Today we’d like to introduce you to Karelly.
Hi Karelly, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always known I wanted to be in the beauty industry. I actually started with makeup, but eventually I felt pulled toward lashes. During COVID in 2019, when everything slowed down and we suddenly had all this extra time, I decided to take a leap and go to school for lashing. I figured if not now, then when?
Starting out was both exciting and intimidating. I had already told friends and family that I was going to become a lash artist, so in my mind, there was no turning back. At the time — and still today — I work full-time in Human Resources, so building my business meant early mornings, late evenings, and long days in between. I would see clients before or after work, and then do it all over again the next day. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined.
I practiced constantly, invested in continued education, and made sure every client who sat in my chair received my absolute best. As my clientele grew, I moved into a private suite and continued balancing my career in HR with entrepreneurship. What started as something I took a chance on slowly turned into something much bigger.
Fast forward to today — the very place where I once leased a suite is now fully remodeled and operating as my own salon, KBS Beauty Lounge. We celebrated our grand opening in November, and becoming a salon owner while still working full-time has been one of my proudest accomplishments.
When I first told people I wanted to be a lash artist, some laughed. Now those same people ask me how I did it or say I’m lucky. But this wasn’t luck. It was discipline, long days, late nights, and faith. I truly believe you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. If you want something, go after it. The only thing standing in your way is yourself — and with God by your side, anything is possible
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?
Nothing about this journey has been easy. There were times I cried and asked God to give me the strength to keep going. I’ve been tested in many ways, and there were moments when I questioned whether I could continue.
One of the biggest challenges was doing everything on my own. I didn’t take out loans or have outside financial support. Every class, every supply, and even the remodel of my salon came out of my own pocket. That meant I had no choice but to continue working full-time. For me, not working wasn’t an option. I have to provide for myself, so I couldn’t take the risk of walking away from stability.
Balancing a full-time career while building my business was exhausting. Some people have the flexibility to focus only on school or entrepreneurship, but that wasn’t my reality.
Now that I have a successful business, knowing how much work and sacrifice went into it makes it that much more meaningful. Every early morning, every late night, every tear — it was all worth it. Because I know exactly what it took to get here.
The road hasn’t been smooth, but every challenge strengthened me. It shaped my discipline, my mindset, and my resilience — and I wouldn’t change that part of the journey for anything.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a lash artist specializing in Volume eyelash extensions. I focus on creating full, customized sets. I take pride in delivering high-quality results..
One of the things I’m most proud of is that I’ve taken the time to really educate myself, and now I’m able to mentor other lash artists and offer educated lashing courses. Being able to help other people grow in this industry is something that means a lot to me.
What sets me apart is the effort and intention I put into what I do. I genuinely care about my clients, their results, and their overall experience.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The best way to connect with me is through Instagram. That’s where I share my work, updates, and information. Whether you’re looking to book an appointment, take one of my continued education courses, collaborate, or simply support my journey, you can find everything there.
I’m always open to connecting with other artists, brands, and individuals who align with my vision and values.
Pricing:
- Classic Lashes $100
- Hybrid Lashes $115
- Volume Lashes $120
- Mega Volume- $130
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/1aS6CgJ8mlTLR4MtNf9I4Zp66?domain=instagram.com
