Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Demi Gilmore. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Demi , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?
I think to be happy means to feel at ease, and most business owners likely never feel at ease. It’s always something that’s changing, or something that can be better I mean I could be saying that from the mindset of a perfectionist, but business owners are creatives and I like to think we are like artists. We create something then present it to the world and are compensated for it. What most people don’t realize is that when you present something to the world that thing has been made up and broken down many times before it’s even presented. It’s like a potter and his clay. It’s a beautiful process looking back, but whew, it’s a lot of emotions when building. There were a lot of restless nights that went into building my business, a lot of times when I wanted to give up, a lot of times where I laughed with my clients until my stomach ached, times where a lash appointment quickly became a moment of sisterhood, there were a lot of times where I messed up and had to apologize and take harsh criticism. I went through every emotion and that’s why I love it so much, I don’t know that I would say that I’m happy, because I’m never at ease, and honestly, I don’t think happiness was ever the goal. I just couldn’t help but to create something. There aren’t many still moments, but I will say that I am so proud of myself. All the pushback and hardships I endured made me so strong and resilient. I’m so proud of who I have become, and who God has allowed me to be. I am so proud of what he has allowed me to create. My hands are so full these days, but so is my heart.
There were a few times when I had to get a job to support my business, because business was slow and those seasons taught me one thing repeatedly, I definitely was not meant to work a 9 to 5. and in the humblest way, I was overqualified for the positions I was filling and the pay I was receiving. I remember working at a retail shop 6am to 10am then taking clients immediately after. Every task I was given I would finish it quickly and with precision. I knew how to make a sale and be personal able and work with excellency, but I was never satisfied in those spaces. I knew it was temporary, but it was so uncomfortable. One thing I know for sure is that I never want to be comfortable, there is no growth in comfort. I mean no one necessarily wants to be uncomfortable, but I find joy in knowing that something new is coming, something is changing. I keep my mind on what’s coming and preparing for it rather than focusing on what’s currently uncomfortable.
Demi , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
The last time I was here I introduced myself as a lash technician, but this time I get to introduce myself in my new role, Lash technician and instructor, salon manager and business mentor. It feel’s good to be able to say that I finally became the person I felt like I could be eventually. I got into lash extensions by being an addict at one point myself, once I realized the demand in the lash industry, I quickly believed that I could become a part of it. As I have gotten more “settled” in the lash business and familiar with what it takes to be successful in it, I can confidently say that this is not for those who are afraid to fail and it’s definitely not for those who are afraid to take criticism and sometimes harsh feedback. Like I said earlier this industry is like art, but it is business also, so you have to be able to present your work to the masses and be able to take the criticism. Discipline has kept me in a space of readiness and confidence; I prioritize excellence in my skill and my well-being. Whether that be going to the gym, journaling, spending time with God, or sharing special moments with the people that I love, I always try to take the time to get poured into, positively, and so when I pour out, through my work, my clients or anyone who I pour into get the best of what I have to offer.
What set’s me apart from the rest is that I am not afraid to fail. In fact, fear is exactly what motivates me to move forward. It sounds so crazy and bold, but I realized long ago that some of my best moments, my biggest opportunities sat on the other side of fear. All it takes sometimes is faith the size of a mustard seed. I feel like we can sometimes get in our own way of experiencing something new because of how we feel in a moment. If I would have allowed my fear of failure to hold me back, I would have never had the amazing opportunities I have had, I would have never had some of the most life changing conversations, I would have never known the woman I am today. I have so much courage and confidence and boldness, I love that about myself.
I am mostly proud of how my life has drastically changed in the last two months. Living life with Jesus has been life changing and there is so much to say on this topic specifically, I wouldn’t even know where to begin or end because the blessings I have been given seem to be endless, however in doing so I had to let go of a lot of things that I knew were holding me back and I was crushed when the reality of it all sank in. I decided to follow God fully and completely. I was so lonely and unsure of what was ahead, for my personal life, for my business, for a lot of different areas in my life but my sadness didn’t last too long before I was given a glance into what else could’ve been waiting for me on the other side of my obedience.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Maintaining a team means that every voice is heard and acknowledged. I believe in togetherness and community, and if one member isn’t performing as well then there needs to be a check in. Everyone has bad days and is deserving of grace, when you are a part of a team, a collective it is important to spot the need of your teammate and try the best you can to fulfill it. I believe we are stronger together, and we all bring essential factors to the table. It is important that no one is excluded. Maintaining a high morale is upholding integrity and honesty at all times. Others will know that you are trustworthy and that’s very important while being a business owner. Listen to the feedback of those who love your craft and invest in your material and always be truthful.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy I have for growing clientele is being personable. Now me personally, I get very frustrated when someone is trying to sell me something and I know they are just making casual conversation just because they want to get paid, but when you have a personable personality, you can click with anyone, genuinely, without it coming off as your trying to get something from them. Being able to have and maintain a conversation is so effective. Ask people questions, get to know them, for who they truly are. A lot of people have some incredible stories they are waiting to share but have just never gotten the opportunity to express. It feels good to be able to connect with others, we are a lot more alike than we may seem.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Demilashmpls
Image Credits
Samantha Leann Photography