Today we’d like to introduce you to Toni Brown.
Toni, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’m a 20-year-old professional lash artist. I started my company in 2017, a freshman in college, doing Individual lashes, out my dorm room, charging $10-$15. I noticed my work was actually good and I wanted to take it further.
As my clientele grew, I eventually was expelled from school in April 2018, right before finals and failed all my classes.
Due to that, I knew that if I took a lash class, I could make my mom proud of me again. I had the ambition, I had the talent, I just needed to win, but only for her.
— My mom plays a huge part in my success, I’m doing it all for her. When I lost my Dad in 2001, leaving her with me and my sisters, Renita and Tia, she moved us somewhere where we had a better chance. For that, we all work hard to repay her for her hard work. —
I started working at Volkswagen in May 2018, as a receptionist, with a plan. The plan was five months and I’m out! Within my first month, I paid for my first lash class on May 24. My last four months, I managed to obtain 4 months worth of lash supplies, & save $1,500 for booth rent fees to start me off.
By October 1st, I was a full-time lash tech, on the south side of Atlanta, I was able to market and brand myself in better ways I had ever imagined. I created a name for myself so soon, I was amazed by my progress and by then I knew I was headed in the right direction.
Fast forwarding to now, I’m one year into doing Eyelash Extensions, working at a celebrity lash bar, LashTyp! I’m getting more for my work now and the feeling is amazing. I thank God every day, that he never took the spark out of me. I’m going hard for a reason!!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Whew, Chile! In the first year, it’s best to know to already know, you’ll make money but the money goes right back in your business. It’s best to make at least two streams of income if you’re doing services, selling products related to your services, will help you maintain a steady income for both you and business.
Maintaining a clear mind always encouraging yourself is important too. When business is slow, how you pick it up, shows the hustler in you!
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I specialize in Eyelash Extensions. I’ve received three certifications to further my knowledge in my career. I teach classes, offer wholesale programs & sell lash supplies as well as mink strips! The thing I’m most proud of is how far my business has come, it has changed me as a better woman every day. I think what sets me apart is the grind. You have to love what you’re doing to keep doing it. I plan to start Esthetician school to continue to further my career in the beauty industry!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mom, my big sisters Renita and Tia, My stepdad! My best friends Shawnie, Dajia and Bre. And my Guardian Angels Daddy and Austin. These are my go-to’s when things get hard, I can call on them. They give me the best advice and support me every step!
Pricing:
- Lash Services: $100-$150
- Lash classes: $400
Contact Info:
- Website: lashenvyco.as.me
- Phone: 678-820-9446
- Email: shoplaahenvyco@gmail.com
- Instagram: @shoplashenvy
Image Credit:
Shotbykid
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
