Did you know we spend a third of our life at work? Choosing the right lash job is so important because we spend so much time there. The reputation, aesthetics, and energy of a potential role are essential but don't forget one of the biggest, most important things: employment type.

Talking about types of employment sounds boring so no wonder our industry doesn't speak or write about it. But girl, it is such a big deal, and it should be on your radar. Finding the best lash job can be tricky, but knowing the ins and outs will help you avoid being "tricked" into working for someone who is misguided or sneaky.

"You're hired! We're going to pay you this super high commission, but we're going to classify you as an independent contractor. It will be way better for you because taxes won't come out of your check every month and you can write off all your expenses at the end of the year."

Or so says the owner of the cutest lash salon in your city where you've been dying to work!

Uh, wait, what. What is she talking about? What is an independent contractor? Won't I have to pay taxes? What can I write off? All of a sudden your dream lash job is sounding too good to be true. You're crazy confused and don't know what you should do.

I'm going to break this down for you so you can say YES to the best lash job and a big NO to the one that is trying to fool you and all your lash sisters!

According to the IRS, a lash artist is either employed or self-employed. Yep, it's that simple to the IRS; one or the other. There is no gray area when it comes to the IRS. So, what exactly is the difference between being an employed lash artist and a self-employed lash artist? And where does an independent contractor fit into the mix?

• W-2
• Employer handles taxes
• Scheduled by management
• Approval for time off
• Dress code
• Set services and pricing
• Provided lash supplies
• Protocols and rules
• Mandatory training
• Mandatory meetings

• Form 1040
• Handles own taxes
• Sets own schedule
• No approval for time off
• No dress code
• Own services and pricing
• Provides lash supplies
• Owns their own business
• Business expense write-offs

If you are responsible for paying all of your employment taxes, you are self-employed. It doesn't matter if the lash salon owner calls it "independent" or a "contracted employee" – if you are working for a salon but not employed by the salon, you're self-employed. When a lash salon owner classifies you as an independent contractor, thus self-employed, they are passing off their employment responsibilities to you. 

They are releasing their obligations, including:

• Employment taxes
• Protection through discrimination laws
• Coverage under worker's compensation
• Paying minimum wage or overtime
• Complying with to sick time pay laws

Typically, lash salon owners choose to utilize the "independent contractor" classification to free them of responsibility and additional financial expenses at the lash artist's expense. Unless you are truly self-employed and possess all the freedoms that come with self-employment, this structure only serves the lash salon owner's best interests.

Now that you're educated on employment and self-employment, go out there and find your dream lash job! And, one that isn't being tricky.

If this post has motivated you to open your own lash salon so you can do things right, then Become a Brand Ambassador and let us help you along your journey!

XO, VANESSA MOLICA

Have you ever received a bad Yelp review? I have and let me tell you my heart was in pain. The bad review ruined my day, my week and my month. Do you think I’m exaggerating? I’m not! If you’re like me, you take your lash business very seriously and things like a bad Yelp review are very personal.

I wish I could tell you that in my seven years of owning lash salons I have only received one bad Yelp review; if I said that I would be lying. The thing is ladies, people want to be heard, especially when they’re upset, and that includes your clients. I had to find a way to deal with upset clients’ negative reviews without getting my feelings involved. I just couldn’t let it ruin my day, week, month anymore. Dang those feelings!

I created this 5-step process to get me through my emotional reaction to bad reviews. I started to pay attention to what clients generally wrote about in bad Yelp reviews and how my response could turn the situation around. I’m a perfectionist, who would have guessed I would have this much experience dealing with upset clients?

We all have different perspectives, so even if you think this client is full of it, listen and try to understand their side. People want to know that you care enough to listen. They also want you to actually understand their concern. Without listening to understand, you won’t get anywhere with an upset client. So, step 1, listen to understand the client’s perspective.

