Today we’d like to introduce you to Shauna Wilkinson.
Hi Shauna , 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?
Well, I studied art in college. I received my BFA in Studio Art in 2005. At that time there really were not many “artist” jobs. I took a position at a bank, and somehow stumbled on providing makeup services for brides , and creating visual effects makeup looks. Since I was providing these services without a license I decided to attend Brown Aveda Institute in Mentor. I completed my esthetics license in 2007. I was employed at a few spas, but skincare just wasn’t a fit for me. So, I decided to go back to school for my MFA. I applied to the Academy of Art University and was accepted in 2011. I decided to study graphic novel illustration. Luckily, the program was online and that allowed me to move from Medina all the way to Los Angeles with my boyfriend, now husband. I waited tables, and continued to study for my MFA . I happened to meet a wonderful spa owner in Beverly Hills at a networking event. She was telling me about how she taught lash extensions , and thought I would be a great candidate because I have a steady hand from drawing. Well, I took her up on that and was educated in a day on how to apply lash extensions. I practiced on all my co-workers from the restaurant, and was hired at one of the top lash bars in Santa Monica. I worked there for about a year, and my boyfriend and I were married. We decided to move back to Ohio to start a family. I completed my thesis, and graduated in 2015 with my MFA. Lash extensions were slowly making their appearance in Ohio, so I decided to look for a position. I was hired at a lash salon in Lakewood, and worked there for about seven years. After starting a family, and getting my roots down here in Brunswick I needed a change. I needed to be closer to my family. So, I decided to become a self employed lash artist. I opened up Serenity Lash Boutique in 2024, and continue to lash inside Salon Ethos in North Royalton. Here I provide lash extensions, lash lifts, and spray tans. I absolutely love what I do, and since going solo I can spend more time close to my family. It’s priceless!
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 never really is an easy path. I had absolutely no idea how to become self-employed. I just had to do it. I was absolutely terrified about failing. Would my clients follow me? Would I have the courage to put in the hard work? Would I get new clients? I felt like I was starting all over again. Trying to find clients, and learning the ins and outs of self marketing. Not to mention keeping up with all the trends. Lashes have come so far from when I first started to do them.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Well, I already mentioned that I have an art background. I feel this helps me with my lash designs. Balancing out lash shapes for specific eye and face shapes is a game changer. Not to mention the variety of colors that can be used for a lash set. Black can be too harsh for some skin tones. I have a variety of brown lashes, as well as colors. I specialize in natural sets. I do not believe in going too long or heavy for the natural lash. My goal is to bring out your eyes, not hide them.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Not all my clients know my education background. On the side from lashes I paint puppy portraits in watercolor. When I mention this to clients they are absolutely shocked that I know how to draw and paint. I sometimes even teach paint parties for adults and children. I stay quite busy, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Pricing:
- Classic or angel sets $135
- Hybrid $155
- Spray tans $35
- Lash Lifts $75
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Serenitylashboutique.com
- Instagram: Serenity_lash_boutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shaunasbeauties?
