Find Inspiration and a Sense of Community at Lash Conferences

Posted by Maryann Matykowski on May 04, 2018

I would like to take a few minutes to discuss some highlights from the latest lash conference I attended. Like most of us who love our jobs, we can get so caught up in the vortex of work that we don't step back and do an assessment of our goals and get some support. I have found that stepping out of my work zone and rubbing shoulders with like-minded professionals brings things into perspective. At the recent conference I had a chance to network with both seasoned and budding lash artists. We shared memorable experiences that made us laugh and that touched our hearts. If you're interested in attending a conference or trade show, it's worth noting that there can be considerable expense involved with some of these events. Always do your research first. Talk to people who have been before, read the reviews and be sure you are going to get value for money before handing over your hard earned dollars.

Conference Conversation - Lash Cleanliness

We shared many stories - but one of the attendees shared a story that we could all relate to! Her story started with a fairly new client. They exchanged their usual pleasantries and settled in on getting the lash business done. They discussed how well the client's lashes were doing and how her new cleaning regime was making a huge difference in her lash retention. Hardly any lash loss, great retention and lo and behold, she was keeping her lashes super clean. They also noticed how healthy and strong the client’s natural lashes were. The new lash cleanser and lash brush made such a difference in the general look and feel of her extensions. The client commented on how soft and lightweight her lash extensions felt, as well as how soothing the lash wash felt on her eyelids. This story affirmed what we already knew about the difference that aftercare makes on the longevity of one's lashes! This sparked another conversation about how to advise clients to engage in routine aftercare so that they can appreciate how pretty and soft their clean lashes are. (Which reminded me of my past blogs on the virtues of the Wash and Wink Eyelash Shampoo & Conditioner!) Many of us lash artists get really excited when our clients do a great job of keeping lashes clean. Kudos to clients who go the extra mile! This conference created an environment where us lash artists not only shared stories, but where we swapped ideas and different methods that we had used to build our careers. We were also impressed by the array of new products being brought to the market to help us artists create stunning work and keep our clients happy.

Finding Inspiration Through Community

Lash techs were not the only professionals attending this event. There were eye doctors and scientists who work within the beauty industry to help ensure consumer safety. There were lighting professionals who showed us how the usage of certain applications could increase efficiency. There was even a video that showed the process behind producing lash extensions - Yes, someone has to make those pretty little lashes. And we thought lashing itself was tedious enough! Being saturated by an atmosphere of experience and knowledge, meeting new friends, and swapping stories was an amazing way to refuel on motivation. One common denominator with everyone in the conference was how happy everyone was with their chosen career. Everyone was so grateful and appreciative to be part of such a caring and loving community. This conference was the perfect place to soak up information, talent and budding ideas. So much inspiration all under one roof. If you have the opportunity to attend a l conference, I highly recommend that you make the investment and go. However, if a conference isn't in your budget, you can check out our article on podcasts from the beauty industry that will help you stay sharp. The opportunity to feel the support from a community of like-minded professionals is incredible, and will light a fire under you to continue to deliver your best work!