Today we’d like to introduce you to Chanel Khalia.
Chanel, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
LavishMi Lashes started when I was in 10th grade. My mother challenged me to figure out what I could do from home instead of seeking a job. I decided to start the entrepreneurial journey and I must say that it one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. With my sister already being in the beauty industry, I used to tell myself that I wanted to be like her when I grow up and be my own boss. She inspired me to not only love what I do but to be the very best at it! Determination, persistence, and optimism have driven me to accomplish where LavishMi Lashes is today. I am also planning to expand my brand to provide options to my customers and generate multiple streams of income. Those options include hair and graphic designs: LavishMi Styles (Ponytails) and LavishMi Designs (Graphic Design). My businesses will be under the umbrella of the LavishMi brand.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I often hear that entrepreneurship is not for the faint at heart. Social media often makes things look effortless and several people venture into business without understanding customer service and all that goes into running one. Being a young entrepreneur while in dual-enrolled in high school and college was not easy! I don’t remember it being too bumpy, but it wasn’t the smoothest. In the beginning, I lacked the knowledge related to business profit because I didn’t take the time to research about running a business properly. I just thought you determine a price on a product and start advertising what you sell. Being young and not disciplined, I spent most of the money from my earnings on things that weren’t necessities. But while in school, I took marketing classes that helped pave the way on my entrepreneurial journey. I may not know everything when it comes to finances just yet, but I’m definitely in a better position from when I first started.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about LavishMi Lashes – what should we know?
My business name, “LavishMi Lashes,” was inspired by the culture of a “lavish” lifestyle. Women, young and old, love to feel pampered and spoiled. This is how I want my clients to feel after being lavishly lashed! When I first started, I was known for selling mink lash strips, but as I wanted to scale into new opportunities, I decided to take a lash class to learn how to apply for individual lash extensions. I completed the training in 2018 to become a certified lash tech. As I reflect on the past two years, I am most proud of my progress, creativity, and marketing ability. What sets me apart is still evolving, but I am cognizant of staying organized and providing great service and marketing promotions to my customers. My clientele is mostly my peers… both high school and college students.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
First, I have to give honor to God for blessing me with several influential people in my life! My family has been through various challenges that have increased my level of faith. My mom is a breast cancer conqueror of 13 years and she has also played a major role in my success. She invested the capital for my inventory and raised me to be the young lady that I am today. Two supporters were my brother, who invested in my class and supplies, along with my sister’s expertise in the industry. I have to give a great big shout out to my Work-Based Learning teacher, Mr. Michael Chasteen. He was a mentor and avid supporter while I attended Campbell High School. He exposed me to small business networking events, podcasts, various motivational speakers, Smyrna community leaders and nominated me for Who’s Who. Lastly, of course, I have a large team of family, friends, and client supporters who deserve much credit in helping me to achieve milestones and success thus far. I look forward to what the future will hold, and we expand our brand.
Contact Info:
- Phone: (470)-377-1657
- Email: lavishmilashes@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/lavishmilashes?igshid=1n71eq6yzwz3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chanel.khalia
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