Rising Stars: Meet Anairis Lugo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anairis Lugo. 

Hi Anairis, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I have always had a passion for beauty ever since freshman year of high school. I had it set in my mind that whatever I did in life, it was going to be beauty-related. I went to school at Aveda Institute Orlando and learned everything there was to know about skincare, makeup, and waxing. Once I graduated in 2016, I started working immediately in the field and I loved every second of it. In 2018 I decided to take a beginner eyelash extension course to add into my skill set. I trained with an incredible woman Andre, who owns @eyecreateher, and absolutely fell in love with the art & industry of eyelash extensions. Soon after I took a job where I can specialize in that service and work on my craft. However, during my time as an employee there I realized I was not fulfilled working under someone and experienced how poorly a workplace can treat you. I felt trapped but I wanted to still do what I love. Then COVID-19 happened and I had all of lockdown to think and plan on what I should do. In June 2020 I got what I would say is a blessing in disguise…I got fired. My mind was immediately on fight or flight. It was either take the leap of faith in starting my business or work for someone else. After so many long nights, early mornings, and putting in the work I made my business official in November 2020. 

Alright, 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?
It may look like owning a business is easy, trust me it’s not. Owning a business in beauty or in any field is not for the weak. I have had many downs that I felt like quitting. I’ve thought to myself many times “Girl this isn’t going to work” “You’re going to fail” “This was a mistake”. The biggest struggle I would say I had was not being good enough. In Orlando, there are so many amazing and talented beauty professionals that I felt inadequate and my skill set didn’t matter. Social media definitely does not help at all. Comparison is the one thing you should NEVER do as a business owner. Which I had to learn on my own. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a licensed Full Specialist and I specialize in eyelash extensions, eyebrows, and facials. I am most known for eyelash extensions. I am most proud of my authenticity in my services. I pride myself in giving people a little something different than what they would get somewhere else. They get their own personal “Glow Effect”. What sets me apart from others is that no matter what I make sure my clients are happy. Of course, it sounds cliche, but since the beginning, I have always made an effort to make sure I listen to my client’s needs. I know I won’t satisfy everyone and that’s okay. I prioritize my work ethic or what I like to say is my “worth ethic”. 

What are your plans for the future?
My plans would be to expand of course. I see myself having a big enough space to work in and do what I love and maybe also have other talented professionals rent out space in my location. I want to create a space where people would love to work in and train in. 

Contact Info:

• Email: glossyeyerisbrand@gmail.com
• Instagram: @thegloweffect.co