Regardless of whether the client is right or wrong, apologize. If the client has offended you (which could happen), it might be difficult for you to set your pride aside to apologize, but like Nike’s slogan says, “Just do it.” I promise it’s worth it. Remember that one bad Yelp review can reach hundreds and hundreds of potential clients, so bite the bullet and apologize! We want those potential lash clients to be actual clients and not click on your competitor’s page instead of staying on yours. A little “I’m sorry” never hurt anybody.

Let the client know that you appreciate them taking time out of their busy life to give you and your lash business feedback. Without feedback, you and your business cannot learn and grow. Even if you can’t find anything to learn from this situation, dealing with this situation is a learning experience in and of itself. Come on ladies; our glass is half full right?! Just be gracious and thank them.

Okay, so you’ve listened to understand, sincerely apologized and thanked them for their feedback, now you need to make it right. Every situation is different, so use your best judgment. Do you need to offer them a complimentary fill? Do you need to provide a complimentary removal? This is where you show the client that you understand and are truly sorry they had a bad experience. Like they say, walk the talk. Whatever you decide to do to make the upset client a happy client, make sure their new experience is perfect. This is your chance to close the deal. You know, the deal of the client changing their 1-star yelp review to 5 shiny stars!

There is always something to learn, right? If the client wasn’t happy with their lash extensions, does the lash artist need additional training or are they just getting complacent? It’s better to find out now and fix the problem before you have to deal with a few more bad Yelp reviews as opposed to just the one. Maybe the lash artist was rude, and you need to address good customer service practices with them. Whatever the issue was, do your best to discuss it with your staff as soon as possible. And if you and your staff can’t find any truth in the client’s complaint, it’s still a learning experience. Biting your tongue takes practice!

Okay, so you completed the 5-step process and the client doesn’t remove or change the bad Yelp review, what now? Respond publicly to the review. Again, hundreds and hundreds of potential clients are going to see this bad review and you should let them know that you did everything you could to make it better. Keep your response upbeat and apologetic. The goal is to have these potential clients think, “Wow, they care,” or, “They really tried to make that client happy,” and ultimately, “Jeez, that might just be a bad client.”

Show these potential clients how well your lash salon treats even unhappy customers through your public response. Even a lousy Yelp review can be a good thing if you respond to it professionally!

I hope by sharing my 5-step process, I’m able to help you deal with your not-so-welcomed reviews too. And for the ones who’ve never received a bad Yelp review, go you!!!

XO, Vanessa Molica

Are you a salon owner? Sign up for The Lash Professionals Salon Partnership Program! 

Hey Lash Sisters! Are you a salon owner, traveling lash artist, or working out of your home?! Keeping track of appointments gets tricky, so let’s talk lash booking systems! There are a few key features to look for before making a decision. Price, capabilities, and ease are three features you’ll want to focus on. Let’s dive into each one separately and talk about why each is important.

Pricing is obviously something we all look at. We want something efficient that will also not break the bank. In my research, most booking systems for individual lash artists range from $20-$40 per month (adding more than one employee adds to the cost). Booking systems generally will have tier options for pricing. Different price packages will include different capabilities, so be sure to consider each option and what it can do for you!

Capabilities are important! Can your client book online? Is there a built-in no-show policy? Can you issue a refund directly from the app, if need be? These are all questions you should ask yourself while shopping around for lash booking system. You’ll also want to be sure it not only meets your “capability,” but the needs of users, as well. That is IF it allows clients to book online. Which leads me into ease…

Clients want simplicity in the booking process. User friendly-ness will get you huge brownie points as an artist! If a system is too difficult, clients will navigate away from it (or they may just text or call you, which is inconvenient for YOU!). That actually goes for your website too… everything should be simple and clear and easy to navigate!

Vagaro

First, we’ll talk all about Vagaro! Vagaro’s pricing is based on how many employees there are. This is great for a smaller salon or for an artist who’s on their own. The more employees, the more expensive it is. Another pro is the capabilities and ease of Vagaro; there are multiple ways a client can book online! The pros of Vagaro honestly go on and on, however, there is a con. The only con I could find is that the card reader is not included, it cost $75. For a larger salon this would be fine, but for an individual lash artist, every expense matters. That aside, this lash booking system would be perfect for me! (though I wouldn’t recommend it for a large salon).

