Not Just Lashes: The Good, Bad, and Ugly Envoice Media

We tackle the essential information needed for anyone considering opening their own lash business. Reflecting on our journey, we discuss the importance of having the right forms, licenses, and business structures in place. From understanding whether you should be an LLC or an S Corp to the necessity of having a seller's permit, we cover it all.
We emphasize the value of having a CPA who specializes in the beauty industry, as their expertise can save you time and money. We share our experiences with EIN numbers and business licenses, highlighting how important it is to understand these elements even if you're creatively inclined and not a "numbers person."
Another key topic is the significance of separating personal and business finances. We talk about the advantages of having a business checking account and credit card, which can help with organization and credit building. We also touch on the benefits of using platforms like LegalZoom for setting up your business structure.
The discussion moves to practical tips for daily operations, including tracking client information and income, which is crucial for deciding when you're ready to rent a space or hire additional staff. We share personal anecdotes about the importance of having insurance and the reality of dealing with employees and renters.
Additionally, we highlight the importance of online presence and branding. We discuss how platforms like Instagram and Facebook serve as modern portfolios that potential clients will check before booking services. Maintaining a professional online presence can significantly impact your business growth.
Towards the end, we discuss the importance of smart investing in your business, from purchasing supplies wisely to managing overhead costs. We also touch on the emotional aspects of running a business, including dealing with employee turnover and the challenges of maintaining a positive work environment.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of "Not Just Lashes: The Good, Bad, and Ugly." We hope our experiences and tips help you navigate the lash industry with greater confidence. Don't forget to follow, like, and leave a review. Share your own stories or questions with us!

We're talk about common mistakes that lash technicians make and how to avoid them. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, it's essential to stay updated and reminded of the best practices.
We kick off the episode discussing how even experienced lash techs can fall into bad habits. Dixie shares a personal story about how she realized she was removing lashes incorrectly because she got too comfortable with her technique. This led to a reminder that the Shannixie glue is strong and requires the pinch method for proper removal. We talk about our experiences and the importance of getting feedback, even if it’s from someone you know.
A significant part of the discussion revolves around client communication. Shannnique emphasizes the importance of sending text reminders to clients, which can help reduce no-shows and keep your schedule organized. Writing things down and having a clear view of your schedule is also highlighted as a crucial practice for staying on top of appointments.
We also delve into the technical side of lash application, starting with the placement of eyepads. Both hosts share their tips for dealing with different face shapes and sensitivities, including how to tape gauze to prevent movement and discomfort. The episode is filled with practical advice like checking the eyepads during appointments to ensure they haven't shifted, which can make a big difference in client comfort.
Another major topic is dealing with stickies—when lashes stick together. Dixie explains the importance of proper isolation and waiting for the glue to dry before moving on to the next lash. They discuss different glues and how choosing the right one can prevent stickies and improve retention. This is especially important for new lash artists who may need to start with slower-drying glues and gradually move to faster ones as they gain experience.
Shannique and Dixie stress the importance of customizing lash sets for each client. Understanding a client's natural lashes, eye shape, and personal preferences is crucial for creating a look that enhances their features without causing damage. Proper consultation is key, and they recommend taking extra time with new clients to ensure their expectations align with what’s achievable.
They also discuss the importance of having clean tools and multiple sets to avoid downtime between clients. The conversation touches on the emotional aspects of the job, like the anxiety of raising prices and how to handle it professionally. Both hosts share their experiences and advice on how to communicate price changes to clients effectively.
Towards the end of the episode, Shannique and Dixie talk about the importance of priming, washing, and sealing lashes. Not every client will need these steps, but knowing when and how to use them can significantly improve lash retention. They share anecdotes about clients with different needs and how they’ve adapted their techniques to ensure the best results.
Finally, they touch on the importance of proper pricing. Setting your prices too low can make it difficult to raise them later, so it's essential to start with a fair rate for your skill level and area. They recommend researching local prices and gradually increasing rates as your skills and client base grow.
We hope you found this episode informative and full of useful tips. Remember, every lash artist, no matter how experienced, can benefit from a refresher. Stay tuned for more episodes and don't forget to leave a review or reach out with any questions or topics you'd like us to cover.

Today, we're thrilled to have Ashley with us, who has been a part of Glam Spa for three years. In this episode, Ashley opens up about her unique path in the lash industry, from her early days at a Lash bar to achieving the milestone of going on rent at Glam Spa.
Ashley began her career at the young age of 16, working the front desk at a Lash bar. It was here that a coworker saw her potential and encouraged her to try lash artistry. Although hesitant at first, Ashley decided to give it a shot and eventually found her calling. She shares the struggles of attending cosmetology school during the pandemic, where much of her training was done online, making it difficult to learn hands-on skills.
Meeting Kelly in cosmetology school was a turning point for Ashley. Kelly's focus on nails and lashes inspired Ashley to consider specializing as an esthetician, a faster route than cosmetology. However, regulations at the time required cosmetologists to tint lashes, adding another layer of complexity to her journey.
Ashley delves into the importance of proper training and sanitation in the lash industry. She highlights the risks of going to unlicensed lash artists, particularly during the pandemic, when some clients sought services in less-than-ideal conditions.
One of the most inspiring parts of Ashley's story is her battle with Graves' disease, a condition that affects her hands. Despite the challenges of tremors and the need for steady hands, Ashley persevered through medication and practice, proving that determination can overcome even the toughest obstacles.
We also explore the ever-evolving trends in the lash industry, from wet sets to the clean girl aesthetic. Ashley emphasizes the need for lash artists to adapt to changing client preferences and continually learn new techniques. Her experimentation with different curls and styles has allowed her to stay ahead of trends and meet her clients' diverse needs.
The episode also touches on the stigma of age in the beauty industry. Ashley shares her experiences of clients doubting her abilities due to her youthful appearance and how she overcame these perceptions through confidence and skill.
Throughout the episode, Ashley's passion for lash artistry and her journey of growth and self-discovery shine through. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of a supportive work environment, and the value of continuous learning.
Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation filled with personal anecdotes, industry insights, and a celebration of overcoming challenges in pursuit of a dream career.

