We recently connected with Christina Passanise and have shared our conversation below.

Christina, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

Just like anyone who’s started out in an industry, I had the opportunity to work for many companies as an employee. During that time I learned everything about what I liked about being an employee, what I didn’t and who I wanted to be as an employer and business owner.

There was a time when I had been renting a little suite during a tough time in my life and I was ready to relieve myself of the stress and pressure of that responsibility and just work for someone again. I found an amazing salon where I could do just that and it was just what I needed at that time in my life.

After about 5 years I realized that it’s just in my nature to lead, to innovate, and teach others. Fully coming to that realization mixed with the right timing and experience brought me to where I am today.

Christina, 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?

I am the owner and founder of Wink iBoutique Lash & Brow Bar in Town & Country Missouri. We specialize in the latest trends in the beauty industry such as lash extensions, lash lifts, microblading, brow lamination, powder brows, and amazing facial treatments. Our services help women to simplify their daily routines for a “wake up and go” look. These types of treatments help women feel beautiful and have more time for the things that matter in their life. Our team of Licensed Estheticians are big on continued education and offering the best of the best for our clients. We as a team love this industry and helping people. That’s at the core of everything we do!

We’ve come such a long way as a growing company and I’m most proud of my team and how hard they have worked to master their art and offer their guests the best experience possible.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building a reputation on social media truly began from putting in the time and building a reputation in real life first. I found that my audience started with a strong base of loyal clients, local businesses and friends who continuously supported my business by sharing our work and reposting our media. The best advice I have for any growing business using social media is to show your audience what they want to see and be authentic. You don’t have to follow every social media trend to gain recognition.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I’m always looking to expand my knowledge base and learn new skills. Having already obtained my tattoo license and harnessing over 15 years of facial tattooing experience, I dove into learning body art over the past couple of years. Thanks to a fabulous mentor who has been tattooing for over 20 years, lots of continuing education and hands on experience I added Fine Line Tattooing to my repertoire. It’s likely the most challenging skill I’ve acquired but, I am so in love with the art and all of the wonderful people I meet along the way. My Fine Line Tattoo business has grown to a point where I will definitely have amazing plans that will be unveiled in 2023! My business is ever evolving and that’s what I love most about it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.winkstl.com
• Instagram: @winkiboutique
• Facebook: @winkstl
• Other: @browandlashqueen_stl