Today we’d like to introduce you to Aset Tolbert.
Aset, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey began in 2016 when I was working at an entertainment production company and realized I couldn’t see myself sitting at a desk for the next five years of my life. I thought to myself, what do I enjoy doing that I can make money from as well without it feeling like work? Lashes have always been my go-to since I was seventeen years old, and lash extensions were becoming even more popular. I did my research and decided I wanted to go to esthetician school to get my license just in case I worked in a salon where it’s a requirement to do lash extensions. I graduated from Aveda Institute in 2017, became licensed, and got certified to become a lash technician. Although I thought I would be able to become a lash technician, learn overnight, and be the greatest lash tech ever, that wasn’t the case. I had to practice and practice, I practiced on friends and family and accepted tips. It took me many hours and hours to service one client with barely any lashes on their eyes by the end of the service, but I’m thankful today that everyone I’ve serviced within my earlier days was patient with me and my progress. I never gave up; I was consistent in my practice. I then met Narissa, who owns The Lash Trap on Slauson Ave. She gave me a chance and taught me things about lashing that I didn’t know and didn’t learn while in lash training. After that, my lash career grew and took off. I’m very grateful for those that have helped and watch me grow into the lash artist I am today. Lash extensions is a luxury service and a lifestyle, and I love enhancing the beauty of people from different walks of life. It genuinely makes me feel good inside seeing the smile and confidence in others light up the room once their lashes are done.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, when starting out it took me many hours to learn the technique, I became discouraged and almost gave up. My money was low at the time, and I didn’t know how I was going to buy my supplies to get started. My eldest brother loaned me the money to pay for a lash training class, and I saved my money to get the necessary supplies to start lashing potential clients. Building my clientele was also a struggle because I didn’t know many people that would be interested in wearing extensions, so I knew I had to work even harder to be good enough to work in a shop to gain more clientele.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an esthetician and I specialize in lash extensions in the Los Angeles (Leimert Park area) I do full sets of classic, hybrid, and volume/mega full set lash extensions. I’m known for my cat eye-styled lash extensions as well as my unique freestyle lash sets that include a variety of colors. I’m most proud of how strong I’ve become as an entrepreneur, I’ve stayed consistent, and maintained my faith while on this journey growing every day.
I think what sets me apart from others is my approach and customer service. My consistency with delivering consistent high-quality results. My knowledge with being well versed in different types of lashes, adhesives, and aftercare products enabling me to recommend the best options for my clients’ needs. Educating them on proper maintenance and hygiene practices that helps prolong the longevity of their lash extensions.
I tailor each lash set designed to each client’s unique eye shape, preferences, and lifestyle, demonstrating my attention to detail and ability to provide a personalized service.
I provide a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere and actively listen to my clients’ concerns and preferences, and I maintain open communication before, during, and after their appointments, fostering trust and loyalty. I’ve found that going above and beyond to exceed their expectations leaves a lasting impression and encourages repeat business. I prioritize the overall experience and satisfaction of my clients.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Within the next five years, I aim to stay informed about emerging techniques and products. Concurrently, I plan to leverage my expertise as a lash technician to develop my own line of lash extensions, focusing on quality, variety, and customization options. I aim to establish my lash line as a go-to choice for both professionals and clients. Additionally, I intend to expand my service offerings as an esthetician by incorporating complementary treatments such as brow shaping, facials, and hair removal options. By maintaining a commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction, I am confident in my ability to grow my business, broaden my skill set, and establish a strong presence in the beauty industry over the coming years.
Contact Info:
- Website: rawtouchbeauty.com
- Instagram: t0lb_
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/t0lb_
