest priority to make these people feel consistently loved and cared about far beyond their lashes and you will lock in life long relationships.
Take care of your body. I can’t stress this enough, I neglected mine for a long time until I suffered debilitating nerve damage in my hands and couldn’t work as long as I’d like to in a day. I was forced to slow down and pivot. Make sure you’re stretching, eating multiple nutritious meals a day ( not just shoving a granola bar in your mouth between clients, I see you ) . Set water goals throughout the day and take time to workout or go on short walks outside after work.
Lastly, create a game plan for the future. Eventually you might want to work IN the industry, just not full time lashing, and that’s great! There is so much opportunity in the lash industry beyond the bed. Think of your unique skills and abilities. Are you a leader that enjoys a fast paced environment and helping others? Maybe becoming a salon owner is the path for you. Is education a passion of yours? Perhaps you could write a curriculum and train other artists to have an easier time than you did starting out.
For me, lashes are my life and lashes have given me the life of my dreams. But I knew I wanted to make a HUGE impact on lash artists just like me. I did that through building the most supportive salon suites in the industry, and training thousands of artists through open handed education. I also love to share stories that might inspire others, so our podcast helps us do just that. There are countless ways for you to serve this industry long term, so write down your dreams and passions and dive deep into what would leave a legacy long term.
Hugs and Kisses,
Maddi