MindyBody Inc

MindBody is a much more expensive system, in my research. While its pros include features like advanced scheduling options, 2-way SMS notification texts, and custom mobile app, its con is how expensive it is. I wouldn’t recommend this system for an individual or smaller salon, but for a large salon, it would be great!

Styleseat

Styleseat is the last lash booking system we will talk about! It is one of the cheapest options- best of pricing options. Your clients can book online by following your personal link, or they can search for you on the website or app. The app is great for your clients to book wherever they are- there is the capabilities and ease!

Styleseat also has a built-in late/cancellation/no show policy that requires clients to put a credit card on file to schedule, which helps to protect you as artists and your time. The only con to Styleseat is that clients can’t book through a third-party site like Yelp or Facebook.

Now that I’ve covered options and information on what to look for, this is where you take things into your own hands. Consider what you need and know that you are ultimately investing in the success of your business. Whether you are just starting or experienced, you’ll want to find the lash booking system that is going to benefit your future! Whether you choose Vagaro, Mindbody, or Style seat, or whether you have some other options up your sleeve like Square or Salon Iris, consider all options and be sure of your decision. 

Happy Lashing Sisters!

It's time to get creative, ladies! Yes, that means getting even more creative than when you're lashing fresh new looks.

Today, we’re talking about all things marketing and branding. If you’ve done your due diligence, then you already a catchy lash business name to attract clients. Additionally, you’ll need flashy business cards to get the word out to the lash community: there’s a new lash boss in town!

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a few of our favorite concepts to consider when designing eyelash extension business cards. Check it out.

Send a Message With Your Business Cards

When it comes to creating eyelash extension business cards that dazzle. Incorporating stimulating visuals and artistic elements is the way to go!

Feast your eyes on this design inspo, lash babes!

First things first lash babes, let's talk about the value of the art of lashing. Hint: It's priceless. 

You're changing the lives of women around the world by helping them feel beautiful, inside and out. You can't put a price on that!

But, you can and should put a price on the services you provide. 

Now then, let's talk about the cost of those services. Before you look at lash extension costs and the prices of your services, look at the value of your service. 

You have invested time, energy, and money into your lashing art. Base how much to charge for eyelash extensions on the resources you've invested.

To explain, things like your time and energy are resources you will never get back (and that's not a bad thing!). However, if you determine how much to charge for eyelash extensions the right way, your spent money will come back to you (tenfold!). 

In the end, never forget the value of what you give or the importance of what you get back. In lashing, you give and get gratification, sisterhood, joy, and so much more!

First, take a look at your education and experience. Are you licensed for eyelash extensions? Are you certified? Do you have specialty certifications for volume or mega volume eyelash extensions? 

Asking yourself all these questions may feel silly at first, but trust me, it has an impact.

So, if you've gotten your license and certification, then show it off! Clients who are confident in your skills and experience are more willing to pay a pretty penny for killer lashes!

If you don't have a license or certifications, think about getting them! Having proof that shows how well you know your stuff may be the thing that boosts your business numbers. Plus, a little more education has never hurt anyone!

Consider your lashing education and experience to determine appropriate prices. Also, keep in mind that you'll need to adjust your prices as you gain more experience and knowledge.

All in all, know your worth and charge accordingly! Don’t sell yourself short, but also don’t oversell your level of experience and knowledge.

Are you interested in improving your net worth? Gain industry knowledge from The Lash Professional. The Lash Professional offers some of the most remarkable and affordable lash education programs.

The next thing you will want to assess is the demographics in your area. In other words: where are you lashing? 

The area that you're lashing in will tell you about the demographic you're serving! How does that work, though? 

Well, take a look at the map featured above. The darker states on this map have a higher cost of living. Where the cost of living increases, the price of everything increases. 

