Becoming a lash artist is a big decision. Since lash extensions require additional training, you may be hesitant about spending extra time – and money – on learning a new skill, especially if you’ve recently graduated from a beauty program. To help you decide the next step in your career, we interviewed Mallorie Melvin, a lash artist and trainer based in Southern Illinois, to learn more about her journey to becoming a lash artist.

Related: Why I Became A NovaLash Artist

Should You Take Lash Extension Training?

Mallorie’s first encounter with lash extensions was during her esthetics internship, where she worked with a NovaLash-certified lash artist. After seeing the immediate, gorgeous, and long-lasting results of NovaLash extensions (and learning more about the booming lash extension industry) Mallorie decided to pursue her own lash extension certification with NovaLash. Once Mallorie graduated from esthetic school in July 2017, she signed up for NovaLash’s classic training in October of that same year – and she’s been hooked ever since.

What To Do After You Become A Certified Lash Artist

Before you start to charge for your services, it’s important to practice, practice, practice. Mallorie says she waited until she was comfortable with her work before she began to apply lash extensions professionally. If you wait until you can apply a clean, healthy set within 2 hours, you’ll have much more momentum and confidence as you start to your professional career.

How To Get A Job As A Lash Artist

Once you become a certified lash artist, you’ll have the freedom to open your own business or work as a member of a spa, salon, or other beauty organization. When Mallorie first became certified, she worked at a spa specializing in skin care, where she was able to offer her unique services as the only lash artist on site. After about a year, she found a job at a larger salon where she now works alongside four other NovaLash-certified lash artists. When it comes to finding a job (or starting your own business), Mallorie says that staying passionate and educating your boss or potential clients can help you get your career off to a good start.

Read more: Starting Your Own Lash Business vs. Working In A Salon

How To Grow Your Lash Extension Clientele

Every new lash artist shares one similar concern: how will I grow my clientele? Mallorie’s biggest piece of advice? Don’t stress too much! Once she became certified, she spent a lot of time worrying. She was constantly stressed about her sets not being as perfect as others, not building a clientele fast enough, or getting her name out there. Looking back, she realizes all of that takes time. Building a solid book of business doesn’t happen overnight, so give yourself some grace as you establish your career. While you’re getting started, Mallorie shared actionable few ways you can work towards building up your client list:

• Practice as much as you can. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become, and the better service you can provide to your clients.
• Get social! Nowadays, everyone wants to see your work. Being active on social media can help you attract new clients and maintain relationships with current customers.
• With social in mind, take pictures! Remember to include your workspace – prospective clients love to see where their appointment will take place.
• Consider a referral program to build business through word of mouth. For example, you might give a client $5-$10 off their service for every new client they refer.

Becoming a lash artist can give you control over a career you love, give you financial independence, and be the first step towards joining a community of close-knit entrepreneurs. Not sure if becoming a lash artist is right for you? Take Mallorie’s advice: “Just do it! You just might fall in love with it and find your passion.”

Special thanks to Mallorie Melvin for providing NovaLash with this exclusive interview!

Mallorie Melvin

• Genesis Salon and Spa
• Location: Marion, Illinois
• Instagram & Facebook: @Estheticsbymallorie