Check Out Ashley Blanton’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Blanton. 

Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
My passion for the beauty industry goes deeper than what is on the outside. I believe that when you look good you feel good. Growing up I was always so insecure about my pale skin, freckles, blonde eyelashes, and blonde eyebrows, unfortunately, I let bullies determine what “beautiful” looked like in my head. As I got older, I fell in love with makeup and even started to dye my hair. It was so fun trying new things and altering my look. I eventually enrolled in esthetics school At the Aveda Institute of Denver in February of 2013. I landed my first job doing professional makeup and skincare shortly after graduation. Being that my professional journey started with Aveda, I learned so much about how to naturally and holistically look and feel better. As my life started to get busier and busier, I decided to try out lash extensions and I was immediately hooked. Even with makeup and skincare I was still always wishing my lashes were longer and darker, so this was a godsend for me. I started to feel so confident without any makeup on for the first time in my life. I immediately thought, ok I need to learn how to do this so I can help others this way. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Definitely was not smooth sailing. I think the main reason I am where I am today is all of the people and mentors I have met along the way. I have worked with some amazing women who have taught me so much. I had this idea before beauty school that I would have to compete with other beauty pros to make it but in my almost decade of time in this industry, I have learned that was a lie. This idea I had was based on insecurity and fear. I never would have dreamed that owning a business would happen for me but I am now 5 years into my business and am more grateful than ever. The best thing I ever learned was that not every person is going to be your client, attract the right clients with the right expectations and no one will be disappointed. There is a service provider out there for everyone, don’t get discouraged if a client wants a specific service or technique you don’t offer. Get to know other providers in your area and refer them out. The client will appreciate your honestly and this will open up more room for clients looking for the exact services and techniques you offer. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a licensed esthetician and 5-time certified lash artist. I specialize in eyelash extensions, eyelash lifts (lash perm) eyebrow shaping, and lamination (brow perm). My main focus is keeping the integrity of your natural eyelashes and eyebrows. The most common misconceptions with eyelash extensions is that they damage your natural eyelashes. I am here to change that stigma. When you follow all proper aftercare and go to a certified and licensed professional you should be able to receive lash services indefinitely without compromising the health of your natural eyelashes and eyebrows. 

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Communicate so much with your client. I often feel like I over-communicate but I want to make sure my client knows what they are investing in. These beauty services are a luxury for most and if they are paying you for something they should know exactly what they are getting. They can google a picture of what they want but it may not be feasible for them. Tell them what it will look like on them and set the right expectations. They will trust your professional advice and appreciate your honestly. Don’t just take their money and have them be disappointed, you probably won’t see them again. 

Pricing:

• Full Set of Eyelash extensions $200-$350
• Lash Lift + Tint $95
• Eyebrow Lamination + Tint $85

Contact Info:

• Email: ashleycolebeauty@gmail.com
• Website: www.ashleycolebeauty.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley_cole_beauty/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleycolebeauty

Image Credits:
@roadhoghoney
@tayaklein
@emilysnakehole