We were lucky to catch up with Kellie Buckingham recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Kellie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
After closing my lash bar of 8 years during quarantine in 2020 I went back to lashing from a room in my house. From there I rented a room at a spa for just over a year and then decided to pursue my dream of finally opening a beauty school..
It was risky because I didn’t have any students or know how it would turn out, but I had faith it was the next step in my career and decided to take the leap and rent a location. I opened Lash Habit Academy in February of 2023. In October of 2025 we expanded to a larger location and have over 30 graduates to date!
Kellie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I have been a licensed esthetician for over 25 years. I started my own business doing hair and makeup for weddings and commercial shoots while working part time at a salon doing facials. I had a lash bar called Lash Habit from 2013-2020. In 2023 I opened a hybrid, self-paced cosmetology school , Lash Habit Academy, offering Esthetician and Lash Specialty licensing courses. I also offer mini refresher courses to the public as well as skin treatments.
I wanted to create a school that offered a schedule that worked for busy people that already have a lot on their plate that otherwise may not be able to attend.
We offer a fun, drama free learning environment and are told often by students, they wish they could still come after graduation.
Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?
I saved some from client services I did. I started slow by renting a small space that I could handle financially until I started getting students. I didn’t hire additional instructors until I had enough students to support the expense.
I believe in starting small and taking baby steps. Going too big. Too fast can lead to a business failing.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
You must know your target audience and who you are speaking to. Create content that appeals to that audience. Post consistently or hire someone if you aren’t skilled in this area or don’t have the time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.lashhabit.com
- Instagram: @lashhabittx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/186StHrQBP/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: @lashhabitacademy
Image Credits
Goddess glow photography