Hollywood Dreams: How I Kickstarted My Lash Business Adventure
Are you considering enrolling in an eyelash extension training course and embarking on your lash business journey? Have you ever dreamt of being your own boss? It may seem daunting and scary, but trust me, I've been there too! The comfort zone can be so tempting, cozy, and safe. It's easy to hesitate when faced with change and personal growth. Let me share my own lash journey with you.
When Hollywood Beckoned: Lash Adventures in LA
A little while ago, I relocated to the other side of the world with my husband and kids. We were eager to settle into our exciting new adventure in Los Angeles, California. I found myself among a group of school mums who would gather at one of their homes every third Monday to get their eyelashes done together. And let me tell you, I was instantly hooked! Actually, "addicted" is a more accurate term. I was amazed by how those tiny magical fibers of happiness boosted my confidence. As my addiction to lash extensions grew, I began to contemplate adding this skill to my makeup business, which I hadn't yet started in my new country.
Overcoming Fears: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Over the next few months, I kept coming up with countless reasons why I couldn't pursue lash extensions. I observed the LA mums, who were quite different from my laid-back Aussie friends, scrutinising our eyelash technician's work. They pointed out missed extensions in the outer corners, extensions that were drooping or positioned too high—it seemed like there was always something to nitpick. And amidst their diva antics, I convinced myself that I could never handle doing eyelash extensions. But then, on one perfect sunny day in Southern California, I had a moment—a BIG moment.
I thought to myself, what if this incredible American adventure, just 20 minutes away from the dazzling lights of Hollywood, ended tomorrow? Would I happily return to my bridal makeup business in Sydney? Could I go back to doing the same thing after an overseas journey without acquiring any new skills? Would I regret not even trying to break into the competitive makeup industry in Hollywood? Would I be content knowing I didn't attend a single course or pursue further education? Oh my goodness, NO WAY!
Journeying to Lash Mastery: Let's Begin!
That's when my entire mindset shifted. I decided it was time to believe in myself. Of course, I could do eyelash extensions! For 18 years, I had worked with brides, dealing with hundreds of them on their most emotionally charged day—their wedding day. I cherished my wedding business so much that I shed tears when I had to give it up to support my husband's career and move to LA. I CAN do this! I WILL do this!!
So, I enrolled in my first lash training course, and the rest, as they say, is history. It all began with lashing a school mum, who told a friend, who told an actress, who informed her beauty editor friend, who shared with a director, who mentioned it to a billionaire. Yes, you heard that right—it's all true.
Beyond the Red Carpet: Unforgettable Encounters in Tinseltown
I have now worked on movie sets in Hollywood, signed confidentiality agreements with some of my billionaire clients, walked the red carpet with Priscilla Presley, spent quality time with Pamela Anderson, had a laugh with Tabatha from Bewitched (although she wouldn't wiggle her nose for me), and engaged in lovely conversations with the kind-hearted and stunning AnnaLynne McCord from Beverly Hills 90210.
I have a treasure trove of amazing career highlights—all because I changed the way I thought. I pushed myself way beyond my comfort zone, despite feeling uncomfortable, nervous, and stressed. Was it easy? Hell no! Oops, sorry, my American friends would prefer I say "heck no!" But was it worth it? Absolutely!! A resounding YES!
Bridging Continents: Bringing Lash Skills Back to Sydney
After five extraordinary years in LA, I returned to Sydney with my family, launched my own lash business in the inner west, and established La Lash Academy—an academy where I get to be the mentor and personal cheerleader for incredible students, each with their own stories and lash business journeys.
And here I am once again, way out of my comfort zone... How? Because you've just read my very first blog post! This was another thing I convinced myself I couldn't do for the longest time. Change your thinking, and you'll change your world!
From Dreams to Reality: Kickstart Your Lash Business Adventure Today
If I can assist you on your lash journey, don't hesitate to email me at michelle@lalash.com.au. Whether you're looking to start your own lash business, are new to lashing, have unanswered lash questions piling up, or need in-depth training on specific lash topics, I offer a Power Hour on Zoom. We can train together, and I'll help you with whatever lashing challenges you may face, no matter where you reside.If you'd like to join my warm and positive mentoring group, where you can find answers to all your eyelash extension questions, you can follow my facebook page Michelle Rowland La Lash Academy.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story!
Michelle xx