Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to MONIQUE SALAS. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
MONIQUE, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today To kick things off, we’d love to hear about things you or your brand do that diverge from the industry standard.
What sets my lash business apart is a commitment to providing an unparalleled learning experience. Unlike standard one or two-day courses, we offer a comprehensive range of lash courses, spanning from 1 to 5 days, designed to cater to each student’s unique needs and skill levels. Our approach is not just about teaching techniques; it’s about fostering growth and confidence. We stand out with a compassionate approach to training, where we empower women to overcome self-limiting beliefs that might hinder their journey. By the end of our courses, our students leave not only with a refined skill set but with newfound confidence and a burning desire to build their successful lash businesses. We believe in nurturing both the technical and personal aspects of our students’ growth, making our lash courses a transformative experience.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
When I first embarked on the journey of lash extensions, I was at a crossroads in life. As a mother, I had poured so much of myself into nurturing my family that I felt like I was losing sight of my own identity. It was a pivotal moment when I realized I needed an outlet for my pent-up creativity that had been yearning to surface. Diving into the world of lash extensions not only became that creative canvas for me but also became a lifeline during my battles with depression. The artistry and precision required in this craft allowed me to tap into my creative side, providing solace and purpose. Moreover, it opened doors to connect with like-minded women who valued their beauty and self-expression as much as I did.
However, what fills me with the greatest sense of pride is witnessing the success of my students. Being able to connect with them on a personal level and mentor them through the challenges of starting their own businesses has been immensely rewarding. Watching them take my advice to heart and overcome their obstacles is a source of immense satisfaction. Together, we’ve not only enhanced our skills but also forged a supportive community where we celebrate each other’s growth and individuality.
The world of lash extensions has been an incredible journey for me, one that unexpectedly led me to discover a profound passion for teaching. The intricate artistry and skill required in this field ignited a desire to share my knowledge with others. Stepping out of my comfort zone, I embraced the camera to create something truly exciting: my upcoming online course, set to launch on October 11th, 2023.
This course represents a culmination of my dedication to the craft and my enthusiasm for empowering others. Through the lens of that camera, I’ve poured my heart and soul into crafting a comprehensive learning experience that will enable aspiring lash artists to master their skills. It’s a momentous step for me, and I am thrilled to connect with students worldwide, guiding them on their journey to becoming skilled lash extension artists. This launch is not just about teaching a skill; it’s about sharing a passion that has profoundly impacted my life, and I can’t wait to see the transformations it sparks in others starting on October 11th, 2023.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
There was a time when I held an unwavering trust in people, especially in the world of business. I believed that a handshake or a verbal agreement was as binding as any contract, and that good intentions and a good heart would always prevail. However, I learned a harsh lesson that shattered this idealistic perspective.
It was a deal I had been excited about, a collaboration that seemed mutually beneficial. We shook hands, exchanged enthusiastic promises, and I went in with full faith that our shared vision would come to fruition. But as time passed, I began to realize that actions spoke louder than words. Despite the initial camaraderie, commitments were flimsy, deadlines were missed, and promises were broken.
It was then that the reality hit me hard – trust, while valuable, could cost you thousands of dollars if not backed by a solid contract. In the world of business, good intentions often take a backseat to profit motives, and my naivety had left me vulnerable. I had to unlearn the notion that everyone operates with the same integrity I held dear. It was a tough lesson, but it taught me the importance of paying attention to people’s actions and discerning their true intentions. In the end, it’s not about being cynical but about safeguarding your own interests and ensuring that agreements are not just verbal but legally binding.
Has your business ever had a near-death moment? Would you mind sharing the story?
Once upon a time, in the world of lash extensions and training, I learned a valuable lesson about the importance of having backup plans. It was a day that started like any other, with a lash training session scheduled at a facility owned by a woman I had collaborated with. However, this day would prove to be a test of adaptability and quick thinking.
As the morning sun began to rise, I arrived at the training venue, excited to share my knowledge with a group of over 10 eager students. But as the minutes ticked away, it became evident that something was amiss. The woman who owned the facility, responsible for opening up the space, was nowhere to be found. Panic began to set in as I frantically called her, my phone buzzing with unanswered calls.
Realizing that time was slipping away, I understood the need for a backup plan. With a sinking feeling in my stomach, I started searching for nearby locations that could serve as an alternative training site. In a race against the clock, I scoured the area and eventually stumbled upon a nearby hotel that had the space we needed.
Swiftly, I booked the hotel’s meeting room and sent out urgent messages to my students, redirecting them to the new location. It was a chaotic hour, but by the time the clock struck the scheduled class start time, we had regrouped in a new space, ready to embark on our lash training journey.
The unexpected turn of events could have derailed the entire day, but thanks to a well-executed backup plan and the resilience of my students, the training session went off without a hitch. This experience served as a powerful reminder that in the unpredictable world of business, relying solely on others can be risky. Having a contingency plan in place can make all the difference between chaos and a successful, seamless operation. From that day forward, I made sure to always have a backup plan, ensuring that I was prepared for any curveball that business might throw my way.
Contact Info:
- Website: TheOcLashFairyAcademy.Com
- Instagram: @TheOcLashFairy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theoclashfairy9277
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-oc-lash-fairy-santa-ana-2