From 9-5 to Lash Artist: My Journey to Owning LADY LAB
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Hello lovelies!
I’m Cristina Ashleigh, the face behind LADY LAB. If you’d told me a few years ago that I’d be here, running a successful lash and beauty business, I would’ve never believed you. But here I am, doing what I love every day and it’s been one heck of a ride.
In today’s post, I’m sharing my journey from financial planning to the beauty industry. It’s a story of passion, hard work, and a little bit of courage. So, grab a cup of tea (or coffee, if that’s your vibe), and let me take you through how I made the leap from a corporate 9-5 to becoming a full-time lash artist and business owner.
The 9-5 Grind
For 12 years, I worked in financial planning, helping others navigate their money and secure their futures. It was rewarding in its own way, but there was always this little voice inside me telling me that I was meant for something different. Something more hands-on. Something more creative.
As much as I loved helping people with their finances, I couldn’t ignore the pull I felt towards beauty and self-care. I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the transformative power of beauty treatments and how something as simple as a lash lift can boost confidence and make you feel like the best version of yourself.
But, leaving the stability of a 9-5 job? That was terrifying. I had the security of a regular paycheck, a career that was respected and I was good at what I did. So why would I leave all of that behind?
The Beginning: Lash Course with My Best Friend
In 2021, my best friend and I took a lash course together. Initially, we thought we’d be doing lashes on each other and we do but life had bigger plans. Around that time, my partner and I started thinking about moving to New Zealand so he could spend time with his family. While I was juggling my full-time financial planning job, I began doing lashes on the side as a fun “side hustle” with no expectations.
I loved it. And the more I practiced, the more I realized that I had a true passion for this craft. What started as a way to unwind and explore a new skill began to grow.... FAST. My client base started expanding and my skills were improving every day. I knew I was onto something.
The Toxic Work Environment and the Big Decision
But as my “side hustle” grew, so did the pressure. I was working full-time in a toxic office environment, and the more successful my lash business became, the harder it was to juggle both worlds. Something had to give.
By the end of 2023, after years of battling burnout and frustration, I made the decision to resign from my financial planning job. I chose to pursue LADY LAB full-time, and I’ve never looked back. That was the moment I fully embraced the path I’d been too afraid to take before.
Taking the Leap: LADY LAB Was Born
With the support of my family, friends, incredible clients, a solid financial plan (thank you, financial planning background!), and my dedication to this newfound passion, LADY LAB was in full swing! A luxury lash and brow studio designed to help people feel their best, inside and out.
I’ve never looked back since. Today, I get to help my clients achieve that flawless lash look while also teaching other aspiring lash artists how to structure their own businesses. My experience in financial planning has played a huge role in the way I run my business. Everything from budgeting and goal-setting and organisation to offering mentorship for new lash artists.
What I’ve Learned Along the Way
While the road to becoming a full-time lash artist was anything but easy, I’ve learned some valuable lessons along the way that I want to share with anyone thinking of making a similar leap:
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Follow Your Passion, Even When It’s Scary
Change is daunting. But when you listen to that little voice inside you, it leads to incredible things. Don’t be afraid to take a chance on what excites you. -
Start Small, Think Big
You don’t need to have everything figured out at once. Start with one step at a time, and always keep your long-term vision in mind. -
Trust Your Journey
It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but your journey is uniquely yours. Celebrate the small wins along the way, and know that the tough moments are just part of the process. -
Financial Planning is Key
Don’t underestimate the importance of solid financial planning. My background in financial planning has been a huge asset as I structured my business, and it’s something I now teach my clients and fellow lash artists.
What’s Next for LADY LAB?
Now that I’m running LADY LAB full-time, I’m focused on growth. I’m expanding my services, helping more clients feel amazing with lash lifts, extensions and brow styling. I’m also teaching other lash artists how to build and structure their businesses, just like I did.
There are so many exciting things in the works, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next. If you’ve been following along, I promise the best is yet to come.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story! If you’re thinking of making a big career change or starting your own business, remember: it’s never too late to follow your passion. And if you ever want to chat about lashes, business, or anything else, feel free to drop me a message. 💖