Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Mendoza.
Hi Erica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my lash journey in 2019. I was unhappy with the career path I had previously chosen, and my best friend, Gabby, had just taken a course on eyelash extensions. I’ve always been really girly, and I was really interested in lashes. So, one day I decided to enroll in a class to become certified. I really wasn’t sure where it would go, but I knew I loved it! I started off just lashing family members, then girls at school, and finally I got my first Instagram client. Since then, it’s mostly been word of mouth, and I cannot complain! I’m super thankful for each person who has allowed me to be their lash tech!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely been difficult, and I’m sure it will continue to be a difficult road. I have had some ups and some major downs since day one. I remember the first time I did lashes on my mannequin; I couldn’t see the natural lashes. I was just thinking, “Oh my gosh! What did I get myself into? What if I can’t do this and I’ve paid all this money!!” Of course, all it took was practice. I also was completing my hours during COVID. That pushed my certification back by months! It was very frustrating, and at one point I lost all of my clients after my maternity leave and COVID. I literally cried to my husband and told him that maybe it wasn’t meant for me. I almost gave up, but I decided to revamp my whole lash gram and my company name. I spent more time deciding what I wanted to do and how to go about it. Shortly after, the clients came back doubled or even tripled.
I have had moments where I wanted to give up, but I kept going because my husband and family kept rooting for me. They were so positive, and I’m so thankful they were (and still are) because this is truly what I enjoy doing!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At the moment, I am an eyelash extension tech. I work a full-time job as an elementary school teacher, but I am transitioning into working for myself full-time. With that being said, something that possibly sets me apart from others is my flexibility/hours. I work only in the evenings during the week (for now). I am honestly very proud of my brand because it’s something that I have created from scratch on my own. I’m not from the DFW area, I’ve only lived here for about 6 years, and I feel proud that people are actually getting to know my name. I am currently working on creating an online store as well where I plan to sell my lash trays for other artists, lash aftercare items, and possibly cosmetics such as lip-gloss. I will strive to find the best products, and they’ll definitely represent my girly side! I love to see everyone sparkle!
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I appreciate any support I can get; I like to tell others to just spread the word! You don’t even have to book, that’s not what’s it’s about, but maybe you have a friend, sister, or neighbor who might be interested. Share my socials, like a post, save it! Anything and everything helps!
Pricing:
- Classic Set $95
- Hybrid Set $115
- Volume Set $135
Contact Info:
- Website: Sparklelashbeauty.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/sparklelashstudio
- Facebook: Facebook.com/sparklelashstudio
