Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Vasquez.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Growing up, my old-fashioned Salvadorian mom never allowed me to wear makeup, not even a clear mascara. Up until my senior year of high school is when she would let a light wash of blush or colored lipstick slide. As soon as I could get my hands on makeup, I took the privilege and ran with it. I taught myself about makeup with everything Youtube had to offer. I was a fast learner, and I wasn’t afraid to try bold looks. My favorite feature that I enjoy playing up is my eyes.
I have naturally long eyelashes, but I absolutely love the drama and glam that strip eyelashes create. I would buy strip eyelashes in bulk online and would get tons of questions and comments asking where I got them. People would stop me on the side of the road, or while I was out and about, admiring my eyelashes. My family and friends suggested that I start my own eyelash brand, which immediately sparked a fire in me. So, I saved up some money, created a beauty blueprint, and A$HMINKS LA was born. With the unconditional support of my family, friends and makeup enthusiasts, A$HMINKS LA quickly grew.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
There isn’t a perfect handbook on flawlessly bringing your vision to life. There’s so much I’ve learned by doing things the “wrong” way, and so much I had to teach myself. But that’s the beauty of it. I’m a stubborn, perfectionist Virgo, so I want to take on every possible task. I believe we’re not able to flourish without being challenged. Sometimes the only person to look to is yourself, which can be scary, but you have to have the greatest intentions for yourself.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
A$HMINKS LA is an LA-born, Latina woman-owned beauty brand specializing in luxurious strip eyelashes without the luxury price-tag. A$HMINKS LA to me is about being fearless, powerful, and confident. I want everyone to feel like a million bucks when they’re wearing A$HMINKS LA lashes like they can take over the world. I want anyone and everyone no matter their background or status, to feel opulent just as I do when my lashes are on and poppin!
What were you like growing up?
I grew up pretty conservative, I focused on my education, and I stayed away from negative influences. I knew I wanted to mean something to someone and become something great for my community. But, for the greater part of my childhood I was actually very insecure with myself. My family and I moved from Los Angeles to Whittier while I was in elementary school. I was bullied for being a Salvadorian/Mexican brown-skinned Latina. All the other Latinas in my schools were pale and didn’t look like me. I never felt like I belonged. I never felt beautiful in my skin. One evening changed everything for me.
I had a heartfelt conversation with a pastor, and he told me that God wanted me to know that he didn’t mess up when he created me, and he created me in his perfect image. He told me that God loved me and needed me to love myself. I listened. That night changed everything for me. I felt like I grew 10 inches taller, I suddenly felt like the most beautiful girl in the world. I wish I could tell my younger self how extraordinary and unique she was. ‘Till this day I wish everyone to feel as I do, and know that God was proud to create every single one of us. Knowing my worth and my value changed my self-esteem full circle. With A$HMINKS LA, I aim to give everyone that boost of self-esteem that they deserve.
Contact Info:
- Website: ashminksla.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: instagram.com/_ashleyangeles , instagram.com/ashminksla
Image Credit:
Ashley Vasquez
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