Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Asako Ito, owner of Divine Lashes, located in Montreal, QC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Divine Lashes is a beauty salon that specializes in eyelash enhancement services. We offer our services to all but mainly women who want to look their best and feel confident. We offer a variety of lash enhancement options to suit every need and budget, and our highly trained staff are experts in their craft. Whether you're looking for a natural or dramatic look, we can help you achieve it.

Tell us about yourself

I first got involved in the eyelash extension space in 2012. My sister, Naoko Ito, launched her own lash salon in Toronto, and we decided to join forces to expand the brand in Quebec as well. I'm motivated by the satisfaction of helping my customers look and feel their best. It's always great to see the reaction when they see their new lashes for the first time!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

One of the things I am most proud of is building a strong team of talented and dedicated lash artists. It's not always easy to find good staff in the beauty industry, but I've been fortunate to have found some great people who share my passion for lash extensions.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Finding the right balance between work and family can be challenging at times. It's important to me to spend time with my husband and two young kids, but running a business takes up a lot of time and energy. I'm always trying to find ways to streamline my business so that I can maintain balance.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. My first tip would be to make sure you have a clear vision for your business. What are your goals and objectives? What are you trying to achieve? Without a clear vision, it will be difficult to make decisions and take action.
  2. My second tip would be to surround yourself with a great team. Building a strong team of talented and dedicated people is crucial to the success of any business.
  3. My third tip would be to always be learning. In the business world, things are constantly changing and evolving. It's important to stay up-to-date with industry trends and to always be learning new things. This will help you stay ahead of the competition and grow your business.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Building a business is hard but extremely rewarding. It's important to enjoy the journey and not just focus on the destination. There will be ups and downs, but as long as you stay true to your vision and values, you will be successful. Thanks for reading!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://divinelashes.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CilsDivins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divine_lashes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DivineLashes1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asako-ito-4b5aa49/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.