This map is just a general idea of what states have a high cost of living and vice versa.  Thus, you should pay close attention to the cost of living in the state you live in!

You will also want to take this research a step further and look at specific details of the area you're in. You need to know if you're lashing in a highly-populated area with lots of lash salons. Why? With plenty of competition, that means to price your services competitively.

However, if you are lashing in a smaller area with no lash salons, your prices change. In fact, you may be able to charge more for services depending on local demand. 

All in all, you want to check out other salons in your area if there are any. Then, price lash extensions on your menu accordingly.

While there are no magic numbers to base your lash prices on, I can give you some examples to check out. 

Let's look at what salons charge near our headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

First off, The Lash Professional has a partnered salon, The Lash and Sugar Company. This salon is located right in the heart of Scottsdale! 

While reading this, keep the following in mind. Arizona is in the realm of "Moderate Salon Prices." Scottsdale, in particular, is an area with quite a few salons and high demand for lashes! 

Now, let's take a look at The Lash and Sugar Company prices. For starters, full sets range from $100-$175 (depending on fullness and style). Removals are $35, and fills range from $30-$75 (depending on the required time).

Now that you have an idea of some prices in the Scottsdale area let's look a little further out. Flagstaff, in northern Arizona, is a much smaller town with fewer salons—and even fewer that offer eyelash extensions—but the demand for lashes is still high! 

An artist in Flagstaff could charge $150-$225 for a full set of lashes. But, that artist would want to do a trial run and see how these prices work to make sure this pricing is right for that area.

Knowing how much to charge for eyelash extensions can be tricky. But, if you consider what we've talked about today, pricing will be smooth sailing! There is no set in stone numbers for prices because of how much prices can (and should) fluctuate. 

Just like any other industry, when the lashing industry changes, so will your prices. There's no problem with going with the flow when it comes to pricing! Remember to charge appropriately, lash babes. 

Most of all, always remember the value of what we do in lashing. That's something that will never change. Never undervalue your art and never underestimate the payoff!

The number one question asked by our students is, “how much money can you make doing eyelash extensions?” My immediate response when I hear this is “ A LOT!” because, seriously, eyelash extension profits can be mind-blowing.

The eyelash extension industry is headed for impressive growth. And it doesn’t show signs of slowing down. Clearly, the market for lashes extensions is present. Are you ready to meet that demand?

A great lash course will teach you the skills you need to become a top tier lash technician. But what about becoming a money-making lasher with a booming business? The Lash Professional is here to share how to do just that. Let’s get this coin.

Running a profitable eyelash extension business is not all sassy lash puns and cute transformation shots for Instagram. It takes careful planning and knowledge of three key principles.

In business, it is hard to pinpoint exactly what the numbers will be since there are so many variables. But there are general guidelines for determining prospective profit.

Here is our ultimate equation to determine how much money you can make doing eyelash extensions.

To kick things off, let’s look at an obvious factor influencing profit—the price of lash extension services. A typical lash technician salary will vary based on the price she charges for each full set and fills. The amount you can charge depends on skill level, location and how well known your studio is (is there a waitlist to get an appointment? Raise prices!).

Say you charge $130 for a full set of classic lashes and $65 for a classic fill (these are prices that fall within the average range). You can then calculate your earnings as a lash technician charging these prices.

4 full sets (2 hours each) x $130 = $520 after an 8 hour day

6 fills (1 hour each) x $65 = $390 after a six hour day

In reality, you will be doing a mix of full sets and fills each day. Let’s take the average of those two days to say that you make $455 on an average day.

$455 x 5 days a week= $2,275

$2,275 x 50 weeks (2 weeks off for vacation) = $113, 750

That means that you have the potential to make over $100k before taxes in one year of lashing. Even after you account for the cost of supplies and certifications, this is an impressive eyelash extension salary.

Of course, there are variables, but this type of calculation can help you answer the question, “how much do lash techs make?”