We are joined by Kelly, a talented lash artist from Glam Spa where we dive into the intricacies of the lash industry, sharing our personal journeys and the lessons learned along the way. We discuss the importance of attracting the right clientele, the nuances of working with different types of lashes, and the personal touch that sets our services apart.
Discussions:- Kelly’s Journey: Starting during COVID, Kelly transitioned from finance to becoming a passionate lash artist. Her story highlights the challenges and unexpected turns in her career path.- Client Relationships: The importance of building strong, respectful relationships with clients is emphasized, illustrating how personal connections can enhance business success.- Lash Techniques: From mastering volume lashes to understanding client needs, the conversation sheds light on technical skills and client care.- Speakeasy Nails: Kelly recounts a humorous tale of getting her nails done in a secretive, speakeasy-style during COVID restrictions, illustrating the lengths people will go to for beauty services.- Learning and Growing: Kelly shares her initial struggles with different lash techniques, her growth under Shannique’s mentorship, and the transition to running her own business.- Client Interactions: Stories about client interactions reveal the lighter side of the lash business, from dealing with unique client requests to navigating scheduling and personal preferences.
This episode of "Not Just Lashes" not only explores the technical side of lash extensions but also delves into the emotional and relational aspects of the beauty industry. We offer a candid look at the highs and lows of our careers, providing invaluable insights for both current and aspiring lash artists. Join us as they share more than just tips and techniques, but also the passion and personality that make our services unique.

We dive into the essential strategies for retaining clients in the beauty salon and lash industry. We explore how word-of-mouth marketing and social media can significantly boost client loyalty while sharing personal stories about their early days building a clientele from scratch.
Key Topics Covered:- Starting with Friends: Building a clientele often begins with friends and acquaintances who can spread the word and recommend your services.- The Power of Word-of-Mouth: Real-life examples of clients referring others and how offering a referral incentive can be a game-changer.- Social Media and Reviews: How social media serves as a portfolio to showcase your work and Yelp reviews help establish credibility.- Service Diversity and Convenience: Providing additional services like brow waxing and facials to offer clients a one-stop solution and increase retention.- Mutual Industry Support: Partnering with hairstylists, makeup artists, and other beauty professionals to exchange referrals and promote each other's businesses.- Walking Billboards: As a lash artist, you are your best advertisement, so showcase your own services through your appearance.- Constructive Criticism and Improvement: Embracing client feedback as a valuable tool to refine your craft and exceed expectations.- Consistent Client Check-ins: Checking in with clients a few days after their appointment to ensure satisfaction and encourage rebooking.- Passion and Persistence: Emphasizing the importance of staying persistent and learning from challenges to continuously improve retention strategies.
Join Shannique and Dixie as we share practical advice, relatable stories, and an empowering message: cultivating a loyal client base starts with passion, creativity, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service.

Welcome back to another episode of "Not Just Lashes: The Good, Bad, and Ugly," where your hosts, Shannique and Dixie, dive into the wild world of running a top-rated beauty salon in Los Angeles. Today, we're unpacking some of the most unforgettable stories from the ugly side of beauty service and running a salon.
They recount tales of unexpected challenges, including thefts by clients and the measures they've taken to secure their business. This episode is packed with actionable advice for current and future salon owners.
Topics:- The Great Granny Heist: Shannique shares a suprising tale about a seemingly sweet old lady who turned a routine appointment into a grand theft escapade, leaving behind nothing but her walker!- Implementing Security Measures: The hosts discuss the importance of surveillance systems and secure layouts to prevent theft.- Salon Scams Exposed: We discuss another shocking incident that's been making rounds in the lash community on social media, highlighting the unexpected challenges of salon management.  A client set an lash artist's car on fire!- Preventive Measures: From surveillance tips to client management strategies, learn how we've adapted our operations to prevent such incidents.
Tips:"It's not just about doing lashes and facials; sometimes, it's about dealing with unexpected heists right in your studio!" — Shannique"Always have your cameras rolling and maybe keep a closer eye on that retail area!" — Dixie
Don’t miss out on more behind-the-scenes stories and professional tips from the beauty industry. Follow us wherever you get your podcasts for the latest updates and content from "Not Just Lashes."
Thank you for tuning into "Not Just Lashes." Remember, it's not all about the glitz and glam; sometimes, things get a bit ugly, and we're here to share it all. See you next episode for more tales from the beauty salon front lines!