Today we’d like to introduce you to Raven Aleshia
Raven, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I joined the beauty industry in 2016, shortly after high school. While I could probably write a novel about all the things I’ve seen and experienced in the last 8 years, my journey with lashes started in 2022. I kind of fell into it, I knew that lash extensions existed and I’d been a lash client before- but had never seen the process. In the summer of 22 I stumbled across a reel where someone was demonstrating how they do lashes. It was like I was under a spell. I immediately wanted to know more about the service and how it all worked. I reached out to my good friend Sylvia, a talented lash artist and asked her about a million questions. She was so gracious and connected me with my trainer, Lexi who showed me the ropes. I absolutely fell in love with lashes. It’s definitely a slightly unhealthy obsession. I think my partner and family are the most gracious people for listening to me rant about gluing plastic to people’s eyeballs 24/7. I’m a little over a year into my journey with lashes and I see an overwhelming need for education and artistry in the field. Clients don’t want to just lay there and have a “technician” apply lashes. They want to feel special, they want an unforgettable experience. My goal is to impact as many people as I can and inspire them to help elevate the industry together, and change what it means to do lashes for a living.
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?
When I initially joined the beauty industry, I was pursuing hair full time. I thought I truly enjoyed being a hairdresser, but it was a very bumpy road. I changed salons every six months or so, and I was never truly fulfilled. I was constantly dreaming about what else I could do with my life, and often pondered leaving the beauty industry all together. I went through periods of burn out, depression and anxiety when COVID hit in 2020. It was a really difficult time to be a hairdresser. I was about to throw in the towel when I found lashes. It was like the fog cleared. I’ve never been so sure that this is what I was meant to do.
As you know, we’re big fans of Dark Heart Lash. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
When I think about my business and its legacy, first and foremost I want to be known for my communication and customer service. I hear so many horror stories about how clients are treated in the beauty industry, and I want my salon to be a safe, comfortable experience for everyone. I believe that the way you make people feel should always be prioritized. I specialize in completely custom lash sets that are catered to your eye shape and lifestyle. I am known for having super in-depth consultations where we analyze your eye shape together and build something that truly flatters your features and accentuates them, but never overpowers. I am known best for Angel sets, which are natural, wispy and so lightweight you never feel them.
What are your plans for the future?
I would love to open my own salon suites in the future, and create a safe, collaborative space for other industry professionals. It would be a place where community over competition is our mantra, with lots of amenities for both the client and the professional. Salon suites are growing to be quite popular- and I can see where there is room for improvement. My end game is also to be an educator for a brand that I really align with. There is so much misinformation in our field and people are craving affordable, accessible education. I want to be a part of the new standard for the beauty industry.
Pricing:
- Full Set of Lashes (Any style) $180
- Standard Lash Fills $90
- Extended Lash Fills $120
- Lash Lift & Tint $85
- Brow Tint & Wax $50
Contact Info:
- Website: https://darkheartlash.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darkheartlash/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darkheartlash
- Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bFU1DCrP1k9aFxqy5
Image Credits
Images of me by Kayla Surico