Beginner Lash Artist Tip: If you want to make a lot of money, you need to charge a lot of money, right?! WRONG. When you are first starting, don’t charge! You should first practice your new skill on family and friends. They can offer honest feedback and help you grow to the artist you want to become.

Once your skills are perfected and your lash speed increases, charge what you are worth. In this industry, it is normal for your prices to increase as your skills increase.

As a business-savvy lash technician, you will want to set your prices by considering the products and application time and what you have invested in learning and perfecting your technique. If you need help figuring out the process, read this article on how much to charge for eyelash extensions.

Many people ask, “how much do lash techs make?” think there is one blanket answer. The truth is, many factors affect a lash technician’s salary. One factor is location, which goes hand-in-hand with what you are charging.

Where you are located has a lot to do with what clients will pay for eyelash extensions and your overall eyelash extension profits. For instance, lash technicians in Malibu serve a clientele willing to pay more (and tip more) for lash extensions.

Another important consideration to make is the density of eyelash extension salons in your area. If there are a limited number of places offering eyelash extension services, the higher the price of services. A good way to gauge this is by researching what other artists in your area are charging. Doing so will help you find the best price for the services you are providing.

By doing competitor research, you can learn about the prices of other studios in your location and their strengths and weaknesses. For instance, diving into online reviews can show you what customers like and dislike about studios near you. Then, you can tailor your services to address these customer pain points. Standing out in your location makes you more in demand.

Just about anyone will tell you that marketing is probably the most powerful way to build a strong brand. If you want to be successful, you have to get the word out!

Kristie Lorette writes on the importance of marketing for small businesses:

“For a business to succeed, the product or service it provides must be known to potential buyers. Without marketing, your potential customers may never be aware of your business offerings, and your business may not be given the opportunity to progress and succeed.”

Short version—your business can’t grow and thrive if people don’t know you exist.

You can read the full article here. Because lash extensions are a beautiful visual addition to a face, social media (Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest) offers a great channel to promote your services. But marketing should not stop there.

There are plenty of ways to attract new clients to your lash studio.

Digital marketing goes beyond posting a few hashtags. Make sure that you have a strong online presence that people can find on Google. Search engine optimization (SEO) is an important area to learn more about if you want new customers to find you online. By making specific changes to your website, you can open the door for tons of new potential customers to come across your work through search engines.

Word of mouth advertising occurs when your clients spread the word about your lash services to others. To encourage this, you can offer referral discounts to clients that connect you to new customers. If Rachel refers Jen to your studio, Rachel gets a 15% discount on her next set of lashes.

Strategic marketing is what helped grow The Lash Professional into the powerhouse it is today. If you would like to learn a little more about marketing options, you can take our Lash Training Course.

So how much money can you make doing eyelash extensions? Reports indicate that the average lash technician salary is $47,396 per year. On average, lash technicians’ hourly wages range from $20 - $25. These reports often take into account part-time lash technician salaries. As a full-time lash technician, you have the potential to make lots more.

These averages offer a starting point for an eyelash extension salary. But who says you have to be an average lash technician?

While this is the average, there are lash technicians across the country making more than this amount. As your skills grow, you can charge more and become more profitable as a lash professional. Successful lashers on the higher end of the wage scale make upwards of $73,000 each year.

These three components—price, location and marketing—should all be factored into your eyelash extension business. When you combine these elements to determine what you will be charging and how often you will be working, you can calculate how successful you can be! And girl, numbers don’t lie.

For example (assuming the cost of the product is $4 or less for each service, which is average), say I charge $150 for full sets, and average $55 fills. If I take approx. 20-25 clients a week, I have an opportunity to make upwards of $100k a year!

If this is the first step in your research, keep going! Pick up a book—or 4—and educate yourself on successful business practices because this equation is just the beginning!

What I am getting at is, it is OK to be afraid, but don’t let it stop you from starting something amazing. A comfort zone can be a beautiful place, but it is not a place for growth. Be brave and step out of it! You will be glad you did. Learn more about making bank as a lash technician in the Get Money section of our blog.