Remember the feeling? That electric mix of excitement and nerves the first time you held a pair of tweezers, ready to transform a client's lashes. It was a passion project. You loved the craft, the artistry, the way your clients' faces lit up when they saw the finished look.
But somewhere between the late-night practice sessions and the endless supply orders, that passion project started to feel like... work. And for so many of us, that's when the overwhelm sets in. We pour our hearts into our art, but struggle with the business side. We feel guilty charging what we're worth. We see others' success on Instagram and wonder if we're "good enough." It's that silent battle with self-doubt that can turn your dream into a source of stress.
If I could go back and tell my younger self just one thing, it would be this:
"Stop playing small. Your time, your skills, and your artistry are not just a service—they are a valuable asset."
When I first started, I was so focused on building my clientele that I priced my services way too low. I thought, "If I'm the cheapest, I'll get more clients." And it worked... for a while. But soon, I was burned out. My books were full, but my bank account wasn't growing. I felt resentful and exhausted because I was trading my precious time for pennies on the dollar.
That’s when I realized the difference between being a lash tech and being a CEO. A lash tech does lashes. A CEO runs a business. And a business needs to be profitable.
Here's the truth: Your clients aren't just paying for a lash set. They're paying for your training, your practice, the cost of every single product, and the years of dedication it took to master your craft. They're paying for the confidence boost and the precious time you save them every morning.
Your one thing is to own your worth.
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Calculate your true costs: This isn't just your lash trays and adhesive. It's rent, marketing, insurance, and your time.
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Set prices that reflect your value: Look at your local market, yes, but don't compete on price. Compete on quality and experience.
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Communicate your value with confidence: When a client asks about your prices, explain the premium products you use and the meticulous care you take. They will respect your professionalism.
Making this mindset shift is the most powerful thing you can do for your business. It allows you to feel confident, attract your ideal clients, and create a sustainable business that supports the life you want to live. Your passion project can, and should, become a profitable legacy.
Tired of feeling like you're doing this alone? Want to learn how to master the business side of lashing from someone who's been there?