Today we’d like to introduce you to Asia Carter
Hi Asia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hello I’m Asia, lash artist of Rich Brat Minks (RBM). I am originally from Miami, Florida born, raised and resided most of my life. About 4 years ago I visited Houston for the first time with my cousin and I said, “yeah I wanna move here.” Fast forward a few years and here I am! In 2020 I decided I wanted to start my own business selling lip gloss, mink lashes & human hair. I started off with mink lashes and decided to add lip gloss. My brand did very well but eventually I no longer got business and had to close it. When I decided to do eyelash extensions it was random and impulsive, but I was excited and ready. I paid about $300 for an online course with Fixe Beauty and started practicing on a mannequin. But boy was it hardddddd. My first set took me about 5 hours and my friend had 8 lashes on between both eyes. I kept lashing my friends and family but it was not getting easier and I decided I didn’t wanna do it again. After a while I realized that I did miss doing eyelash extensions, it was very therapeutic and fun. I then decided to jump back into it but this time I wanted to invest into my learning to become better and faster, so I took a refresher course with my lash artist @lashwhere to advance my skills. I practiced, practiced and practiced on my mannequin and friends until I was more comfortable. Shortly after I stopped doing lashes again because I was making the step into moving here to Houston. A year after moving I decided that I was finally ready to get back into doing lashes but this time, in a new state and area where I knew absolutely nobody. It was hard finding my clientele at first, there are sooooooo many lash artists in the Houston area. And being located in Conroe, it was going to be extremely hard finding clientele. I practiced everyday on my mannequin and posted in local Facebook groups looking for free models. Eventually my style of lashing was what set me apart from the rest of the girls in the area, and that alone grew my clientele here. Getting back to lashing here was hard at first, I was taking 3 almost 4 hours to do a set and my retention was horrible. But I didn’t let that stop me or discourage me, I was determined more than ever. I continued to practice while I worked my full time job during the day, and continued to lash models after work. I invested hundreds into trying lash products, purchasing e-books, tools and supplies just trying to be the best lash artist I can be. Entrepreneurship is not easy and being a service provider is especially not easy. But I’m thankful i picked back up the tweezers because it has truly changed my life for the better. I’ve made so many connections, lashed so many amazing women and girls, and have an incredible support system behind me. I literally wrote down everything I wanted to do and accomplish from moving to Texas down to my dream shop. Through manifestation, prayer, hard work, dedication, and resilience I was able to accomplish half of my goals. I will continue to invest in my business, my brand, my craft, myself, practice in my free time and push myself to be better than my last set.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all. I struggled with being alone and not knowing anyone out here. I struggled with finding my style of lashing. I struggled with retention, isolation, placement, content, and even customer service. I struggled with getting clientele and keeping clientele. I struggled with finances and having to choose bills over my goals. I struggled with balancing work, my business, and my personal life. I even struggled with my mental and physical health.
We’ve been impressed with Rich Brat Minks, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Rich Brat Minks (RBM) is an eyelash extension based service in which I apply false eyelashes to clients’ natural eyelashes. The objective is to accentuate the natural eyelashes and provide a beautifully unique and custom look for clients to wear for longer periods of time. As a lash artist I customize each set to the clients lifestyle and preference, however I am most known for my dark, full, and fluffy lash sets. I am most proud of my clientele being a diverse group of woman ranging from teens to well established women with one goal in mind, beauty at an affordable price. One thing I want everyone to know is that eyelash extensions are not for everyone, however anyone can get the service. My favorite part about being a lash artist is creating a look that not only represents you but compliments you and is specifically designed for you. As mentioned my clients are very diverse which means my work is as well. I can create soft, subtle more natural looking sets and I can also create a full, voluminous, eye-catching, dramatic set.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I believe risk taking is 100% essential to being successful. One of my favorite acronyms is T.R.A.P which stands for “Take Risks and Prosper.” Most standard success stories were from individuals who stepped out on faith and took a risk. I took plenty of risks to be where I am today including moving from my hometown away from my mom, friends, family, and loved ones. I moved to Houston with about $400 in my bank account and literally hit the ground running. Had I not taken that risk who knows where I’d be today but I know for sure I wouldn’t be as proud of myself or as happy and blessed as I am now. Some risks are worth the taking, either it be a blessing or a lesson.
Pricing:
- $75 full sets
- $55 refills
- $25 removals
- $15 bottom lashes
- $5 glitter lashes/lash decals/color lashes
Contact Info:
- Website: https://web.chairwatch.com/links?brand_id=60986272d82f24f27b46660b
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rich.brat.minks?igsh=a2hkNTZlamo3ZzFw&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
RBM
