We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melanie Mendez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melanie below.

Melanie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. 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?

Absolutely—I am much happier as a business owner than I ever was working a “regular job.” My first post-collegiate position was as a marketing specialist in the medical aesthetics industry. As a creative individual with a passion for aesthetics, I was sure that this would be a fulfilling journey; however, I found pretty early on that it was quite the opposite. I didn’t enjoy having limited creative freedom, and the superficiality of it all became a bit toxic.

I’ve always known that, eventually, I would leave the traditional workforce and do my own thing, but it wasn’t until the pandemic hit that I finally figured out what “my own thing” was. Upon discovering a strong interest in the world of eyelash artistry, I promptly left my nine-to-five, enrolled in an Esthetics program, and took my first lash training. That is where Muse was born. I began working harder than ever—taking more trainings to advance my artistry, building my portfolio, becoming an expert in digital marketing and content creation, the list goes on—and although I work even longer hours now as the one-woman-show that I am, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I get to do what I’m absolutely obsessed with while empowering others; what’s more rewarding than that?

Melanie, 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?

Muse is a Cleveland-based lash studio that specializes in eyelash extension artistry. As the artist and service provider behind it, my biggest priority is to give my clients a lash experience like no other. From the heavenly ambience felt upon entering the studio, to the complimentary aftercare kit each new client receives, I pride myself in providing luxury services that set a new standard for even the most seasoned of lash lovers.

Lash extensions are not one-size-fits-all, so it is extremely important that each set is tailored to fit and flatter each client’s unique features. A thorough and collaborative consultation takes place at the start of every session to ensure that everybody is on the same page before any extensions are applied; the application process is completed with the prioritization of maintaining natural lash health and with an extreme careful attention to detail; and once the results are revealed, the set is analyzed for any tweaks that may need to be implemented so that the client is able to leave with the ~perfect~ lash set for their eyes, specifically.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

High quality work, professionalism, and client education! I have heard countless horror stories from clients who have had less-than-pleasant lash experiences in the past, so I make it my mission to completely turn that around for them, and to give anyone entirely new to lashes an experience that sets the bar high. This means delivering beautiful results that last, fostering an environment in which they know they are in good hands, setting them up for success by giving them the tools and information they need to care for their lashes in between sessions, and keeping a line of communication open should they ever have any questions or concerns.

I never want anyone’s experience at Muse to feel merely transactional. It is so important to me that each client feels heard and cared for; that they leave satisfied with their service, their knowledge of that service, and their understanding of aftercare; and that they’re comfortable enough to reach out if they need to!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I first became an esthetician, I made the mistake of offering a wide range of services. Apart from lash extensions, I provided lash lifts and tints, brow laminations, facials, and waxing. At the time, I thought that obtaining the license meant that I should offer every single service within the scope of esthetics. I quickly learned, however, that A) lash extensions were the only thing that truly sparked joy for me, and B) becoming a specialist would garner more trust and loyalty from clients. So, I removed everything except lash extensions from my service menu. It wasn’t the easiest decision to make, but I’m very happy that I did it as early on as I did! Instead of trying to be good at a bunch of different things and most likely falling short on at least a few of them, I am now able to provide a lash service that is as good and as specialized as it gets.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.museartistry.co/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/museartistryco/