Check Out Grace Erickson’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Grace Erickson

Hi Grace, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?

I grew up in a small North Dakota town, where independence wasn’t just the goal—it was a necessity. Hard work was the expectation, conformity was the norm, and standing out wasn’t usually celebrated. Maybe thats why I’ve always been drawn to people who feel like they don’t quite fit in. I know what it’s like to feel out of place, to question where you belong, and that’s what pushed me toward a career where I could help others step into their confidence.

I struggled with severe cystic acne from a young age, and it wasnt just physically painful—it left scars in more ways than one. I remember staring in the mirror, wishing I could hide. Doctors would prescribe any and everything and then dismiss me when it wouldn’t work, and I had no idea estheticians even existed. One day I thought, if I can’t control this, why am I letting it control me? That shift in mindset changed everything. It sparked a deep curiosity about skin, self-perception, and what it really means to feel confident. That was the first time I understood the power of transformation—not just on the outside, but internally too.

That drive to show up for people and create real change followed me into my career. After earning my associate’s degree, I moved to Denver to attend the Aveda Institue’s Esthetics program, where I pushed myself to graduate at the top of my class. It was there that I fell in love with lashes and later, custom jewelry—two art forms that celebrate self-expression. At 22, I opened Erickson Esthetics, but the spaces I worked in never truly felt like mine. In 2020, I took the leap to go fully independent—and two weeks later the world shut down. Like so many small business owners, I was terrified. But I adapted. I leaned into creativity, and learned that true tenacity isn’t about pushing through when things are easy, it’s about showing up when everything feels like it’s falling apart.

In 2023, I rebranded to The Rebel Collective to fully own my identity and encourage others to do the same. This wasn’t just about business, this leap was about building a movement where individuality isn’t just accepted, it is celebrated, because self-expression isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

To me, success isn’t just about numbers. It’s about integrity and genuine connection. I once had a client come to me feeling frustrated and overlooked after a series of disappointing experiences elsewhere. Her previous artist had last-minute cancellations and inconsistent service, leaving her unsure of where to turn. Seeing her frustration and the damage to her natural lashes reinforced why prioritizing care and integrity matters so much in this industry. Lashing isn’t just about the application, it’s about building trust and making sure every client feels valued and taken care of.

The Rebel Collective isn’t just about beauty. It’s about freedom. The freedom to take up space, to show the world exactly who you are—without apology. To me, that’s true beauty.

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?

Starting Erickson Esthetics at 22 was equal parts thrilling and terrifying. I quickly learned that running a small business isn’t for the faint of heart. Imposter syndrome was loud (and still can be), and there were days I questioned whether I had what it took to succeed. Then the pandemic hit, and I had to pivot in ways I never saw coming. With resources suddenly limited, I focused on what I could control—honing in my skills, strengthening my marketing, and building deeper connections with my community online.

Even now, running The Rebel Collective comes with its own challenges. Living with POTS means I have to be mindful of my limits—pushing too hard can lead to burnout or flare-ups that force me to slow down. Balancing creativity with the realities of running a business isn’t always easy, but I’ve learned to work with my body instead of against it. Some days require flexibility, others require sheer grit, but every challenge has shaped me into a stronger artist and entrepreneur.

The road hasn’t been smooth, but that’s the beauty of it. Growth happens in the hard moments, and if there’s one thing I know for sure—it’s that I’ll always find a way forward

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

At The Rebel Collective, I specialize in customized lash extensions and permanent jewelry, two art forms that allow my clients to express themselves in ways that feel authentic and meaningful . I’m known for taking the time to get to know every person who walks through my door, allowing me to create personalized looks and designs that truly reflect who they are. I’m most proud that whether it’s creating a piece of jewelry that tells their story or properly designing and mapping out a lash set, it leaves that person feeling empowered to embrace their unique beauty. My goal is to always enhance, not mask. I’m dedicated to continuing education to ensure I’m always bringing my clients the newest and most advanced techniques available today. What sets The Rebel Collective apart from others is our unrelenting dedication to quality, connection, and individuality.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?

Since I work solo, I’ve got a few solid resources I turn to when I need a second opinion. My Lash Two Braincells (LightHeart Lash) by Maddie Morris is always a good listen—informative, but with the kind of humor that keeps things from feeling too serious. I also revisit eBooks from Lanna Lashes when I need a refresher, and I know I can count on fellow artists like Fayth Hand for honest feedback when I need it.

When it comes to jewelry, my biggest influence has been my mom. She’s the founder of Viridian, LLC and has spent over a decade mastering her craft as a silversmith. Her knowledge is something I couldn’t replace if I tried, but more than that, her support has given me the confidence to carve my own path in the industry.

And if we’re talking non-work obsessions—give me true crime, paranormal mysteries, or anything with a creepy, unexplained twist. The weirder, the better

Contact Info:

• Website: https://therebelcollective.square.site/
• Instagram: @therebelcollectiveco
• Other: hi@therebelcollectiveco.com

Image Credits
Jordan Hutchison