Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Gonzalez.
Hi Michelle, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began my journey in the lash industry in 2017. At the time, I was 21 years old, a new mom, and working six days a week at a nail salon. I had already been doing nails for about four years, but I was beginning to realize that it was no longer something I truly enjoyed. More than anything, I wanted the freedom to create my own schedule so I could be more present for my daughter while still building a career of my own.
Originally, I planned to offer nail services independently. A close friend of mine, who was already a lash artist, invited me to rent a space with her. She would offer lashes, and I would do nails. However, the owners of the space were concerned that the smell from the nail products might bother the other renters. That was when my friend said, “Why don’t you just do lashes with me?”
She introduced me to lashing and taught me the basics. In the beginning, I practiced whenever I could and often provided services for free so I could improve my skills. At the same time, I continued working part time at the nail salon. Eventually, I returned to beauty school, earned my aesthetician license, and began working independently as a lash artist. In 2019, I was able to take the leap and pursue my lash business full time.
Since then, I have learned so much, but not only about lashes, but also about myself, running a business, and providing excellent care and experiences for my clients. The journey has not always been easy, but it has absolutely been worth it.
Today, I am a mother of two and have the freedom to create my own schedule, serve clients I truly appreciate, and maintain a healthy balance between my work and my family. What began as an unexpected opportunity became one of the greatest blessings in my life. I truly feel that I was meant to become a lash artist!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not, the road wasn’t always easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I have faced several challenges throughout my journey. One of the biggest was learning to recognize and confidently communicate the value of my work. In the beginning, I often felt that I had to prove my worth, which sometimes led me to undercharge, overextend myself, or try too hard to please everyone.
Learning that I could provide excellent customer care while still setting healthy boundaries was an important part of my growth. I had to understand that saying no, protecting my time, and creating policies did not make me unkind or unappreciative. It allowed me to operate a healthier and more sustainable business.
Finding a true balance between work and motherhood has also been an ongoing learning experience. Creating my own schedule gives me flexibility, but running a business can easily follow you home if you allow it to. I have had to become intentional about making time for my clients, my family, and myself.
Another challenge has been learning how to scale my business beyond simply taking more appointments. As a service provider, there are only so many hours in a day, so I am continuing to explore ways to grow without sacrificing the quality of my work or the balance I worked so hard to create. Every challenge has taught me to trust myself, value what I bring to the table, and keep growing both personally and professionally.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I do it all when it comes to lashing!
I provide, classic lashes, hybrid lashes, volume lashes and mega volume lashes.
I specialize in all of those. I love that I can create anything my clients are needing. That is what makes me so proud that I have invested my education and skills for my clients so they can have beautiful lasting lashes.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice to anyone just starting out is to be patient with yourself and stay consistent. Building your skills, confidence, and clientele takes time, so do not compare the beginning of your journey to someone else’s years of experience. Every appointment is an opportunity to learn and improve.
I also wish I had understood the importance of knowing my worth earlier. You can be kind, caring, and provide an amazing experience without undercharging, overworking yourself, or saying yes to everything. Set clear policies and healthy boundaries from the beginning. They protect both you and your business.
Most importantly, believe in yourself even when progress feels slow. Continue investing in your education, provide genuine care to your clients, and do not be afraid to make mistakes. Some of my greatest lessons came from moments when things did not go as planned. If you remain passionate, willing to learn, and committed to your goals, all of the small steps will eventually become something you can be truly proud of.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://michellegonzalez6.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellee_blossom/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AiQPEQqQB/
